Lovin' Life After 50 - Tucson - December 2021

December 2021

Career, Finances and Retirement Issue

Happy Holidays

Musical melodrama cavorts through Christmas story

‘A Ton of Fun’ Political consultant turns children’s author at 66 This issue sponsored by

Tucson Edition

Marc Cohn finds songwriting cathartic Page 14

The latest news and top local stories!

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DECEMBER 2021 |

3

inside

#1 choice

in Arizona

THIS ISSUE

1

8 ‘A Ton of Fun’

Political consultant turns children’s author at 66

Opinion

5 6

Leibo At Large News Briefs

Features

10 Getting Back Out

Lovin’ Life Expo returns to Tucson

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Entertainment

14 Fighting Another Day

for 202 2

16 December Calendar

Dining

20 With a Twist

Columns

22 The Healthy Geezer Steve T. Strickbine

Based on market share of CMS enrollment data (July 2021).

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John Wayne’s spirit(s) lives on

Janet and Ray’s offers Caribbean food with flair

Publisher

uhccp.com/AZdual

Musical melodrama cavorts through Christmas story

Marc Cohn finds songwriting cathartic

18 Soul Searching

New Benefit s

15 Happy Holidays

Gordon Wood

Executive Editor

Courtney Oldham

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

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23 Ask the Expert

Senior Account Executive

Vice President Michael Hiatt

21 What’s Cooking?

Administrator

Contributors

Fred Cicetti, Jan D’Atri, David Leibowitz, Madison Perales, Bridgette M. Redman, Annika Tomlin, Valerie Vinyard

Graphic Designer Tonya Mildenberg

An Ageless Attitude 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, please contact AZ Integrated Media at circ@ azintegratedmedia.com or 480-898-5641. For circulation services please contact Aaron Kolodny at aaron@azintegatedmedia.com.

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Opinion

Leibo At Large

Take ownership for your words

BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ In my first newspaper job 30 years ago, I worked for higher-ups who were, to put it mildly, cretins. One boss, dead now, stood out for his screaming, insults, and the glee he took in being outrageously offensive.

Part of my job was taking part in afternoon news meetings, where this Head Honcho presided over a discussion about what would make tomorrow’s Page One. In one such meeting the focus turned to a homicide committed in a poor part of the city.

The Big Boss had a question. “What persuasion” was the dead man? Informed the victim was Black, he uttered a word I’ll never forget.

“Next.”

The killing was buried deep inside the paper. We all left the disgusted by where we worked and for whom. But nobody objected. I didn’t say a word. Maybe because this was the 1990s, or because I was a coward, new to the job and afraid to be fired. Regardless, I am ashamed to retell the story in print.

I do so because, to hear ESPN tell it, working for the Phoenix Suns under owner Robert Sarver may be a lot like working for that despot — a bully, a misogynist, a racist. These are charges Sarver has denied through his attorneys, including in a lengthy denial released weeks before ESPN published its November 4 story, written by senior writer Baxter Holmes.

Holmes’ piece accuses Sarver of frequently using the N-word, including in the presence of Black employees like then-coach Earl Watson. Holmes says he interviewed more than 70 former and current Suns employees, including executives and at least one co-owner. The story describes “a toxic and sometimes hostile workplace” during Sarver’s 17 years owning the Suns.

Sarver’s denials have been emphatic.

“I’ve never called anyone or any group of people the N-word, or referred to anyone or any group of people by the N-word, either verbally or in writing,” he www.LovinLife.com

said through his lawyers. “I don’t use that word. It is abhorrent and ugly and denigrating and against everything I believe in.”

The NBA has hired law firm Wachtell Lipton to investigate the charges. Media reports indicate the investigators have offered team employees confidentiality in exchange for their participation in the investigation.

That confidentiality bothers me, as does the confidentiality granted by ESPN to virtually every accuser in the story, essentially everyone quoted with the exception of Earl Watson, who Sarver fired only three games into the 2017 season, after a 48-point defeat that ranks as the worst opening night loss in NBA history.

After three decades writing news, I understand the desire of sources to stay anonymous. But Holmes’ 70 interviewees are not risking their safety or lives in calling out Sarver. The former employees may be risking some career impact. The current Suns employees? They’d be risking a job they might be better off leaving, given the workplace they’ve described.

Had ESPN’s sources used their names, they very well might have been hailed as heroes. In 2021, in the more supportive culture of whistleblowing that exists today, I’d say the chances were 50-50. Regardless, we will never know.

Criticizing their anonymity is easy for me to do. It even brands me a hypocrite.

After all, I didn’t have the fortitude to confront a bully when I had the chance, even anonymously. I’m still ashamed by that failure.

I’ve never been a Sarver fan, so denigrating those who have attacked him feels uncomfortable. But I have come to feel strongly about speaking truth to power. Holmes’ story is thorough, but its rampant anonymity leads me to wonder how much of it is gospel truth.

