Lovin' Life After 50: East Valley - December 2017 by Times Media Group

December 2017 | East Valley

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inside THIS ISSUE

8 Running on Empty?

Five financial tips from retirement-planning experts

Opinion

6 7

Straus’ Place

Features

Sound Off Ask Gabby Gayle

Viva Volunteers

The Art of Life

Grandma Blowtorch

Solid Platform

Arizona retirees find new purpose through community service. Francine Kavanaugh welds her way into art shows.

Entertainment

20 Funny Is Funny

Carol Burnett’s humor still resonates after 50 years.

20 Calendar of Events 26 Embracing Change

Travel

36 Ed Boitano

Exploring Milan, the City of Now

46 Morning Glory

Bloody Marys and Benedicts are the key to Sunnyside Cafe’s success

Columns

50 Aging Today 51 Legally Speaking 53 My Turn 54 Orthopedics Now

The rollercoaster life of Connie Francis Mannheim Steamroller brings holiday tour to Arizona.

34 Puzzles

42 Traveltizers: Voluntourism A cultural gift exchange in China

Calendar Editor

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Lou Lagrave Gordon Wood

Mark Curtis and Grandma’s Brisket

Modern Throwback

After 20 years, family-owned Chase’s Diner still feels fresh.

55 Retirement Report 56 Arizona Relay Service 57 Hospice Is Hope 58 Arizona Senior Olympics

Graphic Designer Executive Editor Tonya Mildenberg Niki D’Andrea Senior Account Executives Travel Editor Ed Boitano

27 Trivia Contest 28 Tinseltown Talks

47 What’s Cooking?

Dining

Steve T. Strickbine

Jeannie Enders wins Outstanding Toastmaster award

30 Celebrating Christmas

Menopause the Musical star calls comedy a “rollicking good time.”

Publisher

Fred Tieken’s Gallery and Studio is a colorful oasis.

Editor’s Note American poet Richard Armour wrote, “Retired is being twice tired, I’ve thought – first tired of working, then tired of not.” As we started planning this career- and retirement-themed issue of Lovin’ Life After 50, I received so many story ideas about people who found new purposes after retirement as volunteers for various nonprofit organizations and charities. It made me realize that retirement doesn’t have to mean being idle – in fact, it can mean quite the opposite for some people. From educating people about a rare form of cancer to stocking shelves at food banks to becoming foster grandparents, Arizona retirees are finding new ways to stay active and make a difference in their communities. You can read about some of these second-lifers in our feature “Viva

Volunteers.” But retirement isn’t all fun and free time; it requires some careful financial planning, as well. To that end, we asked some leading financial advisors for five tips on how to make the road after retirement as smooth as possible. Their advice is available in our story “Running on Empty?” We’ve also beefed up the entertainment section in this issue, because whether you’re getting ready to retire, raring to volunteer, or just want to relax post-career, the point is to stay active and entertained, and quite simply, to keep on Lovin’ Life.

Niki D’Andrea Executive Editor

Administrator Courtney Oldham

Contributors

Tayler Brown, Becky Cholewka, Lin Sue Cooney, Jan D’Atri, Brian Gruber, Marilyn Hawkes, Wynter Holden, Kenneth LaFave, Gayle Lagman-Creswick, Garry Madaline, Jimmy Magahern, Bob Roth, Irene Stillwell, Bill Straus, Nick Thomas, Leisah Woldoff

| DECEMBER 2017

Proud Member of

Ageless Attitudes Since 1979

Lovin’ Life After 50 is distributed by AZ Integrated Media, a circulation service company owned by Times Media Group. The public is permitted one copy per reader. For further information regarding the circulation of this publication or others in the Times Media Group family of publications, and for subscription information, please contact AZ Integrated Media at circ@azintegratedmedia.com or 480-898-5641. For circulation services please contact Aaron Kolodny at aaron@azintegatedmedia.com.

Arizona Newspapers Association

1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway #219, Tempe, AZ 85282 • 480-898-6500 ©2017 by EOS Publishing, LLC. Lovin’ Life After 50 is a monthly publication dedicated to informing, serving and entertaining the active adults of Arizona. It is published by EOS Publishing, LLC, an Arizona limited liability company. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year or $40 for two years. Send check or money order to Lovin’ Life After 50. Another quality product of the East Valley Tribune.

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Straus’ Place

All about HOBY BY BILL STRAUS This is really quite a story – so much so in fact, it’s going to take two columns to tell it adequately. So let’s get to the story of Hugh O’Brian, a TV actor you might remember from the ‘50s. If that’s all you know about Mr. O’Brian, I urge you to read on.

Part 1 of 2

Back in the mid-‘50s, Westerns represented a huge chunk of programming on TV. There were dozens of them! But one of my favorites was always The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp, starring Hugh O’Brian. It went on the air in 1955 and immediately became one of my favorite TV shows. Remember that great theme song? “Wyatt Earp, Wyatt Earp… brave, courageous and bold. Long live his fame and long live his glory and long may his story be told.” Hugh O’Brian was much more than just another “pretty face” on TV. And his story, beyond his days of TV fame, is bigger than life. Here’s the first part: Hugh’s portrayal of the iconic lawman won him great attention and praise. In fact, it attracted the attention of none other than Dr. Albert Schweitzer, the highly acclaimed theologian, organist, writer, humanitarian, philosopher, and physician. Dr. Schweitzer, who had won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1952, was then living in the jungles of what is now Gabon, Africa, treating the local villagers there for myriad tropical diseases, infections and conditions. And Dr. Schweitzer was interested in one Hugh O’Brian, so he cabled him in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. He invited Hugh to visit his clinic in Africa, where he would be warmly welcomed at any time. At this time, Hugh was parlaying his fame from the TV show by starring in a rodeo. But Hugh had been a longtime admirer of Schweitzer and his humanitarian efforts. Within a mere two weeks, Hugh was on his way by commercial air, bush plane

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and canoe to the village. Incidentally, the canoes were manned by villagers, many with leprosy, treated and cured by Dr. Schweitzer. Paddling visitors in and out was one of the ways they sought to repay his valiant efforts. Hugh spent nine days at the clinic, where Schweitzer and his band of volunteer doctors and nurses worked without electricity or running water, caring for the ill. Schweitzer, then 83 and impressed with the fact that O’Brian had so willingly accepted his invitation to visit, spent the evenings talking with the young American. He impressed upon O’Brian his concern for global peace, and how Americans should lead that effort. Schweitzer was clear: Educating our young people to think for themselves was the key. As Hugh departed for home, Schweitzer took his hand, looked him in the eye and asked him what he was going to do with what he had learned. Schweitzer had indeed invited the right man to join him. The thoughtful O’Brian mulled the profound question all the way home. And what he came up with will blow you away. I’ll tell you all about it next month!

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Local Opinions

Sound Off I take issue with the (Sound Off submission) about prisoners getting everything “free.” This couldn’t be further from the truth. While I have never been incarcerated, I volunteered at the women’s prison in Goodyear, AZ for over five years. I helped women upon their release with clothing, food, bus passes and transportation to give them a lift when re-entering a country that views them as less than citizens. Everyone who commits a crime should serve the time given to them. However, life behind bars isn’t a life with “no wants, free everything, three meals a day, etc.” And with a record as a felon, society is less than forgiving when it comes to housing and jobs. Life outside is very difficult, and it is hard for them to establish a stable life. The health care provided to inmates is nearly nonexistent. Yes, there is medical care, yet it is often denied to women, or they are severely misdiagnosed. I know of a number of cases where women died while incarcerated due to denial of medical attention, or they weren’t treated properly. The women are provided one I will never buy in a community with an HOA again! When I purchased my condo in East Mesa, I was told the HOA fees were high because we had gates, pool/spa, rec center, fitness room, water/garbage, and everything outside the unit would be covered, including the roof. Fast forward a few years. The HOA fees have almost doubled, gates are open in the mornings and evenings, no fitness center, rec center is accessed by going to a separate location to pick up a key with a deposit. We pay our own water/garbage and now they want $800 per unit to fix the roofs, otherwise they’re threatening to raise our rates again! And if you don’t like it, oh well, because if you don’t pay it, they’ll put a lien on your house and then they’ll foreclose! That’s how much power we have given them. NEVER AGAIN!!!!

roll of single-ply toilet paper a week and a few feminine hygiene items. They must purchase their own shampoo, toothpaste, extra toilet paper, writing paper and on and on. A TV must be purchased by the inmate – there are no “social rooms” where everyone gathers to kick back in their recliner with a bowl of popcorn and a Pepsi. The yard libraries do have books, many with a single copy of each paperback, many of which are quite old. An inmate is permitted five magazines/books, which must be purchased and sent to them by someone on the “outside.” When released, many women go to halfway houses which charge them $125$150 a week. Keep in mind, they have NO job and a record, so finding a job isn’t an easy task! I could go on and on, but I think I’ve made my point. Life as a senior citizen isn’t a bed of roses; I agree that many suffer with medical costs, medications, food, etc. But let’s not attack a community of people who made mistakes in their lives and are paying for them, will also suffer for many years while inside the walls of the prison and may continue to do so when they are outside of those walls.

I’ve been writing since age 5 and would encourage seniors like myself to engage in writing. As we become older, we may have a number of things which limit our activity; however, I feel writing can still be something we can do at our age. We hold a myriad of life experiences. I was trained as a professional nurse but always wrote as a hobby, having written stories, poetry and two books. I may not be a famous writer or a rich one, but I am a happy one who did what I always wanted to do – write!!! I wish someone would tell Dictator Trump to take that ugly yellow pancake off his head.

We Want to Hear from You!

Your message might be printed in the next issue! At Lovin’ Life, we believe your opinions should be heard. Give us yours! Space providing, your Sound Off will be printed in the next issue. Please limit your messages to one minute or 100 words.

Email us: soundoff@lovinlifeafter50.com Leave a message: 480-898-6500, option 6 Write us: 1620 W. Fountainhead Pkwy., Suite 219 Tempe, AZ 85282

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Ask Gabby Gayle

No social media doesn’t mean someone’s a scammer BY GAYLE LAGMAN-CRESWICK Note: The following is a reply to last month’s letter discussing dating sites and scammers.

Dear Gabby Gayle:

Help me understand. “I also look them up on Facebook, and if they have no friends or no photos, they are scamming.” What if someone does not have a Facebook account? As a retired executive who does not engage in or subscribe to social media, or utilize Facebook... does that mean I am a scammer? I do, however, date ladies with no intention or desire to scam them. Being well-respected in the professional community, I find it strange that you find it necessary to utilize social media as a basis to determine who is or is not a scammer. I take exception to “no friends or photos” on Facebook may designate me as a scammer. I generally agree with your answers to the questions you answer. However, perhaps you could have given a little more thought to your answer to Senior and Proud of It regarding dating sites.

Respectfully, Confused

Dear Confused:

Sorry to have confused you. Perhaps I should have said, “If they have no friends or no photos on Facebook, they might be scammers!” I have been scammed many times and feel I am somewhat of an authority! By scamming, I am using the term loosely – those I found who were not who they said they were. If you have no Facebook account, you cannot be checked on Facebook. If you are not on Facebook, that does not make you a scammer. I think the most reliable way to check up on a date is to meet for coffee and get to know each other. When I invite them for coffee, I sometimes hear excuses such as “I don’t drive,” “I’ll be busy for the next month,” “I would rather chat,” “I’ll be out of the country for a while,” etc. Sometimes when I invite them for coffee, I do not ever hear from them again! I did not mean to put down dating sites. I have lots of fun meeting people, and some have become good friends. Thanks for writing, and happy hunting!

If you have questions for Gabby Gayle, please send them to “Ask Gabby Gayle” at lagmancreswick@gmail.com.

www.LovinLifeAfter50.com

LOOKING FOR US?

Dear Gabby Gayle:

My husband died four years ago, and those have been the longest, unhappiest four years of my life. We were so close and had so much fun together. He went suddenly, and I keep reliving it several times a day. I cannot find any good reason to live. We didn’t have any children because I did not want them. I felt they would take away some of the joy we had together. Now here I am with nothing but a comfortable financial arrangement. Is this all there is?

Signed, A.G.

Dear A.G.:

Before I say anything else: You need serious counseling, and you need it right away! Please, get an appointment immediately. That said, I suspect you did not have grief counseling after your husband died, and you did not have a chance to work through the grief. Your feelings would be normal after losing a loved one – but not four years later! You are stuck, and professionals can help you. It is good for couples to be close, but it is also important that each has their own friends and hobbies, so that when one goes the other still has their own self intact. Please get help. Let me know how you are doing. Thank you and bless you.

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Dear Gabby Gayle:

I have a good tale to tell about dating sites! I had been on a senior site for about a year and was about to get off, when I had a note from a guy who wanted to meet for coffee, and he lived near me. We met and had such a good time. We built a good friendship and then had a romantic courtship, and now we are getting married. I too had been romantically scammed, and it made me suspicious, and then I met John and that all changed. Tell your readers not to give up! You may have to “kiss a lot of frogs before you meet your prince.”

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Sincerely, Happy

Dear Happy:

So glad to hear your story! Good luck to both of you!

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Features

RUNNING on

Empty?

Figuring what you’ll need for retirement is like planning for a road trip. Experts offer five tips on how to “pack” for that unknown and exciting journey ahead. BY JIMMY MAGAHERN In her book Control Your Retirement Destiny, Dana Anspach likens planning for retirement to embarking on a road trip without knowing the distance to your destination. “You don’t know how long the trip will be, nor can you predict the conditions you will encounter,” she writes. “The only

thing you know is there won’t be any gas stations along the way.” As founder and CEO of Sensible Money, a Scottsdale-based financial advisory firm, Anspach specializes in retirement planning for folks who are already close to heading off on that trip. In her analogy, the gas is the amount of savings and resources you have as you begin your retirement, and the road ahead is your

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lifespan, which for many of us has been extending, thanks to medical advances and an embrace of healthier lifestyles. “Longevity risk is the technical term for the challenge of charting a path into a trip of unknown duration,” Anspach writes. “It is a fancy way of saying that you have a finite set of resources that must last for an unknown amount of time.” Rough patches lie ahead, too: Unanticipated health care expenses and economic downturns may provide some major bumps between smooth stretches of strong savings rates and high returns on investments. And the vehicle you travel in – the lifestyle you choose to maintain in retirement – will ultimately affect how quickly you spend down those savings. To help you get the most out of this journey, we asked Sensible Money’s retirement income specialist Chuck Robinson and Adam Pearce, owner of The Retirement Professionals (with offices in Tucson and Phoenix), to weigh in with some expert advice. Together they provided five top tips for heading off on the road to retirement.

1. Get the insurance.

It’s everyone’s least favorite part of renting a car for a long trip, but opting for comprehensive insurance coverage is an essential part of riding into retirement. “Many people talk about taking early retirement,” Robinson says. “But they forget that, prior to age 65, unless you’re among the very small amount of people whose employer carries their health care benefits into retirement, you’re going to have to go into the private marketplace for health insurance. Once you’re 65, if you don’t mind working with Medicare Advantage, which is like an HMO, there is

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Adam Pearce, owner of The Professionals. (Photo courtesy LinkedIn)

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Chuck Robinson, retirement income specialist with Sensible Money. (Photo courtesy NAPFA)

no premium. But if you plan on spending a lot of time outside Arizona, you’re only covered for emergency care. Medicare supplemental programs can carry an annual fee of $2,000 to $3,000 per person.” Robinson also advises retirees to consider how they’ll pay for long-term care should they or their spouse require it further down the road and their assets disqualify them for Medicaid. “Health care expenses are probably the biggest factor that can torpedo even any reasonably well-thought-out retirement plan.”

2. Pack smart.

“Don’t put all your money into pretax 401(k), 403(b) or 457(b) deferred compensation plans,” Robinson says. “Divide it up into after-tax Roth IRAs or Roth 401(k)s. The reason is, a couple may be in a low tax bracket early in retirement, but at some point, usually when they reach their 80s or 90s, there’s going to be a single survivor. And that surviving spouse is now going to be taxed as a single individual, which is when Uncle Sam will start requiring them to take more and more money out of their 401(k) and 403(b) and IRAs whether they need it or not. So we encourage people to diversify their assets.” Be careful about drawing savings from investments, too. “Generally speaking, I believe one should remain flexible through retirement,” Pearce says. “If you’re willing to cut back on drawing from investments in years they are not doing well and during market declines, you can have more flexibility and potentially do better over the long run. For example, in the years the market is down, maybe you don’t take that big vacation and put it off

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3. Watch your speed.

“People in retirement go through three stages,” Robinson says. “They progress through what we call the ‘gogo years,’ the ‘slow-go years’ and the ‘nogo years.’ And they spend differently in each of those stages. Research shows that, on average, people spend less on consumable goods as they age but more on medical expenses. And the long-term inflation rate on health care expenses is higher. So it’s critical that people begin to track their expenses.” A good retirement planner can help people cut back on their “go-go” expenses as they move into their “no-go” stage. “Maybe there’s a travel club they signed up for that they’re no longer using,” Robinson says. “Simply by going through their expenses from time to time, people can cut 10 to 20 percent of their spending without affecting their lifestyle.”

4. Check your timing.

Many retirees are eager to take their Social Security benefits as soon as they’re

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eligible, but advisors stress that’s seldom the best idea. “Social Security benefits are based on your earnings history, and there are many strategies (for) seeking to maximize your benefits,” Pearce says. “You can begin taking Social Security as early as age 62, but that comes with a 25 percent reduction of what would be your full benefit at full retirement age – 65 to 67, depending on when you were born. By delaying benefits past your full retirement age and up until age 70, you can get an increased benefit.” Health again becomes a factor: Will you be healthy enough in later years to enjoy the money as much as you can in your 60s? “If you’re looking at a long-term lifespan, into your 80s and beyond, you may be better off to wait until at least full retirement age if not age 70 for the increases,” Pearce says.

5. Follow the rules of the road.

When it comes to withdrawing funds from various forms of savings, it helps to know the rules to minimize taxes and avoid penalties. “There are many rules and some can be easily avoided,” Pearce says. “For example, a Required Minimum Distribution starting in the year you turn 70½ has a hefty penalty of 50 percent of the amount required to distribute if you fail to do so. Generally speaking, many retirement plans come with an age 59½ requirement for withdrawals to avoid penalties. But there are also many exceptions to that rule.” Keep these tips in mind as you enter retirement and you just may have enough funds to go wherever the journey takes you.

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Viva Volunteers

Arizona retirees find new purpose through community service. BY TAYLER BROWN, MARILYN HAWKES & LEISAH WOLDOFF Every year, thousands of people retire from the work force. But post-retirement life doesn’t have to mean idle hands and boring days. Many people are finding new purpose through community service and gilding their Golden Years with volunteering. Here are four profiles of Arizona folks who are doing just that.

