Lovin' Life After 50 - East Valley - April 2022

April 2022

Celebrating America

Phoenix vodka company wants to close divide

Considering a Move

Carrying on Tradition

Tips for choosing the right living environment

La Canasta celebrates 60 years of family recipes

Glowing Skin

Created from Within Phoenix med spa emphasizes health before beauty

East Valley Edition

Downtown, East Valley celebrates Jazz Appreciation Month Page 15

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APRIL 2022

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3

Spring Forward In Style!

inside THIS ISSUE

10 Glowing Skin

Created from Within

Phoenix med spa emphasizes health before beauty

OAC

Opinion

E-Z-GO Liberty E-Z-GO RXV

6 8 12

Leibo At Large Ask Marisa

Features Considering a Move

Tips for choosing the right living environment

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Entertainment

15

All that Jazz

Eye of the Beholder

16

Celebrating America

19

Casino Calendar

22

Kindness Matters

23

What’s Cooking? with Jan D’Atri

25

The Healthy Geezer

14

Artists express emotions through their work

18

Equal Opportunity

RagDolls want to be taken seriously

Food & Drink

20 Carrying on Tradition

La Canasta celebrates 60 years of family recipes

Columns

24

Hospice Is Hope

NMLS#160265 • Mortgage Banker License #AZ BK7548 This material is not provided by, nor was it approved by the Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) or by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA).

APRIL 2022

Lasagna soup

Senior Account Executive

Vice President

Administrator

Executive Editor

Graphic Designer

Steve T. Strickbine

Gordon Wood

Courtney Oldham

Tonya Mildenberg

Contributors

Allison Brown, Fred Cicetti, Jan D’Atri, Peter DeMangus, Lin Sue Flood, Alex Gallagher, Jordan Houston, David Leibowitz, Marisa Peer, Jordan Rogers

Se habla Español

4140 E. Baseline Rd. #206 • Mesa, AZ 85206 800.469.7383 or SunAmerican.com

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Leila’s founder says being nice is the key to success

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Phoenix vodka company wants to close divide

Casinos

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Downtown, East Valley celebrates with dancing, festivities

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5

Opinion

Leibo At Large

Neighbor’s suicide leaves regret, questions in its wake

BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ

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The white house sits across the street from the window fronting my desk. Not much distinguishes the place from the rest of the block where I moved two weeks ago. Four orange trees, their trunks painted white, line the east edge of the driveway.

The side gate has a sign that reads “Beware of the Dog” in faded orange letters. On the porch sits a white pot sprouting a metal replica of a sunflower.

The flower’s bright yellow adds a little cheer to the scene, but this is not that kind of story.

I met the woman who owned the house once, a few days after I moved in. I was unloading the last of my boxes.

She walked over from across the street and introduced herself as Linda. She looked to be approaching 80, and blunt in the way people of a certain age can pull off.

“It’s a nice street,” she assured me, with a hard glance that seemed to suggest I had better keep it that way.

I learned Linda had lived in the small white house for decades, beside Carolyn, her best friend and forever neighbor. There was rarely traffic on the block. Dogs barked on occasion. I told her my name. Then my phone rang. It was a work call I needed to take.

We said goodbyes and I thought nothing more of it for a few days, when I came home to a street full of police cars and an ambulance. The low white house had police crime scene tape blocking the driveway. Officers milled about. Carolyn, the forever neighbor, sat on her porch talking into her phone. I could see her shoulders heaving.

The sergeant running the scene met me in the street. He had little to say except there had been a death. Now a death investigation was happening. I asked whether there had been a crime.

He said he didn’t think so, that it looked

like an older woman, the home’s only occupant, had taken her own life. No, not with a gun. It appeared she had hanged herself.

“That’s sad,” was the best I could do.

“Very sad,” he agreed. A thought occurred to me: “I guess she might have been lonely.”

A couple of visitors have come and gone from the house since that afternoon, and I have looked for excuses to bump into Carolyn from the house next door, to ask if there’s anything I can do.

Each morning, I glance through the obituaries, to see if there might be more to Linda’s life — loved ones left behind, a memorial service scheduled, a charity where one might pay tribute.

Possibly, that’s the reporter in me, wanting to know “the rest of the story,” as Paul Harvey used to say. But more likely, it’s the human being in me, the new neighbor who wishes he hadn’t answered his phone, who regrets not being warmer, who wonders how he might have made some small difference.

This is magical thinking, I suppose.

The world may feel small today, with everyone in each other’s business on Facebook, on Twitter, online, but the truth is, we have never been more isolated.

Buried under the outward self we show the world, the #blessings and proclamations of gratitude, each of us has endless hidden nuances, stories we take pains to keep locked away.

Now I write a story about a neighbor no longer here to read it, while I stare at the house she left vacant and wonder what happened behind those closed curtains, that front door with the iron security grate.

So it goes. We are here until we’re not, and sometimes we take the rest of the story with us.

David Leibowitz has called the Valley home since 1995.

Contact david@leibowitzsolo.com.

www.LovinLife.com

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Ask Marisa

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

Late in her career, reader has time to find her purpose

PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY AND CHRONIC PAIN WARNING! Our clinic is taking every precaution and we follow strict CDC guidelines to ensure that our patients, clinic and staff are SAFE! Mesa, AZ — The most common method your doctor will recommend to treat your chronic pain and/or neuropathy is with prescription drugs that may temporarily reduce your symptoms. These drugs have names such as Gabapentin, Lyrica, Cymbalta, and Neurontin, and are primarily antidepressant or anti-seizure drugs.

These drugs may cause you to feel uncomfortable and have a variety of harmful side effects.

Chronic pain and/or peripheral neuropathy is a result of damage to the nerves often causing weakness, pain, numbness, tingling, and the most debilitating balance problems.

This damage is commonly caused by a lack of blood flow to the nerves in the hands and feet which causes the nerves to begin to degenerate due to lack of nutrient flow.

evaluation. As long as you have not sustained at least 95% nerve damage there is hope!

Fig. 2

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As you can see in Figure 2, as the blood vessels that surround the nerves become diseased they shrivel up which causes the nerves to not get the nutrients to continue to survive. When these nerves begin to “die” they cause you to have balance problems, pain, numbness, tingling, burning, and many additional symptoms.

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BY MARISA PEER

Q

Dear Marisa, I was married for three decades and recently found myself divorced. Our marriage was over emotionally long before it was over officially, so I’ve “moved on” faster than I thought I would.

Surprisingly, I feel ready to date again after many years of silencing my need for physical and emotional connection. I don’t necessarily want another marriage — definitely not one like the one I just ended — but I’d love companionship in this phase of my life.

But here’s the thing: I have no idea how to date in this day and age. With apps, dating services and social media, things have changed so much since the last time I was single. I don’t even know if people my age really belong on those apps. I am intimidated by the whole concept of getting back out there, and I think perhaps I’m not the only one my age who feels that way.

