Lovin' Life After 50 - Southeast Valley - June 2022

June 2022

Don’t Be a Victim

Drink Green?

Learn ‘what scammers don’t want you to know’

These wines are sustainable and sensational

Gasser Dental

Dr. Kevin Gasser changes lives one smile at a time

Southeast Valley Edition

Howard Jones, Midge Ure share ‘Dialogue’ Page 14 HERE IS SOMETHING TO CELEBRATE OUR 40 YEARS IN BUSINESS

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8 Gasser Dental

Dr. Kevin Gasser changes lives one smile at a time

Opinion

6 7

OAC

Leibo At Large Ask Marisa

Features

10

Don’t Be a Victim

Learn ‘what scammers don’t want you to know’

Entertainment

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JUNE 2022

Calendar of Events

23

What’s Cooking? with Jan D’Atri

26 26

‘The Fragile Years’ Gardening

Food & Drink

22

Drink Green?

Wines that are sustainable and sensational

Nutella swirl-top Rice Krispies treats

Columns

24 25

Hospice Is Hope The Healthy Geezer

Publisher

Senior Account Executive

Vice President

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Gordon Wood

Courtney Oldham

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Alison Bailin Batz, Allison Brown, Amy Cameron O’Rourke, Fred Cicetti, Jan D’Atri, Lin Sue Flood, David Leibowitz, Marisa Peer

Tonya Mildenberg

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Howard Jones, Midge Ure share ‘Dialogue’

20 Casino Calendar

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

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Words with Friends

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Opinion

Leibo At Large

Suns coach displays more soul than governor hopefuls

BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ

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Few things in life reveal character more than heartbreak.

Given that Phoenix Suns basketball coach Monty Williams has faced more than his share of adversity, including the death of his wife in a head-on collision caused by a driver sky-high on meth, perhaps we should not be surprised by how gracefully Williams handled the Suns’ shocking Game 7 implosion against the Dallas Mavericks.

Williams’ candor and eloquence, coupled with his willingness to accept responsibility for that miserable 123-90 blowout, impressed me even more than his team’s best-in-the-NBA 64 wins during the regular season.

Truth be told, Williams is also more impressive than the three Democrats and five Republicans currently running for governor of Arizona. The man exudes perspective, dignity, moral strength and leadership — qualities in short supply in politics today.

On a Monday Zoom press conference hours after the Mavs’ onslaught ended, Williams explained how he’d spent the night reflecting on the season past and talking it over with his family and coaches.

He spoke about his own high expectations, now dashed, and the many steps forward the Suns have made under his leadership. The NBA’s reigning Coach of the Year also talked about the gut-twist losing brings and what he’d told his locker room afterward. “(I) wanted them to understand that we accepted the praise when everybody was talking about us and we were winning games and guys were accomplishing things, and now we have to accept this,” Williams said. “This is going to help us grow in a way that last year didn’t allow for us to grow.

These are the adverse times that help you.”

You could see the sadness in the man’s eyes as he acknowledged what could have been.

“It is a huge sting to end this way,” he said.

“But it’s just part of it. It’s part of our journey.

We have to accept it and embrace it and try our best to grow from it.”

When was the last time you heard a political figure speak that articulately, that intuitively, in such a soul-crushing moment?

I have written thousands of talking points for dozens of candidates and office holders — none of those words as authentic as Williams’ thoughts — and I would walk through walls to work for a human being with such emotional intelligence, should that person decide to run for office.

Tossed a softball by a reporter asking what went wrong — a question perfect for deflecting blame — Williams would have none of it.

Of course, this is a man who missed two seasons of college basketball at Notre Dame because of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a rare and potentially deadly heart condition.

By comparison, this latest professional heartbreak perhaps seemed less life-shattering.

“You know, I could sit here and make some excuses about stuff. I’m not going to do that,” the coach said. “I think everybody is somewhat tired this time of the year. I think teams are dealing with bumps and bruises. We just weren’t as consistent as we had shown during the regular season.”

Come October, the Suns will begin another long grind of a season, led by Monty Williams once more. I had lost my passion for this team because of their legion of front office troubles, but Williams has a way of making you believe.

He has been tested in ways most of us will never understand, this father who had to raise five children on his own, this husband who lost his wife of two decades in an instant, this gentleman who has an unshakeable faith and a steady hand with people.

Maybe next year for the Suns. Though I wish Monty Williams had better things to do than pace the Phoenix hardwood come Election Day 2022.

David Leibowitz has called the Valley home since 1995.

Contact david@leibowitzsolo.com.

www.LovinLife.com

Ask Marisa

Destructive dieting can be quelled

BY MARISA PEER

Q

Dear Marisa, I have struggled with my weight all my life. However, my mother used food to show love to her children, so that has led me to comfort eat whenever I am upset.

Despite trying every diet under the sun and joining weight-loss communities, as soon as I reach my target weight and stop dieting, I balloon back up and often end up heavier than I was. And whenever I have a problem to deal with, I head straight to the kitchen cupboards in search of something sweet.

Losing weight seems even harder as I get older. I am approaching my 60th birthday and would love to reach my perfect weight and never have to worry about dieting again. Is that even possible?

I am so excited to hear your thoughts.

The Yo-Yo Dieter

A

Dear Yo-Yo Dieter, Let me begin by answering your question about achieving your optimal weight and keeping to it for the rest of your life. The answer is yes, and this would be a great gift to yourself in your 60th year.

No more diets, a new, confident you, and a healthy relationship with food.

Having helped hundreds of clients of all ages who have spent most of their lives dieting get away from this cycle, I have created a program called Dietless Life, which means anyone can access my approach.

One of the biggest problems is that most diets don’t address the root cause of overeating or bingeing on sugar. This means, like you, that even when people reach their desired weight, they still have an unhealthy attitude toward food and often put their weight back on and more besides.

What I do is pinpoint where in their life someone developed an issue with food — it’s usually something people have held onto since their childhood or adolescence but can happen at any stage in life involving a trauma.

For example, you mentioned that your www.LovinLife.com

mother showed love for you and your siblings through food, which is often behind what I call emotional eaters.

You have conditioned yourself to think of food as a loving gesture, so comfort eating is a way of self-medicating when something makes you feel bad opting for sugary foods or carbohydrates as they provide an instant rush. It will always be an issue until you learn to separate emotions from eating.

In my work, I have discovered that most people fall into one of eight types of eater, which can help identify the approach to take when addressing overeating.

The eight types of eaters

Addictive eater Eat quickly and on the go, trapped in a cycle of empty-calorie eating with a diet fueled by sugary foods, caffeine, fast food, fizzy drinks, white bread, pasta and rice.

Angry eater Eat when they feel stressed, tense or to push down feelings, often turning to crunchy foods like crisps, apples, crusty bread which they can chew and chomp on to relieve tension because stress receptors in the jaw release relaxing feelings when chewing, producing an instant mood lifter.

Constant cravers Seem hungrier more often than other people with a “need” for food, so find themselves in a cycle of endless eating.

Will often focus on treating themselves with cake, biscuits, pizza and crisps.

Destructive eaters Feel the need to stop themselves from having a slim, attractive body, eat big portions, frequent meals and unhealthy snacks such as cakes, biscuits and crisps.

They like the power of being able to gorge on them, knowing it’s their choice.

Emotional eaters Use comfort foods, sugary snacks, and carbohydrates such as biscuits, fizzy drinks

and bread to self-medicate, even when they’re not hungry — often bingeing on them secretly to suppress feelings such as boredom, anxiety and loneliness.

Feasters Use food to celebrate at any opportunity. Need more of everything — more textures, tastes, and sides with every meal. As they add so much variety, the body’s natural instinct to stop eating isn’t triggered, so they don’t feel full and know when to stop.