I think it’s better to put your name on the things you say. Every last word.

David Leibowitz has called the Valley home since 1995.

Contact david@leibowitzsolo.com.

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DECEMBER 2021 |

5

News Briefs

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Tucson man sentenced to prison for taking money from vulnerable adults Hector Andres Aleman of Tucson was sentenced to three years in prison on November 4 by a Pima County judge after pleading guilty to attempted fraudulent schemes and artifices, a class 3 felony, according to Attorney General Mark Brnovich.

Aleman was indicted in April, accused of using a position of trust to take advantage of vulnerable adults by gaining access to the victims’ funds and transferring the money to himself.

From March through November 2018, Aleman applied for loans in the name of victims without their authorization or knowledge and kept the cash for himself.

The court ordered restitution in the amount of at least $32,046 to an individual victim, $10,000 to Pima Federal Credit Union, and $139,369.39 to CUNA Mutual Group.

Assistant Attorney General Doug Clark prosecuted the case. Tucson Police Department handled the investigation.

defrauding a 73-year-old homebound victim.

Santos received 33 months in prison, and De Los Reyes-Santos received 16 months in prison. The court also ordered the married couple to pay restitution to the victim. Santos previously pleaded guilty to wire fraud, and De Los Reyes-Santos pleaded guilty to misprision of a felony.

During the time of the scheme, Santos and De Los Reyes-Santos worked as caregivers for the victim, who was disabled.

Between 2013 and 2018, Santos and De Los Reyes-Santos made unauthorized transfers of the victim’s funds.

Santos admitted that he and his wife fraudulently disguised the transfers to make them appear as wage advances, gifts and reimbursements for medical and grocery expenses of the victim. De Los Reyes-Santos was aware that these transactions were not legitimate reimbursements. The couple used the fraudulently obtained proceeds to fund their lifestyle, paying for expensive cars, trips to Las Vegas, high-end jewelry and home remodeling.

The U.S. Secret Service and the Pima County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation in this case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.

Dairy Queen franchisee continues to expand in Southern Arizona

Hector Andres Aleman of Tucson applied for loans in the victims’ names without their authorization or knowledge and kept the cash for himself. (Photo courtesy of the attorney general’s office)

Caregivers sentenced to prison for defrauding homebound victim Michael Tagle Santos, 34, and Cherry Mae De Los Reyes-Santos, 28, most recently of Tucson, were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer G. Zipps for

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| DECEMBER 2021

A Dairy Queen franchisee expanded its footprint into Southern Arizona, thanks to Rommie Mojahed with SVN of Phoenix, who represented the buyer in a recent sale in Catalina.

The property is located at 16054 N. Oracle Road.

The buyer, Bill Sladek, purchased a former Circle K that will be repurposed into a new Dairy Queen, which is one of the Top 100 franchisor chains listed by Franchisor Direct.

“The Dairy Queen investor continues to expand in Southern Arizona, but not just in Catalina but also in Ajo, Kearney, Tangerine, Thornville and Vernon, as well as Gold Canyon and other potential Southern markets,” Mojahed says.

The former Circle K is 5,200 square feet

and located off of Oracle Road, just north of East Graham Street. The seller, Kristine Sigfridson, is with Sigfridson Oracle Store LLC.

Tucson Electric Power donates $100K for Tucson Million Trees initiative Tucson Electric Power donated $100,000 to Tucson Million Trees initiative, according to Tucson Mayor Regina Romero.

The initiative aims to plant 1 million trees by 2030 to increase the city of Tucson’s tree canopy, mitigate the effects of climate change, and reduce the urban heat island effect.

“I am extremely grateful for Tucson Electric Power’s generous donation in support of the Tucson Million Trees initiative,” Romero says.

“The COP26 Conference in Glasgow this past week highlighted the importance of public-private collaboration in meeting our climate action goals. Trees are the lungs of our city — and nature-based solutions like TMT will play a critical role in ensuring the livability of our city and our planet for future generations.”

Susan Gray, Tucson Electric Power president and CEO, said, “TEP is pleased to support Mayor Romero’s efforts to add new trees to our community, particularly in neighborhoods where greenery is most needed. Properly planted trees create shade that can help reduce energy use while keeping our community a little cooler.”

Tucson Electric Power’s donation comes from corporate resources that will not be recovered through its rates. It will support the mayor’s commitment to equity by creating green spaces in partnership with Trees for Tucson and prioritizing the front-line and low-income communities that are most impacted by climate change, extreme heat and environmental degradation.

Verde Valley declared an American Viticultural Area More than four years after the initial petition was submitted, the U.S. Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau named the Verde Valley an American Viticultural Area.

This designation identifies the geography, topography, soils and climate of the Verde Valley AVA as a federally recognized grape growing region.