Do you have any advice?

Signed, Lonely but eager

A

Dear Lonely but eager, Good for you for getting back out there again. It takes courage and self-belief to go after what you want no matter what age you are, and I commend you for that. I truly believe that everyone on the planet is deserving of love, and I can guarantee that you are no different.

As far as the apps and websites go, I don’t blame you for feeling overwhelmed.

It’s often the case that people form rather extreme views on these things: Either they feel entirely against technology, and look down on people who look for love on apps, assuming it’s full of scammers and liars. Or, they become obsessed with them, looking through apps and dating profiles as if it’s a full-time job and become fixated on scheduling as many “dates” as possible. For those people, it can become more about quantity than quality.

I would encourage you to take neither

of these two paths. Instead, you can start out slowly and cautiously on the apps, using best practices — don’t give out personal or financial information; always meet in a public, busy place; and be wary of people who seem to avoid meeting face to face — to avoid any uncomfortable situations. I’d also suggest signing up for an app or service that caters to people of your age group, which might make you feel more comfortable.

At the same time, don’t just rely on modern technology as you re-enter the dating world. Get yourself out there doing all sorts of things. Follow your interests and curiosity: Get involved in senior or church groups, sporting leagues or a choir, or offer to dog-walk.

Many people in their 60s and older met their new partner through dog-walking, visiting elderly neighbors and being involved in the community. And don’t forget to pay attention! Whether you’re at a coffee shop, a shopping mall or a neighborhood social gathering, don’t forget that modern dating is not either/or. You can meet people the old-fashioned way, too. Remember, if you move through the world with confidence and positive self-belief, you will see that reflected to you.

There’s one more thing I want to say to you. You don’t say much about the nature of your divorce, other than indicating that marriage was perhaps unhappy for quite some time before it ended. This is quite common, but I would encourage you to do some investigation around why you allowed your needs to go unmet for so long.

Oftentimes, we assume that the problem with our failed relationships was the other person. We simply chose wrong.

They weren’t good for us. They gave up on the relationship. But the truth is we all show up to relationships with our own patterns from our past. Sometimes, we’re even attracted to people who aren’t

Marisa...continues on page 9 www.LovinLife.com

Marisa...continued from page 8 good for us because we’re desperately trying to get an old unmet need met. I don’t want you to do that again, so it’s important to spend some time with a therapist figuring out what went wrong in your marriage and why you allowed yourself to silence your own needs. As I explain in my book, “Tell Yourself a Better Lie,” you might find that the answer to that lies very early in your life, long before your marriage ever began.

Whatever happens, I wish you the best of luck on this new chapter and remember “what you want wants you.”

Both your life and somebody’s else’s life are about to be deeply enriched by you meeting and being with each other.

Very best, Marisa

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9

Features

GLOWING

Skin

Created from WITHIN

Phoenix med spa emphasizes health before beauty

BY JORDAN HOUSTON While it’s no secret that Arizona’s harsh climate isn’t exactly accommodating to aging skin, Vibrant Skin Bar owner Kristina Cadwell says it’s never too late to turn back time and step into skin care.

Cadwell, a certified aesthetic medical practitioner with over 10 years of experience under her belt, opened the Phoenix-based full service medical spa in 2019, and it hasn’t slowed down since. Vibrant Skin Bar, located at 4325 E. Indian School Road, Suite 130, strives to enhance natural beauty from the inside out with a “holistic approach to skin care,” according to its website.

The luxury med spa offers services ranging from customized cosmetic treatments to wellness therapies to nonsurgical body contouring.

“We really focus on healthy skin created from within,” says Cadwell, who graduated from Arizona State University with a bachelor’s in biology and A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine with a master’s in medical science.

“What makes us unique is we look for answers internally. We try to look for answers that are going to create lifelong wellness instead of quick fixes.”

Cadwell says she frequently sees older patients looking to adopt skin care routine for the first time, emphasizing that VSB

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creates individualized regimens tailored to each client’s needs based on their circumstances and lifestyles.

Because signs of aging vary in levels of severity, commonly due to sun exposure, dehydration, excessive sugar intake and hormone imbalances, they can be treated in a plethora of ways.

Age spots, for example, can be treated with options like over-the-counter creams designed to brighten the skin, medication, cryotherapy, laser treatments, chemical peels or dermabrasion.

Sagging skin and prominent marionette lines, on the other hand, require more invasive approaches, VSB’s website reads.

“We do see patients all the time that come in in their 50s and 60s and say they want to start taking care of their skin now,” she shares. “And it is chal-

lenging because they want to do something noninvasive and get a quick fix, but it’s going to be a year of commitment to regular treatments. But they will see incredible results.”

Cadwell typically recommends a combination of topical and injectable skin

Kristina Cadwell of Vibrant Skin Bar uses a white pencil to mark lines on her client’s face to help guide her.

Kristina Cadwell owns Vibrant Skin Bar. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)

care treatments, like facials, dermaplaning, chemical peels, Botox and fillers, with wellness and detox services, including oral skin care, IV therapy, hormone replacement, B12 shots and more.

Vibrant Skin Bar prides itself in teaching clients “healthy habits” to create a “lifestyle of wellness,” whether it’s incorporating daily sunscreen use, increasing hydration, introducing nutraceuticals, integrating exercise or adopting intermittent fasting.

“These daily habits really matter,” Cadwell says. “A lot of our older patients are seeking answers. When it comes to looking at hormones, looking at daily habits — things they were able to get away with in their 20s and 30s no longer work in their 50s and 60s.”

Stress management is a major player in maintaining youthful looking skin, the practitioner expresses. High amounts of cortisol caused by chronic psychological duress can break down the skin’s collagen and elastin, forming wrinkles.

Since the beginning of COVID-19, Cadwell says she has seen an uptick in clients of all ages.

“I think we’re releasing a lot more cortisol throughout the day,” Cadwell discloses, citing ongoing hardships and anxieties surrounding the pandemic.

Skin...continues on page 11 www.LovinLife.com

Skin...continued from page 10 Scottsdale resident and VSB client Carine Werner echoes Cadwell’s sentiment.

Werner, who has been visiting the med spa for about two and a half years, says she has noticed visible changes in her skin since 2020.

“I came out of that (2020) and I felt like I aged a lot,” she says, claiming VSB has been a game-changer in her overall appearance. “It was really refreshing to be able to go and turn back the clock a little bit by getting some fillers. I recommend it to everyone.”

Having only occasionally used Botox prior to becoming a client, Werner says she now incorporates fillers into her skin care routine.

website.

“My skin care routine is pretty solid. It’s what I had done for a long time,” Werner explains. “But going to Vibrant Skin Bar gives me some of that volume back in my face, and I feel more youthful. I feel like I don’t look as tired.

“For those that don’t like how their face is changing, there is a solution. If you start early enough, it may put off having to do more drastic things,” she continues. “Their (VSB) level of care and trust is profound.