Habitual eaters Will eat at any opportunity and finish everything in front of them, often at speed. Find comfort in routine, turning to the same convenience foods and snacks such as cereal bars and biscuits out of habit, whether they are hungry or not.

Ignorant eaters Misinformed about what constitutes healthy eating, they see carbs such as pasta, bread and cereals as fine, but anything with a high-fat content as the enemy. As a result, many may eat convenience foods/ ready meals/diet foods and drinks, believing that low-fat or sugar-free means they are better for you.

To help you progress in your weight loss challenge, I include a link to some of my most popular audios based around eating types. Choose the one you think sounds most relevant to you and by using the code ARIZONAEE100 you’ll be able to download this audio free.

If you need further support, why not learn more about my Dietless Life 12-week program. It costs less than a year’s membership to a diet club, and you don’t have to work to stick to it as it will stick to you, so you’ll never go on another diet again.

This is how it should be as constant dieting lowers your resting metabolic rate until the more you diet the harder it is to lose weight. My program helps to reset your metabolism, your digestion and your relationship with food so you become a selective eater who prefers healthy food in the right amounts.

I wish you every success and a happy 60th birthday.

Send your questions to media@marisapeer.com, and keep up with me online at marisapeer.com, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

“Tell Yourself a Better Lie: Use the Power of Rapid Transformational Therapy to Edit Your Story and Rewrite Your Life” is available on Amazon.

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Features

Gasser Dental

Dr. Kevin Gasser has spent 27 years in Arizona practicing dentistry and boasts an impressive resumé, having graduated from West Virginia University as well as a variety of other schools and clinics. (Submitted)

Dr. Kevin Gasser changes lives one smile at a time

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI “Gratifying” is a word Dr. Kevin Gasser frequently uses when he describes his dental career.

He’s spent 27 years in Arizona practicing dentistry and has since become a leader in providing the patented “all-onfour,” a full arch of teeth on just four implants.

“Dental implants give patients who never thought they’d be able to eat, speak and smile in comfort again with a brand-new set of beautiful, nonremovable and functional implanted teeth,” he

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says.

“Prior to the innovation of sophisticated technology, it would commonly take patients up to 18 months to get new teeth.

This was because multiple dental implant procedures, complex bone grafting and soft tissue management techniques were required for a patient to get a full set of new teeth. Now, with the latest medication protocol, superior parts and modern techniques, most patients can get a new smile in one day.”

Gasser and his team are committed to creating life transformations for their pa-

tients by utilizing patient-specific dental implant solutions and by delivering the “best combination of quality, experience, comfort, care and price.”

Just as important is listening to patients.

“In my practice, there are no handoffs to other doctors or other facilities,” he says.

“I personally take care of all our patients from initial diagnosis to end-of-treatment follow-up care. At Gasser Dental, we focus on an accelerated treatment plan that is time efficient yet respects science and

nature.”

While he’s proud of his sophisticated technology, Gasser stresses the importance of preventative care. But he and his staff do not judge patients for their dental conditions.

“We cater to those who are afraid of dental treatment,” he adds. “The time, costs and technology have never been better for smile restorations. When investigating dental implants, remember that experience, quality and protocol matters.

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

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

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.

Gasser Dental, led by Kevin Gasser, is “offering each new patient a free, no-obligation exam and free iCat scan to all who want to investigate new smile options,” according to the doctor.

(Submitted)

Gasser...continued from page 8 “Because we are passionate about what we do at Gasser Dental, we are currently offering each new patient a free, no-obligation exam and free iCat scan to all who want to investigate new smile options.”

Impressive resumé

A graduate of West Virginia University with a doctor in dental surgery, Gasser has spent the ensuing decades of private practice keeping up on technology and practices.

“I have dedicated myself to advanced education and have completed 1,500plus hours of additional education and have graduated from a variety of schools and clinics.”

• The Malo Clinic in Lisbon, Portugal, under the tutelage of Dr. Paulo Malo, the man who developed the “all-onfour” dental implant technology.

• The Misch International Implant Institute, which was founded by Dr. Carl Misch, an innovator in dental implantology.

• The Las Vegas Dental Implant Institute.

• The USC IV Sedation Certification Program.

• The USC Advanced Bone Graft www.LovinLife.com

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

Fig. 2

NOTE: Once you have sustained 95% nerve loss, there is likely nothing that we can do for you.

3) How much treatment will your condition require?

Aspen Medical will do a chronic pain and neuropathy severity examination to determine the extent of the nerve damage as a public service to you and/or your family and friends.

This neuropathy/pain severity examination will consist of a detailed sensory evaluation, extensive peripheral vascular testing, and a detailed analysis of the findings of your neuropathy.

The treatment that is provided at Aspen Medical has three main goals.

1) Increase blood flow 2) Stimulate and increase small fiber nerves 3) Decrease brain-based pain

Program.

• International Congress of Oral Implantology.

• The Dale Carnegie Training Center.

The training allows Gasser to customize treatments for his patients. One consistent aspect is the use of quality materials.

He uses premium implants by Noble Biocare; top-quality restoration materials that deliver the best combination of cosmetics, strength, biocompatibility and longevity; and evidence-based IV sedation and post-operative pain management protocols proven effective and safe for more than 25 years.

“Dental implants are a means to an end,” he says. “A beautiful, functional, comfortable smile can radically improve your medical health, function and confidence. Gasser Dental has witnessed this life transformation for thousands of patients over the last 26 years.”

Gasser Dental, Dr. Kevin Gasser

17220 N. Boswell Boulevard, Suite 200W, Sun City 623-972-8217 drgasser.com

The treatment to increase blood flow, stimulate small nerve fibers and get you back to health is our new $50,000.00 SANEXAS UNIT!

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.

The main problem is that your doctor has told you to just live with the problem or try the drugs which you don’t like taking because they make you feel uncomfortable. There is now a facility right here in Mesa that offers you hope without taking those endless drugs with serious side effects.

(See the special neuropathy severity examination at the end of this article) In order to effectively treat your neuropathy three factors must be determined.

1) What is the underlying cause?

2) How much nerve damage has been sustained.

In addition, we use a state-of-the-art diagnostics like the TM Flow diagnostic unit to accurately determine the increase in blood flow and a small skin biopsy to accurately determine the increase in small nerve fibers!

The Sanexas electric cell signaling system delivers energy to the affected area of your body at varying wavelengths, including both lowfrequency and middle-frequency signals. It also uses amplitude modulated (AM) and frequency modulated (FM) signaling. During a treatment session, the Sanexas system automatically changes to simultaneously deliver AM and FM electric cell signal energy.

THE GREAT NEWS IS THAT SANEXAS IS COVERED BY MEDICARE AND MOST INSURANCE! Depending on your coverage, your treatment could be little to no cost to you!

The amount of treatment needed to allow the nerves to fully recover varies from person to person and can only be determined after a detailed neurological and vascular

Aspen Medical will be offering this chronic pain and neuropathy severity examination from now until June 30, 2022. Call 480274-3157 to make an appointment to determine if your chronic pain and peripheral neuropathy can be successfully treated.

Due to our very busy office schedule, we are limiting this FREE consultation offer to the first 15 callers. YOU DO NOT HAVE TO SUFFER ANOTHER MINUTE, CALL Call 480-2743157 … NOW! We are extremely busy and if your call goes to our voicemail, please leave a message and we will get back to you asap.

480-274-3157 4540 E Baseline Rd., Suite 119 Mesa Az 85206 JUNE 2022

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Don’t Be a Victim Learn ‘what scammers don’t want you to know’

BY ALLISON BROWN Scammers have tried to trap Ruth Johnson dozens of times, so many times that she learned their tricks. So, she created Scams and Me, a company through which she shares her personal experiences to help others avoid being scammed.

“I try to educate and protect the public with my public speaking presentations on what scammers don’t want you to know,” she says. “I’ve been working with scammers since 2013. I have multiple stories to tell, experiences with them, and I know exactly what they do.”