Jennifer Zuniga: Empowering cancer patients By Marilyn Hawkes

In 2001, Jennifer Zuniga was diagnosed with neuroendocrine cancer, a rare form of cancer that is difficult to detect and receives little attention. Apple co-founder Steve Jobs succumbed to the disease in 2011, bringing it briefly to the forefront. Zuniga, who lives in Tucson, has made it her mission to educate and empower others who have rare tumors. “I’ve attempted to take the lessons I’ve learned based on my early diagnosis, the medical treatment

I’ve received and some of the decisions that I’ve made and impart it to others,” she says. As part of her mission, Zuniga has staged several educational events through volunteer work with the Arizona Carcinoid & Neuroendocrine Foundation (AzCNF). In August, she helped organize a symposium on patient self-advocacy in conjunction with Banner MD Anderson that included medical professionals as well as patients. The events are designed to provide advice to patients on how best to describe their symptoms to medical professionals and find the right health care providers to seek proper treatment. Neuroendocrine tumors are hormoneproducing tumors that can grow in the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, appendix and other locations in the body, causing a full range of effects from gastrointestinal upset and flushing to respiratory distress

about whatever disease they have.” While preparing for an event, Zuniga sometimes spends 30 or more volunteer hours a week registering participants, devising questions for panelists and setting up the venue. She also holds a full-time job as associate director of University of Arizona’s AHEC (Area Health Education Centers) program and serves as an AzCNF board member. Zuniga also serves as a mentor and friend to other patients who have been diagnosed with neuroendocrine cancer, answering questions and providing comfort and support during difficult times. She helps patients navigate the medical maze of cancer, but the overarching Jennifer Zuniga has made it her mission to educate and em- message she wants to drive home power others who have rare tumors. (Photo by Melissa Holland) is: “You’ve got to be your own best advocate.” and heart problems, according to AzCNF. Like most volunteers, Zuniga finds joy Because the symptoms mimic a host of other conditions, neuroendocrine cancer in helping others. “You get so much more than what you ever give,” she says. is often misdiagnosed. When working with neuroendocrine Information can sometimes be hard to cancer patients, Zuniga tries to remember find for those diagnosed with rare cancers, how she felt when she was first diagnosed. as opposed to more commonly diagnosed “Admittedly, no one’s journey is exactly cancers such as breast cancer, Zuniga says. “My goal is trying to engage people who the same, but I hope that I’ve been able have less opportunity for conversation

Volunteers...continued on page 12

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in college, and while serving in the Army during the Vietnam War, he trained at to give them both hope and insight into the Department of Defense Information best practices and finding the right pro- School and graduated from the military vider and the right team,” she says. “Even broadcast journalism program. “The last if I help one person and make their path a time I was on air was in 1969 when I was little easier. That’s all I think about.” with the Armed Forces Radio and TeleStu Turgel: A voice for vision Service,” Turgel says. “I originally thought that was the direction my career community service was going to go.” By Leisah Woldoff His friend told him about Radio Phoenix, After his retirement from a 42-year caan Internet-based community radio stareer in the nonprofit sector, Stu Turgel tion, and Turgel went through the station’s wasn’t sure what he should do next. “From the time I retired, I wanted to be very care- training program. “The technology has ful and deliberate about figuring out what changed since 1969 when we used to edit I wanted to do to fill my time,” he says. “I programs on magnetic tape,” he notes. He developed “The Phoenix File,” a allowed myself to be very selective to do weekly news magazine broadcast that the things that I wanted to do and that I features conversations about people, thought would contribute something to programs and issues that make a positive the community.” impact on the quality of life in the Greater His first step after retiring as president and CEO of the Jewish Community Foun- Phoenix area. Most of his guests represent dation of Greater Phoenix in 2013 was to nonprofits. “My passion is to enable orgatake on a multiyear consulting contract nizations to better tell their story,” he says. Turgel records the show from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and says it is the most time-intensive of all his volunteer commitments, taking three to four hours each week, which includes selecting his guests, conducting research and writing his script. The public can listen at radiophoenix.org. He also serves as vice chairman on the board of the Arizona Community Media Foundation, the nonprofit that owns and operates Radio Phoenix; is a board member of DUET, a nonprofit that offers services for older adults, and assists with board governance, marketing and communications; and is a mentor for SCORE, a network of volunteer, expert business mentors. Since “The Phoenix File” debuted Retiree Stu Turgel hosts a weekly program on communitybased station Radio Phoenix. (Photo courtesy Stu Turgel) in October 2016, Turgel has recorded more than 50 shows, which are availwith Dental Lifeline Network, a Denverable online at thephoenixfile.net/podbased nonprofit. He next pursued his first post-retire- casts. “It’s been great fun,” he says. ment volunteer opportunity, with the Talking Book Library, a nonprofit that provides publications in alternate formats to people with visual or physical challenges. He recorded books for the organization years ago in Colorado, but this time around he chose to volunteer as an outreach coordinator, representing the nonprofit at health fairs and other events. As Turgel was considering additional options, a discussion with a friend led him to thinking about his initial career plan – broadcast journalism. “From the time I was a little kid, I was fascinated with radio,” Turgel says. He majored in broadcast journalism

George and Ann Corrigan: IMPACT food bank volunteers By Marilyn Hawkes

When George and Ann Corrigan moved to the Tucson area from Hawaii in January 2016, they wanted to find a volunteer opportunity at a food bank. The couple, both 79, started a food pantry in Hawaii through their church and ran it for seven years. “We really wanted to continue that sort of (volunteer work),” George says. They discovered IMPACT of Southern Arizona, a nonprofit organization that provides individuals and families with much

Volunteers...continued on page 14 www.LovinLifeAfter50.com

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all over because I’m so happy to school. “In some ways, we were treated like see them smile,” she says. dirt,” Turner says about her school days. “I needed services, including a food bank, The IMPACT of Southern Arihad friends and learned how to deal with senior program and meals, a community zona food bank serves an averthings, but it did take a toll on me because clothing bank, youth programs, ESL (Eng- age of about 400 different famiof how it was.” lish as a second language) and citizenship lies each month, according to Her own story motivates her desire classes, and resource referrals. the organization’s website. “All to help the students at Catalina The Corrigans, who once owned an Al- of our programs are set up to Ventura School build on their strengths phaGraphics print shop in Chicago, began help people get back on their and passions and get excited about school volunteering in September 2016 at IM- feet and be self-sufficient,” says and learning. Teachers appreciate her, too. PACT’s food bank in Catalina, just north- Keith Marcum, IMPACT’s mar “She is there to support and encourwest of Tucson. They both put in a four- keting manager. age them with anything they need, and hour shift every Monday. For the Corrigans, volunteerthrough her they know that everyone is George serves as a computer volunteer ing at the food bank and also rooting for them,” says Callie Krohn, the and greets clients when they arrive, asking with the SaddleBrooke Rofirst-grade teacher who works with Turner for identification to make sure they’re eli- tary Club keeps them young, in the Foster Grandparents program. “She gible to receive a monthly food box. “But George says. “That’s one of the is a really positive light.” they can come in every day if they wish to reasons we’re doing this.” The benefits of the program go both Ann and George Corrigan at IMPACT’s food bank near Tucson pick up bread and one other item from the But the biggest reward for the (Photo courtesy Keith Marcum of IMPACT of Southern Arizona) ways, Turner says. “Coming to this stage expired table,” he says. Corrigans? “When we’re done… of our lives we [older adults] have a lot After George gives the green light, Ann, there’s a feeling of really accomplishing room across the street from where she that we can offer. Instead of just giving up who works as a customer service volun- something,” George says. “We know we’ve lives. and being retired and looking forward to teer, dispenses the food packages. “We’re made a difference in people’s lives. We just She is part of The Foster Grandparents the next doctor’s appointment, we have a just so glad to hand them the bags of like to give back. It’s a great feeling.” Program, a national program that gives wealth we can give to students.” food,” Ann says. “I get the satisfaction that adults 55 and older the opportunity to She says her first-graders also inspire her I’m helping somebody… It makes me feel Jane Howard Turner: interact with elementary school students own writing of her self-published book seModel foster grandparent good.” in their own community. Arizona’s Fos- ries, The Adventures of Raymond Red Bird. Sometimes on Mondays, the food bank By Tayler Brown ter Grandparents Program is directed The Foster Grandparent program bereceives flowers from a local store, and Ann Through a federally funded program, through Northern Arizona University’s gan nationally in 1965 and has given older distributes them to clients. “The smiles on 70-year-old Jane Howard Turner of Phoe- Civic Service Institute. adults the opportunity to stay involved their faces when I hand them a beautiful nix is sharing her wealth of life experience Turner is one of 132 volunteers in the and active in their communities. “Foster bouquet of flowers just makes me tingle with a younger generation in the class- state who get out of their own backGrandparents, like Jane, bridge the gap yards and devote time each week to serv- between older people and younger stuing as role models and helping Valley el- dents,” says program coordinator Hope ementary school children read, write and Clapp. do math. The program is always look6159 E . U N I V E RS I T Y D R . , M E S A • O P E N T O T H E P U B L I C ing for qualified volunteers. “It challenges you,” Turner says. “You learn from the children.” Turner has been a part of the Foster Grandparents Program for the last FEATURING: three school years and has worked THE GP DUO with the Alhambra Elementary School BLUE CHRISTMAS District’s Catalina Ventura School in MARY DID YOU KNOW her most recent year. She has worked COUNTRY & ROCK extensively with the first-grade class at the school and helps support chilJAN. 11TH DEC. 9TH DEC. 10TH dren who are struggling to read and 5PM 10 – 2:00PM 4:30 – 6PM write; she also assists as needed in the $10 classroom. The retired nurse and children’s book author wants to make school and learning a better experience than she had growing up in Missouri. addition to being a Foster Grandparent, Jane Howard Turner was born and raised in Mis- In Turner also writes children’s books. (Photo by Tayler Brown) souri but came to Arizona in 2012. As a child, she attended a segregated elemenLast year, the Foster Grandparent protary school and was one of only three gram in Arizona hosted volunteers at 76 black students to attend her local high schools throughout Maricopa County, JAN. 11TH • 7PM $20 JAN. 17TH • 7PM $20 school. Turner said she had a passion for Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley, WWW.PURPLEPASS.COM WWW.PURPLEPASS.COM writing, but no one encouraged it. Yuma, Somerton, Tucson, Eloy, KingOR DVRC OFFICE OR DVRC OFFICE In the segregated South of the 1950s, man, Flagstaff, and Tuba City (Hopi Tribal she didn’t have a great experience in Lands). DVRC OFFICE 320 N. 55TH PLACE (CASH OR CHECK)

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Grandma Blowtorch

Francine Kavanaugh became fired up about welding seven years ago. She initially created larger metalwork but has since focused on desktop pieces like this cactus and horse. (Photos by Kimberly Carrillo)

Francine Kavanaugh welds her way into art shows. BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Francine Kavanaugh dons a cotton sweatshirt, gloves and a protective leather apron in the Arizona heat. She opens the garage door of her immaculate Gilbert home, slides on a mask and begins to weld. Seven years ago, the 76-yearold Gilbert grandmother took up welding as a way to create art. For two weeks in November, her pieces were on display for the first time during Hidden in the Hills, Arizona’s longestrunning artist studio tour and sale. She’ll show some of her pieces at the Sonoran Small Works Art & Holiday Show in Cave Creek this month. Kavanaugh has always been creative. When her three children were small, she did oil painting and decoupage under glass. For a short time, Kavanaugh owned an art gallery in Old Town Scottsdale. When

her children were grown, she got back into art and began metalwork in 2010 after a visit to Hidden in the Hills. “I thought, ‘I can do that!’” she says. “So I asked where she had learned and started taking my first welding class two weeks later.” Her biggest question of her Mesa Community College instructor? “What do I do with them if I don’t sell them?” she says with a laugh. “I was looking at Etsy and this lady had a bear that was a desktop sculpture. I thought it was cool because it would be easy for me to work with. I went to my welding instructor and I said I wanted to do these desktop sculptures.” She admitted her first try was a “total disaster.” But the feisty Kavanaugh kept at it and now specializes in smaller pieces. “They’re very easy for me to work

with,” she says. “They evolve and change as I’m moving.” Kavanaugh spends her days working on 8- to 12-inch sculptures of everything from deer and birds to airplanes and tractors. On this day, she was focused on a Christmas tree. “I love the whole process of starting with an idea and watching how the metal moves and changes along the way,” Kavanaugh says. “When the piece is finished, I find that the basic idea is still

there. However, the end result has grown and evolved.”

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The Art of Life

Fred Tieken’s Gallery and Studio is a colorful oasis. BY KENNETH LAFAVE

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Do a search for “Fred Tieken” and you will find Fred Tieken the graphic designer, Fred Tieken the rock ‘n’ roll saxophonist, Fred Tieken the classic car collector, Fred Tieken the artist, and Fred Tieken the gallery owner. As you may have guessed, they are all the same guy. “The looser and more childlike I am, the better,” Tieken says, speaking of the quality of his paintings, which exhibit a kind of free sophistication. But he could also be talking about his life, in which he’s Fred Tieken took up painting seven years ago and has since totally abandoned the usual gained national acclaim. (Photo courtesy Fred Tieken) • A green-eyed figure with bars for teeth, expectations. As a musician in the 1950s, he fronted a racially integrated holding a hand grenade. The words “War rock ‘n’ roll band when segregation was is hell” are written over him, but “hell” has still the norm. As a graphic artist, he relied been crossed out and “fun” substituted. Seeing Tieken’s paintings reproduced more on improvisation than on preonline is one thing, but viewing them as ordained design. And just seven short years ago, as a the giant canvases they really are is quite “retired” man of 75, Tieken embarked on another, and it is easy to do if you are in Scottsdale, because Tieken owns a gallery a new and demanding career as a painter. His workaholism started early. “In my – The Tieken Studio and Gallery, 5202 E. early days, I burned the candle at both Gold Dust Avenue – where his paintings ends. I would work the day at a design firm hang beside those of others. Not many artists run their own galleries, in a town in downstate Illinois, then after work I’d head for Chicago, play a gig, and but for Tieken and his wife, Gail, it came be back for work in the morning. To this about almost naturally. “We were on an acre and a third, and so we thought, ‘Let’s day, I’m not a good sleeper.” Tieken put aside the saxophone a put a building in the back.’ And then few years ago, and today channels the Gail said, ‘Why don’t we just turn it into a creativity he expressed in music as a young gallery?’ It was perfect, because it didn’t man into paintings that look like the visual hinder our home. When you enter our property, you go through a gate, and a sign equivalent of a busy bebop solo. His paintings are what you might points in one direction to the gallery and in expect from a man who doesn’t follow the other to my studio, which is attached rules: Colors clash, images collide, styles our house. It’s all very modern-looking, get juggled and celebrities sometimes with lots of glass. For openings, we rent intrude. In some paintings, words appear Klieg lights and serve wine in real glasses. or even dominate. Take a look at the digital Art collectors from New York and Germany reproductions at fredtieken.com/gallery, say they’ve never seen anything like it.” The Gold Dust Avenue gallery, dubbed and you find, among other images: • A man opens a pizza box and exclaims, Tieken Studio and Gallery AZ, is but one his face contorted in rage, “I said no of three that Tieken’s enormous, virtually overnight success as an artist has enabled anchovies!” • Andy Warhol stares at you, as a kind of him to open. A second, small studio is located in Venice, California, and in October, still life with bananas. • An enormous orange cat, wearing Fred and Gail opened the Tieken Gallery cowboy boots on all paws, stares over its L.A. in the Chinatown area of Los Angeles. For more information about Tieken haunches at the bird riding on his back. • A man carries a bird cage. The bird Studio and Gallery AZ, or to read more inside looks longingly down at two similar, about Fred Tieken’s varied career, go to fredtieken.com. uncaged birds, who gaze sadly back.

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Solid Platform

Jeannie Enders wins Outstanding Toastmaster award. BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Jeannie Enders wishes she would have discovered Toastmasters International as a young adult. “I would have been much further in my career,” Enders says. “I would have also given Hillary a run for her money come election time.” Recently retired, Enders recalled being told her delivery didn’t suffice. She longed to improve that, so she joined Toastmasters in 2009. She must have made her mark. After winning numerous awards with the organization, Enders was named Outstanding Toastmaster of the Year for her district. “It was quite an honor to receive it from the district – nearly the whole state of Arizona,” Enders says. “This is a big honor for the district to win something this coveted.” Toastmasters International operates clubs worldwide to help members improve their communication, public speaking and leadership skills. Its mission

is to empower individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders. Enders is a member of Northwest Speakers Toastmasters, which was founded in 2016. Its members stress that improved communication skills result in greater self-confidence and personal growth. A Michigan native, Enders has served as chairwoman for a plethora of committees, and has sponsored 10 members. “Without the meetings, I don’t know where I would be,” she says with a laugh. Her passion is working with students, however, and the Youth Leadership Program.“ The Youth Leadership Program should be in every high school and junior high level,” she says. “It’s a great program for the youth to learn how to have great communication skills. In this day and age of computers and phones, we need to stress the importance of good grammar and good communication skills.” Through the program, kids learn to

Jeannie Enders (center) is passionate about helping youngsters succeed, especially through the Toastmasters’ Youth Leadership Program. She was recently named Outstanding Toastmaster of the Year. (Photo courtesy Floyd Parks)

accept criticism – good or bad – and apply it to their delivery or leadership skills. “It’s a great program that I am truly honored to chair,” she says. “‘I joined for me. I stay for others.’ That is the motto through and through. When you become a Toastmaster, it’s wonderful to see people succeed. That’s the best mantra

you can have for Toastmasters.” Northwest Speakers Toastmasters Club No. 4318 meets from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. the second and fourth Thursdays at Peoria Public Library, 8643 W. Monroe Street, Peoria. For information about this club, or others throughout the Valley, visit toastmasters.org.

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DECEMBER 2017 |

Calendar of Events

Entertainment ‘Funny Is Funny’

of projects on her plate, including the 12-episode Netflix series A Little Help with Carol Burnett. The original, unscripted comedy stars Burnett and a panel of straight-talking 4- to 8-year-old kids who help “solve” life’s biggest dilemmas. BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI In each half-hour episode, the children will face real-life issues brought before Besides her Comerica Theatre Carol Burnett calls her eponymous show “appointment TV.” Families stayed home appearance, Burnett is anticipating her them by celebrities and everyday people. on Saturday nights to watch her program, TV special, The 50th Anniversary of The They will offer their advice in front of a along with All in the Family, M*A*S*H and Carol Burnett Show. Airing on CBS Sunday, studio audience. The series is slated for a December 3, the two-hour program will 2018 premiere. The Bob Newhart Show. “It is so cute,” Burnett says. “It’s out of the Thanks to YouTube, The Carol Burnett feature stars like Vicki Lawrence, Bill Hader, mouths of babes. They haven’t reached the Lyle Waggoner, Jim Carrey, Jay Leno, Show is experiencing a resurgence. So point where they censor themselves when she tours with her show, An yet. Some of it is pure gold. They are Evening of Laughter and Reflection, so cute.” she’s amazed at the fans who ask One guest said she was marrying questions during the question-anda man with two young children. She answer portion. wanted to know how to make them “I get audience members from 9 like her. A little boy on the panel to 90,” she says. “It’s a real thrill that answered, “Bribery always works. It the show still holds up.” works for me every time.” An Evening of Laughter and “They’re real kids,” Burnett adds. Reflection – which comes to “They’re not actors.” Comerica Theatre on Sunday, Burnett is still revered, 50 years December 17 – continues one of into her career. During a recent Burnett’s trademark bits. She “bumps appearance on the Emmy Awards, up the lights” and takes random the crowd gave her an extended questions from the audience. standing ovation. Many audience “I used to open my shows with members tugged their ear in honor Q&As,” she says. “I never know what of The Carol Burnett Show. anybody’s going to ask or say. It was “I didn’t see it on stage, but I a little scary at first. If the audience recorded it,” she says. “There were comes prepared, I get some fun people in the audience pulling questions.” their ears. That was really sweet. It Some, however, are downright touched me. I spoke to people like startling. So are her answers. Kaley Cuoco and Tracee Ellis Ross “I’ve told this one before, but it who said they grew up watching The bears repeating,” she says. “Nine or Carol Burnett Show. It’s so flattering 10 years ago, I was in Texas and a woman in the balcony raised her Carol Burnett performs at Comerica Theatre on December 17. (Photo to know these wonderful people watched the show.” hand. She asked, ‘If you could be a courtesy Carol Burnett) At 84, Burnett still loves her career. member of the opposite sex for 24 hours and then pop into being yourself Kristen Chenoweth, Stephen Colbert and There’s no real secret to her longevity, she again, who would you be and what would Martin Short sharing their memories of says. “I just enjoy it,” she says. “I’m still having the program. you do.’” fun and I hope that translates.” “On the special, we show a long clip from She was stumped – and then she the dentist skit that Harvey (Korman) and prayed. “I said, ‘OK Lord. I’m going to open my Tim (Conway) did,” she says. “Tim played a mouth and whatever comes out is going new dentist who was so nervous that he What: Carol Burnett: An Evening of to be your fault.’ I had no idea what I was kept hitting himself with the Novocain. Laughter and Reflection It was brilliant, and the audience was going to say.” When: 7 p.m. Sunday, December 17 Her answer? Osama Bin Laden and she screaming and laughing. That sketch is 45 Where: Comerica Theatre, 400 W. years old. It holds up. would kill herself. Washington Street, Phoenix “People ask me why my show is still “The audience went crazy, laughing and Cost: Tickets start at $88.50 applauding,” Burnett says. “I said under my happening after all these years. My answer Info: 1-800-745-3000, 602-379-2800, breath, ‘Thank you, Lord. That was a pretty is, ‘Funny is funny.’” comericatheatre.com And she’s still funny. Burnett has a slew good answer.’”