Being able to go in there and come out just looking better than you did maybe 10 years ago is huge. It helps me feel better about myself.”

Kristina Cadwell of Vibrant Skin Bar performs a Botox injection on her client.

Vibrant Skin Bar offers dermal fillers, designed to “lift, enlarge, plump or emphasize,” based on both hyaluronic acid and poly-L-lactic acid, according to its

While avoiding stress altogether is wishful thinking, Cadwell suggests finding time daily to disconnect “from some of the stuff consuming (us) online” to “focus on the positive things.”

Taking a bath, exercising or writing in a gratitude journal are examples of healthy stress-relieving habits, the practitioner shares.

“When people look and feel their best, they pass it on to everyone around them,” Cadwell shares. “And I think that is so rewarding for me to see and to be helping with.”

Vibrant Skin Bar 4325 E. Indian School Road, Suite 130, Phoenix 480-422-2058 vibrantskinbar.com

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APRIL 2022

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11

Considering a Move Tips for choosing the right living environment

BY PETER DEMANGUS Solterra Companies For many older adults, as they age, there is a greater need for extra care and comfort.

The independent home that once functioned for someone when they were younger often provides obstacles as one ages.

The quintessential question is how to choose a comfortable living situation that provides the right level of care or intervention. This could be an independent living community, an assisted living home, a retirement community or even a new single-family home.

What living situation is right?

It is important to know the key differences between the different types of living arrangements available. There are many options available, including aging in place, moving into a new single-family home, moving in with kids and grandchildren, or choosing independent or assisted living.

Independent living communities provide an opportunity for seniors to live without the assistance of others. These communities are still focused on seniors so that they can spend time and socialize with people their own age. Independent living communities allow seniors to stay active while enjoying private apartments or villas.

Choosing an independent living community is often easier than living alone, because housekeeping, meal preparation and timekeeping are often taken care of which can prevent stress or additional physical and mental strain.

Independent living communities also encourage healthy aging by providing plenty of opportunities to stay active and participate in small- or large-group activities. If the time comes that the independence of these communities prove to be too challenging, seniors can easily transition into an assisted living situation, as many independent living communities have an assisted living option as well.

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Assisted living communities are built to help those who need a higher level of care and cannot safely live independently to provide needed personalized attention.

They provide the same meals and housekeeping services similar to independent living; however, they also have staff on-site to monitor medication schedules, assist with dressing and bathing as needed, and provide 24-hour emergency care. Assisted living communities are designed similarly to independent living, with the same access to recreational activities.

When choosing between these options, it may be important to reflect on the following: How many times has the loved one experienced a fall in the past year? Is meal preparation becoming difficult? Do they need help bathing or getting dressed? If the answer is yes to any of these questions, then it may be time to look into an assisted or independent living community.

What’s next?

After researching the difference between the two options, a potential resident can then choose which option best suits their needs at the current time, knowing that they can easily switch between the two should they require more or less assistance. One of the most important things to look for when choosing an assisted living community is the quality of the care. To understand more about this, potential residents and their family can visit potential communities and ask for a tour. Assisted living facilities are not the same as nursing homes; however, they still can help with offering medical care and assistance.

Ultimately, what is most important when choosing a place to live is looking at multiple options. It is imperative to visit several different communities before making a decision to see the different types of activities and living spaces provided. As this might be a forever future home, it’s crucial to weigh all of the options. When visiting, it’s a good idea to ask current residents what their experience is like to imagine what life could be

The BridgeWater Midtown location is just a short distance away from the light rail, restaurants, shopping, sports, museums, the theater, churches and health care services.

(Submitted)

like within the community.

In addition, when touring different communities, it is important to ask all of the right questions. To start, asking for information about food options is important, especially to understand frequency, timing and the variety of food options to make sure they fit into any dietary needs.

It is also important to ask the patient to caregiver ratios of 24/7 care staff.

Additionally, understanding transportation options is key, as people moving into assisted living communities can no longer drive, so understanding what transportation options are available to go shopping or see family members is vital.

Lastly, asking about daily activities is still important. Are art activities more important than athletic ones? Or do they place emphasis on group walks and exercise classes? Knowing which activities are a focus the best can help to guide your choice.

Some common amenities and factors that prospective residents should look for include a sense of community. Residents should feel connected to their new community and its other residents. The ability to socialize and participate in group projects that support the community as a whole will help residents branch out and make new friends in their new living

environment. Socialization is one of the most unique aspects of the assisted and independent living experience, because it helps seniors to stay in touch with their community.

One other factor to consider in choosing a place isn’t related to cost or location.

While those are important, another factor to consider is whether the community feels comfortable and provides the levels of care that may be needed in the future.

Deciding where to move as you age can be a tough and daunting decision.

Being careful and slow in the planning process, doing research, asking questions and visiting numerous facilities can help ensure that prospective residents end up in the right community for their best interest. The ideal assisted living or independent living facility should be comfortable and fit the needs of the resident.

Residents should feel excited about the opportunity to relax, socialize and get involved in the activities that are offered, all while receiving the care they need. By following through on all of these steps and tips, choosing a new living situation will be much easier.

Peter DeMangus is the chief marketing officer of Solterra Companies, parent company of Solterra Senior Living and BridgeWater Assisted Living.

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13

Entertainment

Eye of the Beholder Artists express emotions through their work

BY ALLISON BROWN Everyone has their own way of showing their emotions, but for artists, that expression turns into a visual representation that viewers can feel as well.

Longtime Mesa artist Susan Paige sponsored, curated and installed the “Emotions in Art” show to highlight the depth of feeling that art can bring. The show is on display through April 30 at the Downtown Mesa gallery, 101 W. Main Street.

“As human beings, we have tons of emotions flowing through us, but as artists, we have the opportunity to express those emotions in our art,” Paige says.

“I also find that art is really in the eye of the beholder because, say a viewer looks at a piece of artwork, I’m always amazed how they react to it. They often have an emotional response to what they’re looking at, and sometimes it’s not even what I intended as an artist; it just affects them in a personal way. The viewer gets something out of it emotionally, and the artist gets to express themselves emotionally.”

“Emotions in Art” is one of the largest shows Paige has done, with 12 local artists bringing a wide range of pieces in different mediums, subject matters, styles and sizes.

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Artists in the show include Agustin Vargas, Matt Smith, Joy Bezanis, Ludmila Demich, Paige, Dorata Lagida-Ostling, Barry Rosenblatt, Elvie Becker, Joni Anderson, Aveen Toma, Diane Black and Chris Brewer. Among those are two veterans (one of which is Paige’s husband), a recent graduate from the art department at Benedictine University in Chicago, the lead sculptor teacher at the Mesa Art Center, a teacher at the Xico Latin and Indigenous Artists culture center and more.