A Valley resident, Johnson will speak at the Kiwanis luncheon meeting at noon Wednesday, June 15, at Harold’s Cave Creek Corral. She will discuss her stories, current scams, what she has learned, and how others can protect themselves. It’s fair to say she has learned quite a bit, as she has worked with the Canadian Border Patrol, Canadian police, FBI and several U.S. police departments throughout her

experiences.

Johnson says the first time she was scammed was in 2013, when she responded to an ad in a newspaper for a personal assistant. She got the job and says she immediately got an email from the employer that said he was in Iraq and needed help. Ultimately, the scammer wanted her to open a bank account for them.

Since then, Johnson says she has gone through 20 to 30 attempted — and a few successful — scams. They’ve tried LinkedIn, Facebook and dating sites. These weren’t phone calls about a car warranty or saving an Egyptian prince; these were actual people she got to know over the course of time who gained her trust.

“I am well educated, and people look at me like, ‘Why would you do something like that?’ But they build trust with you,” she explains. “It’s a mind-control thing where they can gaslight you. They become your friend and you trust them and

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then things come up.

They make it sound like everyday occurrences, and you want to help them.”

The anonymity of social media makes it a breeding ground for potential scams. She recommends being careful about posting personal information online and to be wary of comments, messages or requests from anyone unfamiliar.

“I can even post a recipe on Facebook and all of these idiots comment saying, ‘Oh, you’ve got a wonder- Ruth Johnson will be speaking about her experiences and how ful smile. I’d like to get people can protect themselves from scams at a Kiwanis meeting to know you.’ That is Wednesday, June 15 at Harold’s Corral in Cave Creek.

(Photo by David Minton/ Staff Photographer) a scammer trying to work you, trying to get you started,” she to try to make a dent in that number so says. that others don’t have to go through what Even offline, she warns that scammers she did. Instead of getting caught up in use technology to try to get information. being embarrassed about the scams or According to Johnson, when people get afraid of who still has her personal inforcalls where no one talks on the other end, mation, she is fighting back. a lot of times that is a scammer trying to One way people can help prevent connect to the phone number and use it. scams is by filing a police or FBI report if Other tips include being wary of things they have been scammed. like cryptocurrency and gift cards, too.

“The FBI has a cybercrime unit and With bitcoin, for example, a transaction each FBI location, including the one here can be traced, but not the wallet or who in Phoenix, you can go on their websites owns it. As for gift cards, Johnson says and find the report called IC3,” Johnson people can scan the barcode without says. “Do that report, and that way they buying the card and then have access to can start tracking these people. If we whatever money is loaded onto the card don’t report it, they win.” when bought in store.

In addition to her public speaking preThese scams don’t just trick individu- sentations, Johnson is also in the process als either. Johnson says scams happen of writing a book about her experiences to businesses, banks, restaurants and titled “Cyber Karma.” companies, too. It happens all over, all the time, and she says if someone hasn’t Ruth Johnson been scammed yet, then they will be.

Kiwanis Luncheon In fact, Johnson says if anyone needs Noon Wednesday, June 15 convincing of how prevalent scams can Harold’s Cave Creek Corral, 6895 E. be, just look at the numbers. The FBI reCave Creek Road, Cave Creek ported $2.4 billion lost to scammers in kiwaniscarefree.org 2021. She says it has become her passion

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11

Entertainment

Dream Job 10,000 Maniacs are still crazy about the band

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Keyboardist Dennis Drew describes shows by 10,000 Maniacs as joyous, a little scary and a bit intense.

But it all makes for a fun night.

“Whether it’s ‘What’s the Matter Here?’

‘Once a City,’ ‘Love Among the Ruins’ or ‘These are Days,’ the music is generally joyous,” he says. “They’re toe-tappers.”

Last year marked the 40th anniversary of 10,000 Maniacs, which plays the Musical Instrument Museum on Friday, June 24.

Founded in 1981 in Jamestown, New York, 10,000 Maniacs weathered personnel changes, but four of the six original members remain — Drew, Steven Gustafson, John Lombardo and Jerry Augustyniack.

Original lead singer Natalie Merchant left in 1993 to pursue a solo career and was replaced by backup singer Mary Ramsey, who also plays violin and viola.

“When we started, we were all in our early 20s,” says Gustafson, the bassist and tour manager.

“We were excited as all get out to tour.

We thought it was the coolest thing ever because most of us — all the boys in the band — had wanted to be in a band since we saw the Beatles on ‘Ed Sullivan.’ I was 6 and I thought, ‘I want to do that. That looks like fun.’”

For Gustafson, playing Buffalo for the first time was a “really cool thing,” as it’s about 90 minutes from Jamestown. From there, they bought a Dodge Tradesman converted school bus, packed their stuff and slept on people’s floors on tour.

“We had to play Athens, Georgia,” Gustafson says. “The B-52s, R.E.M., they were from there. I think we were able to maintain our career because we didn’t get too big too fast. It’s a good thing. I think some bands who have that quick rise to millions and millions of records have a hard time following that up.”

When Merchant left 10,000 Maniacs, he says, Ramsey fit in quite nicely. A background singer who appeared on the band’s “MTV Unplugged,” she knew the songs and the players involved.

After its final major label record with

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Geffen, “Love Among the Ruins,” 10,000 Maniacs did an extended tour. Napster arrived and record companies started failing, Gustafson says.

“That was the beginning of the collapse,” he adds.

The show at the MIM will focus on all four decades.

“We play songs from every era that we have — songs that are 40 years old, songs that were on our last record that we put out in 2013,” Drew says.

“I don’t know if we’ll play any of the stuff we’ve been working on. We put new music on hold because we’ve been busy doing shows. “‘Once a City’ seems extremely apropos, especially with what’s going on in Ukraine. I think we’re pulling that one out.

We’ll do all the hits that people know. People know just about every song. It’s funny.

We do shows and people say they forgot how many songs of ours they know.”

Still, the music is seamless.

“We’re still the same people writing songs,” Gustafson says. “We still have that bouncy tempo. We still tell stories — interesting stories — about people.

“Jeff Erickson, who’s been with us for 20 years now, after Rob (Buck) passed away in 2000, was a guitar tech and guitar player in his own right. He stepped in after we took a hiatus for about three years.

“He’s only 50. He’s younger than us. He brings a different twist on his stuff. His chord structures are funkier, a little bit more than our folky stuff. He’s not really a ‘folky’ guy. His stuff is real guitar oriented. My stuff is chord oriented. It’s a little bit different than what we’ve done in the past.”

Drew says it’s hard to fathom that 10,000 Maniacs is more than 40 years old.

“You don’t grow up thinking you’re going to do anything for 40 years,” Drew says. “To get to this point, it’s amazing.

“It doesn’t feel like 40 years. It’s been as natural as everything else. We have families, kids and grandkids on the way. It’s just been our life. You don’t retire from this, I don’t think. They’ll have to take us off the stage on stretchers.”

John Lombardo, guitar; Dennis Drew, keyboard; Mary Ramsey, lead vocals and viola; Jerome Augustyniak, drums; Steve Gustafson, bass guitar; and Jeff Erickson, guitar, are 10,000 Maniacs. (Jeff Fasano/Submitted)

Musically, Drew says, 10,000 Maniacs is playing “better than ever.” He plays more piano than the early days, which he says is fun.

“It’s wonderful to bounce back and forth between organ, piano and synth, whether it’s ‘Trouble Me,’ ‘Because the Night,’ or sometimes we’ll do some of our quiet ones, ‘Across the Fields.’”

Touring has settled down for 10,000 Maniacs. The band, instead, focuses on long weekends.

“We’re all friends,” Gustafson says. “We all love each other; same with our crew.

We’re 12 people who really enjoy each other’s company.

“We can put all that in the background of our lives and make family important.