Carol Burnett is still hilarious after 50 years.

MORE INFO

| DECEMBER 2017

Entertainment December 1 Friday

Valley Engineering, Science and Technology Club, 11:30 a.m., Briarwood Country Club, 20800 N. 135th Avenue, Sun City West, $20, reservations required, 623-544-0942, engineersaz.com. Lunch will be followed by a technical presentation by ASU professor Li Liu about the basic concepts of molecular evolution and cancer subclones.

December 2 Saturday

Catholic Daughters’ Court No. 2278 Cookie Walk and Bake Sale, 2 to 6 p.m., Madonna Hall, Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 19002 N. 128th Avenue, Sun City West, free admission, charge for baked goods, 623-322-4139. Visitors fill boxes with cookies. Also available are baked goods, cakes and candies. Songsters Christmas Concert, 7 p.m., repeats 2:30 p.m. December 3, Sunland Village Auditorium, 4601 E. Dolphin Avenue, Mesa, $7, 480-832-9003. New York State of Mind, 6:30 p.m., Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, $150, vosjcc.org/newyork. The event, which honors Jennifer and Steven Schwarz and Kristina Brown, features deli food and hot dogs, street performers, and a Broadway-style show. Proceeds benefit the scholarships and programs of The J. Hillcrest Dance and Social Club, 7 to 9:30 p.m., RH Johnson Social Hall, 19803 RH Johnson Boulevard, Sun City West, $4 members, $6 guests, hillcrest.scwclubs.com. Midnight Moon performs. Myron Sommerfeld, 7 to 10 p.m., Falcon Field, 4800 E. Falcon Drive, Mesa, $25, 480-644-2450. Myron Sommerfeld and his seven-piece swingin’ dance band will perform. The Buckeye Valley Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Meeting, 1 p.m., Buckeye Valley Chamber of Commerce, 508 E. Monroe Avenue, Buckeye, visit website for membership information, buckeyevalley.arizonadar.org. Caroline Kilgore, a 91-year-old original Rosie the Riveter, will speak about her work.

December 3 Sunday

Songsters Christmas Concert, 2:30 p.m. Sunland Village Auditorium, 4601 E. Dolphin Avenue, Mesa, $7, 480-832-9003.

December 4 Monday

Parkinson’s PWR!Moves 2, noon to 1 p.m., repeats December 11 and December 18, Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, free to J members, $5 for nonmembers, registration required, 480-4817090, healthandfitness@vosjcc.org.

Calendar ...continues on page 21 www.LovinLifeAfter50.com

Calendar of Events Calendar...continued from page 20 Planning Ahead for Social Security, 5:30 p.m., Queen Creek Branch Library, 21802 S. Ellsworth Road, Queen Creek, free, registration required, 602-652-3368. Jack Burns from the Social Security Administration will explain how to set up your own account, and how Social Security and Medicare work.

December 5 Tuesday

Parkinson’s Boxing, noon to 12:45 p.m., repeats December 12, December 19 and December 26, Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, $50 for J members, $70 nonmembers, registration required, 480-481-7015, healthandfitness@vosjcc.org. This 45-minute class improves stamina, speed, coordination, postural imbalances and encourages deep breathing PWR!Moves 1, noon to 1 p.m., repeats freParkinson’s December 12, 19 and December 26, Valley P wSuneNJCC,December of the 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, wefree N for J members, $5 nonmembers, registration required, 480-481-7090, healthandfitness@vosjcc. weorg.N

Let’s Knit, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Tuesdays in December, Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, free, 480-481-7033. Share the pleasure of knitting and crocheting.

Learn about Arizona State Charitable Tax Credit Options, 1 to 2 p.m., Benevilla Surprise Campus, 16752 N. Greasewood Street, Surprise, free, registration required, 623-584-4999, Benevilla.org. Gary Frisch, CPA with Monheit Frisch Group, is the presenter.

December 6 Wednesday

Let’s Talk Current Events Discussion Group, 2 to 3:30 p.m., Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, free, reservations required, 480481-7033, harrietc@vosjcc.org. It’s Not Just Lunch, 12 to 1:30 p.m., Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, $5 suggested donation, registration required, 602492-7670, chani@sosaz.org. East Valley Friends and Neighbors, 9:30 to 11 a.m., repeats first Wednesday each month, Grace United Methodist Church, 2024 E. University, Mesa, free. 480-848-5146, evfanaz.org, evfanaz@gmail. com. A nonreligious and nonpartisan group, East Valley Friends and Neighbors welcomes those who wish to get better acquainted with others and to participate in social and charitable activities. Mistletoe Music Magic Concert with Stan Foster, 7 p.m., Sunland Village Auditorium, 4601 E. Dolphin Avenue, Mesa, $10, 480-832-9003. Understanding the Gallbladder, noon, Mountain Vista Medical Center, 1301 S. Crismon Road, Mesa, free, registration required, 1-877-924-9355, mvmedicalcenter.org.

December 7 Thursday

Sun Lakes Chorale Holiday Concert, 7 p.m., Sun

Lakes United Methodist Church, 9248 E. Riggs Road, Sun Lakes, $10, 480-883-6997. The annual concert consists of traditional carols and contemporary arrangements of other holiday music. Ostomy Support Group Holiday Party, 2 p.m., Banner Boswell Medical Center, 13180 N. 103rd Drive, Sun City, free, 623-582-2446. Parkinson’s PWR!Circuit 3, noon to 1 p.m. Thursdays, Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, free to J members, $5 nonmembers, registration required, 480-481-7090, healthandfitness@vosjcc.org. This class includes PWR!Moves 1 & 2 movements for a more advanced workout with instructor-guided exercise stations to improve cardio, strength, agility, coordination and balance. Participants must be able to walk 150 feet on their own with or without a cane or walker. Let’s Be Strong & Single, 10 to 11 a.m., Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, free, registration required, 480-481-7022, harrietc@ vosjcc.org. This workshop helps recently divorced or widowed women find the confidence to begin the next chapter of their lives. Merry Makers Ballroom Dance with Route 66 Trio, 7 to 9:30 p.m., Las Palmas Grand, 2550 S. Ellsworth Road, Mesa, $7 members, $8 nonmembers, 480-654-1994, dancemm.com. The Colors of Christmas, 8 p.m., Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, $40-$85, 1-800-946-4452, wingilariver. com. Stars Peabo Bryson, Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr., Ruben Studdard and Jody Watley.

32nd Street, Phoenix, $78-$138, 602-267-1600, ext. 1, celebritytheatre.com.

December 8 Friday

Parkinson’s Support Group, 10 to 11:30 a.m., Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, free, reservations required, 602-4063840. Those with Parkinson’s and their caregivers meet and share resources and support. Each month features a guest speaker and time for discussion. Facilitated by Patty Hatton, CTRS, from the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at Barrow Neurological Institute. Holiday Dinner Dance, 5:30 to 8 p.m., Chandler Community Center, 275 E. Commonwealth Avenue, Chandler, $5 residents, $7 nonresidents, preregistration required, 480-782-2720, chandleraz.gov/senior-adults. Those 55 and older can enjoy live music, pictures with Santa and a turkey dinner. Sun City Christian Women’s Club Brunch, 9 a.m., Sun City Country Club, 9433 N. 107th Avenue, Sun City, $15, 623-414-1451, 623-776-6155, mwholick@ gmail.com. Billie Cash is the guest speaker, while Santa’s “daughter,” Crystal Claus, will perform.

December 9 Saturday

Hillcrest Dance and Social Club, 7 to 9:30 p.m., RH Johnson Social Hall, 19803 RH Johnson Boulevard, Sun City West, $4 members, $6 guests, hillcrest. scwclubs.com. The Breeze performs during this semiformal event. Pancake Breakfast, 7 to 9:30 a.m., Sunland Village

Tony Bennett, 7:30 p.m., Celebrity Theatre, 440 N.

Calendar ...continues on page 22

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Calendar of Events Calendar...continued from page 21 Auditorium, 4601 E. Dolphin Avenue, Mesa, $5 at the door, 480-832-9003. Sonoran Desert Chorale’s Desert Voices of Christmas, 7:30 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 15 E. First Avenue, Mesa, $18, $15 for seniors and students in advance, $20 and $18 at the door, 480-305-4538, sonorandesertchorale. org. Familiar carols, a new “Gloria” that features two of the finest organs in the Valley, and joyful voices lifted in songs of the season fill the second concert of the chorale’s 24th season. Myron Sommerfeld, 10 a.m. to noon, Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa, free, 480-644-6500. Myron Sommerfeld and his seven-piece swing band perform. Citrus Gardens Country Store, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Citrus Gardens Mobile Home Park, South Hall, 4065 E. University Drive, Mesa, free, 480-218-4421.

December 10 Sunday

Sonoran Desert Chorale’s Desert Voices of Christmas, 3 p.m., La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale, $18 adults, $15 for seniors, in advance, $20 and $18 at the door, 480-305-4538, sonorandesertchorale. org. Familiar carols, a new “Gloria” that features two of the finest organs in the Valley, and joyful voices lifted in songs of the season fill the second concert of the chorale’s 24th season. Holiday Boutique & Fair, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, free admission, 480-483-7121, vosjcc.org. Get the perfect gifts for friends and family at The J’s Holiday Boutique & Fair. Kids’ cookie decorating and edible dreidels for Hanukkah. Ronnie Milsap, 7 p.m., Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, $40-$90, 1-800-946-4452, wingilariver.com. Scottsdale Philharmonic Holiday Concert, 4 p.m., Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, Virginia G. Piper Theater, 7380 E. Second Street, Scottsdale, $5-$10, 480-499-8587,

scottsdaleperformingarts.org. Enjoy a holiday concert with traditional holiday classical pieces presented by the Scottsdale Philharmonic.

Las Palmas Grand, 2550 S. Ellsworth Road, Mesa, $7 members, $8 nonmembers, 480-654-1994, dancemm.com.

Memory Arts Bistro: Larry’s Ukuladies, 3 to 4:30 p.m., Birt’s Bistro, Benevilla, Hellen and John M. Jacobs Independence Plaza, 16752 N. Greasewood Street, Surprise, free, reservations required, 623584-4999.

Benevilla Memory Arts Bistro: Interactive Ukulele Group, 3 to 4:30 p.m., Birt’s Bistro on the Benevilla Surprise Campus, 16752 N. Greasewood Street, Surprise, free, registration required, 623-5844999, Benevilla.org. This is a fun afternoon for those with dementia, their caregivers and their families.

December 11 Monday

Diabetes Support Group, 3 p.m., Mountain Vista Medical Center, 1301 S. Crismon Road, Mesa, free, registration required, 1-877-924-9355, mvmedicalcenter.org.

Phoenix Tinnitus Support Group, 1 p.m., MassMutual of Greater Phoenix, 60 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Building 60, Suite 610, Tempe, free, 602228-3609.

Sun Lakes Democratic Club’s Holiday Party, 7 p.m., Sun Lakes Country Club, 25601 E. Sun Lakes Boulevard North, Sun Lakes, free, 480-200-3322.

The Future of Hip and Knee Replacements, noon, Mountain Vista Medical Center, 1301 S. Crismon Road, Mesa, free, registration required, 1-877-9249355, mvmedicalcenter.org.

Diabetes Support Group, 3 p.m., Mountain Vista Medical Center, 1301 S. Crismon Road, Mesa, free, registration required, 1-877-924-9355, mvmedicalcenter.org.

December 15 Friday

December 12 Tuesday Happy Hanukkah!

Caregivers Facing Change: How to Remain Independent and Where to Start, 1:30 to 3 p.m., Benevilla Surprise Campus, 16752 N. Greasewood Street, Surprise, free, registration required, 623584-4999, beneville.org. Ostomy Support Group Holiday Party, 6 p.m., Elite Home Healthcare Services, 2140 W. Greenway Road, Phoenix, free, 602-246-8221.

December 13 Wednesday

Business & Professionals Groups’ Hanukkah Party: Dreidels and Drinks, 5:30 p.m., Goodmans Interior Structures, 1400 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, $18 professionals, $10 students, registration required by December 12, jewishphoenix.org/dnd. Tickets include appetizers, cocktails and participation in a dreidel tournament. Caregiver Support Group, 2:30 p.m., Mountain Vista Medical Center, 1301 S. Crismon Road, Mesa, free, registration required, 1-877-924-9355, mvmedicalcenter.org.

December 14 Thursday

Merrymakers Ballroom Dance with DK Orchestra, 7 to 9:30 p.m., repeats December 28,

| DECEMBER 2017

The Brian Setzer Orchestra’s Christmas Rocks! Tour, 8 p.m., Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix, $63-$96, 602-267-1600, ext. 1, celebritytheatre.com.

December 16 Saturday

Hillcrest Dance and Social Club, 7 to 9:30 p.m., RH Johnson Social Hall, 19803 RH Johnson Boulevard, Sun City West, $4 members, $6 guests, hillcrest. scwclubs.com. Swing Memories Big Band performs. Karaoke Night, 6 to 9 p.m., Sunland Village Auditorium, 4601 E. Dolphin Avenue, Mesa, $2 at the door, 480-832-9003. Ahwatukee Holiday Arts and Crafts Festival, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Ahwatukee Plaza, 5031 E. Elliot Road, Ahwatukee, free admission, 520-578-5142, 520-481-8001, artattackaz@gmail.com. Artists from Phoenix and Tucson present unique and handmade items from various mediums – paintings, jewelry, clothing, beading, photography, woodwork, metal art and home décor.

December 17 Sunday

Ahwatukee Holiday Arts and Crafts Festival, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Ahwatukee Plaza, 5031 E. Elliot Road, Ahwatukee, free admission, 520-578-5142, 520-481-8001, artattackaz@gmail.com. Artists from Phoenix and Tucson present unique and handmade items from various mediums – paintings, jewelry, clothing, beading, photography, woodwork, metal art and home décor.

Motown Magic Holiday Concert, 3 p.m., Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, $15-$30, 1-800-946-4452, wingilariver.com.

December 18 Monday

Let’s Retire, 11 a.m. to noon, Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, free, registration required, 480-481-7033, harrietc@ vosjcc.org. Join David Cohn, retired business owner and investment banker, as he shares his wealth of knowledge for finding your passion in giving back and planning for a rewarding retirement.

December 19 Tuesday

Let’s Appreciate Art, 11 a.m. to noon, Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, free, 480-481-7033, harrietc@vosjcc.org. Share the world of art with docents from the Phoenix Art Museum. This month, explore Fabergé Imperial Eggs: Czarina Marie.

December 20 Wednesday

Stroke Support Group, 2 p.m., Mountain Vista Medical Center, 1301 S. Crismon Road, Mesa, free, registration required, 1-877-924-9355.

December 21 Thursday

Merrymakers Ballroom Dance with Swing Memories Big Band, 7 to 9:30 p.m. Las Palmas Grand, 2550 S. Ellsworth Road, Mesa, $7 members, $8 nonmembers, 480-654-1994, dancemm.com. Ostomy Support Group Holiday Party, 12:30 p.m., La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale, free, 623-580-4120.

December 22 Friday

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s Wild and Swingin’ Holiday Party, 8 p.m., Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Virginia G. Piper Theater, 7380 E. Second Street, Scottsdale, $39-$69, 480-499-8587, scottsdaleperformingarts.org. Myron Sommerfeld, 7 to 10 p.m., Venture Out, 5003 E. Main Street, Mesa, $8, 480-832-9000. Myron Sommerfeld and his seven-piece swingin’ band perform.

December 23 Saturday

Hillcrest Dance and Social Club, 7 to 9:30 p.m., RH Johnson Social Hall, 19803 RH Johnson Boulevard,

Calendar ...continues on page 23

www.LovinLifeAfter50.com

Calendar of Events Calendar...continued from page 22 Sun City West, $4 members, $6 guests, hillcrest. scwclubs.com. Michael and Manuel perform for this semiformal holiday dance.

December 24 Sunday Merry Christmas Eve!

December 25 Monday Merry Christmas!

December 26 Tuesday

Sing-a-Long-a Grease, various times, through December 30, Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Stage 2, 7380 E. Second Street, Scottsdale, $17, 480-499-8587, scottsdaleperformingarts.org. This is a fully interactive screening of the classic film with subtitled lyrics.

December 27 Wednesday

December 28 Thursday

December 29 Friday

December 30 Saturday

Hillcrest Dance and Social Club, 7 to 9:30 p.m., RH Johnson Social Hall, 19803 RH Johnson Boulevard, Sun City West, $4 members, $6 guests, hillcrest. scwclubs.com. Bobby Freeman and Charlene perform during the semiformal New Year’s dance. Sing-a-Long-a Grease, various times, through December 30, Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Stage 2, 7380 E. Second Street, Scottsdale, $17, 480-499-8587, scottsdaleperformingarts.org. This is a fully interactive screening of the classic film with subtitled lyrics.

Holiday Greetings to our friends and neighbors. Each year we look forward to reconnecting with families we served throughout past years. There are many timeless traditions that keep us connected to one another. We hope that you enjoy each celebration and tradition with a renewed appreciation for those around you.

Happy Holidays,

—The Staff at Melcher Mortuary Mission Chapel

6625 E. Main St., Mesa, AZ 85205 | 602.832.3500 | www.MelcherMission.com

National Bank of Arizona Fiesta Bowl Parade, 9 a.m., Central Phoenix, free, $25 for bleacher seating, fiestabowl.org. Coyotes great Shane Doan serves as grand marshal.

December 31 Sunday

New Year’s Eve Dinner Dance, 6 p.m. to midnight, Sunland Village Auditorium, 4601 E. Dolphin Avenue, Mesa, $45 in advance, reserved seating, 480-832-9003. The Rich Howard Band performs. New Year’s Eve Celebration, 4 and 7:30 p.m., Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second Street, Phoenix, $39$115, 602-495-1999, phoenixsymphony.org. End the year on a high note with The Phoenix Symphony and conductor Stuart Chafetz for the most popular New Year’s Eve Celebration in Arizona. Enjoy famous Strauss waltzes, seasonal classics and Broadway and contemporary favorites all with a complimentary glass of champagne to celebrate the New Year.