“These are all accomplished artists, and these are people who have been doing art for many, many years,” Paige says. “It’s a real gamut of artists. I tried to select people from all walks of life because they all have emotional experiences through life and express things differently in the art. So, it’s going to be very eclectic, kind of an all-encompassing show.”

In fact, Paige’s husband, retired Lt. Col. Barry Rosenblatt, is also in the show. He, along with the other veteran artist in “Emotions in Art,” started painting seven years ago with the Mesa Art League under the Arizona Art Alliance free classes for veterans program. Paige says the Art Alliance found that translating their emotions into art helps veterans on emotional and psychological levels. She says her husband paints landscapes with bright colors that are uplifting to the viewer.

“Through my 20year military career and my 35-year career in the medical field, I know that by keeping positive, one can scale through anything,” Rosenblatt says about relating his emotions to art.

With the theme of emotion, Paige says she chose artists who are clear in their intentions Twelve local artists will bring a wide range of pieces. (Submitted)

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APRIL 2022

and the feelings they express through their work. They are all artists she has followed over the years, and she has personally had a strong emotional response to their work.

The show will include portraits, landscapes, abstract, printmaking and sculptures. Paige adds that the show has as wide a range of emotions as it has styles, and it’s not all just somber and sad.

“There’s actually a lot of happy pieces in it. When you say you’re going to do a show on emotion, people right away assume it’s going to be a show that’s going to have a lot of intensity. But there’s actually a lot of playfulness and happiness,” Paige says.

One of the sculptors has flowers and dragons in his pieces. Another artist creates paintings from her emotional, spiritual and psychological interpretation of phrases from famous Catholic saints.

Then the portraits portray “the whole gamut” of emotions, from happy to sad, according to Paige, and relay a more intense emotional feeling.

Paige says more people turning to art during the extremely emotional past few years and has seen a change in people who come to the gallery.

“What I’ve seen in the people coming to the gallery, people are really looking to have hope and positivity, and so they see that in the art and the art inspires them and makes them feel good,” she explains.

“They talk to us; they spend more time there talking about the art when they come into our studio. I think people are responding in a way that is uplifting.”

Paige usually greets people and talks about the art, but she is also the driving force behind the scenes to make the show happen. She pays rent for the

“Emotions in Art” wil highlight the depth of feeling that art can bring. (Submitted)

space, comes up with a theme, selects the artists, curates the pieces and installs them all herself.

While her own work is in the show, Paige says she enjoys creating a space for other artists to display their work. One of her passions is helping other artists get their work out there and, throughout her 20-year career in art, she has always made it a point to save a spot for the little guy.

“I actually managed an avant garde gallery in Downtown Phoenix from 1979 to ’83, and all the artists I had were emerging artists in the Phoenix area that couldn’t get into the Scottsdale galleries because they were so competitive,” Paige says. “So, I gave them opportunities to show and, as a result, I got huge turnouts to my shows because I think the public is looking for something different. They want to see what the local artists do.”

“Emotions in Art” Show WHEN: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays through April 30 WHERE: OneOhOne Gallery/Paige Artists Studio, 101 W. Main Street, Mesa COST: Free INFO: oneohone101.com www.LovinLife.com

All That Jazz Downtown, East Valley celebrates with dancing, festivities

BY ALEX GALLAGHER It’s hard for William “Doc” Jones to believe it has been half a decade since he began his efforts to have his state recognize April as Jazz Appreciation Month and April 30 as International Jazz Day. When Jones began his efforts to have the genre recognized, he quickly realized it would be challenging to receive bipartisan support in a time where there seemed to be a growing divide between people of contrasting political opinions.

He then realized the perfect way to get members of the state’s House of Representatives and senators to congregate around his cause.

“Five years ago, I began to lobby with legislators to create an event called Jazz at Lunch Time where we shut down the streets between Washington and Jefferson,” Jones says.

Two years later, Jones rolled out his idea — at the perfect time.

“In 2019, there was fighting in the house to get this bill passed,” he says. “But when the music started and the food came out, I saw Republicans and Democrats sit down at the same tables enjoying the food and enjoying this music.”

The bill unanimously declared April 30 as International Jazz Day in Arizona.

“I was honored to know that we crossed aisles with jazz,” Jones says. “We had Republicans, Democrats and independents enjoying an hour of music and some good food.”

This year, the support of Jazz Appreciation Month and International Jazz Day has stretched outside of Downtown Phoenix as mayors from across the Valley have banded together to share the swinging sounds of jazz with their residents.

“Our state is the first state where I have been able to get

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the governor, 10 mayors, the full Senate and the full House behind us, and I am humbled by the support we’ve gotten,” Jones says.

Support has also come from Gov. Doug Ducey and Mayors David Ortega of Scottsdale, Corey Woods of Tempe and Jerry Bien-Willner of Paradise Valley to produce events across the Valley throughout the month.

“This is a dream come true for not just me but for jazz and blues lovers, because jazz is the roots for so many other genres of music,” Jones says. “For us to be able to have the state recognizing Jazz Appreciation Month and to have all the cities produce some type of event to promote jazz.”

Festivities will begin in Tempe on Friday, April 8, when the Nayo Jones Experience from New Orleans brings the sounds of Louisiana to the Tempe Center for the Arts and reminds concertgoers of where the genre established its roots.

“This music was born here in America in New Orleans and exported all over the world,” Jones says. “Our music moved from the ’50s, where you could dance to it, to the ’60s, when it became avant garde, and then shifted to bebop, where it became so fast that you had to put your seatbelt on to keep up with it.”

A week and a half later, on Wednesday, April 20, the festivities continue with Jazz at Lunch Time, which returns for a fifth year. This year, veterans will toot their horns for dining and dancing guests.

As exciting as Jazz at Lunch Time is this year, the

month of music and festivities will conclude on International Jazz Day in Scottsdale.

The Saturday, April 30, festival, held at the Scottsdale Civic Center, will feature performances by Cold Shott & the Hurricane Horns, Carlos Riuas & Su Orquesta Mehsal, the Nayo Jones Experience, Jesse McGuire Trio, Jaleo Latin Band, and Grammy award winners Richard Elliott and Rick Braun.

Although the lineup touts accomplished acts, Jones is motivated by the event’s fundraising efforts.

“I’m humbled by the attention we’re getting this year because I’ve heard from several people, ‘If you’re not making money, why are doing this over these years?’” he says. “To which I reply, ‘It’s bigger than just an event, it’s bigger than the artists we put on the stage, and I have been acknowledged by Herbie Hancock and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization for my due diligence.’”

Proceeds from the festival will also be donated to sponsor music programs for at-risk youth in organizations such as Next Student Academy for the Arts, Molina School of Jazz — which has a program that allows 50 students to have their music lessons and instruments covered for a year — and Jones’ summer music program.

“I’ve been in music education for many years, and I realized once you put an instrument in a kid’s hand it helps with their creativity and how they approach life,” Jones says. “The reason that we do this festival is to raise funds for scholarships for young people that want to play this music.”