Some of us had other jobs in the 2000s. I was the technical director of the theater at Jamestown Community College. I produced musicals and did lights and sound.”

Drew spent 17 years as general manager of WRFA-LP, a low-power nonprofit radio station in Jamestown.

At the community college, Gustafson caught a music business course, during which he provided practical advice.

“I would tell my students, ‘If you can find a job where, at the end of the day, everybody stood up and applauded, take it,” he says with a laugh.

“That’s a good gig. Do that. It’s rewarding. It’s so amazing, so joyous. People who think it’s a glamorous life are wrong.

There’s a lot of waiting around. It’s a boring life, except for the hour and a half onstage. Now we get to do two shows in Phoenix at a museum.”

10,000 Maniacs featuring Mary Ramsey WHEN: 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Friday, June 24 WHERE: Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix COST: Tickets start at $44.50 INFO: 480-478-6000, mim.org www.LovinLife.com

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28th Annual Christmas Parade of Lights

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JUNE 2022

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Words with Friends

(Left) Howard Jones will release his next album, “Dialogue,” later this year. (Simon Fowler/Submitted). (Above) Howard Jones enjoys putting new clothes on his hits when he plays live. He’s set to play The Venue at Farnsworth Hall in Mesa with Midge Ure on Sunday, June 26. (Martin Shaw/Submitted)

Howard Jones, Midge Ure share ‘Dialogue’

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Howard Jones didn’t let the pandemic get him down too much. He used the remedy of music to get him through it.

The result is a new studio album, “Dialogue,” which is set for release later this summer.

“I’m not giving anybody any respite at all with these tracks,” Jones says.

“They’re just very full of energy. I guess it was all that pent-up energy of the lockdown.”

“Dialogue” is the third album in a trilogy of electronic releases from Jones, including 2015’s multimedia project “Engage” and the 2019 studio album “Transform.”

“I wrote all the music during that time,” he says about the pandemic quarantine.

“I deliberately held off working on the lyrics because I didn’t think I was in the right frame of mind. I love to write uplifting lyrics and positive songs. I waited

until things looked like they were turning a corner and getting better. I think it paid off.”

In support of the new album, Jones is hitting the road with longtime friend, altrock musician Midge Ure. Onstage, Jones will be joined by a four-piece band — guitarist Robin Boult, bassist/chapman stick Nick Beggs, keyboardist Robbie Bronnimann and keyboardist/drum pads Dan Burton.

“The Dialogue Tour” comes to The Venue at Farnsworth Hall on Sunday, June 26.

Jones will perform three new songs live.

“I have to be realistic,” he says. “I’d like to play all of them, but I can’t really lay a whole eight new tracks on people. There’s not enough time in the evening to do it.”

After all, he has to leave time for Ure, a longtime friend.

“I don’t have many close friends in the music business,” Jones says. “So, for

me, it’s quite rare. He lives quite close to me. He’s about an hour away in Bath.

I’ve known him since the ’80s, but we do meet up a lot.

“He’s been to the house, and we hang out. I really, really like Midge. I think he’s a wonderful man. I am so pleased that I persuaded him to come out with me.”

Acts like Jones — and most recently Kate Bush — have seen a career revival, thanks to “Stranger Things” and “Breaking Bad.” Jones is thankful for “Stranger Things’” use of his song “Things Can Only Get Better.”

“I’m so proud of that,” he says. “When they asked me about ‘Stranger Things,’ I said, ‘Of course.’ I love the show so much.

I know that it appeals to all ages. I would die to have a track in that, and they gave it really good play. It’s on the ‘Stranger Things’ playlist, and it gets loads of plays.

I’m being introduced to a new audience

through that, and it’s so exciting.”

He has witnessed a change in his fanbase, especially in overseas festivals.

“There are young people turning up, and sometimes they’re with their family,” Jones says. “When we do our shows, we don’t play the songs exactly as they were on the radio. We’re always trying to update them and give them a more contemporary twist.

“That’s what I like to do. Being an electronic musician, it’s easy to give the old songs new clothing.”

“The Dialogue Tour” with Howard Jones and Midge Ure WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Sunday, June 26 WHERE: The Venue at Farnsworth Hall, 6159 E. University Drive, Mesa COST: Tickets start at $27 INFO: fhtheater.com

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Calendar of Events WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1

Death Café, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek, free, 480-488-2286, deathcafe.com Travel Around the World: Greece, 10 to 11 a.m., Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480325-4707 Charity Crafting, noon to 1 p.m. Wednesdays, Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480325-4707

THURSDAY, JUNE 2

Blood Pressure Control Program, 9:30 to 11 a.m. Thursdays, Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480-325-4707

FRIDAY, JUNE 3

Writer’s Connection, 1 to 3 p.m., Zoom, free admission, 480-488-2286. This month’s topic: Immersive Fiction: Writing Fiction so Readers Land Amid Your Story and Don’t Want to Leave Coffee and Cards, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480-325-4707 Breast Cancer Survivor Tea, 10 to 11 a.m., Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480-3254707 Movie and Popcorn: The Courier, 1 to 3 p.m., Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480325-4707

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SATURDAY, JUNE 4

Desert Foothills Book Festival, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th Street, Scottdale, free admission, 480-4881090, ext. 1003, info@azfcf.org

SUNDAY, JUNE 5

David Bromberg, 7 p.m., repeats June 6, Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, tickets start at $44.50, mim. org

MONDAY, JUNE 6

Crafts with Kiddos, 12:30 p.m., repeats June 27, Arizona Complete Health Avondale Resource Center, 995 E. Riley Drive, Avondale, free, avondaleaz.gov/seniors Coffee and Word Search, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480-3254707 Craft N Chat, 1 to 3 p.m. Mondays, Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek, free, 480-488-2286 Literate Foodie Club, 12:30 p.m., Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek, $10, reservation required, 480-488-2286, danarakinic@gmail.com, jan-kruse@cox.net. Join the group for a deep dive into the flavors of Thai cuisine. Two books will be featured: “Simple Thai Food” and “Bangkok,” both of which are by Leela Punyaratabandhu Caring for the Caregiver, 10 to 11:30 a.m., Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek, free, 480-488-2286.

Led by Hospice of the West facilitators

TUESDAY, JUNE 7

Still Life for Beginners with Larry Charles, 9 a.m. Tuesdays, The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th Street, Scottdale, call for charge, 480488-1090, ext. 1003, info@azfcf.org

Game Day: Mexican Train Dominoes, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480-325-4707 Tech Tuesday: Get the Most Out of MyHumana.Com, 1 to 2 p.m., Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480-325-4707

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8

Sewing Club, noon, Arizona Complete Health Avondale Resource Center, 995 E. Riley Drive, Avondale, free, avondaleaz.gov/seniors Mindful Art, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480-325-4707

THURSDAY, JUNE 9

Medicare Information Session, 10 to 11:30 a.m., Coco’s Bakery Restaurant, 9801 W. Bell Road, Sun City, free, reservations required, azblue.com/turning65RSVP Brain Stroke and Aneurysm Survivor Support Group, 2 to 4 p.m., Abrazo Central Campus, acute rehab unit, first floor conference/ classroom, 2000 W. Bethany Home Road, Phoenix, free, registration required, 1-877649-3311, abrazohealth.com West Valley Survivors of Stroke, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Abrazo West Campus, 13677 W. McDowell Road, second-floor conference room, Goodyear, free, reserve a spot at strokern@ icloud.com, 602-625-9702, abrazohealth.com.