Alongside Arizona’s first two AVAs,

Sonoita and Willcox, designating the Verde Valley AVA gives vintners the opportunity to describe the specific origin of the grapes used to make their wines to consumers.

“I am ecstatic with this TTB announcement,” says Tom Schumacher, president of the Verde Valley Wine Consortium.

“The Verde Valley AVA petition was submitted to the TTB by the Verde Valley Wine Consortium in 2017. This shows that our arduous efforts to submit the petition have been fruitful.”

The Verde Valley AVA defines an area of 219 square miles in the northeastern Yavapai County centered on the junction of Oak Creek and the Verde River. Approximately 79 square miles (36%) of the AVA is privately owned land. Federal and state entities manage the remainder.

According to the Verde Valley Wine Trail, the Verde Valley AVA includes 19 commercial vineyards farming more than 136 acres of wine grapes. Twenty-four additional vineyard acres are planned within the next three years. The region boasts 25 tasting rooms.

Also located within the Verde Valley AVA is Yavapai College, which offers classes, certificates and an associate degree in viticulture and enology. Yavapai College features a commercial, licensed and bonded teaching winery, a teaching vineyard and a tasting room, collectively known as the Southwest Wine Center.

Enrollment in the viticulture and enology programs have risen steadily since its inception in 2009. Many of the school’s alumni work in the Verde Valley wine industry.

Vineyards in the Verde Valley AVA grow more than 40 wine grape varieties to produce wine, including the white grape varieties malvasia bianca, viognier, chardonnay, vermentino, seyval blanc and picpoul blanc. Red grape varieties in the Verde Valley AVA include syrah, petite sirah, cabernet sauvignon, sangiovese, tannat and barbera.

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Puzzles

GOby FIGURE! Linda Thistle

ANSWERS ON PAGE 23

King Crossword ACROSS 1 Up to 4 Platter 8 Scoop holder 12 Olympics chant 13 Sicilian resort 14 Dryer fuzz 15 Sandal type 17 Pub potables 18 Computer whiz 19 Dog tags, e.g.

21 PC key 22 Excellent 26 Expire 29 Present location?

30 Med. plan option 31 Perry’s creator 32 -- Aviv 33 Hotel worker 34 From -- Z 35 “Science Guy” Bill 36 Segments 37 Kanye West’s music 39 Moonshine vessel 40 Japanese sash

41 Narcotic 45 Volition 48 Sound of hoofbeats 50 Tom Joad, for one 51 First-rate 52 Onassis nickname 53 Marries 54 A deadly sin 55 Moment

DOWN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Clump of grass Capri, e.g.

Secular Sully Cove -- -Cat Domed building in Washington D.C. 8 Purse fastener 9 Tin Man’s need 10 SSW opposite 11 UFO crew 16 Stage 20 Ten, in Dijon

23 “-- she blows!”

24 Skip 25 Spacecraft compartments 26 Wife of Jacob 27 Intro studio class 28 Fall into a soft chair 29 Spelldown 32 Not out of the ordinary 33 Wizardry 35 San Francisco’s -Hill 36 Thing on a string 38 Bagel features 39 Unites 42 Regrettably 43 Rent 44 Grand tale 45 Dazzle 46 White House nickname 47 Cover 49 Baseball’s Gehrig

SUDOKU TIME

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

DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK H H H

H Moderate HH Challenging HHH HOO BOY!

EVEN EXCHANGE

by Donna Pettman

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

DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK H

H Moderate HH Challenging HHH HOO BOY!

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

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

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

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DECEMBER 2021 |

7

Features

A TON of

FUN

Political consultant turns children’s author at 66

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Cheryl Cage says there’s no age limit to starting anew.

A 15-year political consultant who has worked in aviation for 35 years, the Tucson resident is now part of the children’s book world at 66, as she released her debut series, “Norman the Interested Cat.” “I’ve been publishing and writing

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| DECEMBER 2021

books since 1994,” Cage says about technical books in her previous career.

“The children’s books really came out of the desire to reach a wider audience and an audience who wasn’t maybe as cynical as adults. Working in politics, you either become a terrible cynic yourself or you find an outlet to help make the change that you’re passionate about.”

So far, it’s been “a ton of fun,” she says.

“Norman the Interested Cat” has its roots in guests to Cage’s home.

“Young friends” visited for eight months in 2015 while their home was being built. With them came their cat, Norman.

“I never had a cat before,” she says. “At the same time, they were pregnant with their first child. I really fell in love with this cat and started thinking about the new baby and what I would want for her and what kind of world she would grow into.”