Happy Holidays from all of us at

www.LovinLifeAfter50.com

DECEMBER 2017 |

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Editor’s Note: Due to a typographical error, the information for Blue Medicare Advantage Classic (HMO) was printed incorrectly in the November issue of Lovin’ Life After 50. The correct information has been updated on the Lovin’ Life After 50 website and in the chart below. We regret any inconvenience this may have caused.

HMOs That Assume Responsibility for Medicare Coverage COMPANY

Blue Medicare Advantage Classic (HMO)

Premium or Subscription Charges

$0 monthly premium

Registration or Policy Fee

NONE

Pre-existing Health Conditions

Not available for patients with end-stage renal (kidney) disease and receiving dialysis.

Costs on Entry to Hospital

$250 per day for days 1-7 in plan hospital; same cost sharing for non-plan hospital with prior authorization (different cost sharing applies to inpatient mental health).

Maximum Period of Coverage for Any One Benefit

364 days in calendar year.

Skilled Nursing Facility

$20 per day for days 1-10 in plan skilled nursing facility; $20 per day for days 11-20; $165 per day 21-100 in plan SNF; same cost sharing for non plan skilled nursing facility with prior authorization. No prior hospital stay required.

Medical Coverage for Part B

Covered in full after applicable copayments/coinsurance.

Outpatient Care

You pay $0 for each primary care physician office visit; $40 for each visit to most specialists. You pay $20 - $300 for x-ray/ultrasound; You pay $40 for each visit for occupational, speech, physical therapy or $20 for cardiac and pulmonary rehab (Medicare coverage limits apply). You pay $295 for each outpatient surgery. You pay $200 for each ground ambulance transport. You pay 20% coinsurance for durable medical equipment and prosthetics.

Physician care for hospital or office services, surgery, anesthesia, X-ray, laboratory, injections, splints, casts, dressings, physical and speech therapy, radiology, ambulance, prosthetics, etc.

(Available in Maricopa County, Pima County and parts of Pinal County)

Outpatient Prescription Drugs

$3 for a 30-day supply of preferred generic, $15 for non-preferred generic, $45 for preferred brand and $95 for non-preferred brand drugs at retail preferred-pharmacies; 29% for specialty drugs. $3,750 initial coverage limit. Catastrophic coverage with $5,000 spent.

Renewability of Contract

Renewable annually

Travel Restrictions Out of Area

Coverage throughout the United States for emergency and urgently needed care only.

Major Options Available from Company

Hearing Aids, Health/wellness education, disease management. Discounts on eyewear.

A.M. Best Rating

Not Rated

For More Information

For more information about all of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona Advantage Plans or to register for a seminar please call 1-888-273-4093, TTY: 711, 8 a.m.–8 p.m. daily from Oct. 1 to Feb. 14. Hours from Feb. 15–Sept. 30 are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday–Friday.

www.LovinLifeAfter50.com

DECEMBER 2017 |

Embracing Change

‘Menopause the Musical’ star calls the comedy a ‘rollicking good time.’ BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI When Megan Cavanagh joined the cast of Menopause the Musical in 2004, she thought it would be a quick six-week run. Fast forward to 2017, and the actress is still hitting stages as Earth Mother in the comedy musical. “I have a blast,” says Cavanagh, who

starred as Marla Hooch in the film A League of Their Own. “I’ve been doing this show since 2004. If I wasn’t having fun, I wouldn’t still be doing it. The gals I work with are lovely. I love them all. I’ve been to every single state in the U.S. with this show, except Alaska and Hawaii. It’s a rollicking good time.”

A LEADER IN NEUROREHABILITATION for East Valley

Menopause the Musical hits the stage at Mesa Arts Center this month. (Photo by G Four Productions)

Cavanagh and the cast are bringing are “redefining themselves.” They know Menopause the Musical to the Mesa Arts what it’s like to be fabulous and they HealthSouth East Valley Rehabilitation Hospital Center stage Wednesday, December 20, can remain so, whether they’re having specializes in comprehensive rehabilitation for many conditions such as neurological impairments to Sunday, December 31. children or periods or not. resulting from an illness, accident or surgery. Set in a Bloomingdale’s, the musical “Just because I’m not having children, Neuro conditions we provide intensive therapy follows four women who meet in a it doesn’t make me any less of a woman,” programs for using advanced technologies and lingerie department and poke fun at she adds. “There is a consciousness expert care include: their woeful hot flashes, forgetfulness, that is developing. Look at the (Harvey) • Brain injury • Spinal cord injury mood swings, wrinkles, night sweats and Weinstein scandal. Women are rising. • Multiple sclerosis • Stroke chocolate binges. “We are wonderful, creative, amazing bilitation Hospital • Parkinson’s disease • Trauma “These women don’t have names, ” people, and we want to be treated with rehabilitation for Cavanagh says. “There’s a professional respect, right? This is the menopause cry. rological To impairments help patients regain independence, they receive woman, a soap star, earth mother and a The women over 50 are saying, ‘We are dent or surgery. their own neurorehabilitation team and a personalized housewife. They meet at a lingerie table fabulous, and we deserve respect. We’re ntensiveprogram therapyto improve motor skills, cognition, balance, and realize they’re all going through going to live our lives to the fullest until memory, technologies anddaily living tasks and language skills. different forms of menopause. They bond we’re not here anymore.’” over that.” Cavanagh, who splits her time between Learn more about our neurorehabilitation The group sings nearly 26 songs that Los Angeles and her hometown of • Spinal cord injuryby calling 480 567-0350 or program are parodies of hits. For example, “Chain Chicago, says she considers the audience • Stroke visiting healthsoutheastvalley.com of Fools” becomes “Change, Change, to be “the fifth girlfriend at the show.” • Trauma Change” and “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” “I’ve had women come up to me after is reimagined to “My Husband Sleeps the show and say, ‘I’m a bit of you, and ndence, they receive Tonight.” some of you,’” she explains. team and a personalized “It’s really a good time,” she says. “It will “They really see themselves in it. That’s lls, cognition, balance, make your cheeks hurt from laughing. just lovely. That’s what theater should These days, we need that.” be doing. It’s an experiential event that 5652 E. Baseline Road • Mesa, AZ 85206 d language skills. The humor is something Cavanagh people are relating to. That’s what theater ©2016:HealthSouth Corporation:1275497-02 appreciated when she joined the cast. is.” neurorehabilitation However, now that she’s gone through 0 567-0350 or menopause, the mood is slightly stvalley.com different. “I understand the audience’s What: Menopause the Musical reaction more, now that I’m in it,” she says. When: Various times Wednesday, “At the time, I was astounded by the crazy December 20 to Sunday, December reaction to the show. 31 “In 2004, too, I don’t think women Where: Mesa Arts Center’s Piper were talking about menopause. They Repertory Theater, 1 E. Main Street, were living it alone, not realizing what Mesa their bodies were going through. A lot of Cost: $46-$66 5206 5652 E. Baseline Road • Mesa, AZ 85206 women thought they were going crazy. Info: 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter. But, no – we’re all in this together.” ©2016:HealthSouth Corporation:1275497-02 ©2016:HealthSouth Corporation:1275497-02 com These days, Cavanagh adds, women

R IN EHABILITATION

ley

FOR MORE INFO

| DECEMBER 2017

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Trivia Contest

Time to put on your thinking caps. BY KENNETH LAFAVE Think “December,” and “Christmas” inevitably shows up. The old Christmas holiday began Christmas Eve and lasted for 12 days (think of the song), concluding January 5 (think of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night), followed January 6 by Epiphany, when the three wise men were said to have appeared and recognized Jesus as king. All that has long been swept away by the secular Christmas, which starts on Halloween and ends promptly the morning of December 25, with everyone exhausted by the whole affair. Christmas brings productions of Nutcracker and performances of Handel’s “Messiah,” both of which premiered at Easter in their respective years. “Messiah” transferred to Christmas during Handel’s lifetime, making the old man quite rich from its London performances. Handel noticed, however, that London’s considerable Jewish community didn’t attend, for obvious reasons, and so he composed another work, “Jephtha,” a retold Old Testament story, which made him even richer. Never let it be said that classical composers weren’t also good businessmen. Hanukkah this year starts December 12 and ends December 20. It varies from year to year because the Hebrew calendar differs from the secular calendar. A list of movies released in December would run to several volumes, as the holidays make this month one of the most popular

Contest Prizes:

For December, two readers in Tucson and two readers in Phoenix will win a certificate for a one-night stay at InnSuites.

November Winners:

The winners each received a one-night stay at InnSuites.

PHOENIX Joyce Harris Glenna Lober

TUCSON Jeffrey Marsh Oscar Gomez

To Enter:

On a sheet of paper, list the correct answers in order 1 through 5. Include your full name, mailing address, phone number and email address if available.

Mail your trivia contest entry to: Lovin’ Life After 50 Attn: Trivia Contest 1620 W. Fountainhead Pkwy., #219 Tempe, AZ 85282

for new theater releases. But December has its less joyful moments as well. The Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor December 7, 1941, triggering the USA’s involvement in World War II. On December 8, 1980, John Lennon was gunned down outside his New York apartment. And it was on December 15, 1944, that Glenn Miller and his band disappeared from the skies over the English Channel. The supergroup of its day was returning to England from entertaining the troops in France. To this day, no one knows what happened and no wreckage has been found. It’s a good month for musicians to be born. Ludwig van Beethoven, Frank Sinatra, Jim Morrison, Donna Summer, Bo Diddley, John Denver and Dave Brubeck were born in December. It’s not bad for actors, either: Denzel Washington, Mary Tyler Moore, Maggie Smith, Humphrey Bogart, Kirk Douglas, Kim Basinger and Val Kilmer all have December birthdays. December ends not with a whimper but with the bang of “Happy New Year!” How much do you know about New Year’s?

The deadline for entry is the 15th of each month. Please be sure to have your entry postmarked by that date. If you’re a winner in our drawing, we’ll contact you via telephone.

GOOD LUCK! www.LovinLifeAfter50.com

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December Questions:

1 2

3 4 5

Of all the New Year’s Day parades, which one gets the most viewers? At what time does the famous ball in New York’s Times Square start descending? Ancient Greece began the practice of using what to symbolize the new year? What does “Auld Lang Syne” mean? Where did the idea of a New Year holiday begin?

November Answers:

year did the first Thanksgiving 1 What happen at Plymouth? 1621 all know that “Indians” helped the 2 We settlers. But they were of which tribe? THE WAMPANOAG

celebrate Thanksgiving Day. That first 3 We Thanksgiving in Plymouth lasted how long? THREE DAYS

Or email your entry to: trivia@lovinlife.com

Medicare Choices Confusing?

chief of the tribe assisting the pilgrims 4 The contributed five of what animal to the Plymouth feast? DEER

For Native Americans, our Thanksgiving is officially the Day of...what? MOURNING

medication reminders personal care dementia care meal planning & prep. pet therapy

light housekeeping transportation companionship mobility assistance and much more

Dementia and Aging Specialists | Community Educators Respite for Families | Solutions-Oriented DECEMBER 2017 |

Tinseltown Talks

The rollercoaster life of Connie Francis BY NICK THOMAS The tragedies that befell singer Connie Francis throughout her life would challenge the most resilient of souls. Nevertheless, she navigated each dark, engulfing personal tunnel with unwavering tenacity, always eventually emerging aided by her sense of humor. “It never failed me and kept me going,” she says from her home in Parkland, Florida. “From the age of 10, I worked on TV with many comedians like Don Rickles and developed a sense of humor.” While her professional breakthrough came in the late 1950s, it was soon tempered in the early ‘60s when her father thwarted any chance of a lasting relationship with the love of her life, singer Bobby Darin. But the ‘70s and ‘80s were especially devastating. Her brother was killed by mob hitmen, she was raped, she lost her voice and required years to recuperate, and she was diagnosed with

manic depression. Along the way, there was also a miscarriage and four failed marriages. “I tried to see humor in everything, even when I was in a mental institution. But I have to say, the support of the public has also been incredibly uplifting. They saw me through the best and worst of times and never stopped writing from around the world to encourage me.” The ups and downs of her life are detailed in a new autobiography, Among my Souvenirs: The Real Story, Volume 1, due for release on December 12 – her 80th birthday (some sources give her birth date as 1938 but, she states emphatically, “I was born in 1937”). She says writing the book “was an enormous amount of work – a real rollercoaster ride. One day I’d be laughing hysterically and the next be hysterical with tears.”

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Connie Francis (far left) on the set of Where the Boys Are (Photo courtesy MGM)

After making a series of unsuccessful singles in the ‘50s, she recorded “Who’s Sorry Now?,” a song her father had nagged her to record. The song rocketed up the charts, and by the end of 1958, Billboard and others named Connie Francis the number one female vocalist in the country. A string of hits followed into the early 1960s, including “Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool,” “Lipstick on Your Collar,” and “Heartaches by the Number.” Hollywood soon came calling to cash in on her fame. MGM placed her in 1960’s Where the Boys Are (she also sang the hit title Connie Francis and the lost love of her life, Bobby Darin song). But Francis never caught (Photo courtesy Connie Francis) the acting bug. “I just didn’t feel comfortable, as though I didn’t belong her fans. But she also has since found time to support many worthwhile causes there,” she admits. By 1965, her final film, When the Boys and campaigned for mental health Meet the Girls, was released. “I was so awareness and for victims of violent crime. And since her 1967 trip to Vietnam pleased it was my last one,” she says. Battling back from the tragedies of her to entertain the troops, she has remained life established Francis as a true hero to especially close to the military veterans she calls “the real heroes.” Happily living now in Florida for some 20 years (her home was spared damage from devastating hurricane Irma), she is now retired from performing. “I no longer do concerts because I just can’t sing as well as I used to,” she says. “I would never want to disappoint the fans who have been so good to me throughout my life.” Francis at home today in Florida (Photo courtesy Connie Francis)

| DECEMBER 2017

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DECEMBER 2017 |

Celebrating Christmas

Mannheim Steamroller brings a little ‘Fresh Aire’ to holiday tour. BY ALAN SCULLEY Fans of Mannheim Steamroller and its career-making series of Fresh Aire albums can ring in the season with a special surprise. Two different Mannheim Steamroller ensembles are crisscrossing the country on the annual holiday tour, playing some 80 cities combined. In addition to Christmas music from the half dozen Mannheim holiday albums, the show will feature something extra for Fresh Aire fans, according to the group’s founder and songwriter, Chip Davis. “I’ve added in some more Fresh Aire,” Davis says. “We’re getting a lot of requests from the fans because we don’t do Fresh Aire tours. And they’ve been saying could you add some to the Christmas show? A third of the show is probably Fresh Aire sprinkled around throughout different parts.” The same fans will also want to keep an eye out for the release of Exotic Spaces,

the new Mannheim Steamroller album planned for release in March. “I didn’t call (Exotic Spaces) Fresh Aire 9 because most composers, when they’ve written a ninth symphony, usually die right after that,” Davis says with a chuckle. “Like Beethoven – the guy’s like ‘Nine symphonies, bye.’” Davis, obviously, is very much alive and well. He celebrated his 70th birthday in September with a barbecue attended by nearly 100 of his best friends and family. Far from slowing down, he’s looking at a particularly busy winter with his Christmas tour. The enduring career of Mannheim Steamroller didn’t begin with Christmas music, but rather with the release in 1975 of the first Fresh Aire album. Combining classical music and pop, and using orchestral instruments and synthesizers and other synthetic tones, Fresh Aire helped usher in the New Age music genre. Between 1975 and 2000, Davis released

Mannheim Steamroller will breeze into the Valley with something special for Fresh Aire fans. (Photo by Matt Christine Photography)

eight Mannheim Steamroller Fresh Aire albums, which enjoyed major popularity considering they were marketed in a niche genre. But today Davis and Mannheim Steamroller are best known for Christmas music. Davis entered the holiday fray with the 1984 album Mannheim Steamroller Christmas, at a time when such seasonal albums were largely seen as something artists released when they were on the

downside of their careers. Instead, that first Christmas album became a huge hit, selling five million copies, and Mannheim Steamroller has become the best-selling Christmas act, with combined sales of more than 28 million albums. After this year’s holiday season, Davis will return Mannheim Steamroller to its Fresh Aire roots with Exotic Spaces. The

Mannheim...continued on page 31

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Mannheim...continued from page 30 unique album features songs that were inspired by famous – and exotic – sites, such as Egypt’s Pyramids and the Taj Mahal. Modern technology played a key role in helping Davis realize his vision for Exotic Spaces. “Really it would almost have been impossible or extremely difficult to do if it were not for today’s virtual instruments,” he says. “Like some of the crazy instruments, ancient Egyptian instruments, I have access to this stuff now through… different programs. “So (in) Exotic Spaces, when I’m doing (the song) ‘Pyramids,’ I’m using a lot of (computer-created) ancient Egyptian instruments, then partway through, Steamroller kicks in and starts driving it. The same deal with ‘Taj Mahal.’ I’m using like sitars and things for ‘Taj Mahal’ and once again ‘Mannheim’ it.” In addition to his musical projects, Davis has co-authored with writer Mark Valenti a book trilogy aimed toward kids and young adults inspired by a timber wolf and horse he has on his 150-acre property near Omaha, Nebraska. Davis, who has written several children’s books, hopes the trilogy will hit stores sometime next year. “The thing that inspired it was watching them play together, and they’re not supposed to do that. But they grew up together, since they were 8 weeks old,” Davis says. “They race back and forth. It got me thinking, because I can see them from my sitting room. I was like, ‘I wonder what’s going through their minds?’ So we started making up stories of what we thought was going through their minds. That was the inspiration for it.”

FOR MORE INFO

What: Mannheim Steamroller When: 3 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, December 16 Where: Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theatre, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa Cost: $36-$81 Info: 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter. com What: Mannheim Steamroller When: 7:30 p.m. Sunday, December 17 Where: Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Boulevard, Tucson Cost: Tickets start at $35 Info: 520-621-3341, uapresents.org/ centennial-hall

www.LovinLifeAfter50.com

Rogers Tom Jones with the Motown Blossoms

Mesa Arts Center Saturday, January 20, 2018 • 7:30 PM A portion of the proceeds benefit Mesa United Way

O S Tickets by phone NI P NE G H EC 480-644-6500 IA T Online or in person at ON L LY Mesa Arts Center ! One East Main St., Mesa, AZ 85201 With 100 million records sold and 36 top 40 hits in the UK and 19 top 40 hits in the USA the music of Tom Jones is beloved by all! Imagine this stunning tribute to the sensational TOM JONES! TOM JONES fans love it and new TOM JONES fans are created at every show. The combo zap with the addition of THE MOTOWN BLOSSOMS is pure musical magic. Imagine the record breaking string of Motown favorites! Performing all over the world this cast has both performed internationally as a group and individually on the main stages up and down the Vegas strip, in Atlantic City casinos, and as far away as Thailand! DECEMBER 2017 |

Bingo Events

Call to confirm, as information may change.