The group is hosted by Tracy von Aspen, an interventional neurology nurse practitioner at Abrazo West Campus. Stroke survivors face physical and emotional challenges. Support groups can help survivors and caregivers have meaningful lives after stroke Mindful Art, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480-325-4707

FRIDAY, JUNE 10

Jump Ring Earrings Workshop, 1 to 4 p.m., The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th Street, Scottdale, $38, 480-488-1090, ext. 1003, info@ azfcf.org Medicare Information Session, 10 to 11:30 a.m., Denny’s Restaurant, 2717 W. Bell Road, Phoenix, free, reservations required, azblue. com/turning65RSVP Healing of Memories Workshop for Women Veterans, various times, Spirit in the Desert, 7415 E. Elbow Road, Carefree, free to women veterans, registration required, 651687-9767 Chapter2Books Monthly Sale, various times, Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek, free admission, 480-488-2286 Get Lit Book Club, 5 to 6:30 p.m., Stumblina’s Cantina, 6268 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, free admission, reservations required, 480488-2286, dfla.org. This month’s book is “Girl, Woman, Other” by Bernadette Evaristo Organic Foods: To Buy or Not to Buy?, 10 to 11 a.m., Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480325-4707 Cooking Demo: Organic Foods with Chef Melanie, 11 a.m. to noon, Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480-325-4707 Movie and Popcorn: “Quartet,” 1 to 3 p.m., Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480-3254707

SATURDAY, JUNE 11 It’s National Corn on the Cob Day! Eat up!

Calendar...continues on page 17

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Calendar of Events THURSDAY, JUNE 16 continued from page 16

SUNDAY, JUNE 12

Vegas McGraw Starring Adam D. Tucker, 7 p.m., The Venue at Farnsworth Hall, 6159 E. University Drive, Mesa, tickets start at $20, fhtheater.com

MONDAY, JUNE 13

Become the CEO of Your Health: Sessions 1 and 2, 10 a.m. to noon, The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th Street, Scottdale, free admission but there’s a suggested donation of $10, 480-488-1090, info@azfcf.org

Medicare Information Session, 10 to 11:30 a.m., PORA Sun City West, 13815 W. Camino Del Sol, Sun City West, free, reservations required, azblue.com/turning65RSVP

FRIDAY, JUNE 17

Longevity, Healthy Aging and Regeneration, 11 a.m., Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek, free, 480488-2286 Better Bladder Control, 11 a.m. to noon, Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480-325-4707

Movie and Popcorn: “Going in Style,” 1 to 3 p.m., Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480325-4707

SUNDAY, JUNE 19

Nutrition Over 50, noon, Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek, $10, registration required, rockinvibs21@gmail.com, 602-721-7714

MONDAY, JUNE 20

SATURDAY, JUNE 18

Breakdown: The No. 1 Tribute to Tom Petty, 7 p.m., The Venue at Farnsworth Hall, 6159 E. University Drive, Mesa, tickets start at $20, fhtheater.com

Bireli Lagrene, 7 p.m., Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, tickets start at $38.50, mim.org Coffee and Brain Teasers, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480-3254707 Managing Kidney Disease with Village Medical, 11 a.m. to noon, Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480-325-4707

Calendar...continues on page 18

Coffee and Crosswords, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480-3254707 Sun Lake Democratic Club Meeting, 7 p.m., Sun Lakes Country Club’s Navajo Room, 25601 E. Sun Lakes Boulevard North, Chandler, and Zoom, free, but food and/or monetary donations to Matthew’s Crossing Food Bank are suggested, wlkariz@aol.com CULTURAL • WALKING & HIKING • RESPONSIBLE WILDLIFE • CYCLING

TUESDAY, JUNE 14

The Colorado River and Grand Canyon: Jim Sherbert Lecture Series, 4 to 5:30 p.m., The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th Street, Scottdale, $10 at the door, 480-488-1090, info@azfcf.org Philippine Independence Day Celebration, 10 a.m., Arizona Complete Health Avondale Resource Center, 995 E. Riley Drive, Avondale, free, avondaleaz.gov/seniors

600+ Tours starting from $1,200 pp 47+ Years’ Experience Creating Small Group and Self-Guided Adventures to 100+ Countries

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15

How to Travel for Free: Part II, 10:30 a.m. to noon, The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th Street, Scottdale, call for charge, registration required, 480-488-1090, info@azfcf.org Medicare Information Session, 10 to 11:30 a.m., Denny’s Restaurant, 5161 W. Thunderbird Road, Glendale, free, reservations required, azblue.com/turning65RSVP World Elder Abuse Awareness Day with AAA, 11:30 a.m., Arizona Complete Health Avondale Resource Center, 995 E. Riley Drive, Avondale, free, avondaleaz.gov/seniors

Hidden Treasures of Jordan

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A Conversation with Dr. Pauline Boss: Stress, Coping and Resiliency, 10 to 11:30 a.m., Zoom, free, registration required, meaningandhope.org/drbosswebinar, poulos@ duetaz.org, 602-274-5022, ext. 115 Coloring and Conversations, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480325-4707 Ask an Agent: HMO Benefits, 11 a.m. to noon, Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480325-4707 www.LovinLife.com

8 days from $1,999 pp*

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Calendar of Events SATURDAY, JUNE 25 continued from page 17

TUESDAY, JUNE 21

Father’s Day Festivities with Barbecue, 10:30 a.m., Arizona Complete Health Avondale Resource Center, 995 E. Riley Drive, Avondale, free, avondaleaz.gov/seniors

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22

Call today: 1-866-696-2697

ACCREDITED BUSINESS ®

Intro to Stamping and Scrapbooking, 10 to 11 a.m., Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480325-4707

John McEuen and the Circle Band: Will the Circle Be Unbroken, 7:30 p.m., Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, tickets start at $38.50, mim.org

SUNDAY, JUNE 26

The Dialogue Tour with Howard Jones and Midge Ure, 7:30 p.m., The Venue at Farnsworth Hall, 6159 E. University Drive, Mesa, tickets start at $27, fhtheater.com

MONDAY, JUNE 27

June Birthday Social, 1 to 2 p.m., Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480-325-4707

Become the CEO of Your Health: Sessions 3 and 4, 10 a.m., The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th Street, Scottdale, free admission with a $10 suggested donation, 480-488-1090, info@azfcf.org

THURSDAY, JUNE 23 It’s National Hydration Day!

Coffee and Sudoku, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480-325-4707

(which is appropriate for Arizona!)

FRIDAY, JUNE 24

TUESDAY, JUNE 28

Give Your Brain a Boost, 11 a.m. to noon, Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480-3254707

The Joy of Mixed-Media Painting, 9 a.m., The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th Street, Scottdale, free admission but a $10 suggested donation, 480-488-1090, ext. 1003, info@ azfcf.org

The Jack: No. 1 Tribute to AC/DC, 7 p.m., The Venue at Farnsworth Hall, 6159 E. University Drive, Mesa, tickets start at $20, fhtheater. com

Mystery Trip with Lunch, 9:45 a.m., Arizona Complete Health Avondale Resource Center, 995 E. Riley Drive, Avondale, free, avondaleaz. gov/seniors

10,000 Maniacs w/Mary Ramsey, 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, tickets start at $44.50, mim.org

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29

Movie and Popcorn: The Secret: Dare to Dream, 1 to 3 p.m., Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480-325-4707

Chat and Learn: Partnering with Your Doctor, 10 to 11 a.m., Humana Neighborhood Center, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa, free, 480-325-4707

THURSDAY, JUNE 30

Birthday Bash, 9 a.m., Arizona Complete Health Avondale Resource Center, 995 E. Riley Drive, Avondale, free, avondaleaz.gov/seniors

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Casinos Casino Calendar The Pat Benatar Experience

7:30 p.m. Friday, June 3, and Saturday, June 4, Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, tickets start at $10, 480.850.7777, casinoarizona.com

Release After Dark: Morgan Page

J. Lo Trivia

5 p.m. Saturday, June 4, The Pool Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, tickets start at $30, 480.850.7777, talkingstickresort.com, releasevip.com

Steven Wright

8 p.m. Saturday, June 4, Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, sold out, 480.850.7777, talkingstickresort.com

7 p.m. Tuesday, June 7, Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, free admission, 480.850.7777, casinoarizona. com

Thunder From Down Under: Girls’ Night Outback

8 p.m. Friday, June 10, and Saturday, June 11, and 5 p.m. Saturday, June 11, Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, $25, 480.850.7777, talkingstickresort.com

Little Joe Y La Familia w/Ruben Ramos

A Help Button Should Go Where You Go!