Whether jazz fans flock to Tempe, Downtown Phoenix or Scottsdale, Jones encourages all fans The lineup touts to do one thing. accomplished acts.

“Put on your par(Submitted) tying shoes, because

The Nayo Jones Experience from New Orleans will bring the sounds of Louisiana to Tempe.

(Submitted)

we’re going to be dancing and playing all different styles of this music,” he says.

“This is not going to be a sit-down concert where you sit down and have to be quiet like you do at the symphony. It’s going to be a party where we’re bringing the flavor of New Orleans.”

Jazz Appreciation Month April 8 Tempe Jazz Day featuring the Nayo Jones Experience and Mayor Corey Woods at the Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, 7:30 p.m. $45/$75 April 20 Jazz at Lunch Time at 1700 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, 11 a.m., charge TBA April 30 Scottsdale Jazz Festival/International Jazz Day at the Scottsdale Civic Center, 3939 N. Drinkwater Boulevard, Scottsdale, 3 p.m., tickets start at $25 APRIL 2022

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15

Celebrating America Phoenix vodka company wants to close divide

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Mark Gus Scott was walking the aisles of a local drugstore looking for vodka, when he realized the United States was underrepresented.

“I saw Smirnoff Ice, Stoli,” he says. “I did not see one American brand.

“I wondered how the hell is it that no American brand came to prominence in CVS shelves in the middle of the Southwest. That is inexcusable.”

So, the Phoenix resident founded American Premium vodka to celebrate the “greatness of America.”

“When I was a kid, I took my flag to the Memorial Day parade and whipped it around,” says Scott, who played drums for the rock band Trixter.

“That sentiment, that pageantry of America has been beaten away. That is a crime. That’s why I started the brand: out

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APRIL 2022

of disgust. I literally started the brand out of disgust of that idea, and I’m the guy who’s going to put America on the shelf.”

He vows to bring America back together, in light of the ever-growing divide between Democrats and Republicans.

Scott initiated a nationwide fundraising campaign to donate $1 from every bottle sold to support American Legion Veteran Charities. American Premium vodka sells for $16 per bottle.

Scott, who took delivery of the vodka on March 29, will host launch parties at American Legion posts across the nation.

The move started with a party at American Legion Pat Tillman Post No. 117.

“American Premium vodka is an ally in our relentless pursuit of fostering Americanism,” says Steve Lackey, that post’s commander.

“The efforts we all make as members of the legion breed something special throughout our communities and pay special tribute to our real American heroes — our veterans.”

The vodka, which is gluten free, will be sold first on military bases — including Luke Air Force Base — and at American Legions and VFW halls.

That’s my goal,” he says. “Everyone else waits. We’re doing it completely backward. There are 12,000 posts for the American Legion and 6,000 posts for the VFW. It’s a salute to our people. They’re the people who gave everything for us.

The least I can do is give a little some-

Mark Gus Scott, who founded American Premium vodka, initiated a nationwide fundraising campaign to donate $1 from every bottle sold to support American Legion Veteran Charities.

(American Premium/Submitted)

thing to them.”

Scott traveled the country looking at distilleries. Little did he know, the company to produce it was in his backyard — Desert Rock Winery in the Scottsdale Airpark.

“They did a great job over there,” Scott adds. “They are very knowledgeable. I wasn’t a vodka expert. He gave me a lot of insight. But they’re rock ‘n’ rollers.”

One of Scott’s slogans is “The America we need right now.” That reflects Scott’s believe that there hasn’t been a greater divide in the country since slavery.

“When I was 15 or 16, I was the hotshot trumpet player,” adds Scott, a New Jersey

native. “I was the guy who played taps at the memorial cemetery.

When I did that, I looked around and there was no one else there. They send me, a 16-year-old kid, to recognize our veterans in the ground. Nobody else was going to carry the weight of this thing.

There’s something wrong with that, so I’m here to fix it.”

American Premium Vodka americanpremiumvodka.com

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Puzzles

GO FIGURE! by Linda Thistle

ANSWERS ON PAGE 25

ACROSS 1 Bar legally 6 Decorator’s theme 11 Floodgate 12 Apple music service 14 Maidens of myth 15 Nap 16 Doctrine 17 Varieties 19 Up to 20 Casual tops 22 -- Paulo 23 Optimum 24 Passover repast 26 Heller and Conrad 28 Chips go-with 30 Small barrel 31 High-ranking angels 35 Nintendo princess 39 Neural transmitter 40 Snitch 42 Eye drop

43 44 46 47 49 51 52

Spasm Croc’s kin GI’s address Runs off to wed Transforms (into) Safe and sound Dawn-of-mammals epoch 53 Ninnies 54 “-- you!” (challenger’s cry)

10 11 13 18 21 23 25 27 29 31 32 33 34 DOWN 36 1 Parisian palace 37 2 Tallied 38 3 Bit of advice 41 4 Folksinger Phil 44 5 Mexican money 6 Identified incorrectly 45 48 7 Elevator name 50 8 Calendar abbr.

9 Foot part

Fixation Tizzies Mariners British rule of India Auto style Sire Shred “-- who?”

Sentence parts Fills up Driven out Highly ornate Perched Figure skater, at times Author du Maurier Got up Actress Marisa Richard of “Chicago” Crucifix Young dog HDTV brand

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

DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK ★ ★ ★

★ Moderate ★★ Challenging ★★★ HOO BOY!

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.

DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK ★ ★

★ Moderate ★★ Challenging ★★★ HOO BOY!

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

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

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

www.LovinLife.com

APRIL 2022

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17

Casinos

Equal Opportunity

RagDolls is an all-female Aerosmith tribute act. The band will play two shows at Casino Arizona in late April.

(RagDolls/Submitted)

RagDolls want to be taken seriously

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI When the Aerosmith tribute act RagDolls hits the stage, the six musicians want the audience to focus on the music.

Never mind that RagDolls is an all-female band.

“We want the audience to feel it and enjoy it,” founder/lead singer Susie Major says. “Let’s get past that. We’re there to rock you and entertain you — not for the audience to say, ‘Oh, look. There are girlies on stage.’”

RagDolls return to Arizona on Friday, April 29, and Saturday, April 30, at Casino Arizona.

Before they made their Arizona debut at Casino Arizona in fall 2021, the noteworthy RagDolls played fewer than 10 gigs since forming in 2019, thanks to the

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APRIL 2022

COVID-19 pandemic. But their musicianship defied that. The chemistry is tangible between Major, lead guitarist Ali Handal, guitarist Masha McSorley, bassist Lex Wolfe, drummer Marisa Testa and keyboardist Julie Dolan.

“We found what we feel are the best of the best musicians,” Major says about the group’s formation. “Our first gig was at the end of March 2020 at the Whisky, then boom, COVID. Everything was either canceled or was rescheduled. The year 2020 was a complete wash.

“We used it to our advantage. We got down to practicing more and putting more time into details.”