Cage called her husband’s friend, Tucson illustrator Dennis Caldwell, and the wheels started turning. The drawings, she says, were “perfect.” Cage hosted her

“Norman the nterested Cat”

normantheinterestedcat.com Cheryl Cage lives in Tucson with her two rescue dogs, Jake and Bert. She penned a series of books about a feline visitor to her home, Norman. (Photos by Holly Harris)

first reading of “Norman the Interested Cat” on March 13, 2020, and two days later was the pandemic-dictated shutdown.

“I went from having these great ideas for marketing and doing book readings and school readings to not having anything to do as we all were in this situation,” says Cage, who has two rescue pups, Jake and Bert.

The book encourages readers to be

good community members and empathetic toward others. Norman, she explains, does not waste his time thinking about what others are doing. He’s intentional in adjusting his mindset and doesn’t assign value to his activities.

Cage asks readers to spend time with people and activities that energize them, and to embrace the humor in life.

“All my messages are quite gentle, but they make an impact,” Cage says.

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Getting Back Out Lovin’ Life After 50 Expo returns to Tucson

BY ANNIKA TOMLIN

Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year!

10

| DECEMBER 2021

After a 2020 pandemic pause, the Lovin’ Life After 50 Expo is returning to the DoubleTree Reid Park from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, January 12.

“We’re going to have great entertainment, a lot of informative exhibitors, and it’s just a great way to get out and find out what is going on in the community,” Lovin’ Life After 50 publisher Steve Strickbine says. “It’s a great way to meet lots of people and have some fun.”

Previously, the Lovin’ Life After 50 Expos have attracted thousands of people who network and gather information, as well as participate in the raffle prize giveaway and take a shot at hourly $100 cash prizes.

“These expos were started as just a way to allow organizations in the community to come together with people over 50 to show what they have to offer,” Strickbine says. “It has become a very good event for entertainment and just a great way for getting out.”

Exhibitors with booths at the Tucson expo include Aetna Medicare Solutions, 4C Medical Group (Optum Care), Arizona Liver Health, Bright Health Plan, Home Concepts Custom Remodeling and Humana.

“With COVID-19, we are being very careful with how we proceed,” Strickbine says. “We are following the CDC guidelines, of course, to make sure that we are operating with best practices so everybody who attends stays safe.”

As for entertainment, Ms. Senior Arizona 2022 winner Patricia Person will meet and greet with attendees.

“I think a lot of people are anxious to get back out,” Strickbine says.

MORE INFO

What: Lovin’ Life After 50 Tucson Expo When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Wednesday, January 12 Where: DoubleTree Reid Park, 445 S. Alvernon Way Cost: Free admission Info: lovinlife.com

The Lovin’ Life After 50 Expo features an array of informative exhibitors showing the over-50 community what they have to offer.

(File photo)

Get your copy of

Lovin’ Life After 50 today!

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Mangla says. “The point is, put what you Money is at the core of most worries — can in and then try to continually instudent loans, children’s futures, mort- crease it.”

Mangla also suggests meeting with a gages and unexpected medical bills. fi nancial adviser. MagnifyMoney found Retirement, however, is at the forefront of folks’ minds. According to a recent 54% of people don’t plan on working with a financial to planner retirement MagnifyMoney survey, 46%Please of Americans call 520.704.6478 learnorhow specialist. believe they will retireyou in debt. can benefit from an accredited “There could be a lot of reasons why “Americans are carrying a lot of debt,” senior living community. says Ismat Mangla, MagnifyMoney exec- people don’t feel like they have access to a financial planner,” Mangla says. “But it utive editor.

“What that tells me is that people are doesn’t have to be really expensive, and unable to pay off their debt as they’re it doesn’t have to be an ongoing relationship.” working.”

Clients can meet with a specialist American consumer debt is at a total of $14.9 trillion, including mortgages, auto whenever they like.

“You can work with someone on an loans, credit cards and student loans, achourly basis just to help you develop a cording to a debt.org study.

Although this number is daunting, plan that you can then manage on your there’s a way to pay off your debt before own,” Mangla says.

MagnifyMoney’s website, lists financial retiring.

“You’ve got to start not only saving advisers that best suits people’s needs. but then investing that money,” Mangla Go to magnifymoney.com.

While some people think retiring early says. “The vehicle that we have to save isn’t ideal, “30% of millennials and Gen for retirement today is our investment Zers want to retire before they turn 50,” accounts.”

This means putting money into according to the MagnifyMoney study.

“If you want to retire early, that often 401(k)s, IRAs, Roth IRAs or brokerage acrequires living a more frugal lifestyle counts. Look for benefits employers are and being really strict about budgeting,” offering, such as an employer match.

“The second step is then making sure Mangla says.

They have to save enough to last at that the money you’re putting away for retirement is invested so it will grow in least 30 years.

“We are living to very long ages now, the long run,” Mangla says.

By investing money in one or two of and does someone really want to spend these options, it’s easy to save and grow 30 or 40 years of their life not working?” money over time, along with potentially Mangla says. “A lot of people find that lowering taxes, depending on the cho- work gives them meaning.