8 p.m. Saturday, June 11, WKP Sports & Entertainment, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, tickets start at $32.50, 480.789.4957, wekopacasinoresort.com *

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Wanted: The Music of Bon Jovi

7:30 p.m. Friday, June 17, and Saturday, June 18, Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, tickets start at $10, 480.850.7777, casinoarizona.com

Release After Dark: Disclosure

5 p.m. Saturday, June 18, The Pool Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, tickets start at $40,

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Raven’s Birthday: Decade Dance Party

8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Friday, June 24, Talking Stick Resort Showroom, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, tickets start at $25, 480.850.7777, talkstickresort.com

4NR

7:30 p.m. Friday, June 24, and Saturday, June 25, Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, tickets start at $10, 480.850.7777, casinoarizona.com

Breathe Carolina w/DJ Natalia Moon: Summer Oasis Pool Party Series

2 p.m. Saturday, June 25, Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, tickets start at $40, 1.800.WIN.GILA, playatgila.com

Release After Dark: Cheat Codes w/Pickle

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*$19.95 is the monthly price of subscription to a MobileHelp Classic at home only system. There is a one-time $49.95 processing fee and $15 shipping fee required to subscribe to this plan. Equipment may vary as shown. System featured in photo above is the MobileHelp DUO available at an additional monthly cost. Call or see terms and conditions for further details. 50% off Fall Detection Promotion valid when Fall Detection Service is added to your monitoring system and MobileHelp Connect Premium service is included with the order. Offer is valid for the first year of service only. This offer is for new customers only and cannot be combined with any other offers. Promotion available for select plans only and for a limited time. During the promotional term, you will receive $5 off the $10 full retail price of Fall Detection service. After first year, Fall Detect pricing reverts to discounted price of $7.50/month when combined with MobileHelp Connect Premium. Fall Button does not detect 100% of falls. If able, users should always push their help button when they need assistance. Fall Button is not intended to replace a caregiver for users dealing with serious health issues. Service availability and access/coverage on the AT&T network is not available everywhere and at all times. Current GPS location may not always be available in every situation. MobileHelp is a registered trademark. Patented technology. MobileHelp is an FDA registered company.

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Puzzles

GOby FIGURE! Linda Thistle

ANSWERS ON PAGE 25

ACROSS 1 Scratch 4 Hosp. scan 7 Ashen 8 Ridicule 10 Director Forman 11 Seek, as office 13 Breakfast order 16 Simile center 17 Four-star reviews 18 FDR project 19 107, to Cato 20 Actor Johnny 21 Velocity 23 Apple centers 25 And others (Lat.) 26 French cheese 27 Plopped down 28 Pink hue 30 Insult, slangily

33 Steakhouse order 36 Eucalyptus eaters 37 Start of a supplication 38 Move furtively 39 Smile 40 Trail the pack 41 Thesaurus wd.

12 14 15 19 20 21 22 23 24 DOWN 25 1 Island south of Sicily 26 2 Oodles 28 3 Set aside 29 4 Bea Arthur sitcom 30 5 Littlest littermates 6 Data 31 7 Name of 12 popes 32 8 Fountain of Rome 34 9 Precisely 35 10 CEO’s deg.

Answers an invitation Incursion Phone bug Cartoon frame Rap’s Dr. -Desolate Cookout spots Beach crawler Drilling platforms Mentalist’s claim Invigorating Salsa singer Cruz Borneo ape, for short “Mack the Knife” singer “This -- outrage!”

Pigs’ digs Teen hangout Grand Ole --

SUDOKU TIME

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

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

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21

Food & Drink

Drink Green?

These wines are sustainable and sensational

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ Many wines have stickers on them lauding that they have been biodynamically farmed or are certified sustainable.

But what does that mean? To hundreds of wineries across the West Coast, it means treating the land with respect and protecting our precious natural resources, be it water, soil or animal life nearby. Here are more than a dozen wines you can pick up right now whose vineyards go the extra mile to ensure the highest levels of love and respect for the air, land and water that contribute to the beauty in every bottle.

vineyards; more than 1,000 acres remain undeveloped and unfenced, for ecological and wild animal habitat. $30

2021 Vin de Porche Rosé

Perfectly named, this balanced spring stunner with just the right amount of acidity is made to be enjoyed outside on the porch or, in the case of Arizona, perhaps in the pool. This family-owned winery is known for its organic farming and diligent water conversation. It was actually the second California winery to achieve the honorable Napa Green certification all the way back in 2008 as well. $30

Vina Robles The Arborist 2019

Certainly, the flavors here work — think plum and chocolate with ever-so-slight notes of tobacco at the end.

Beyond the tasting notes, you will be tempted to buy a bottle or two of this varietal, as it is made in partnership with One Tree Planted. A portion of proceeds from every single bottle help the organization plant trees. To date, The Arborist has resulted in almost 22,000 new trees in the United States. $18

Ultraviolet Wines Sparkling Rosé

A refreshing and floral bottle of bubbles with notes of strawberry, raspberry and grapefruit zest, Ultraviolet Wines are made without any additives other than sulfur and use natural corks that are recyclable and biodegradable. $24.99

Adelaida Rosé

Perfectly pink with a hint of strawberry punch, this intoxicating blend of mourvedre, grenache, cinsaut and counoise comes from one of Paso Robles’ sustainability pioneers. In fact, only 10% of Adelaida’s 1,900 acres are planted to

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combined with fruit and brandy for a lovely summer sangria. Every single bottle made at the vineyard, which is known for its composting and integration of livestock, is 100% organic and biodynamic by design. $38

Sebastiani Vineyards Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

This 81% cabernet sauvignon that has bits of syrah, petit verdot, merlot and petite sirah is rich and elegant with notes of cherry, strawberry preserves and even a touch of leather. The vineyard focuses on soil management, uses natural fertilizers, composts at will, and proactively works directly with the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance to ensure all aspects of their business take the environment into account. $45

2019 Post & Beam Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

J. Lohr 2019 Hilltop Cabernet Sauvignon

Blackberry is the star of the show here, but with supporting aromas and flavors courtesy of red and black currants. J. Lohr is notable in that it operates the largest solar tracking array in the North American wine industry. The brand was awarded the 2020 Green Medal Leader Award and has achieved “Certified Sustainable” status for its vineyards each year since the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance first began certification in 2010. $35

Ehlers Estate 2021 Sylviane Rosé

Candied fruit and smoothing vanilla dominate the flavor notes here. It is great chilled on its own as well as

A joy on the nose and the palate, thanks to ample notes of raspberry and spice with just a hint of herbs, this vineyard is Napa Green Certified. Through this certification, all Post & Beam vineyards provide a pathway for growers to improve soil health; become carbon neutral to negative; and increase the resilience of vineyards, businesses and the community near and far. $50

Quintessa 2020 Illumination Sauvignon Blanc

Illuminating, indeed. This bright bottle, which legitimately looks like it glows, bursts with grapefruit, Meyer lemon and white peach into every sip. The vineyard began focusing on putting green in its farming routine all the way back in 1996 and today has its official Biodynamic farming certification from Demeter USA. $50

2019 My Favorite Neighbor

This wine is the brainchild of Booker Wines founder Eric Jensen and is actually made from vineyards nearby, aka “his neighbors.” Each sip takes you on a journey, first offering cherry and currant and then surprising the palate with herbs and touch of minerality. The only rules — other than being from Jensen’s favor-

ite neighbor’s vineyards — are any fruit that goes into the bottle must be grown with organic practices and absolutely no chemicals and then made at Booker’s solar-powered winery. $50

Domaine Anderson 2017 Dach Pinot Noir

Like any perfect pinot, this varietal boasts a strong aroma and flavor of cherry throughout. Yet it also has a depth of flavors and textures, notably plus and woodiness, that set it apart. The vineyard where this pinot is farmed is both organic and biodynamic, complete with beehives, grazing sheep and chickens being responsibly raised on property. $65

Frog’s Leap Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon

If you are a fan of oak and earthiness, then this will be one of your favorite wines of all time. A dry farming pioneer — they began doing it in the 1980s — Frog’s Leap is also known as earning the first LEED Silver certification on its Napa winery building as well. $65

2020 Far Niente Estate Bottled Chardonnay

A timeless and award-winning chardonnay dozens of times over, most folks know Far Niente’s estate offering with its silky palate and delightful notes of vanilla and baking spices well.