For Major, an Aerosmith tribute band was a logical step. She was told she should cover Heart or Pat Benatar, but

Major wanted to challenge herself.

“I want to do things that you wouldn’t feel a woman’s place would be,” she says.

“Aerosmith is a lot tougher than it sounds or looks. There’s just so much to do musically. It’s something I respect and get fully behind.”

Aerosmith singer Steven Tyler inspired Major to sing, after going through Partridge Family and Broadway phases. She “needed” to be Tyler mixed with guitarist Joe Perry.

“I took a wad of my hair and tried to dye it blond in junior high,” she says with a laugh, referencing Perry’s streak in his hair. “I used bleach that you use on your arms and lost a big chunk of it.”

Major is proud of what RagDolls have accomplished.

“It feels like if this band can do an honorable homage, we can do anything,” she says. “It’s actually freeing to know that these girls play the (expletive) out of Aerosmith songs. It blows my mind every time we play together. They are so good.

I’ve never known musicians who can play note for note with their own spin.”

RagDolls: A Tribute to Aerosmith WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 29, and Saturday, April 30 WHERE: Casino Arizona’s Showroom, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale COST: Tickets start at $10 INFO: 480-850-7777, casinoarizona.com www.LovinLife.com

Casino Calendar Brett Young

8 p.m. Friday, April 1, Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, tickets start at $49, 1-800-946-4452, playatgila.com

Rock ‘n’ Roll Band: The Music of Boston

7:30 p.m. Friday, April 1, and Saturday, April 2, Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, tickets start at $10, 480-850-7777, casinoarizona.com

Hollywood Yates

8 p.m. Friday, April 1, WKP Sports & Entertainment, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-789-4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Rhythm of the Sun

8 p.m. Saturday, April 2, WKP Sports & Entertainment, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-789-4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Will Smith Trivia

7 p.m. Tuesday, April 5, Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, free admission, registration is from 6 to 7 p.m., 480-850-7777, casinoarizona.com

Calumet

8 p.m. Friday, April 8, WKP Sports & Entertainment, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-789-4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

George Lopez

7 p.m. and 10 p.m. Saturday, April 9, Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, tickets start at $48, 1-800-946-4452, playatgila.com

Quantum

8 p.m. Saturday, April 9, WKP Sports & Entertainment, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-789-4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Bruno and the Hooligans

7:30 p.m. Friday, April 15, and Saturday, April 16, Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, tickets start at $10, 480-850-7777, casinoarizona.com

Mogollon

8 p.m. Friday, April 15, WKP Sports & Entertainment, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-789-4957, wekopacasinoresort.com www.LovinLife.com

Mick Adams and the Stones: Rolling Stones Tribute

BE DEBT FREE IN 24–48 MONTHS!

9 p.m. Saturday, April 16, WKP Sports & Entertainment, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, tickets start at $25, 480-7894957, wekopacasinoresort.com

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Da Vu Mua Xuan Tinh Yeu: Dancing in the Springtime

8 p.m. Saturday, April 16, Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, tickets start at $30, 1-800-946-4452, playatgila.com

Ana Barbara y Banda Machos

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8 p.m. Thursday, April 21, Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, tickets start at $40, 1-800-946-4452, playatgila.com

The Long Run: Eagles Tribute

7:30 p.m. Friday, April 22, and Saturday, April 23, Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, tickets start at $10, 480-850-7777, casinoarizona.com

The Walkens

8 p.m. Friday, April 22, WKP Sports & Entertainment, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-789-4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Rhythm Edition

8 p.m. Saturday, April 23, WKP Sports & Entertainment, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-789-4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Native American All-Star Comedy

8 p.m. Friday, April 22, Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, tickets start at $20, 1-800-946-4452, playatgila.com

RagDolls: A Tribute to Aerosmith

7:30 p.m. Friday, April 29, and Saturday, April 30, Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, tickets start at $10, 480-850-7777, casinoarizona.com

Brea Burns and the Boleros

8 p.m. Friday, April 29, WKP Sports & Entertainment, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-789-4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

OneGunn One Love: The Bob Marley Experience

9 p.m. Saturday, April 30, WKP Sports & Entertainment, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, $20, 480-789-4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

APRIL 2022

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19

Food & Drink

Carrying on Tradition La Canasta celebrates 60 years of family recipes

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI When Richard Abril died at age 47, leaving his wife, Carmen, with six girls and one boy, she rolled up her sleeves and went to work with their company, La Canasta Mexican Foods.

They provided tortillas to Garcia’s, Manuel’s and Macayo’s, among other Mexican restaurants. This year, the organization — which now includes a sister company, My Nana’s Best Tasting products — is celebrating its 60th year with its sights set high on growth, expansion and new product development.

“I can’t believe how time flies,” says Josie Ippolito, their daughter and current president of La Canasta Mexican Foods.

The Abrils opened La Canasta Mexican Foods in Phoenix in 1962. Their goal was to supply the Valley’s Hispanic community with fresh flour and corn tortillas.

As word of mouth grew about La Canasta’s authentic tortillas, so did the business, expanding into tortilla chips, salsas and buñuelos. Today, fans of My Nana’s Best Tasting products can find them in most retail grocery stores across Arizo-

Josie Ippolito is the current president of La Canasta Mexican Foods.

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APRIL 2022

na and into the western states, including Texas.

Now, La Canasta makes 2.5 million tortillas daily, in its Phoenix-based manufacturing facility. Thousands of pounds of whole kernel corn and flour are processed every hour; then they are made into dough that is pressed and sheeted into tortillas. Next, the tortillas are cooked, cooled, and packaged up to ship out.

The whole process has been perfected with an intricate system of high-tech automated conveyors, ovens and cooling belts that make it possible to produce nearly 100,000 tortillas per hour.

It wasn’t always this way.

“We were doing a lot of it by hand,” Ippolito says. “She was very intuitive and a very astute businessperson.

She said, ‘How can we do this better and faster?’

She was unbelievable.

“My mother was just amazing in her efforts to explore those opportunities while maintaining the best product quality that we had to begin with.”

The growth and modernization weren’t enough for Ippolito, who left the company, but her family said she was welcome to return, which she did. She founded My Nana’s Best Tasting products.

“The reason I started that company is I remember us, as kids, we would visit my grandmother, my nana, and she would make tortillas on a black cast iron stove for the grandkids,” she says.

“We would be running around eating hot tortillas with butter. She could never keep up. When I started thinking about what brand name would be, I thought what better name than My Nana’s tortilla chips. She would fry tortillas and make chips out of them. We couldn’t get enough. That’s how My Nana’s was founded.”

(Left) My Nana’s Best Tasting tortilla chips are used by Garcia’s and Macayo’s. (Above) La Canasta makes 2.5 million tortillas daily.

(La Canasta/Submitted)

My Nana’s Best Tasting products wasn’t a competitor to La Canasta Mexican Foods, as it didn’t offer chips.