“Planning ahead of time can really ease sen option.

“Low-cost index funds are the way to a lot of anxiety and put you in the driver’s go,” Mangla says. “Throw the money in seat.” there, invest it in a diverse mix of lowcost index funds and just set it and forget it.”

Mangla also advises to slowly increase the amount of money in investment accounts.

“Increase it by one percentage point every month or every year. When you get a raise, increase it. A lot of companies allow you to automate those i n c r e a s e s ,”

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Casinos

Disco Fever Bee Gees Gold captures the legendary trio’s hits

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Born 54 years ago, John Acosta missed the Bee Gees’ “Night Fever” era. He relied on his relatives to school him in the ways of Barry, Robin and Maurice Gibb.

To educate others, Acosta founded Bee Gees Gold, his tribute act that is scheduled to perform Thursday, December 30, at Casino Del Sol’s Event Center.

“I was only 10 during the ‘Fever’ era,” he says. “I only got to see it through family members who were older. When I heard Barry’s voice, I realized I could imitate him at a very, very young age.

“Singing was also popular in school with the girls. I started singing ‘Staying Alive’ and ‘More Than a Woman’ at that young age.”

Backed by a live band, the act features Acosta as Barry, Daryll Borges as Robin, and Jeff Celentano as Maurice.

Acosta is a longtime musician, singer and songwriter. Born in Uruguay, Acosta moved with his family to Canada as a child. He calls that era of his life “the story of the family looking for a better life for their children.”

He eventually moved to Las Vegas from Toronto. In the 1990s, he performed with James Francais Russell in Acosta Russell.

More than eight years ago, he founded Bee Gees Gold.

“I could have been a Beatles tribute or Prince tribute,” he says. “The documentary (HBO’s ‘The Bee Gees: How Can You Mend a Broken Heart’) really showed everybody they had the ability to adapt and reinvent. So did I. “At 21, I had my first record contract. I was living life on the road. Here I am, 54, and still traveling. I reinvented and adapted into something that was natural.”

Acosta calls the Bee Gees Gold shows an escape from the difficulties of everyday life.

“To get up in front of an audience and bring back a time so creative and free of pain is an escape,” he says. “The music of the Bee Gees starts off with the ’60s Beatles influence. That ’70s period is the funkiest music ever heard. It’s just one hit after another. When the audience hears it, they can proudly tell me they close their eyes and they just hear the Bee Gees.”

Bee Gees Gold focuses on the “Night Fever” era because, in 75 to 90 minutes, it’s difficult to cover the band’s catalog.

“We start chronologically in the ’60s when Robin has about three or four hits,” he explains. “When we get into that pe-

Bee Gees Gold focuses on the “Night Fever” era of the legendary trio. The band plays Casino Del Sol’s Event Center on Thursday, December 30. (Photo courtesy of John Acosta)

riod, in the ‘Fever’ period, we play Andy Gibb and people lose their mind. He’s the younger brother, and it’s one hit after another. Then we do some favorites like ‘If I Can’t Have You’ by Yvonne Elliman.”

Acosta is Bee Gees to the core. The trio dresses in white suits and carries the funky demeanor. He’s naturally tuned into it, so it’s “easy to slip into a pair of tight pants and boots.”

“I’m makin’ a livin’ Barry Gibbin’,” he says with a laugh.

MORE INFO

What: Bee Gees Gold When: 8 p.m. Thursday, December 30 Where: Casino Del Sol’s Event Center, 5655 W. Valencia Road Cost: $25; $22.50 for military Info: 1-855-765-7829, casinodelsol.com

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Entertainment

Fighting Another Day Marc Cohn finds songwriting cathartic

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Marc Cohn could be considered a survivor.

His mother died when he was 2, followed by his father 10 years later. He survived an attempted carjacking on August 7, 2005, when he was shot in the head.

The deaths have played an important role in his music.

His father was special, but the unknown was hard.

“I spent my life trying to figure out what that all meant and what price I’ve paid since then,” Cohn says. “Part of the way I’m working through that is writing songs. Songwriting is a very helpful therapeutic thing.”

Performing on stage is cathartic as well. On Saturday, December 4, he will be joined by Shawn Colvin and Sara Watkins for “Together in Concert” at the Fox Tucson Theatre.

“Together in Concert” is a new show, during which the singer-songwriters will perform, well, together.

“It’s not a solo show,” he says. “Everybody gets a turn.

We haven’t chosen the songs we’re going to sing or anything. I love Sara Watkins’ music, and Shawn has been Marc Cohn hits the Fox Tucson Theatre stage with Shawn Colvin and Sara Watkins on Saturday, December 4.

(Photo by Jeff Fasano)

a friend for a long time. I love touring with her, too. We’ve done so many tours together, but this is our first time as a trio.”