Beuf Senior Center

Moneyball, 10 regular games plus double action. WHEN: Mondays and Thursdays, sales start at 9:30 a.m. WHERE: Beuf Senior Center, 3435 W. Pinnacle Peak Rd., Phoenix COST: Starts at $4/pack, City of Phoenix Membership card or $5 guest INFO: 602-534-9743

Brentwood Southern

There is a money ball; 17 games include three that are percentage payout. WHEN: Mondays, hall opens at 4:30 p.m., sale starts at 5:15 p.m. and bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. WHERE: Brentwood Southern, 8103 E. Southern Ave., Mesa COST: Varies according to games and number purchased INFO: 480-306-4569

Chandler Senior Center Bring a friend or make some new ones while enjoying some fun and prizes. WHEN: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. WHERE: Chandler Senior Center, 202 E. Boston St., Chandler COST: 50 cents per card. No limit on cards purchased. INFO: 480-782-2720, chandleraz.gov/ senior-adults

Community Bingo

WHEN: Thursdays at 1:30 p.m. WHERE: FCF-Holland Community Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale, AZ COST: $13 and up INFO: 480-488-1090 or azfcf.org Games: 15 games of Bingo with a minimum of $375 prize money weekly

Fort McDowell Casino

Experience bingo in Fort McDowell Casino’s state-of-the-art and awardwinning 1,700-seat bingo hall. WHEN: Seven days a week, various times WHERE: Fort McDowell Casino, 10424 N. Fort McDowell Rd., Fort McDowell COST: Charge for cards INFO: 800-THE-FORT, ext. 4380, fortmcdowellcasino.com/bingo.php

Granite Reef Senior Center

Everyone welcome. Enjoy 20 games of bingo with prizes. WHEN: Tuesdays from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. WHERE: Granite Reef Senior Center, 1700 N. Granite Reef Rd., Scottsdale COST: $1 per card; three-card minimum. No limit on cards purchased. INFO: 480-312-1700, scottsdaleaz.gov

Las Palmas Grand Bingo

200-seat bingo hall open Wednesdays through Sundays in Goodyear. Ana’s dinners and desserts inside. WHEN: Wednesdays through Sundays at 6:30 p.m.; Fridays at 10:30 p.m.; and Sundays at 2 p.m. WHERE: Community Bingo, 3690 S. Estrella Pkwy., Suite 108, Goodyear COST: $21 (includes progressive) for 18 games; $14, late night and matinee for 13 games. INFO: 623-512-8878

WHEN: Monday Night WHERE: Las Palmas Grand, 2550 S. Ellsworth Rd., Mesa, AZ COST: $21 buy-in INFO: 480-357-1148 Snack Bar: Opens 5 p.m. Early Bird Session: 6:30 p.m. Games: Double action, Betty Boop, $1,000 progressive jackpot with additional number added each week, with a $300 Consolation Prize. Pay out $70, Early Bird; $100 Regular Game

Devonshire Senior Center

Lone Butte Casino

Money ball, 10 regular games plus progressive coverall. Split-the-pot games are early birds and double action. WHEN: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, sales start at 12:15 p.m. WHERE: Devonshire Senior Center, 2802 E. Devonshire, Phoenix COST: Starts at $2; must have City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation membership card to be eligible to play. INFO: 602-256-3130 32

FCF-Holland Community Center

Spacious bingo hall features 850 seats with morning, matinee and evening sessions. The morning sessions include five regular games and two specials, with three for $10 and $1 specials. WHEN: Seven days a week, times vary WHERE: Lone Butte Casino, 1077 S. Kyrene Rd., Chandler COST: $2 to $32 INFO: 800-946-4452, ext. 8928, wingilariver.com/index.php/lone-butte/ gaming/bingo

| DECEMBER 2017

Mesa Adult Center

Twenty-one games, win up to $500 in losers’ bingo, social bingo and big game bingo. WHEN: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 1 p.m. WHERE: Mesa Adult Center, 247 N. Macdonald St., Mesa COST: Various costs, call for pricing INFO: 480-962-5612, mesa.evadultresources.org

Palmas del Sol

Come join the group to play Bingo weekly. Bingo doors and snack bar open at 5:15 p.m. WHEN: Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. WHERE: Palmas del Sol, 6209 E. McKellips Rd., Mesa COST: Charge for cards varies according to number purchased. INFO: 480-528-4689

Peoria Community Center

Prize money will vary based on attendance. WHEN: Tuesdays and Fridays at 12:30 p.m. WHERE: Peoria Community Center, 8335 W. Jefferson, Peoria COST: 25 cents per card; 50 cents for overall INFO: 623-979-3570

Red Mountain Active Adult Center

Bingo seating begins at 12:50 p.m. WHEN: Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 1:15 p.m. to 3 p.m. WHERE: Red Mountain Active Adult Center, 7550 E. Adobe Rd., Mesa COST: Tuesdays there are various prices; Thursdays the cards are 25 cents INFO: 480-218-2221 or rm.evadultresources.org

Social Bingo

Join others during social bingo. WHEN: Mondays, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. WHERE: Apache Junction Active Adult Center, 1035 N. Idaho Rd., Apache Junction COST: 25 cents per card INFO: 480-474-5262, aj.evadultresources.org

Sun Lakes VFW Post 8053

The organization holds bingo for up to 230 people. Payouts are based on sales; total may reach $900. All proceeds go to veteran needs, including homeless veterans, disabled veterans and military families. WHEN: Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Sales start at 6 p.m. WHERE: Sun Lakes Country Club, 25601 N. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes COST: $7 minimum for play of all 19 games INFO: 480-895-9270

Sunland Village

Auditorium doors open at 4:30 p.m., cards are sold at 6 p.m. and play begins at 7 p.m. There’s a $900 progressive pot. WHEN: Thursdays WHERE: Sunland Village Auditorium, 4601 E. Dolphin Ave., Mesa COST: Charge for cards varies according to number purchased INFO: 480-832-9003

Sunland Village East

Prize money will vary during the year based on attendance. WHEN: Sundays, at 6 p.m. WHERE: Sunland Village East Auditorium, 8026 E. Lakeview Ave., Mesa COST: Charge for cards varies to number purchased INFO: 480-986-9822, 480-313-7033

Sunrise Village

Join the group to play Bingo weekly. The cards start selling at 5:45 p.m., early bird at 6:45 p.m., and regular bingo at 7 p.m. WHEN: Fridays at 5:45 p.m. WHERE: Sunrise Village, 5402 E. McKellips Rd., Mesa COST: $13 minimum buy-in INFO: 480-985-0548

Vee Quiva Hotel and Casino

Gamers who stop by Bingo Park enjoy picturesque National Park views in the state-of-the-art, 550-seat bingo hall. WHEN: Seven days a week, various times WHERE: Vee Quiva Hotel and Casino, 15091 S. Komatke Ln., Laveen COST: $2 to $32 INFO: 800-946-4452, ext. 1942, wingilariver.com/index.php/vq-veequiva-hotel-casino/gaming/bingo-park www.LovinLifeAfter50.com

At the Area Agency on Aging, we can measure the value we bring to the community on many levels: the number of men, women and families we serve, the diverse and expanding menu of resources and services we offer, and the expertise and commitment of our staff. There is no better measure of the difference we are making than in the faces of those we touch. Program trains volunteers to be advocates for residents of assisted living facilities. The Ombudsman staff and volunteers visited more than 1,400 assisted living facilities last year.

services and programs to benefit many underserved populations in Maricopa County,” Kasunic said. “You make doing our best work possible.”

Our outreach could not be nearly as expansive without the dedication of the volunteers who donate time, money and support to help us achieve our mission to advocate, develop and deliver essential services to enhance the quality of life for older adults, persons with disabilities, people with HIV/AIDS and caregivers.

“We simply couldn’t do what we do without the support of our selfless volunteers,” said Area Agency on Aging President and CEO Mary Lynn Kasunic. “I am constantly overwhelmed by their willingness to dedicate so many hours to serve our community without asking for or expecting anything in return other than to know they’re making a difference.”

There are many ways to volunteer to assist those who need a helping hand. For more information about volunteer opportunities or to make a donation to support the Area Agency on Aging’s efforts in the community, visit

Our volunteers engage with the Agency, receive training, and interact with our clients through a range of sources. For example, the Ombudsman

Last year Area Agency on Aging volunteers contributed 55,931 hours for an unprecedented value of $1,315,937. “That support allows us to expand our

www.aaaphx.org or call (602) 264-2255.

But we couldn’t do it without you – our community, our volunteers and your financial support. As we celebrate this Season of Giving we are grateful for your gifts of support, time, commitment and passion.

www.LovinLifeAfter50.com

DECEMBER 2017 |

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Cooper (Stapley) & Guadalupe

EVEN EXCHANGE

by Donna Pettman

ANSWERS ON PAGE 59

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Call 602-260-5394

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.

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 MONTH ★ ★ ★

★ Moderate ★★ Challenging ★★★ HOO BOY!

GO FIGURE! by Linda Thistle

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 quares and use each of the nine numbers only once.

DIFFICULTY THIS MONTH ★ ★

★ Moderate ★★ Difficult ★★★ GO FIGURE!

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!

| DECEMBER 2017

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DECEMBER 2017 |

Travel Up the Staircase

Exploring Milan, the City of Now BY ED BOITANO

Photographs by Deb Roskamp

I had never seen so many tall and sleek model types in my life. I watched with fascination as they rushed through Milan’s Piazza del Duomo (“Cathedral Square”) for an unknown rendezvous or appointment, dressed in the latest fashion. It was also the first time I had paid $16 for a caffé latte, but it was well worth the price for a front-row table facing the magnificent Piazza. At the other end of the square loomed the iconic symbol of Milan: the Duomo di Milano. Occupying an entire city block, the Lombard Gothic-style cathedral glistened in evening light, with its façade of pinkveined white Candoglia marble. Adorned with 3,400 statues, 135 gargoyles and 700 figures, the cathedral took more than 500 years to complete and is the third-largest cathedral in the world. I could just catch a glimpse of the rooftop terrace with the gold-colored statue of the Madonnina, perched on the Duomo’s highest spire. I proclaimed then and there it was the most beautiful cathedral I had ever seen. I

Interior of the Duomo di Milano

read in a guidebook that there’s an elevator to the top, but you can also walk up the stairs in an average time of 10 to 15 minutes. I challenged myself to do it in under 10. But first, the night stretched out before me, and it was time to explore the pulsating city of Milan.

The Next Day

After a filling lunch of the Milanese specialties osso buco – a cross-cut veal shank with a bone marrow hole at its center, served with the traditional side dish of risotto alla Milanese with saffron – I took another look at my guidebook. I read that Milan is an important railway hub, which many tourists use as a starting point for journeys to more ancient Italian towns with Roman ruins and medieval cobblestone streets. That is not Milan. The fashion capital of the world focuses on experiencing the moment. Milan embodies the Italian notion of la bella figura: behaving well and looking good doing it. With a population of 1,357,599, Milan is also the banking capital of Italy, and I noticed numerous urban areas in the process of rebuilding. As I strolled to the Duomo, I remembered last night’s outing to the famous Navigli, a canallaced area left over from a system of waterways that once connected Milan with Lake Como and the Adriatic Sea. The innovative system of locks was designed by Leonardo Da Vinci in the late 15th century. One of the canals actually stopped directly in front of the Duomo, transporting the Candoglia marble from quarries in Lake Maggiore. Da Vinci spent 17 years in Milan. His fresco of “The Last Supper” is on view at the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. 1:02 PM: Soon I arrived at the darkened entryway of the Duomo. Before me

| DECEMBER 2017

The Duomo di Milano’s construction took more than 500 years to complete.

beckoned the high steps to the terrace. I gave the elevator a second look, then began my ascent up the stairway. Worn smooth by centuries of other pilgrims, the staircase seemed an easy task. A young family was leisurely walking up the steps before me, so I lessened my pace rather than rush by them and ruin their experience. I decided to take a short break by an open window overlooking the square I could just make out the magnificent Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II Arcade, named for the first king of Italy in 1900 after the unification of the Italian States. The famous passageway through the arcade was where the likes of Toscanini, Verdi and Maria Callas would stroll after a performance at nearby Teatro alla Scala. 1:06 PM: I took another look at my watch and realized I had some serious time to make up. I charged up the steps, this time passing the group before me. Another 100 steps on, I began to falter. Did the guidebook say anything about the effect of the altitude? And why did I have such a big lunch? Disappointed in myself, I needed another reprieve. I caught my breath before another open window, where I could see the entrance to the Duomo’s interior. There was no line, unlike the one I stood in earlier in the day. As expected, the interior of the cathedral was beautiful, consisting of a nave with four side aisles, crossed by a transept, then followed by an apse. Above the apse there is a small illuminated red light bulb. This marks the spot where allegedly one of the three nails of Jesus’ crucifixion was placed, believed to be retrieved by Helena, mother of Roman Emperor Constantine, after a religious tour of Jerusalem. She is regarded as the one who converted Constantine to Christianity, who in turn Christianized the

Roman Empire. Once a year, the nail is presented in a wooden basket for viewing. 1:11 PM: OK, no more time for breaks. I needed to make up some serious time, with about one minute left to make it to the terrace. My legs felt as heavy as Candoglia marble. Taking deep breaths, I remembered my wife begging me not to let my health club membership expire. I was soon met with glorious daylight, 30 seconds ahead of schedule. But somehow it wasn’t what I had expected. Where was the statue of the Madonnina and the flying buttresses? A guide noticed my confusion and informed me there were still more steps to the terrace, just around the corner. I hurried to the base of the final stairway. A tourist gave me a quizzical look. I shouted over my shoulder, “I’m on a mission.” The tourist replied, “This is the Duomo, not a Mission.” Adrenalin kicked in, and I began to ascend the final stairs. 1:12 PM: With just seconds left of my allotted 10 minutes, I made it victoriously to the terrace. Although there were no medals or applause, my reward was more stunning than anything I could ever have imagined: I had just ascended to heaven. Before me was a fairy tale array of openwork pinnacles and spires, set upon delicate flying buttresses. And yes, there was the glorious Madonnina, towering above me. The other tourists on the terrace were serene and respectful, only adding to this otherworldly experience. I walked to the ledge for the angelic view before me. It was a picture-perfect day with spectacular vistas of the city and the snowcapped Swiss Alps in the distance. There was still much to see and do in Milan. But for the moment, I was in no hurry. For further information about travel to Milan, visit turismo.milano.it.

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THE BEST OF 2018

To advertise in this section, contact Ed Boitano at 818.985.8132 or Ed@TravelingBoy.com

INTERNATIONAL & DOMESTIC, WESTERN EXPERIENCES, WORLD-CLASS DESTINATIONS, TREKS & TOURS, AND MORE v Compiled by Ed Boitano INTERNATIONAL CELTIC DREAM TOURS was created in 1999, to fill a gap in the travel industry, as a niche small group tour operator specializing in Scotland. We launched into tours of England & Ireland a few years later. We want you to travel with us like our family and friends would, in small groups on our regular scheduled tours or our custom planned trips for infinity, clan, family groups or incentive trips. We believe that our tours give you a better perspective of the countries you are visiting, traveling in style on a luxury midi coach with a professional driver and a tour director. You will be staying in historic properties, quaint guest houses and unique lodges. We take you off the beaten track, to places larger tour groups can’t go. (813) 842-0958 or www.CelticDreamTours.com CruiseOne specializes in cruise and land vacations to the world’s most exotic destinations, the including the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Hawaii and the Mexican Riviera. Programs range from family reunions at sea and honeymoon cruises to river cruising and land vacations. Each independently owned and operated business combines the latest technology with old-fashioned customer service. Ask about our land packages to Italy. Contact Joni Notagiacomo in Los Angeles at (800) 600-4548 or www.luv2cruz.com

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HERZERL TOURS is offering a spectacular experience for fall 2018 – a tour of the three Imperial sisters: Budapest, Prague and Vienna. On this tour participants will immerse themselves in the history, culture and cuisine of these three amazing European cities. Each city is located on a major river that has been inspiration for composers over the centuries, with a history that weaves the Habsburg monarchy through all three. And as the three sisters are only a four hour driving distance apart, they can easily be visited in an extended week. Herzerl Tours also takes you on other exciting Central European packages in 2018, which include music and wine tours, Christmas markets and river cruises. For details contact Susanne S., at 1-(800) 684-8488; www.herzerltours.com or sms@herzerltours.com MILITARY HISTORICAL TOURS (MHT) has been serving veterans, battlefield enthusiast, educators, historians and their families for over 30 years. MHT is the premier U.S. Military Veteran owned and operated battlefield tour company. The exclusive provider for Iwo Jima and Korea Revisits. MHT is the Vietnam Battlefield experts and our European Legacy Tours are “bucket list” memory fillers. Tours are limited in size to tailor them for individual requests ensuring a “personal” experience. Our Veteran Tour Leaders provide an “in-depth” perspective. (703) 590-1295 or www.MilTours.com

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CORDOVA — Intentionally off the beaten path. Cordova, Alaska is an authentic commercial fishing town nestled in the heart of a spectacular wilderness, shaped by its dramatic natural setting, rich cultural heritage and colorful residents. In 2018, let Cordova become your base of operations for an unforgettable Alaskan adventure. Go hiking, fishing, birding, boating, kayaking, or travel to other parts of the state. (907) 424-7260 or www.cordovachamber.com SEWARD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE — Known as the ‘Gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park’ Seward is a picturesque town located 126 miles south of Anchorage. Discover our bustling harbor and historic downtown filled with quaint shops and art galleries. Experience trophy sport fishing, glacier and wildlife cruises, sailing, hiking, kayaking, flight seeing and more. A wide range of accommodations, restaurants, RV parks, tent camping, and visitor services are available. (907) 224-8051 or www.Seward.com TOGIAK RIVER LODGE— Located in Togiak, we are all about the fishing, keeping you comfortable and well fed. Yes we have the hot tub on the river’s edge, and a sauna too, satellite television for those who must catch up on their sports teams, Wi-Fi, daily room service, but it is the world-class salmon fishing, King Salmon fishing, fly fishing Silver Salmon, and Trophy Rainbow Trout fishing that people travel to Togiak for. Allow us to take care of you, your family or friends on a remote Alaskan wilderness fishing adventure of a lifetime. (503) 784-7919; www.togiaklodge.com or llchinook@aol.com TUNDRA TOURS - Welcome to Barrow, Alaska, the northernmost city in the United States! Packed with excitement and exhilarating adventures,

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tourists come from around the world to experience this unique Arctic region. When you stay at the Top of the World Hotel, you can maximize your trip by enjoying easy access to some of the top things to do in Barrow, Alaska. Head out for an impressive visual experience and gaze at the winter’s Aurora, or take in some history at the Iñupiat Heritage Center. Most importantly, be sure to experience the Summer Day Tour departing from the hotel, including the Whale Bone Arch and Arctic Ocean visits. Put us on your Bucket List today. (800) 478-8520 or www.tundratoursinc.com

is a picturesque village that unfolds along scenic Highway 1 between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Free of chain stores and brimming with charm, Cambria invites you to exit the beaten path and explore one of California’s truly unique destinations. Just six miles south of the famous historic landmark Hearst Castle, enjoy art galleries, antiques, unique shops, gourmet food and events like the Christmas Market Festival of Lights, and the Annual Art & Wine Festival in January 2017. 805-9273624 or www.cambriachamber.org

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DOLPHIN BAY RESORT & SPA— Escape the ordinary and visit Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa in beautiful Pismo Beach. With 60 spacious suites featuring all the amenities of home, The Spa, Lido Restaurant and an array of activities on the Central Coast, it’s the perfect fall getaway. (800) 516-0112 or www.thedolphinbay.com