They may not know, however, that the vineyard boasts the world’s first floating, grid-connected solar installation.

The result? Far Niente is a net-zero user of electricity that annually produces more energy than it consumes. $73 www.LovinLife.com

What’s Cooking?

Nutella swirl-top Rice Krispies treats

BY JAN D’ATRI

I love a company with a sense of humor. This week I found myself in the grocery aisle staring at the shelf and giggling from ear to ear. There, was a row of Nutella jars. They’re always next to the peanut butter, but this time there was something very different. Each Nutella jar had a different label.

There were first-grade and second-grade Nutella jars and those up to junior and senior. How fun! I went home and researched the labels. Seems as though Nutella was making back-toschool week memorable for kids who love the velvety smooth chocolate hazelnut spread. Good for you, Nutella!

We could all use a little humor.

Another company with a sense of humor is Kellogg’s.

Its cast of characters like Tony the Tiger and Snap, Crackle and Pop, well, they’re just grrreeat!

So, I decided to honor both companies this month and combine Rice Krispies and Nutella to put even more smiles on faces. Nutella swirl-top Rice Krispies treats are unbelievable.

They are so chocolaty and crunchy, plus they are absolutely beautiful with a Nutella and white chocolate swirl on top.

Rice Krispies treats have been a snack favorite in America for 116 years. Yep, that’s how long the Kellogg’s company has been around. Nutella has been around since 1963 and made in northern Italy very close to my family’s hometown.

I hope you enjoy this iconic treat with a twist — for the kid in all of us.

Nutella swirl-top Rice Krispies treats Ingredients:

combined.

Working quickly, add Rice Krispies and stir until completely coated with marshmallow Nutella cream. Spray an 8-inch by 8-inch baking tin with cooking spray.

Press Rice Krispies firmly into pan in an even layer. Melt 8 ounces of Nutella in microwave for 20 seconds. Melt white chocDirections: In a medium-to-large pot, melt butter olate in microwave at 30 second intervals over medium heat. Add mini marshmal- until completely melted.

Pour the Nutella and white chocolate over lows and stir until marshmallows become a the top of the Rice Krispies. With a skewer, smooth cream. Remove from oven.

Melt 6 ounces of Nutella in the microwave knife or chop stick, move the chocolates to for 20 seconds or until it’s pourable. Add to create a swirling effect. Refrigerate for one the marshmallow cream and stir until well to two hours. Cut into squares and enjoy.

• 5 cups Rice Krispies • 1 (10-ounce) package mini marshmallows • 3 tablespoons butter • 14 ounces Nutella, divided • 8 ounces white chocolate

Watch Jan D’Atri’s how-to videos at https://bit.ly/JanDAtri. www.LovinLife.com

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23

Columns

Hospice Is Hope

Memory Café connects families on dementia journey

BY LIN SUE FLOOD Hospice of the Valley When Tim Shaffer’s wife, Diana, was diagnosed with dementia, both their lives changed. In the blink of an eye, he became her caregiver. Suddenly, Tim was the one responsible for keeping her safe and meeting her daily needs.

“I was looking for answers, trying to figure out why certain behaviors were occurring,” he confesses. “I was extremely frustrated and angry.”

His anxiety lessened after he discovered the Memory Café at Hospice of the Valley’s new Dementia Care and Education Campus in Central Phoenix. Every Monday morning, Tim and 20 other

caregivers meet to share their challenges, while in a nearby room, their loved ones engage in fun activities like singing, dancing, painting and pet therapy with the help of specially trained staff.

This unique support group is facilitated

by Nicole Crothers, a Hospice of the Valley dementia educator.

“One of the most difficult things about living with dementia is the isolation,” she explains. “Care partners not only lose their relationship with their loved one but with friends who don’t understand what they’re going through. This is a place to connect with people who aren’t going to judge you. Instead, when you say something, everyone in the room nods and

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They saved what they could, and now retirement is around the corner.

Then 2020 arrived, and Covid19 swept the globe. At first, Ron and Mary thought worldwide fear and panic might keep things in perspective, but panic continued to escalate. Stocks were volatile, businesses feared forced closures, and everyone seemed shaken. Amid the panic and fear, Ron and Mary’s priorities became crystal clear; they needed safety and security.

For Ron and Mary, safety and security came in the form of a reverse mortgage recommended by their son-in-law. He insisted actuaries openly recognize the reverse mortgage as a method of reducing post-retirement risk, saying it provides security for individuals and couples 62 and older with equity in their home. It was exactly what Ron and Mary needed to relieve their anxiety.

Using a reverse mortgage, while continuing to pay their property taxes, insurance costs, and HOA fees, Ron and Mary are never required to make a mortgage payment for as long as either of them live in their home. The financial security it offered changed everything.

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Leonard Chayrez and Bonnie Meyer have fun visiting and painting. (Hospice of the Valley/Submitted)

says, ‘I get that.’” know that if you have a diagnosis of deThat connection helps Tim and other mentia, you’re not alone,” Crothers says. caregivers open up about their deepest “There are lots of ways to improve quality fears and frustrations. of life, and we can do it together.”

Shelly Oliver says the Memory Café The Memory Café support group gives her hope that she will be able to meets at 10 a.m. Mondays at the Demenprovide loving care to her husband. “Lit- tia Education and Care Campus, 3811 N. tle did I know I would ever be here. This 44th Street, Phoenix. Ongoing education program is helping us now and for what’s sessions for dementia care partners also ahead. We know there’s support when are offered at 10 a.m. Thursdays. we need it.”

To learn more or to register, call 602The support group is also open to pro- 767-8300 or email memorycafe@hov.org. fessional caregivers like Nancy Valenzu- Hospice of the Valley provides this supela. “Just being here with people and port at no charge to families. hearing what they have to say about how Lin Sue Flood is community engagement director for Hospice of the Valley. For more information, email info@ they’re helping their spouses helps me hov.org or visit hov.org. with Millie,” she says. “Like using simpler words so I don’t overwhelm her when I’m explaining something.”

As the session ends, participants say they feel “empowered” and “calmer,” knowing they can talk to others on the same journey. When they go to pick up their loved ones to head home, the scene is not what they expect — a roomful of people singing and dancing to Glen Campbell’s “Rhinestone Cowboy.”

The smiles say it all. Not only is this a safe space for caregivers to share their hearts, it’s a safe place for their loved ones to experience joy.

Dementia respite caregiver Sonja Marti pages through a dog book “We want people to that interests Stephen Campbell. www.LovinLife.com

The Healthy Geezer

The average for ALS diagnosis is 55

BY FRED CICETTI

Q

Is ALS an old-person’s disease, or does it affect every age group?

A

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) usually strikes between the ages of 40 and 70, but there have been cases of it in young adults, children and older people. The average age for getting ALS is 55.

ALS is known as Lou Gehrig’s disease in the USA. Gehrig, who played baseball for the New York Yankees, died of the disease in 1941. In other countries, ALS is often called motor neuron disease. It is not contagious.