“This tortilla chip is unique and different; they’re the same ones used in Garcia’s and Macayo’s,” says Ippolito, a Glendale resident. “It’s in a bag and now customers can buy them. That’s when the restaurant-style tortilla chips came about.”

Ippolito contends that the chips aren’t the least expensive, but they’re “the best.”

“We make the tortilla first, chill it, and then we cut it and fry it,” she says. “That’s the only reason why they’re more expensive, because of the process. We know the quality is there when we do it that way.

Otherwise, you’re a chip like everybody else.

“We don’t want to be that. You can put it in the microwave, warm it up and heat it, put some cheese on it and it will be just

like what you taste in a restaurant.”

Recently, Ippolito unveiled a flour tortilla chip that is deep fried and dusted with cinnamon and sugar. She says the buñuelos have been incredibly popular.

“It took us a while to develop the recipe, but it was well worth it,” she says. “Little did we know it was going to hit like it did. The buñuelos are considered a Mexican dessert that are typically sold during the holidays — Christmas and New Year’s.

We eat them for good luck for the coming year.”

Looking back over the years, Ippolito considers her mother her hero.

“Sorry if I get emotional,” she says before crying. “Supporting six girls and one boy, she still gave us all opportunities to grow within the company.

“At the age of 75, she started losing her memory, so we donate 1% of our sales to the Alzheimer’s Association. We hope that research will find some kind of cure.

There are so many people with Alzheimer’s. She lived 12 years with Alzheimer’s.

We took care of her at home. The seven of us would each spend one night with her every week until we couldn’t anymore.

She was amazing.”

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Kindness Matters Leila’s founder says being nice is the key to success

BY JORDAN ROGERS Leila’s Empanadas is celebrating National Empanada Day in style by hosting tastings at two of its partnered pickup locations.

Tasting events will take place from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, April 8, at Sam’s Frozen Yogurt in Anthem, and from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 9, at Lil Miss Butcher in Cave Creek.

Leila Beltrame, the owner and chef of Leila’s Empanadas, is looking forward to marketing her empanadas.

“I think when people try it, they will see that it’s a nice product,” she says. “It’s not expensive, and it’s easy to keep in your freezer. We can better explain what it is. We want to build our brand because we’re new here.”

Beef, chicken and olive, and apple créme brûlée will be available to purchase at the tastings. In addition to empanadas, Leila’s Empanadas makes gluten-free cheese rolls.

“Nowadays, a lot of people are allergic to gluten, and we want to help with that,” Beltrame says. “We try to use the better ingredients that are around.”

Born in Brazil 52 years ago, Beltrame watched her mother and grandmother cook. Constantly being around that birthed a passion and a dream to start a food business.

“They always cooked, and I learned to

cook how they did when I was a kid,” she says. “It was my dream to have a business in food. My inspiration was my family, because they always cooked.

“It’s my passion. I don’t want to do another kind of job. My mind is always cooking, cooking, cooking. Everything is hard for me; cooking is easy.”

Beltrame moved to the Valley of the Sun seven years ago. She knew she wanted to start the business but recognized the need to learn English. She spent two years dedicated to learning the language.

“It was hard for me to (learn English),” she says. “I wanted to start my business, but I didn’t know English.”

Though Beltrame’s husband occasionally assists, she has just one full-time employee cooking with her. She says empanadas can be difficult to make, but for her, it is a “pleasure.” She doesn’t view her work as a job, but rather a passion.

Leila’s Empanadas is partnered with Homeless Engagement Lift Partnership in benefiting their H.E.L.P. Snackz Program. A portion of every order placed at the tasting events or online at leilasempanadas.com will go toward battling local child hunger.

The program is close to her heart, as she grew up in a poor farming family.

“I understand what these kids feel when they come home from school and don’t have much to eat,” Beltrame says.

“How are they going to learn? How are they going to have a good life when they don’t have food?

It’s impossible. It is a pleasure to me to help these kids, because I believe in good food having a nice treatment. They will grow and be nice people and be different.”

Leila’s Empanadas’ products are available through the company’s website for local pickup or regional delivery.

22

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APRIL 2022

Leila Beltrame, the owner and chef of Leila’s Empanadas, was born in Brazil 52 years ago. She moved here seven years ago and spent two years dedicated to learning English.

(Leila’s Empanadas/Submitted)

Leila’s Empanadas leilasempanadas.com While Beltrame is proud to give back locally, she also takes pride in her product. Her empanadas and cheese rolls are low calorie and are made with organic ingredients that do not contain any artificial preservatives or hormones.

“Let’s eat well, together!” is her and the company’s mantra.

“Sometimes food has a lot of those bad things inside, and you don’t need that,” she says. “You can do a lot of good with good ingredients. ‘Let’s eat well, together!’ means we can eat well and help other people. Together, we can help each other.”

To sell her product, Leila’s Empanadas partnered with Sam’s Frozen Yogurt, Lil Miss Butcher, and her latest partner, BUTI MVMNT Studio in Scottsdale.

Under Beltrame’s model, she provides a freezer and her product, while her partners

make commission based off what they sell.

Leila’s Empanadas’ products are available through the company’s website for local pickup or regional delivery via DoorDash and Grubhub and run $33 per dozen.

www.LovinLife.com

What’s Cooking?

Lasagna soup

BY JAN D’ATRI

Allow me to introduce you to my new favorite dish! If you love lasagna, you’re going to absolutely be giddy over making this simple soup that tastes exactly like lasagna.

I can’t stop making it for friends and family, and I get a kick out of watching them come back for seconds — and thirds — and then holding their tummy because they’ve eaten too much. Be prepared for the same reaction!

This lasagna soup is just scrumptious.

I often hear that folks love lasagna but only order it in restaurants because it’s rather tedious to assemble. With lasagna soup, it’s a one-pot wonder of deliciousness without the stress. In fact, you don’t even cook the lasagna noodles ahead of time. You simply throw the raw noodles

into the soup! It’s just as delicious whether you use turkey, beef, Italian pork sausage or a combination of all three!

One of the things that really makes it taste like lasagna is the ricotta mixture that you dollop on top of the soup when you plate it!

If you like Italian cuisine, if you like easy, if you like to please people with a hearty dish that they will adore, then I hope you make lasagna soup soon.

Lasagna soup Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • 3 cloves of garlic, minced • 1 sweet yellow onion, chopped fine • 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey, beef or Italian sausage (I prefer half beef or turkey with half sausage) • 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce (prefer Rao’s Tomato Basil) • 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, or half a pint of fresh cherry tomatoes, chopped • 1/2 cup chopped basil, plus more for topping • 1 teaspoon oregano, dried or fresh • 4 cups chicken broth • 1 cup water • 1 cup heavy cream • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 teaspoon pepper • 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces (about 10 noodles) • 1 cup whole milk ricotta • 1 cup shredded mozzarella • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping

Directions:

In a pot, heat the olive oil and sauté the garlic and onion until soft and translucent.