BIG SUR LODGE is located in ancient groves of redwood and oak trees in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Big Sur. Guests are invited to step back in time to an earlier, more peaceful era. Our 62 recently renovated cottage-style guest rooms, each with its own deck or porch, are located on a hillside, within walking distance of our restaurant, gift shop, and grocery store. Your stay at the Big Sur Lodge includes free access to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Andrew Molera State Park and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. (800) 424-4787 or www.BigSurLodge.com

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LAKESHORE LODGE & SPA — The only all lake front Lake Tahoe hotel where every room has a lake view and fireplace. Offering both lodge rooms and condominiums. Plan your winter ski vacation in Tahoe with world class ski resorts. Hotel amenities include a private beach, seasonal heated pool and hot tub that are lakeside, a day spa and sauna for pampering. The hotel does not charge any resort fees and always has complimentary parking and Wi-Fi. Centrally located just minutes from downtown casinos, ski resorts, restaurants, marinas and area attractions. Reserve your stay at www.TahoeLakeshoreLodge.com or by calling direct at 1.800.448.4577 THE LODGE AT LAKE TAHOE — Centrally located in South Lake Tahoe. Our condominiums provide ample space and comforts of home to relax after a fun-filled day. Heated pool is open seasonally with hot tub open year-round. Our onsite resort amenities serve as the premier spot to Only sand lies between you and the lake.

relax and enjoy South Lake Tahoe. Call today (866) 469-8222 or visit www.8664myvacation.com. PAJARO DUNES RESORT — Vacation Like You Live Here! We offer 110 fully furnished beachfront vacation homes, condominiums and townhomes, located between Santa Cruz and Monterey, California. Relax in a beautiful home with stunning views of rolling sand dunes and the calming Monterey Bay. Our beach community is perfect for a beach getaway, group retreat or reunion. Escape with casual luxury. (800) 564-1771 or www.pajarodunes.com PISMO COAST VILLAGE RV RESORT — Located right on the beach, this beautifully landscaped RV resort features 400 full hookup sites, each with complimentary Wi-Fi and cable TV, on 26 grassy, tree-lined acres. Enjoy a general store, children’s arcade, restaurant, Laundromat, heated pool, bicycle rentals and miniature golf course. The resort offers the ideal location for wineries, golf or Hearst Castle. Pismo Coast Village RV Resort was awarded the 2007/2008 National RV Park of the Year. (888) RV-BEACH or www.PismoCoastVillage.com

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LOGAN, UTAH boasts four seasons of fun off the beaten path. This beautiful high mountain valley offers stunning fall colors mid-September through mid-October. Book now for winter fun. Ski at two resorts, rent snowmobiles or take a wagon ride through a herd of elk. It’s only a 10 minute drive from downtown to hiking and fishing in the Wasatch Cache National Forest. Check out our Signature Products and Foodie Trek, world-class performing arts, Utah State University sports, living history and so much more. Just 90 minutes north of Salt Lake City and 4.5 hours from Yellowstone. (800) 882-4433 or www.explorelogan.com RUBY’S INN is located at the entrance to Bryce Canyon National Park and offers the closest lodging with everything from luxury hotel rooms to RV parks and campgrounds. Ruby’s Inn is open year-round with a General Store that provides fuel, groceries, camping gear, clothing and gifts. To plan your vacation, visit www.RubysInn.com or call 1-866-866-6616.

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

WESTERN EXPERIENCES COLORADO TRAILS RANCH — What you need is a week unwinding and exploring the wonders of our first class guest ranch. Colorado Trails Ranch is not far from Durango, in Southwest Colorado. Set in the spectacular panoramas of the San Juan Mountains, our dude ranch resort offers lifetime experiences for singles, groups and entire families. There isn’t one difficult activity in our perfectly personalized programs. The food is delicious, the comfort is wonderful and you’ll feel like a well cared member of the family. (800) 323-3833 or www.ColoradoTrails. com THE DUDE RANCHERS’ ASSOCIATION — Dude ranches are a popular destination vacation for families, couples, singles and groups. All seem to fit in nicely with the easygoing ranch atmosphere. Since most ranches offer a wide variety of activities such as horseback riding, fishing, river rafting, swimming pools, children’s programs, cattle drives, cookouts, line dancing, spas and plain relaxing on the porch swing, everyone is sure to find something that appeals to them. (866) 3992339 or www.DudeRanch.org

panoramic views from the hilltop location with four large terraced balcony walks, and quintessential desert-inspired style complete with an outdoor pool and fire pit seating. The complimentary ‘About Town’ shuttle will get you to and from your Sedona adventures. www. InnofSedona.com; 928.282.3072 or 800.292.6344 SEDONA REAL INN & SUITES — Find the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure at Sedona Real Inn! Early risers greet the sun with a warming hike and frame-worthy photo opportunities. Try something new like a red rock balloon ride or check ‘scenic helicopter ride’ off your bucket list. We’re known as Sedona’s friendliest hotel. With spacious rooms and suites, complimentary breakfast and on-site concierge, you’ll have everything you need for a wonderful getaway! (800) 353-1239 or www.sedonareal.com

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Voluntourism

A cultural gift exchange in China BY ANDREA GROSS

Photos by Irv Green

to work only with adults, while an “Bung jee la. It’s great!” Liu Hua’s eyes increasing number encourage family sparkled as she wrote the Chinese or intergenerational travel. We finally selected a private, non-sectarian group characters. “I show you Chinese, OK?” “Very OK,” I answered. My husband whose volunteers teach English, help and I were in China to teach English, build roads and houses, augment health but our students had decided language care and – most of all – create lasting instruction was going to flow both ways. relationships with people from other cultures. During our threeOur volunteer week stay, 16-yearteam of 17 people, old Hua (in China, ranging in age the family name, from 22 to 81, was Liu, precedes the based in Xi’an, a given name) and mid-size city in the her friends taught agricultural heart us much more than of China. Every a smattering of morning, we were Chinese. Through awakened at 6 by conversations filled Chinese reveille and with pantomime rushed to our hotel and punctuated by window to watch laughter, they gave approximately 100 us an insight into men and women do China that could their early morning never be seen from tai chi and fan dance tour bus windows. routines. The previous year, After a multias we sat ‘round Students often invite volunteer teachers to dinner, the Christmas allowing them a chance to see a typical urban cultural breakfast consisting of spicy tree opening Chinese home. stir-fry for the presents we really didn’t need – and eating food we most adventurous and eggs for the timid, our definitely didn’t need! – we’d resolved to driver drove us to our school. Most days use the time and energy we usually spent the teachers asked us to read specified on holiday festivities to do volunteer paragraphs of text. We listened as the students repeated our words in loud work in another country. We soon learned there are as many and messy unison, and we did our best styles of volunteering as there are to correct their pronunciation. Group ornaments in a Christmas store. Some recitation is, they insisted, “the Chinese organizations focus on the environment, way,” used in all literature and language others on education. Many prefer classes. “After you teach the Chinese way,

Volunteer teachers mingle with students after school hours.

you can play games so they can learn the American way,” the classroom teacher said. I opened the text. “Charlie Chaplin was born in...” A student sneezed. “Bless you,” I said. “Charlie Chaplin was born in Bless You,” 35 voices said loudly. We generally worked on lesson plans until dinner, after which we shared experiences with teammates or took walks around the hotel. Toddlers – usually barefooted and always bare-bottomed – played with tiny trikes and cars, which

were left on the sidewalk for communal use. One battery-powered child-car blared endless repetitions of “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town,” and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.” No matter that it was only September – these melodies, we were told, play year-round. On weekends, we explored the city beyond the hotel. Xi’an, the capital of China for nearly 1,200 years, was the largest city in the world during the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD). Its streets were

China...continued on page 44

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China...continued from page 42 clogged with traders dealing in fine horses and exotic jewels. But due to corruption and carousing by some of the emperors, it declined into a rather ordinary town, rarely visited by tourists despite its walled city, interesting towers and pagodas, and a historic Great Mosque. Then in 1974, peasants who were digging a well came upon the tomb of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of a united China, who ruled from 220-210 BC. The 8,000-plus life-size terra cotta soldiers that were supposed to “protect” the tomb are among the world’s great archeological treasures. Now Xi’an is one of the most visited cities in China. But while we were fascinated by Xi’an’s sights, our most memorable weekend moments were those spent with our students. Chen Meng, whose father managed a construction company, invited us to her home for dinner. Along with her mother, three girlfriends (including Liu Hua), and four of their teachers, Meng taught us to make dumplings, a holiday treat. At other homes, we feasted on sweet and sour pork, homemade noodles in

When they’re not teaching, volunteers enjoy exploring the nearby markets.

beef broth, and a nine-dish assortment of artfully arranged vegetables. We were offered spoons, but fortunately we were adept with chopsticks. On our last day, Liu Hua wanted to practice American slang.

“No problem,” we said. “Then,” she said with a smile, “it’s a plan.” “Like, whatever,” added Chen Meng. And so it went, until it was time to say “So long.” But we couldn’t bring ourselves to bid our students goodbye. Instead, we

said, “Bung jee la. It was great!” As we traveled home, we realized the biggest holiday gift of all was the one we gave ourselves.

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DECEMBER 2017 |

Dining

Gabriel Garfio bought Sunnyside with his parents when he was 19.

Sunnyside owner Gabriel Garfio wants guests to enjoy wholesome meals and stellar service.

Morning Glory

Sunnyside is rising thanks to Benedicts, Bloody Marys. BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Photos by Tim Sealy

Inspired by his grandfather, Gabriel Garfio has always been fascinated with food – sometimes much to his parents’ chagrin. “When I was 5 or 7, my parents owned a small German bakery in California,” Garfio says. “My grandpa was one of the bakers. I would sneak off at 2 in the morning when he was going to work. I told him

my parents said it was fine. Then he’d get a phone call asking where I was. I just needed to go in and see the kitchen.” Garfio, now 24, serves as executive chef at Sunnyside Breakfast Lounge, near Power and McDowell roads, in northeast Mesa. He and his parents bought the restaurant, the former home of The Egg and I Café, when he was 19. Garfio came up with the name and the concept; he designed the creative menu as a student at Johnson and Wales

The bright eatery has an open-kitchen concept.

| DECEMBER 2017

University in Colorado. The location was scouted by Garfio’s parents, but the chef previously went mountain biking in a park behind the Las Sendas neighborhood. The bright eatery has an open-kitchen concept, something the former occupant lacked, he says. Paintings grace the walls, and the staff can be overheard making smoothies and chatting about ingredients as guests sit at a bar. “We want an ambiance that invites guests to eat a good, wholesome meal and have good service,” Garfio says. Sunnyside Breakfast Lounge specializes in eggs Benedict, ranging in price from $10.89 to $11.89, and topped with items like avocado, chorizo, crab cakes and salmon. Its menu runs deep. Also for breakfast, there are Latin dishes like Savory Sonoran Crêpes ($11.89) or Mom’s Recipe Chilaquiles ($11.89). Savory omelets are popular dishes as well, especially the Chile Verde Omelette ($11.59) and the Rocky Point Omelet ($11.59). The “Sweet Cravings” menu is worth the trip: Brave Banana ($10.49) features pancakes layered with creamy banana custard, topped with Nutella, fresh bananas and walnuts. A similar dish is Banana Nutella Crêpes ($10.49). A graduate of EVIT and Highland High School, Garfio serves the standards as well: biscuits and gravy ($10.79), chicken fried steak ($11.89) and corned beef hash

($11.89). Burgers, BLT, lox and cheese, salads and gluten-free offerings round out the menu. Breakfast and lunch pair well with the Sunnyside Bloody Mary ($7) or The Perfect Paloma (Patron silver tequila, fresh grapefruit juice, lime and Champagne ($17). And day-drinking goes respectable with the “Classy Champagne,” the “Modest Mimosa,” plus screwdrivers and beer. Garfio isn’t done creating just yet. “We’re coming up with different seasonal specials,” he says. “We take seasonal items and use them in different ways people haven’t seen before.” An avid gardener, he has his sights set on farm-to-table offerings. “I want to take that approach and have a garden to cultivate fruits and vegetables,” he says. “There is so much negativity about produce and the meat industry. I figured if I could do it myself, I’ll be better off.” Garfio explains he would be nowhere without his staff, whom he puts “on a pedestal.” “They make Sunnyside successful, with lines out the doors,” he says. The service extends to his family, like his grandfather, who relocated to Rocky Point. “His first stop is always Sunnyside,” Garfio says. “He catches me by surprise, but I give him personal service and make him creative dishes that aren’t on the menu. It’s the least I can do for (him) pushing me through my career.”

Sunnyside Breakfast Lounge 2823 N. Power Road Mesa, 480-832-9696 sunnysidebreakfastlounge.com

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What’s Cooking?

Mark Curtis and Grandma’s Brisket

BETTER than GRANITE

BY JAN D’ATRI Television news anchors don’t often get a chance to share their home lives. But during the holidays, all of that changes. At Channel 12 where I work, I’ve had a chance to enjoy Kent Dana’s Famous Fudge, Jineane Ford’s Pumpkin Dip and Lin Sue Cooney’s amazing English Toffee – all best-loved recipes they share during this time of the year. Mark Curtis has been added to my “all time favorite recipes” list with his holiday tradition, Grandma Suzy’s Brisket, a fall-apart, forktender spice- and coffee-soaked brisket that Mark and his kids get treated to only three times a year. Suzy is actually the grandma of Mark’s wife, Abby. Here Abby shares why this recipe is a winner: “A lot of popular brisket recipes use onion soup mix, but I find that it makes the meat and vegetables very salty. The coffee is wonderful because it tones down the saltiness, adds a rich flavor when it’s mixed in with ketchup, and the coffee also tenderizes the brisket.” This is the most popular time of the year for brisket, and many of you will be enjoying it as Hanukkah begins or for your Christmas dinner. Besides this brisket cooking up tender and flavorful,

Grandma Suzy’s Brisket

Ingredients: • 3-4 lb (first cut) trimmed brisket • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 2 sweet yellow onions, sliced in rounds • 1 1/2 cups fresh-brewed strong coffee • 1 1/2 cups ketchup • 3-4 tablespoons Montreal Steak Seasoning • 1 teaspoon garlic powder • 1 teaspoon pepper • 2 cups baby carrots • 8 mini potatoes Directions: Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Season brisket by patting and rubbing Montreal Steak Seasoning on both sides of brisket. Sprinkle both sides

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it’s so easy to make, which makes it great for holiday fare as well as weeknight or Sunday supper. Abby uses the first cut of the brisket. (First cut is flatter than the second cut, which is thicker and has more fat or marbling.) The seasoning comes from a few shakes of Montreal Steak Seasoning, which gets rubbed on both sides of the brisket with a little garlic powder. Grandma’s Brisket is one of those delicious reminders of how much we love treasured family recipes. Move over, Mark Curtis. This one is ready for prime time, too! Watch my video for Grandma Suzy’s Brisket at https://jandatri.com/recipe/ brisket/

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with garlic powder and pepper. Drizzle olive oil into Dutch Oven, roasting pan or large oven-safe skillet. On high heat, brown brisket on both sides, about two minutes per side. Remove brisket. Reduce heat to medium-high and cook onions with drippings until just softened, about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Whisk together coffee and ketchup. Remove the onions or move them to one side of the pan. Return the brisket to the Dutch oven fat side up and arrange the onions over the brisket. Add carrots and mini potatoes. Pour the coffee and ketchup mixture over the brisket. Cook for 2 1/2 hours or until tender, basting occasionally. Slice the brisket and smother it with the onions, carrots, potatoes and gravy.

DECEMBER 2017 |

Modern Throwback

After 20 years, family-owned retro eatery Chase’s Diner still feels fresh and new.

Every square inch of Chase’s mimics a vintage Silk City Diner.

BY WYNTER HOLDEN

Photo by Kimberly Carrillo

Walking into Chase’s Diner is like stepping out of a DeLorean outfitted with a flux capacitor, or some other kind of time machine. Every square inch of the place mimics a vintage Silk City Diner, from the black-and-white checkered flooring to

boomerang patterned Formica tables and glittery red vinyl chairs. The curved ceiling is stainless, and there’s a Seeburg 100 WallO-Matic tabletop jukebox at every booth. All that’s missing is George McFly in his starched shirt and Buddy Holly glasses. Look closer and you’ll spot the anachronisms. An autographed image of white-

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haired Johnny Cash sits behind glass. A poster from The Outsiders (circa 1983) hangs by the restrooms. Beside the cash register, a framed photo of three children playing inside the building’s wooden skeleton during construction confirms that Chase’s Diner is modern. Founded in 1997 by longtime Valley residents Skip and Nancy Chase, the eatery celebrated its 20th anniversary in October with free buttermilk pancakes and a charity day for Maricopa County Animal Care. That sense of community and hospitality is part of Chase’s magic. Have a 15-minute wait? One of the Chase children will personally apologize for any delay. Craving French toast for dinner? Sure thing, Daddyo! Head chef Andre James, who has worked at Chase’s since the 1997 opening, won’t judge. His full breakfast, lunch and dinner menus are available anytime. Chef James’ French toast is a solid place to start. Inch-high Texas toast is dipped in custard batter that offers the perfect balance of egginess and sweet cinnamon spice. Lightly griddled, it’s satisfying and buttery enough to make syrup an afterthought. The accompanying bacon is meaty and crisp, each fat slice snapping at the touch of a finger. Fork-beaten scrambled eggs are surprisingly light and airy, with a creamy texture that’s closer to quiche. In contrast, the Country Skillet is a monstrous pile of home fries, chicken fried steak and sawmill gravy topped with two perfect over-medium eggs. It’s a heart attack on a plate (well, technically in a cast iron pan). Chase’s chicken-fried steak is succulent and tender, a stark textural opposite of crisp deep-fried potatoes. It’s a shame the peppercorn crust separates when the steak is

chopped, resulting in random pieces of cornflake-like skin floating in a sea of thick sausage gravy. The soul of the dish melts away with those crunchy bits. Served on a yeasty hoagie roll, the Messy Meatball Bomber is a dead ringer for the hearty Italian sammies my mom and her best friend dished up at holiday potluck dinners in my childhood. The beef meatballs are as dense and juicy as Mom’s, redolent with the scent of oregano and basil (her secret was flavored Progresso bread crumbs). They’re even better, though, thanks to Chase’s bright and mild red sauce. It’s a refreshing deviation from the murky, overcooked marinara found at most roadside diners. Besides dessert (hang on, we’ll get there!), Chef James’ green chili pork is one of the diner’s best-kept secrets. Served in a burrito, on a skillet or atop the cleverly named “It’s a Dry Heat” burger, it boasts a delectable earthy flavor. One word of caution: The menu’s crimson, ALL-CAPS warning about heat is no joke. One minute after biting into the burger, my tongue felt like it had been stung by a scorpion. Those who can stand the Scoville units will happily polish off the pork like a kid with a bowl of Lucky Charms. If not, Chase’s desserts are a quick fix for burning mouths. Calm the capsaicin with a giant slice of homemade carrot cake or warm, comforting bread pudding. The latter is spongy and compact, with a heady cinnamon scent and strong nutmeg undertone. It’s a tad dry without crème anglaise, but enjoyable when heated and slathered with vanilla bean ice cream. The decadent cream cheese frosting of the carrot cake needs no such extras. The cake layers have a delicate vegetable taste with the perfect balance of raisin sweetness and spice. Stop by early in the day for a slice or you’re likely to miss out on this house specialty. Two decades after opening, Chase’s still looks like it opened yesterday. The stainless steel is spotless, the vinyl is pristine, and members of the Chase family are around to greet guests – though some relatives who helped out have since passed on. The food is consistent, reliable, and just as tasty as it was when Chef James plated his first order on opening day. It’s like time has stood still inside Chase’s Diner. For those of us who crave the simplicity of an era before cell phones and reality TV, that’s a very attractive quality.