ALS destroys nerve cells — motor neurons — that control muscle cells. In most cases, the cause is unknown. As the motor neurons are lost, the muscles they control weaken. Eventually, people with ALS are paralyzed.

Amyotrophic means “no muscle nourishment.” Lateral identifies the affected areas in the spinal cord. Sclerosis refers to the scarring or hardening in the region.

ALS doesn’t directly affect involuntary muscles, so the heart, digestive tract, bladder and sexual organs continue to work. Hearing, vision, touch and intellectual ability generally remain normal. Pain is not a major component of ALS. The most common form of the disease in the United States is “sporadic” ALS. It may affect anyone, anywhere. “Familial” ALS is inherited. Only about 5% to 10% of all ALS patients appear to have the inherited form of ALS. In those families, there is a 50% chance each offspring will inherit the gene mutation and may develop the disease.

Respiratory problems usually kill those with ALS in three to five years after diagnosis. About 10% of those with ALS live more than 10 years. Some survive for many years. For example, the famed British physicist www.LovinLife.com

Stephen Hawking had ALS from the 1960s until his death in 2018. In a small number of people, ALS mysteriously stops.

The usual early symptoms of ALS are weakness or spasms in a limb, and trouble speaking or swallowing. After the initial symptoms, the disease may progress in the following way: cramping of muscles, demitted use of the limbs; thick speech and difficulty projecting the voice; difficulty breathing.

Doctors begin testing for ALS by checking muscle and nerve function. The next step is usually an electromyogram (EMG).

This test measures the signals that run between nerves and muscles and the electrical activity inside muscles. Additional tests may include a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, a spinal tap between two lower vertebrae, blood tests and muscle biopsies.

The drug Rilutek (riluzole) and the NeuRx Diaphragm Pacing System have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for treating ALS. The NeuRx Diaphragm Pacing System is a medical device used to help ALS patients breathe.

However, there are other treatments to help people with ALS. These include physical and occupational therapy, respiratory therapy and assisted ventilation, speech therapy, nutritional and emotional support. There are devices, too, such as special grips for writing implements and eating utensils, canes, supportive braces, walkers, wheelchairs and scooters.

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‘The Fragile Years’ Appreciating the evolving relationship with older parents

BY AMY CAMERON O’ROURKE Those of us with parents in their older, fragile years can find it challenging to adjust to the relationship changes that aging brings. Roles have evolved. Our parents are no longer our strong and vibrant caregivers. In fact, it is often they who need help, support and care.

This can bring all sorts of mixed emotions. It’s sad to see our once-independent parents lose capabilities and autonomy.

Feelings of bitterness and resentment can arise when we begin realizing the impact of the new responsibilities our parents’ needs create. Yet at the same time, there’s the joy of seeing their grandchildren or great-grandchildren crawl into their laps, and the twinkle it brings to their eyes.

This may all feel very awkward, but what we often don’t recognize is that there’s a unique beauty in the new relationship our parents’ fragility creates.

That’s because as our parents become more fragile, they also become more vulnerable. Under the right circumstances, their vulnerability opens our hearts and theirs, leading to a closer, more multifaceted and intimate connection filled with tenderness and gratitude.

Rather than denying or resenting our older parents’ vulnerability, adult children are likely to find their own lives deeply enriched by doing two things: first, embracing this new relationship; second, creating the right circumstances for it to flourish.

The following choices and actions will make this possible:

Enter this phase intentionally with parent

That includes paring down other commitments as needed. For some, this might mean cutting out time watching TV or going out to dinner with friends; for others, it might mean getting help with household chores to make space for visits with older parents. Where possible, it might even mean cutting back to part-time work.

Whatever your choice, the intention will be to spend unhurried, unpressured time with your older parent.

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Accept who they are today

Maybe Mom’s memory is not what it used to be, or dad has developed some abrasive — and embarrassing — quirks.

Just go with it. Adjust your expectations and know that it’s a natural part of growing older.

Slow down and do things at their pace

When your loved ones enter the fragile zone, they literally slow down. Their activity levels, their speech, the time it takes for them to dress, shower, and complete a meal — everything takes longer. Embrace it as part of life at this stage, and practice patience.

Gardening

Keeping Blooms Fresh Deadheads are more than music fans

BY NATALIE GILLILAND Poppies Flower Shop If you are anything like me, once the temperatures start to make that steady climb up, I immediately dread the hot summer days ahead!

However, we can still do some minimal gardening to keep our landscaping looking nice and to keep our homes looking fresh with fresh blooms. This month, we will talk about some of my favorite annual flowers to plan in the garden during the hot summer months. These flowers love the heat and often, the direct sunlight, which makes them perfect for our desert days.

Do your own emotional work

Ensure that unresolved issues don’t prevent you from stepping into this new context. Lingering resentments and anger can get in the way of your connection with your fragile parent — and can save many years of guilt and grief. In my experience, those who grieve the passing of a parent the most are the family members who never resolved their conflicts with the loved one.

Build a support system

For example, counseling to help manage the anxiety and stress that inevitably arise when parents are in their fragile years. Or a network of friends and neighbors who can help you with chores and practical matters so you can free up time to spend with your parent. Do what it takes to make sure you have the care and support you need to be there for your parent emotionally.

These steps will allow you to find the peace you need to appreciate this stage of your parent’s life and the new dynamic between you — and will leave room for a whole new, potentially beautiful relationship to flourish.

Amy Cameron O’Rourke is a nationally known pioneer and advocate for senior care in the United States. She has been a professional care manager for more than 40 years, with 20 of those years at the helm of The Cameron Group (now Arosa), which she founded, as well as O’Rourke & Associates in Orlando. She authored “The Fragile Years.”

Vinca plant. (Stock image)

My first favorite flower is the vinca.

These sweet, small blooms remind me of my grandma.

She had them in the pots on her front porch, and she would let me pick them and put them in a juice glass for her on her kitchen table. They are hearty and will last during the entire summer. They do need a lot of water, so it’s helpful if you have an irrigation line going directly to them. You can cut the blooms when they are ready and even put them in your house to enjoy for a few days. They also come in a variety of colors.

Another great recommendation for a summer annual for your garden is a zinnia. They are easy to grow, easy to care for, and enjoy the heat. They also come in a variety of bright and bold colors.

They require a lot of water, but not as much as the vincas. If you are going to

have to hand-water, zinnias would be a good selection for you. Zinnias bloom much better when they are deadheaded.

Deadheading is the process of removing the bloom once it starts to turn brown or wilt. This encourages the flower to grow another bloom in its place. When cutting off the old bloom, you want to cut it right below the petals and right above the first full set of healthy leaves.

Celosia is so much fun to grow in your summer gardens. My husband would disagree with me because when I plant it, it spreads like wildfire! It comes in vibrant colors, and the “flowers” on them are in an amazing shape, like an upright feather duster. When you mix the different colors, it reminds me of our beautiful Arizona sunsets.

These are easy to care for, love soil that has a lot of drainage, and do require a moderate amount of water.

One annual on my list for this summer is the gomphrena. If you have not seen these adorable little blooms, they look like something out of a Dr. Seuss book. They have tiny little blossoms in the brightest of colors. They look great mixed in with other flowers as a different texture and color. They are also great for the desert.

They do not require much water and do not mind if they are not in the best soil.

Be sure to check out these great little blooms.

Just because it is hot out and we can potentially fry an egg on the sidewalk does not mean that we cannot still have some beautiful gardens. Be sure to check each of the tags when you do your plant shopping to ensure that the conditions in your garden match what will make the plant the happiest.

Poppies is located at 2450 W. Happy Valley Road, Suite 1147, Phoenix, in the Shops at Norterra. For more information, call 480-649-7100 or visit poppiesflowershop.com.

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