Cohn adores the Fox, he says. That said, he is just happy to be playing anywhere. Like everyone else, Cohn says the pandemic left him confused some days and fine others.

“The best thing I did for myself, in general, was to start songwriting over Zoom with a couple different collaborators,” he says. “One of them was Loreena McKennitt, who’s a wonderful artist.

“We Zoomed for several sessions. One of the songs I include in my own set. Over the course of those months, I did online charity events to help people raising money for various important causes.”

He says he feels “blessed” that nobody he loves became very ill. Three of his four children had mild cases of coronavirus. Touring these days is very complicated because of the differences in rules and protocols between venues and states.

“It’s a very strange time now,” he Songwriting is therapeutic for songwriter Marc Cohn. (Submitted photo) says. “I wince a little when they claim on Cohn is not sure when he will release the songs he TV it’s basically over. It’s not. It’s not over.” wrote with McKennitt. First, he has to get his “stage legs back.”

“That’s the most important thing, emotionally and fiWhat: Shawn Colvin, Marc Cohn & nancially,” he says. “I’m not quite at the place yet where Sara Watkins: Together in Concert I’m thinking about releasing material. I have to write five When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, or six more songs before I do that.

December 4 “The music is the same old sensitive songwriter-songWhere: Fox Tucson Theatre, writer stuff. The one song I really like is ‘Same Man, Dif17 W. Congress Street ferent Mistakes.’ It’s largely about my day, who I’ve writCost: $59 to $110 ten several songs about over the years. I’m going back to Info: 547-3040, foxtucson.com the same theme from a different perspective.”

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Happy Holidays Musical melodrama cavorts through Christmas story

BY BRIDGETTE M. REDMAN When all is said and done, the Gaslight Theatre will have presented 130 performances of “Elf’d” between November 11 and January 2.

A musical spoof of the 2003 Will Ferrell film, “Elf’d” requires quadruple casting of the nine actors, triple casting of tech crews and triple casting of the three musicians. All but 12 of the December shows are sold out.

Written by Gaslight’s 20-year resident playwright, Peter Van Slyke, director Katherine Byrnes says the show is the perfect prescription for the past couple years.

“The audiences are really gravitating toward how exuberant and colorful and happy and loving it is,” Byrnes says.

“There is very little darkness at the Gaslight Theatre on a regular basis, but this just amps the happy up times 1,000.”

This is the second time Gaslight, which performs at 7010 E. Broadway Boulevard, has performed the melodrama musical spoof. The first time was in 2014. It follows the journey of Dudley the Elf, who is searching for Christmas spirit. He leaves the North Pole and heads to New York City, where he uncovers a plot to ruin Christmas. He and his friends sing the Christmas spirit into the hearts of everyone and manage to save Christmas. Joining them are Santa and other elves.

“More than anything, the main message of ‘Elf’d’ is that Christmas isn’t about the stuff you get, and while there are elements of Christmas decorating the tree and lights, in the end it is about family and sharing and love,” Byrnes says.

“That’s something that everyone will walk away from this show feeling — they feel loved, they feel like part of a family and that they are sharing something within the community.”

As a show designed for all ages, Byrnes says they work hard to make sure the children in the audience know Santa Claus is real so that every kid will come away feeling they’ve experienced the jolly old elf — and that they saw the magic of Christmas.

“It’s awesome to see that on the kids’ faces,” Byrnes says.

She says they try to follow the Pixar model — there is humor on adult and www.LovinLife.com

children’s levels.

“Parents and grandparents will walk away from the show having a great time and having belly laughed and really loving it,” Byrnes says. “It’s the same with the kids, but they’ll be laughing for different reasons.”

Performing the role of Dudley the Elf in the opening cast is Jake Chapman, an actor who has made multiple appearances on the Gaslight stage, including in “Frankenstein” earlier this season.

Byrnes describes him as being perfect for the part and his understudies as fabulous.

“I’ve never met anyone that has that Elf quality in his personal life as much as this guy does,” Byrnes says. “He’s the most genuinely excited, exuberant, innocently happy person I’ve ever met in my life.

He has the ability to innately play a 30- to 40-year-old man who is as excited about Christmas as a 10-year-old kid. His understudies are both working hard to match his energy.”

COVID-19-altered typical process Byrnes says it takes three leaders to keep the show running, including ensuring the understudies and backup crew and musicians are prepared.

Byrnes directs, choreographs and prepares the actors and understudies to plug in as needed. Musical director Linda Ackerman teaches the music to the actors, prepares the band members, and plays piano. (Other musicians include bass and drums.) The stage manager, Paige Foley, prepares all the technical staff and their backups.

This year, they’ve used slightly different strategies because of COVID-19 concerns.

Instead of having understudies prepare two or three roles, they are just doing one and Gaslight used more understudies.