Chase’s Diner

2040 N. Alma School Road, Chandler 480-855-3663, phoenixmetro. com/chases_diner/home www.LovinLifeAfter50.com

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DECEMBER 2017 |

Columns Aging Today

Movement boosts the brain BY BOB ROTH

Managing Partner of Cypress Homecare Solutions

Do you ever do the “ostrich “when you are presented with new information? Do you figuratively bury your head in the sand to avoid reading the article that challenges you to save for retirement or to exercise your way to better health? I get it. You can almost feel the judgment leaping from the page. As you try to grasp the new information, you are thinking, Those paragons of virtue will never know what it is like to be a mere mortal. Change is difficult and even more so when at the same time you are beating yourself up. In late October, the Nobel Prize in Economics was awarded to behavioral economist Richard Thaler, whose lifetime research has acknowledged that most

people make conscious decisions that are not in their own best interest. The media buzz surrounding Thaler was nothing short of serendipity for me, at a time I was trying to reconcile my feeling of frustration as I reviewed the research linking exercise with brain power. I wondered who would not exercise if they really knew how much better everything, especially their brains, would work. The studies have conclusively shown that to improve your thinking skills, you must move. For me personally and professionally, as I care for our aging community, I feel discouraged that more people act as Thaler predicts. They act as humans and not as the rational, classical econo-

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mist predicts. Classical economic theory supports the assumption that everyone would look to maximize utility (economist term for happiness) from good health over a sedentary lifestyle that is wrought with systemic diseases. To keep our bodies, especially our brains, at peak performance, how do we, as the behavioral economist suggests, nudge people in the right direction? Is it in fact safe to assume that collectively we got the memo about exercise and its effect on the brain? Exercise reduces your risk for heart disease, stroke and diabetes. It reduces your risk for more than a dozen types of cancer. Deep down, we all know exercise buffers against the toxic effects of stress and improves the quality of sleep. But are we making the parallel with brain health? Are we aware that exercise is cognitive candy? When you meet those “super-agers” – the ones who seem about 20 years younger than their peers, what impresses you most? Researchers noticed that the people who are aging successfully also seem to be mentally alert. This led researchers to compare the cognitive abilities of someone in top physical condition to those in poor physical condition. Exercise has been associated with an astonishing elevation in cognitive performance compared with those who are sedentary. Test subjects scored better in just about every mental test possible: • Long-term memory tests • Reasoning tests • Tests that measured attention • Problem solving • Fluid intelligence (improvising off previously learned material) Imaging studies of the human brain have shown that exercising increases blood volume in the hippocampus, the region of the brain deeply involved in memory formation. On a molecular level, exercise stimulates the brain’s most powerful growth factor, BDNF, which stands for brain-derived neurotrophic factor. This protein is responsible for the

formation of new neurons or brain cells and increases the connectivity of existing neurons. So the idea that once you reach your 20s you’re stuck with the brain cells you’ve got is a myth. So how much exercise do you have to do? That’s the crazy thing, as it turns out – not that much to see some benefits. Aerobic exercise for 30 minutes two times per week halves the risk of general dementia, and reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by 60 percent. Truly, the best news is that the benefits of exercise are dosedependent. The more you do, the greater the benefits you reap. The research of behavioral economists has influenced governments and business – from 401k contribution defaults to organ donation. With the knowledge that we don’t instinctively act in our own best i n te re s t s, we need to nudge ourselves in the right direction, knowing that movement is the key to brain power. We cannot ignore the millions of years that shaped the human brain, and yet we stuff ourselves in classrooms and cubicles for eight hours at a time. Perhaps one day we will see boardrooms and classrooms with treadmills instead of desks. The human brain evolved under conditions of almost constant motion. Our prehistoric ancestors walked roughly 12 miles per day. Our unique cognitive skills were forged in the furnace of physical activity. We were not the strongest on the planet, but we developed the strongest brains – the key to our survival. Last month, after participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, it occurred to me that in addition to showing my support for the researchers, caregivers, families and patients of this devastating disease, I was also taking these very literal steps to decrease my own risk of cognitive decline.

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Legally Speaking

Grandma Ruth’s legacy BY BECKY CHOLEWKA

Founding attorney, Cholewka Law

Most people think a legacy is what money or property they will leave someone when they die. But your legacy can be so much more. My grandma Ruth was a wise woman who lived through several wars, outlived two husbands, read thousands of books, ate chocolate every day, and died peacefully at the age of 98. She left a wonderful legacy for her family – and it didn’t include money at all. Grandma Ruth did many things to pass on her legacy to her family. First - Grandma had taken all those old family photos that were sitting in boxes for years and organized them. She labeled them with names and dates and how each person was related to her. We are now able to look through several al-

bums (and 100-plus years) of our family heritage. Second - Grandma Ruth always had amazing jewelry. Instead of waiting until she died, Grandma started giving some of the pieces away. So when I graduated high school, I received her emerald ring (her second wedding ring) that I have loved since I was a little girl. The Christmas before I got married, she gave me her pearl necklace, which I wore on my wedding day! She was able to share with each person her memories of each piece and experienced the joy of giving her gifts to others. Third - I love to bake, and one of my favorite recipes was Grandma’s rum cake. Instead of keeping the recipe a secret, as so many people do, Grandma gave me

a copy of the recipe. Who knew she actually cut it out of the local newspaper? I still make rum cake every Christmas and think of her every time. Fourth - Grandma Ruth typed up her memoir. She wrote stories about growing up in Pompton Lakes, New Jersey, her obsession with maple candy (as her daddy was from Vermont), and how she met my grandpa – stories I had never heard while she was alive. But these typed pages serve as a legBecky Cholewka with Grandma Ruth. (Photo courtesy Becky Cholewka) acy of lasting memories. What have you done to ensure your Christmas memories and wrap as a gift to legacy? your children. Or take out those old phoThis holiday season, consider photo- tos and start organizing them. These treacopying a few of your recipes for loved sures will outlive any monies you leave, ones. Maybe write up your favorite and will serve as your lasting legacy.

Is your estate plan current? Have you had it reviewed recently? Estate plans don’t ‘expire.’ However, personal circumstances and laws do change. Reviewing your plan is an opportunity to make sure it still ﬁts your current needs. You should have your estate plan reviewed if: 1. Your plan was not created in Arizona; 2. Your plan was created more than four years ago; 3. You are unsure whether your trust addresses potential capital gains and/or income tax issues; or 4. You, your spouse or your named beneficiaries have had a change in circumstances (financial or personal). There are several more reasons to have your plan reviewed, including the importance of understanding the plan you have in place and how it will impact those you care about. Call 480-385-1700 to make an appointment for a complimentary review or download a guide on living trusts at morristrust.com/llmesa Morris Hall was ranked the #1 Estate Planning Law Firm for 2017 20th Anniversary 1997-2017

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1129 South Oakland Drive, Suite 102 Mesa, AZ 85206 5 Valley Locations to serve you DECEMBER 2017 |

Arcadia Color Garden Nursery

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

Phoenix

Arid Solutions Nursery

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

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

Phoenix Desert Nursery

Whitfill Nursery

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

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

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

Plant Stand of Arizona

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

Scottsdale

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

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

Harper’s Landscape Co. and Gardening Centre

Shamus O Leary Tropicals

Berridge Nurseries

Dig It Urban Gardens and Nursery

All Season Wholesale Growers Ambius Plants

1828 N. 52nd St., Phoenix, 602-955-4500

SummerWinds Nursery

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

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

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

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

Dream With Colors

Moon Valley Nurseries

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

Western Tree Co. Whitfill Nursery

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

2529 N. Hayden Rd., Scottsdale 480-946-3481

Moon Valley Nurseries

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

East Valley A & P Nursery

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

A & P Plant Nurseries

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

Arbor Care

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

Arizona Cactus Sales

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

Happy Wife. Happy Life.

Desert Horizon Nursery

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

Greenfield Citrus Nursery

2558 Lehi Rd., Mesa, 480-830-8000

Moon Valley Nurseries

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

Moon Valley Nurseries

1875 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler 480-648-0603

GETTING RELIEF FROM ENLARGED PROSTATE SYMPTOMS CAN LEAD TO A BETTER NIGHT’S SLEEP FOR YOU... AND YOUR PARTNER Learn about a proven approach to BPH treatment that doesn’t require ongoing medication or major surgery. For more information contact Dr. Lin at Sunrise Urology today!

Sea of Green Hydroponics

1828 E. University Dr. #11, Tempe 480-967-2045

SummerWinds Nursery

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

Treeland Nurseries, Inc.

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

Tropica Mango Rare and Exotic Tropical Fruit Tree Nursery

10520 E. Apache Trail, Apache Junction 602-576-6948

V&P Nurseries, Inc.

21919 E. Germann Rd., Queen Creek 480-917-9847

Whitfill Nursery

To learn more about the UroLift® System, call Dr. John Lin to schedule an appointment today.

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820 N. Cooper Rd., Gilbert, 480-892-2712

West Valley A & P Nursery

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

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

Moon Valley Nurseries

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

SummerWinds Nursery

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

| DECEMBER 2017

www.LovinLifeAfter50.com

My Turn

Older adults can’t be overlooked in the fight against opioid misuse BY MARY LYNN KASUNIC

What’s been missing from the conversation surrounding the opioid public health emergency and ongoing prescription drug misuse is its devastating impact on older adults and the significant need for more education specifically for this population. According to the Arizona Department of Vital Statistics, nearly 17 percent of the state’s population aged 55 and older who were admitted to hospitals in 2015 were reported to have Opioid Use Disorder. The “Arizona RX Drug Misuse and Abuse Initiative: A Multi-Systemic, Multi-Level Approach for Addressing Arizona’s ‘Silent Epidemic,’” published by the Arizona Criminal Justice Commission, flatly stated that “adult prescription drug misuse in Arizona is alarmingly high.” Statistics show that 2.5 million older adults struggle with alcohol and drug problems, representing up to 11 percent of all elderly hospital admissions, 14 percent of emergency room admissions and 20 percent of elderly psychiatric hospital admissions. Although people 65 and over represent only 13 percent of the U.S. population, they account for nearly 30 percent of all prescribed medications. And the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence reports that seniors face a greater risk of harmful medication interactions and even more debilitating general physical effects of alcohol and drugs. The Area Agency on Aging is taking a leading role in addressing the issues of medication management through several key initiatives. The Agency has a long history with Mercy Maricopa Integrated Care (MMIC), formerly the Regional Behavioral Health Authority, to do prevention work that educates older adults and professionals about medication misuse.

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As part of this work, in 2015, the Agency developed RxMatters, an education presentation in conjunction with Prevention Works AZ and the Arizona Criminal Justice Commission. The program focuses on opioid safe storage and disposal of medication for older adults and their caregivers. In 2016, the presentation reached more than 300 older adults. In April 2017, the Area Agency created a six-week, MMIC-funded awareness campaign about the proper use of medications that reached more than 10,000 households. Also in 2017, 16 AmeriCorps members in three Arizona counties took the RxMatters program into the homes of older adults and their caregivers through funding from the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), administered by the Governor’s Office of Youth, Faith and Family. Finally, Area Agency on Aging, Region One and three other state Area Agencies are part of a targeted response grant to address opioid misuse in five Arizona counties. Funding for the effort is from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and AHCCCS and in partnership with the Governor’s Office of Youth, Faith and Family. With the Arizona Department of Health Services reporting more than 3,200 suspected opioid overdoses statewide since June 15, with more than 400 of them resulting in deaths, addressing this crisis as a community has never been more critical. And, in doing so, we cannot overlook – or overstate – the impact of the crisis on one of our most vulnerable populations.

APRIL SUN HOME AWAY 1 8

JULY

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COL 30 COL 31 COL 7:10 6:40 5:10

LAD 3 LAD 4 LAD 5 STL 6 STL 7 STL

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LADLAD 6:40

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ALL-STAR GAME ALL-STAR GAME

4:35

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COL 23 CHC 24 CHC 25 CHC 26 CHC 27 SD 28 SD 1:10

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LAD WAS WA WAS WA WAS WA

7:10

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NYM 21 MIL 22 MIL 23 MIL 24

OAK 28 CIN 29 CIN 30 CIN 31

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NYM 19 NYM

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CIN 13

6:40

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SF 3 6:40

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SF 4 6:40

CIN

5:10

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TEX TX 15 TEX TX 16 SD 17 SD 18 SD

6:40

12:40

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SEA 25 SEA

SEA 27 SF 28 SF 29 SF 30 LAD 31 LAD 7:15

SAT

14 21

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PHI

LAA 22LADA LAA 23 LADA

SD 20

1:10

7:10

SEPT

JUNE SUN

1:10

ATL 16

LAD 14 LAD

MON

3 STL 4 STL 5 SD 6 SD 7 SD SF 2 STL 7:10 6:40 1:10 6:40 6:10 6:40 6:40 9 10 COL 11 COL 12 COL 13 ATL 14 ATL SD

MON

WED

SF 7

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LAD TBD

MIA 4

COL 9 COL

LAD 3 SD 4 SD 5

COL 11 PIT 12 PIT 13 PIT 14 NYM 15 NYM 16 NYM

ATL 10 COL 11 COL 12 COL 13 COL 14 HOU 15 HOU

SF 6

THU

SF 5

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1:10

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LAA 19 LAA NYM 18 LAD LAD 20

5:40

TBD

6:40

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1:05

PIT 22 PIT 23 PIT

PIT 25 MIA 26 MIA 27 MIA 28 MIA 29 SF 30 SF

10:35

4:10

9:10

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TBD

5:10

6:40

1:10

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ATL 7 ATL 8 ATL 6:40

HOU 17 CHC 18 CHC 19 CHC 20 COLCOL 1:10 24 LAD 25 LAD 26 LAD 27 6:40 6:40 6:40 SD SD 12:10

12:10

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COL 22 COL

LAD 28 SD 29 SD

Mary Lynn Kasunic is President & CEO of the Area Agency on Aging. For more information about the agency and its programs to fight prescription and opioid misuse among older adults, go to aaaphx.org.

DECEMBER 2017 |

Orthopedics Now

pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, GI bleeding and kidney failure, this medication is likely unsuitable.

Hip health and aging

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) – These drugs can be an option

Conventional and emerging forms of treatment

for pain relief but typically come with more risks than acetaminophen and should be used with caution. Those with cardiovascular disease or GI bleeding should likely avoid NSAIDS completely, and others with certain pre-existing conditions should ask their doctor before using them even for short-term use.

BY BRIAN GRUBER, MD, MBA

Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon

Maintaining joint health as we age is a priority for many active seniors, and understandably so. The most common conditions that affect the joints as we age include hip osteoarthritis; trochanteric bursitis (inflammation of the bursa that lies next to the trochanteric bursae); and osteonecrosis of the femoral head (death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply). Fortunately, orthopedic medicine offers many options for healthy hips, and increasingly so with advances in regenerative medicine.

Glucosamine – While scientific evidence has

yet to fully support the use of glucosamine for joint health, some studies show it improves pain and physical discomfort in hip OA and may be worth a try.

Regenerative Medicine

Conventional Treatments Let’s start with more conventional orthopedic options for hip health. The basics of maintaining and improving joint health – including the hips – start with having an exercise program and maintaining a healthy weight. Research consistently demonstrates that patients who lose weight, even in modest

amounts, see reductions in their pain and disability. While there is more research to support the effects of weight loss on knee arthritis, weight loss is likely helpful for hip

LA CASA DE JUANA

DELIVERS A KNOCKOUT WITH ITS FRESH, AUTHENTIC AND MOUTHWATERING FOOD If you thought you have been to a Mexican restaurant lately you probably need to reconsider and visit La Casa De Juana in Mesa. The fare is authentic Mexican, and when we say authentic we mean it, unlike many of the restaurant chains that call themselves Mexican. Upon entering you’ll be dazzled by the colorful décor, the tables and chairs are beautiful, Mexican painted murals, colorful banners hanging from the ceiling and the gracious service with warm orange and yellow tones echoing throughout the restaurant will make this your favorite Mexican restaurant. With great lunch and dinner specials, live guitar player on the weekend and a bar with freshly made drinks, TVs, and live guitar music for all ages on the weekends and least but not last their happy hour from 2 pm to 6 pm every day $2 beer domestic and imports and $3 margaritas this place is a must. In conclusion The flavorful salsa, the delicious margaritas, the extraordinary and well-priced food will definitely keep you coming back.

Don’t hesitate to stop by the Mesa location 1976 W. Southern Ave (N/E corner Southern & Dobson) or Tempe at 1805 E Elliot Rd (McClintock and Elliot)

to make your next reservation call 480-823-2834

www.juanashouse.com

| DECEMBER 2017

OA and other hip conditions as well. Exercise programs that include strength training, aerobics and range of motion exercises can help with both pain and physical function. Notably, strengthening exercises can help with hip OA. In our clinic, we often use two types of conventional treatments for hip arthritis and hip conditions:

Corticosteroid injections

Corticosteroid compounds injected directly into the affected joints can be useful for short-term pain reduction. Reoccurring injections can be utilized judiciously (2 or 3 times per year) to maintain relief, although many patients and providers are cautious with long-term corticosteroid injection therapy.