Add the turkey, beef or sausage and cook until browned. Add the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, chopped basil, oregano, chicken broth, 1 cup of water, heavy cream, salt and pepper. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring often. Break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces (about 1- to 2-inch pieces) and add them to the pot. Stir occasionally until the noodles are tender. (Do not overcook the noodles. They should be al dente, or a bit firm but cooked through.) Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine the ricotta, shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, mixing to combine. When the soup is done, spoon it into a bowl, top with a big dollop of the ricotta mixture and sprinkle with Parmesan and fresh basil.

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APRIL 2022

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23

Columns

Hospice Is Hope

BY LIN SUE FLOOD

Veteran finds joy in bonding with volunteer

Bright and early, every weekday morning before she heads to work, Meredith Bartlett shows up at her friend Larry’s house. The Navy veteran is always waiting with a smile and a hug. Together, they take his dog for a walk around his Phoenix neighborhood.

That little stroll is just a slice of Meredith’s day, but it’s everything to Larry.

After a serious fall a few months ago and increasing memory decline, the 75-yearold didn’t feel safe venturing out alone anymore. Meredith helps him stay active, and his wife, Connie, knows he’s safe.

And it’s all thanks to Legacy Corps, an AmeriCorps program. Through a partner-

ship with ASU and Hospice of the Valley, volunteers like Meredith are trained to support military veterans living with dementia.

“It’s the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done,” Meredith says with absolute sincerity, “helping someone who appreciates it so much. I look forward to seeing him every day. I’m his friend, but he’s my friend, too.”

She takes Larry to doctor’s appointments, the grocery store, post office or bank. The two often plan “adventures” to places like the Heard Museum, Desert Botanical Garden and the Penske Racing Museum. A few times they’ve made pasta, rolling the dough, pressing and cut-

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APRIL 2022

Connie Lambert feels less caregiver stress knowing her husband has a friend who provides fun and safe activities. (Hospice of the Valley/Submitted)

ting the noodles. The goal is to enjoy the day, whether it’s a good or a difficult one.

“I don’t know what I’d do without her,” Larry confesses. “She’s my guardian, she holds my hand. She puts up with an old guy who can’t always think of the right words.” A tear slips from his eyes as he continues. “It’s magnificent and beautiful and very emotional for me. If she can’t come, I really feel a day of loss.”

Meredith’s background is in speech pathology, “so I love the challenge of helping someone who may have difficulty communicating, as dementia patients often do,” she says. “Larry is interesting and funny and entertaining. I wasn’t expecting to be so full of joy doing this, but it’s really wonderful.”

Without these outings, Larry is pretty sure he’d be sitting in front of the television all day watching reruns.

“I look forward to the doorbell ringing and her coming in the door,” he says.

“She’s a very positive person. Life is sad sometimes, but learning how to laugh at it makes the sadness disappear. She understands me, and it just makes my day.”

These visits also improve quality of life for Connie, who is exhausted working two

jobs and being Larry’s caregiver. “Knowing he’s happy and going places to have fun alleviates a lot of guilt and stress,” she reflects. “It’s such a godsend. Dementia is a family disease. Even though Larry’s kids help us, too, they work and have families of their own, so it takes a village. Meredith is part of our village.”

As a single mom who works full time, Meredith admits it’s not easy finding time to volunteer. “But it’s so worth it,” she says. “When you realize how much your visits mean to someone who depends on you, and is so grateful for your time, it will change what you think is important and what you should make time for.”

Hospice of the Valley is looking for more Legacy Corps volunteers to visit dementia patients in need of compassionate support. This program provides the volunteer with a monthly allowance and a college tuition award after a year of service, which may be passed on to a child or grandchild.

Interested in making a difference in the lives of military families? Call 480-844-5486, email legacycorps@hov.org or visit hov.org/volunteer/ legacy-corps.

Lin Sue Flood is community engagement director for Hospice of the Valley.

For more information, email info@hov. org or visit hov.org.

Navy veteran Larry Lambert enjoys the daily walks and friendship provided by Legacy Corps volunteer Meredith Bartlett, who is holding his dog, Molly. www.LovinLife.com

The Healthy Geezer

The sinus infection, toothache mystery solved

BY FRED CICETTI

Q

Can a sinus infection give you a toothache?

A

I can write from personal experience on this one. I had a bad toothache that sent me to my dentist. He did some X-rays and could find nothing wrong. He asked me about my sinuses, and I told him I was fighting an infection.

Bingo.

Yes, infection in the sinuses located in your cheekbones can cause your upper jaw and teeth to ache and your cheeks to become tender to the touch. Sinusitis is a nasty malady that can do much more than give you a toothache.

Sinusitis, which is infection or inflammation of the sinuses, creates suffering for about 37 million Americans every year.

The sinuses are four pairs of cavities: the frontal sinuses over the eyes, maxillary sinuses inside each cheekbone, ethmoid sinuses just behind the bridge of the nose, and sphenoid sinuses behind the ethmoids. Each sinus is connected to the nose.

Acute sinusitis lasts for four weeks or less. Subacute sinusitis runs four to eight weeks. Chronic sinusitis can continue for years. Recurrent sinusitis includes several acute attacks within a year.

Unlike sinusitis, a common cold usually goes away without treatment in about 10 days. So, if you have what feels like a bad cold for longer than 10 days, go to your doctor for a checkup.

Most cases of acute sinusitis start with a cold or allergy attack, which inflames the mucous membranes of the sinuses.

Swelling traps air and mucus in the sinuses, and they cannot drain properly. The

trapped mucus creates ideal conditions for bacteria to grow.

Symptoms of chronic sinusitis may be less severe than those of acute sinusitis.

However, untreated chronic sinusitis can cause damage to the sinuses and cheekbones that sometimes requires surgery to repair.

Most people with sinusitis have pain or tenderness. Other symptoms of sinusitis can include fever, weakness, fatigue, nasal congestion, cough and sore throat.

If you have acute sinusitis, your doctor may prescribe decongestants, antibiotics and pain relievers. Many cases of acute sinusitis will end without antibiotics.

Many health care providers treat chronic sinusitis as though it is an infection, by using antibiotics and decongestants. Others use both antibiotics with steroid nasal sprays. Further research is needed to determine the best treatment.

When medical treatment fails, surgery may be the only alternative for treating chronic sinusitis. The most common surgery done today is functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) to enlarge the natural openings and allow drainage.

FESS is less invasive than conventional sinus surgery. With the endoscope, the surgeon can look directly into the nose while clearing the narrow channels between the sinuses. This type of surgery can be done under local or general anesthesia.

One worthwhile way to help keep your sinuses clear is to use an over-the-counter saltwater nasal wash every day. Most pharmacies carry them. They help remove mucus and bacteria from the nose and sinuses. I use one myself, and it has been beneficial.

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APRIL 2022

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