This way, if someone comes down with COVID-19, it affects only one role. It also limits the number of costumes shared between people.

Byrnes says she’s tried to prepare the understudies more than in past years.

Normal rehearsals are Tuesday through Saturday. This year, she gave the opening cast Saturdays off so she could work

just with the understudies on everything covered throughout the week.

“This year, due to COVID, we didn’t want any domino effects,” Byrnes says.

“That’s why we have so many people on each part, and we can’t overlap. We don’t share as many costumes or props unless absolutely necessary.”

Other precautions include the tech staff sanitizing shared handheld microphones as well as sanitizing every space backstage between shows.

“We cut all kisses on stage except for one couple in the opening cast because they’re married and live together,” Byrnes says. “All the rest of the stage kisses have been turned into kisses on the hand or sighing.”

She says the entire cast is vaccinated and whenever anyone shows COVID-19 symptoms, they rush to have rapid tests to make sure they are not sick.

“Fortunately, we haven’t had any outbreaks,” Byrnes says. “We have had two people get it, but they weren’t around the cast in the week leading up to it. The domino effect is what keeps me up at night.”

Warming hearts One week into the show, Byrnes says she has gauged audience reactions and is thrilled to witness its happiness. She

“Elf’d” is a musical spoof of the 2003 Will Ferrell film that will be performed at Gaslight Theatre through Sunday January 2. (Submitted photos)

describes the show as ultimately heartwarming.

She encourages those who have never been to Gaslight to check it out — the theater and the experience is different than what is found elsewhere.

“It is the longest-running musical melodrama theater in the country,” Byrnes says. “If you haven’t experienced it before, it is 1,000% worth it to see nine actors, a live band, incredible costumes and set design. It’s a really wonderful theater.

It’s fun for everyone in the family and for any age.”

MORE INFO

What: “Elf’d” When: Various times through Sunday, January 2 Where: Gaslight Theatre, 7010 E. Broadway Boulevard Cost: See website Info: thegaslighttheatre.com DECEMBER 2021 |

15

December Calendar Wednesday, December 1 “Hamilton,” 7:30 p.m., Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Boulevard, tickets start at $59, ticketmaster.com.

Thursday, December 2 “Hamilton,” 7:30 p.m., Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Boulevard, tickets start at $59, ticketmaster.com.

Friday, December 3 “Hamilton,” 8 p.m., Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Boulevard, tickets start at $59, ticketmaster.com.

Saturday, December 4

Have events for the calendar?

Send entries to christina@timespublications.com

Oro Valley Festival of the Arts & Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration returns after a year hiatus, with two days of art, live music, interactive creative experiences and food. The festival culminates in the lighting of the Oro Valley holiday tree at 6 p.m. December 4.

Shawn Colvin, Marc Cohn & Sarah Watkins: Together in Concert, 7:30 p.m., Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street, tickets start at $59, foxtucson. com. Each show will feature the three award-winning artists on stage together, performing songs and sharing stories.

$10 for students, arizonachambermusic.org. Selections include Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s “Piano Trio in E Major, K. 542,” Ludwig Van Beethoven’s “Piano Trio in D Major, Op. 70, No. I” and Chausson’s “Piano Trio in G Minor, Op. 3.”

Thursday, December 9

are $7.50, foxtucson.com. A 25th anniversary celebration featuring a special appearance by the film’s director, Brian Levant. Pre-show activities include a presentation from the Mighty Wurlitzer organ and an animated short “Alpine Antics,” plus KIT the Fox will welcome families and provide movie-themed crafts and activities for the kids.

Mariachi Sol De Mexico Presents Jose Hernandez Merry-Achi Christmas, 7:30 p.m., Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street, tickets start at $25, foxtucson. com. Led by Jose Hernandez, Mariachi Sol de Mexico brings a festive musical tribute to the traditions of Christmas in Mexico.

The Friends of Pima Library Book Sale, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. through December 13, Book Barn, 2230 N. Country Club Road, free admission. Browse the wide variety of books, DVDs, CDs, vinyl album, audiobooks and puzzles. Proceeds benefit the Pima County Public Library.

Friday, December 10

Monday, December 13

An Irish Christmas, 7:30 p.m., Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street, tickets start at $30, foxtucson.com. An Irish Christmas was conceived, produced and directed by Margaret O’Carroll, owner of Kerry Irish Productions Inc., who incorporates Irish traditions reflecting various aspects of Irish life into her stage work, creating an unbreakable bond between the old ways and the new.

The Friends of Pima Library Book Sale, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Book Barn, 2230 N. Country Club Road, free admission.

Browse the wide variety of books, DVDs, CDs, vinyl album, audiobooks and puzzles. Proceeds benefit the Pima County Public Library.