Hyaluronic acid injections

Hyaluronic acid mimics the body’s natural substance that gives joint fluid its viscosity. Research shows hyaluronic acid injections typically reach their peak effectiveness at around eight weeks after being given and last for about 24 weeks. The HA injections are excellent for knee arthritis. Unfortunately, these are considered off-label for the hip and not covered by insurance for this body part. Medications and supplements that can help with mild to moderate hip OA include: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) – Long-term use is a concern because of the risks of ulcers, GI bleeding and loss of kidney function for healthy individuals. For those with

Now let’s turn to regenerative medicine, an increasingly evidence-based form of medicine that offers exciting new solutions for orthopedic patients. Hip conditions with aging, including hip replacement surgery, are relatively common. While there are times when surgery is the best option, increasingly regenerative medicine offers a safe and effective treatment alternative to more conventional therapies. At a minimum, it can buy time for patients on track for a total hip replacement. I’ve seen evidence of this many times over in my practice. What is regenerative medicine? When tissue such as muscle, tendon, ligament or cartilage is injured, the body tries to heal the injury through its own repair mechanism. However, in certain situations (especially in areas where there is lack of blood flow – such as inside and around the joints) the body can’t heal the injury adequately, if at all. With regenerative medicine, we aim to augment the natural healing process to heal or even “grow back” the damaged tissue. Within orthopedics, there are two forms of regenerative medicine we practice:

Stem Cell Therapy – Stem cell-based therapies for the repair or regeneration of muscle and tendon represent a promising technology going forward for numerous diseases. A type of stem cell called mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have gained the most attention in the field of surgery due to their ability to differentiate into the tissues of interest for the surgeon. These multipotent stem cells in adults originate from mesenchymal tissues such as bone marrow, tendon, adipose (fat) and muscle tissue. In orthopedics, we primarily harvest

Hip Health...continued on page 62 www.LovinLifeAfter50.com

Retirement Report

What is true retirement planning? BY GARRY MADALINE

CORE Retirement Engineering/United Retirement

Retirement planning is a way to outline a vision and prepare yourself for life and finances after you are no longer working. Far too many times we see the same plan used for accumulating your wealth kept in place for your retirement years. This can have devastating consequences. True retirement planning isn’t just about investing your money wisely – although investing is important, there are many more elements to take into consideration. True retirement planning is about mapping out your future in order to know exactly how many financial assets you have, why they are being used, and exactly how they will provide income or security for yourself once in retirement. Issues such as social security, pensions, current and potentially rising taxes, longevity, required minimum distributions, sequences of distribution, and long-term care options need to be addressed. Making all of these decisions independently will create a plan that does not work in unison, wasting an opportunity to be efficient and ultimately putting yourself at greater risk of failure, many times unnecessarily. It is simply impossible to have a complete plan for retirement without factoring in all of these aspects, period. A focus on only investments and a simple buy and hold mentality could create very large problems if your assumptions are incorrect. Remember as you go into retirement that your goals are changing and your approach needs to change with that shift. The process of true retirement planning comes with making decisions for retirement income goals and the actions or choices that may be necessary to reach those goals. Identify sources of

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income, estimate present and future expenses, manage your assets, and implement a savings plan. Most people would like to retire comfortably; taking the time to come up with a successful retirement plan ahead of time can make this process much less stressful later on. Ultimately, your goal of retirement planning is to achieve your financial independence in your retirement years. Begin with education. Not only do we need to learn what strategies do or do not work in today’s financial arena, but it is also imperative that we understand how and why they work. You don’t need

to spend years learning finance and market theory to accomplish this, but find an educational entity that will help you wrap your arms around the basics concerning what issues you face and how to address them. Often, information can be confusing and conflicting, so make sure multiple sources are being considered and use your best judgment as to what information and approach is a proper fit for your situation. Ultimately, your retirement plan should be all about you, your goals and objectives, and your confidence in a plan to help make a comfortable retirement your reality. Garry Madaline is the creator of CORE Retirement Engineering Workshops. Having done hundreds of seminars across the country over the past 40 years, he is considered a premier retirement consultant in the Valley.

DECEMBER 2017 |

Your Local Eye Care Professionals!

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Offers cannot be combined with any other coupon, special offer or insurance plan, unless otherwise noted. Certain restrictions apply, see store for details. All offers and prices are subject to change without notice. *All exams performed by Doctors of Nationwide Optometry P.C. (1) Single Vision, Lined Bifocal, or No-Line Basic Bifocal Plastic Lenses. Choose from any frame from up to $59.99. Additional charge for high-powered prescriptions of 4D. sph. or 2D. cyl or over. (2) Additional charge for dilation and visual fields. Must be a first time patient in order to be eligible for the savings. (3) VSP® is a registered trademark of Vision Service Plan and is not affiliated with Nationwide Vision.

| DECEMBER 2017

Winter colds and hearing loss BY KEN ARCIA

Arizona Relay Service

Although the winter months kick off a much-anticipated time of year here in Phoenix, we’re all a bit too familiar with the dreaded winter cold. Along with dropping temperatures come stuffy noses, sore throats and general chest and ear congestion. If you’re quick to react, taking these precautions can help you stop a winter cold in its tracks: Wash your hands. You never know what kinds of germs are being spread throughout your office, or the germs your child may bring home from his or her classroom. Keep hand sanitizer with you at all times and make sure to load up before putting your hands near your face. Keep your hands out of your mouth. This comes straight from tip number one. You are constantly picking up germs with your hands, so keep your hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth unless you’re sure your hands are clean. Rest. If you want your immune system to be healthy enough to fight off infection, you need to let it rest. Go to bed early and get good, uninterrupted sleep. Take vitamins and drink water. Give your immune system an extra boost with daily vitamins. The more you can add positives to your body, the more it will be able to keep out viruses. Get to the gym. Exercise, especially aerobic, will keep your heart moving, which increases your body’s virus-killing

cells. Make sure that if you use a machine or other equipment at the gym, you wipe it down before using it so you don’t pick up any extra germs. If symptoms persist despite taking these precautions, an infection may be looming! When a cold virus develops, fluid can build up in the middle of your ear, preventing sound from traveling correctly from the outer ear to the eardrum. This is why your ears may feel full or conversations sound muffled when you have a cold. Ear infections can also develop when you have a cold due to congestion. If the infection doesn’t go away on its own, medication can be prescribed, but there is also a risk of permanent hearing loss. If hearing loss symptoms brought on by a winter cold persist longer than other symptoms, see your doctor for an indepth ear check. If your hearing loss from the cold overstays its welcome, you want to make sure there isn’t a more serious issue or permanent damage caused by the virus. Although winter colds may seem inevitable, there are many ways to prevent them. If a cold does end up overstaying its welcome, make sure to get plenty of rest and take care of yourself. If a cold lingers longer than 10 days, it’s time to visit your doctor to rule out other illnesses. Winter is the prime season for these infections to attack, so take precautions early on, and don’t let a cold put a damper on the most wonderful time of the year! For more information, visit acdhh.org or azrelay.org.

www.LovinLifeAfter50.com

Hospice Is Hope

Cameo Foundation’s 29th Annual

Coping with grief during the holidays

MS. SENIOR ARIZONA

2018 PAGEANT

BY LIN SUE COONEY

Saturday, March 24, 2018 Valley Vista Performing Arts Center

Losing someone you love isn’t a onetime hurt. Grief has a way of sneaking up on us. Just when things seem to be getting better, a familiar song, a whiff of perfume or an old photograph can innocently trigger a memory from the past. Instantly, we’re pierced with pain. Coping with such loss is even harder during the holidays. What used to be a festive time of decorations, parties, laughter and togetherness now seems meaningless. We’re paralyzed by the thought of shopping and socializing. How can we continue old traditions like nothing has changed? Because everything has changed. There is no miracle pill to take away the pain, no magic wand that restores the sparkle of the season. But grief experts say there are ways to survive the holidays and celebrate moments. Honor the old and create the new. No matter what you do, the memory of your loved one will be with you this holiday season. Find a way to honor and acknowledge that, while creating some new family traditions to share going forward. Set limits. Let everyone

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know that you will not be overdoing, over-shopping, over-cooking, overpleasing or over-worrying this year. This is not a time to be a perfectionist. Accept help when it’s offered. Plan ahead. Don’t be afraid to say no. Choose activities that will make the holidays enjoyable for you. Do a few special things with a few special people, not everything with everybody. It’s essential to nurture yourself during this vulnerable time. Grief is not something to be conquered alone. It helps to have a safe place to share your feelings and to connect with others who are going through the same pain. That’s why Hospice of the Valley provides no-cost grief support to anyone in our community. Groups meet Valleywide at varying times and locations, which are listed on our website at hov.org. Or call us at 602530-6900. While it’s true that life will never be the same, it’s also true that people do heal after losing a loved one. It doesn’t happen quickly, but recovery is ahead. It isn’t easy, but you can find hope and happiness again.

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DECEMBER 2017 |

T HE F INISH L INE Arizona’s Leader in Senior Fitness

Forgot something?

Albuquerque, here we come! The 2018 Arizona Senior Olympic Games are a qualifier for the National Senior Games that will be held in Albuquerque in June 2019. Athletes who compete in the ASO games this February have the opportunity to qualify for the National Games by winning gold, silver or bronze medals in a national sport. Albuquerque is famous for its International Balloon Festival. Every year, balloonists gather for nine days to compete.

The festival is said to be the largest gathering of hot air balloons in the world and is known as the most photographed event ever produced. The event draws nearly 750,000 visitors each October. Throughout the year, several companies offer hot air balloon tours over Albuquerque and the Sandia mountains.

Foods that fight inflammation It is well known in medical journals that inflammation in the body is the source of many illnesses. Chronic inflammation has been linked to cancer, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, depression and Alzheimer’s. Although there is no known way to eliminate all inflammation from the body, there is strong evidence that food can have a powerful influence in controlling

inflammation. Anti-inflammation foods: tomatoes, fruit (strawberries, blueberries, oranges and cherries), nuts (almonds, walnuts and other nuts), olive oil, leafy greens (spinach, kale, collards and more), fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines). Inflammation foods: sodas, refined carbs, lard, processed meats.

Hanging on to your health You can’t turn on the radio or television these days without hearing some mention of health. Entire programs are devoted to making you healthier. Here are suggestions from experts on things you can do to avoid illness and build your health and strength. EXERCISE. Studies show that employees can reduce sick days by 50 percent with activities like walking briskly for 20 to 45 minutes daily. MAKE FRIENDS. Don’t underestimate your need for social activity and companionship. Dr. William Schnaffner, professor of medicine in infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University, says social connections help to

2017 Sponsors

reduce stress, which helps the body fight off viruses more effectively. GET A FLU SHOT. December is not too late to get a flu shot. Be sure to ask for the more potent “senior” version for maximum effectiveness. FIGHT GERMS. Consider buying antibacterial wipes or have a bottle of alcohol around to wipe down areas you use that are germ-catchers such as shopping cart handles, door knobs, computer keyboards, telephones (especially mouth pieces) and light switches. Wash your hands often and long enough to sing the “Happy Birthday” song.

The Finish Line Newsletter is produced by Arizona Senior Olympics, founded by:

| DECEMBER 2017

When Jane was younger and working she was always busy. Between caring for a family, being active in her church and doing all the “mother stuff,” she had her hands full. Jane is not alone. It seems that overly busy lives are the curse of the 21st century. Although technology has given us many work-savers, it has also given us almost as many work-makers. With all that’s going on, our minds are full of things to remember. Jane tried to solve her problem of forgetting things by putting “sticky notes” on her kitchen doorknob so that she would take them with her when she went out. Her friends kidded her about sticking the little notes to her steering wheel when she was driving as reminders of what she had to do. The Harvard Health Letter has given us four valuable tips that might even be better than sticky notes. Why not give them a try? 1: Repeat what you hear out loud. This reinforces the information in your brain.

2: Make notes. Carry a tablet, use a sticky note or whatever works for you, but write it down. Then put the tablet or note in the same place every time. 3: Make associations. Our brains like sequences, so put what you want to remember in a story or even a song! 4: Divide information into chunks. If you’re trying to memorize a poem or speech, focus on getting one sentence at a time down pat. Everyday forgetfulness is not just a problem for older people. Everyone forgets, so don’t be self-conscious about forgetting things sometimes. If it gets to be a real problem and is interfering with your life, talk to your doctor. In the meantime, grab the sticky notes!

Registration for the Arizona Senior Olympics is now open Registration for the Arizona Senior Olympics is now open at seniorgames.org. The fun begins February 17, 2018. Win medals! Make friends! Have a great time! Competition is divided into 5-year age groups, i.e. 50-54, 55-59. Games take place throughout metro Phoenix. You might qualify to go to the National Senior Games in Albuquerque, New Mexico! Pick a sport and have some fun: alpine

skiing, archery, badminton, basketball, basketball hot shot/free throw, billiards, bowling, cycling, fun walk, golf, handball, pickleball, powerlifting, racewalk, racquetball, 5K/10K road races, shooting: pistol, shooting: trap, shooting: skeet, shooting: sporting clays, shuffleboard, swimming, swim relays, table tennis, tai chi, tennis, track and field, triathlon, volleyball.

Arizona Senior Olympics P.O. Box 33278, Phoenix, AZ 85067-3278 in partnership with the cities of Chandler, Glendale, Mesa, Peoria, Scottsdale, Tempe and the communities of Sun City, Sun City West and Sun City Grand

602-274-7742 www.seniorgames.org

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www.seniorgames.org

A time for giving BY IRENE STILLWELL ALFF/ASO Director

It’s the time of year when all the nonprofit organizations have their endof-the-year campaigns. Many of us seniors will be deluged with appeals for funds from very worthy organizations. We will open letter after letter asking for us to help. The Arizona Lifelong Fitness Foundation (ALFF) is the 501c3 name of the Arizona Senior Olympics and we, like other nonprofits, need the help of our constituents if we are to continue the good work of promoting health, fitness and activity among people over the age of 50. The ALFF/ASO programs are prevention programs and all too often, prevention is hard to sell to the public. Although it is well known that the vast majority of American health care dollars go to seniors, there is no groundswell of support for programs that promote and encourage a healthy lifestyle. Millions of seniors continue to live sedentary lives that keep them from fully engaging in the world around them. That is not only a loss to them personally

but to their community, their family, and our country. Senior athletes, of course, know the value of an active lifestyle. We hear many testimonials about how much our programs have encouraged an active lifestyle and healthy living. Like all nonprofits, we need help from those who know and understand our mission. To those who have given in the past, we sincerely thank you for your continuing support. For those who have not, we hope that you will consider an “end of the year” gift, which you can deduct from your 2017 taxes. Since we have no paid staff, all of your donation will go directly to this very important program. Thank you for reading this message. I wish you a healthy and happy holiday season.

Register early and save five dollars Register for the Arizona Senior Olympics before December 15 and you’ll save $5! You’ll also be doing ASO volunteers a great service, giving them more time to work out the many

details for the competitions that require knowing how many athletes there will be at each event. Thanks in advance for registering early!

ARIZONA’S LARGEST GROWER DIRECT NURSERY FOR

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Puzzle Answers FROM PUZZLES ON PAGE 34 answers

MY YEAR END GIFT (Please print) Name: ____________________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ Email:___________________________

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Arizona Senior Olympics P.O. Box 3328, Phoenix, AZ 85067-3278 www.LovinLifeAfter50.com

DECEMBER 2017 |

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| DECEMBER 2017

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Place a Friendship Ad! Send us the following information to LLAF 1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway #219, Tempe AZ 85282 or email to Tracey@times publications.com or call 480-898-5611 Your Name, Address, Phone, Email and payment. Payments can be Check/Money Order, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover. Account # of your credit card, CVV code and expiration. Include your 30 word ad ($15). $.25 per word thereafter. DRAWER 9792P DIVERSITY SINGLES CLUB (AGE 60 PLUS) Meets EVERY Monday 8:00am at JB's Restaurant, 6810 E. Main St. in Mesa for breakfast Prospective Members Welcome! DRAWER LL1244 Young man 62, ISO young lady 50-65 to share my life and make memories! I like the usual things: Music, sports, movies, etc. Looking to travel the USA and to Italy. Let's enjoy the Holiday Season together! DRAWER LL1501 SWF, beautiful, petite, active, 120lbs. I work-out, dance and have fun. Seeking SWM (60-70) for LTR. Please send photo & phone number. DRAWER LL1615 WWF, 69 - very outgoing, patient, and fun to be with. Would like to meet a nice gentleman for companionship and travel. Please include phone number - no email.

DRAWER LL1628 SWF, 64, attractive & fun-loving looking for a gentleman 60-70 who has a good sense of humor, good personality & is active. I live in the Sun Lakes Area. Please include phone number. DRAWER LL1630 Christian Man, 66 looking for a Christian Woman for LTR or possible marriage. Neighborhood Watch Volunteer. Downtown Phoenix Area. Please include phone number. DRAWER LL1631 SWM, 65, fit, attractive guy seeks N/S SWF (55-65) who enjoys movies, concerts, hiking/walks, travel & sports. Please include a photo. Northeast Phoenix.

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DECEMBER 2017 |

Hip Health...continued from page 54 stem cells from the bone, notably the iliac crest of the pelvis. As stem cell therapy continues to emerge, we will eventually add adipose (fat) stem cell harvesting. We conduct many stem cell procedures right in the clinic – as opposed to in the operating room, where it’s costlier to the patient and often less comfortable. We pre-medicate patients to make them as comfortable as possible. Then the pelvis – where the stem cells will be harvested from – is anesthetized. A special needle called a Jamshidi™ needle is used to harvest the bone marrow. Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP) – PRP involves the use of the platelets from blood, which is mainly a liquid composed of plasma, but also contains red cells, white cells and platelets. Platelets contain hundreds of proteins called growth factors, which are very important in healing injuries. PRP is conducted in the clinic unless it is being used as an addition to a surgical procedure. It begins with a standard blood draw on a patient, where we draw 15 milliliters of blood. PRP is then prepared by separating the platelets from other blood cells and increasing their concentration in a process called centrifugation. This is

done in a centrifuge device, and a trained representative from the device company is on site to prepare the PRP. The PRP with its increased concentration of platelets is combined with the remaining blood and injected via guided ultrasound into the injured tissue. The use of ultrasound is important as it allows us to be very exacting in placing the PRP. Both forms of regenerative medicine are appealing to patients as they are minimally invasive and often performed in the clinic in a relaxed setting with little down time. Both stem cells and PRP can be performed as an adjunct to surgery to enhance its outcome or as a standalone procedure done right in the clinic. A major advantage of regenerative medicine that appeals to patients is that it leverages the natural healing process using the body’s own tissue. Additionally, the ease of preparation and administration; relative safety; and cost-effectiveness (compared with surgical options) are attractive to patients. Both forms of regenerative medicine can be used to treat some aging-related hip conditions and offer an exciting option for patients. To learn more about Dr. Brian Gruber and his orthopedic and physical therapy practice, visit integratedorthopedicsaz.com.

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Getting the most out of your health insurance

ealth insurance often represents one of the largest budgetary expenses of a household. Therefore, you should understand your benef its in order get the most out of them. By utilizing your health insurance to the fullest you may f ind ways to save money and improve your health. Listed below are some suggestions to maximize your health plan benef its. 90 Day Prescriptions: Oftentimes, f illing a 90-day supply of your medications is less expensive (lower copay) and more convenient (saving you monthly trips to the pharmacy) than f illing a 30-day supply. A lot of insurance plans allow 90-day f ills; ask your Walgreens pharmacy staff if this is an option under your plan. Generic Prescriptions: Choosing generic over brand-name medications leads to savings! Generic drugs are copies of brand-name drugs and are the same in dosage form, safety, strength, route of administration, quality, performance characteristics and intended use. In fact, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that generic medications have the same quality, strength, purity and stability as brand-name drugs. When it comes to price, however, there is a big difference. On average, the cost of generics is 80 percent to 85 percent lower than brand-name medications. Therefore, if you are on a brand-name drug, ask for the generic the next time you visit your pharmacy. Even if you are on a brand-name medication that does not yet have a generic, your pharmacist can recommend a switch to a generic drug within the same medication class. Immunizations: Although most people do not look forward to getting immunizations, doing so may save you time and money. Take for example the f lu vaccine, most plans cover the cost as a preventative service; hence, you are able to receive it for a zero copay. If you do not receive the vaccination, you are at an increased risk for getting the f lu which can lead to missed days at work and a visit to your doctor. By getting your f lu shot, as well as other immunizations, you are prewww.LovinLifeAfter50.com

venting serious complications and potential hospitalizations which will end up saving you money in the long run. Medicare Open Enrollment: Medicare open enrollment ends on Dec. 7. Therefore, now is the time to reevaluate your plan options to f ind a Medicare Part D plan that covers all of your medications at the lowest out-of-pocket cost. Switch-

ing plans may lead to less expensive premiums, deductibles, and/ or medication copays. You should thoroughly research all of your options to see which plan will save you the most money. HealthPlanOne is a licensed health insurance agency that can help you evaluate and compare Medicare Part D plans and help you enroll—for free. You can receive their free expert advice

by calling (888) 395-0324. There are a variety of ways to get the most out of your health benef its. Perhaps you may have further questions or concerns in regard to maximizing your insurance benef its. Talk to a Walgreens pharmacist today to help you research ways to get the most out of your insurance and improve your health!

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