Furoshiki, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson, 2130 N. Alvernon Way, $25, all materials included, advanced registration required, yume. gardens@gmail.com, yumegardens.org.

Learn how to wrap gifts in a Japanese-style with traditional fabric furoshiki. An eco-friendly and decorative way of tying presents, whatever shape or size may be, including wine bottles and fruit baskets. Fee does not include gardens admission fee.

“Hamilton,” 8 p.m., Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Boulevard, tickets start at $59, ticketmaster.com.

“Hamilton,” 8 p.m., Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Boulevard, tickets start at $59, ticketmaster.com.

“Hamilton,” 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Boulevard, tickets start at $59, ticketmaster.com.

The Friends of Pima Library Book Sale, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. through December 13, Book Barn, 2230 N. Country Club Road, free admission. Browse the wide variety of books, DVDs, CDs, vinyl album, audiobooks and puzzles. Proceeds benefit the Pima County Public Library.

Tea Ceremony: A Demonstration, 1 p.m. and 2 p.m., Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson, 2130 N. Alvernon Way, $20 general admission, includes gardens admission, $5 member admission, registration required, yume.gardens@gmail. com, yumegardens.org. The Japanese tea ceremony, or chanoyu (translated literally as “hot water for tea”), is a cherished ritual involving the preparation and presentation of powdered green tea in a highly stylized manner. A host and a guest, wearing traditional Japanese kimono specific to the ceremony, will demonstrate how tea has been prepared, served and enjoyed in Japan since the 12th century. Tea won’t be served due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Monday, December 6

Saturday, December 11

New to Medicare Mondays, call for time, Medicare Health Benefits: A Community Resource Center, 2716 S. Sixth Avenue, free admission, reservations required, eventbrite.com.

The Robert Cray Band, 7:30 p.m., Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street, tickets start at $25, foxtucson.com. Over the past four decades, Robert Cray has created a sound that rises from American roots, blues, soul and R&B, with five Grammy wins, 20 acclaimed studio albums, and a bundle of live albums that punctuate the Blues Hall of Famer’s career.

The Oro Valley Festival of the Arts & Holiday Tree Lighting, continues December 4, 12155 N. Oracle Road, Oro Valley, free, 797-3959, saaca.org. The

16

| DECEMBER 2021

Sunday, December 5 Lindsey Buckingham, 7 p.m., Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street, tickets start at $42.50, foxtucson.com.

Earlier this year, he appeared on “Caution,” the newest single from the Killers.

He remains a highly sought-after collaborator.

Green Valley Community Chorus Live!

In Concert!, 7 p.m., Valley Presbyterian Church, 2800 S. Camino del Sol, Green Valley, $15, tickets@gvcommunitychorus. org.

Green Valley Community Chorus Live!

In Concert!, 2:30 p.m., Valley Presbyterian Church, 2800 S. Camino del Sol, Green Valley, $15, tickets@gvcommunitychorus. org.

The Friends of Pima Library Book Sale, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. through December 13, Book Barn, 2230 N. Country Club Road, free admission. Browse the wide variety of books, DVDs, CDs, vinyl album, audiobooks and puzzles. Proceeds benefit the Pima County Public Library.

Wednesday, December 8

Sunday, December 12

Los Angeles Piano Trio, 7:30 p.m., Leo Rich Theater, 260 S. Church Avenue, $32,

“Jingle All the Way,” 2 p.m., Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street, tickets

Tuesday, December 7

Tuesday, December 14 Nutrition for Women, 11 a.m., online, tucson.va.gov.

Wednesday, December 15 Oro Valley Neighborhood Group’s monthly community happy hour, 5 to 7 p.m., El Conquistador Resort, A Hilton Resort, 10000 N. Oracle Road, tickets start at $10, eventbrite.com. Don holiday attire and join the group for happy hour pricing. The optional gift exchange has a minimum $20 value, with prizes valued at $300 for the person who shares the event the most. American Legion Oro Valley Post 132 will collect clothing and hygiene items for homeless veterans and others.

Thursday, December 16 Santa Cruz River Farmers Market, 8 to 10 a.m., 100 S. Avenida del Convento, free admission, communityfoodbank. org.

Friday, December 17 Pokey LaFarge, 7:30 p.m., Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street, tickets start at $22.50, foxtucson.com. Pokey LaFarge is a singer, songwriter, guitarist, recording artist, poet and actor living in Los Angeles. Raised on a healthy diet of blues, bluegrass, ragtime, Western Calendar...continues on page 17 www.LovinLife.com

Calendar...continued from page 16 swing and old-time country, the Illinois native writes timeless, multi-hued songs that reflect his refined good taste, as well as the wide variety of influences and rhythms he’s absorbed over a decade-plus spent traveling and performing around the globe.

Saturday, December 18 In the Christmas Mood, A Holiday Music Spectacular, 7:30 p.m., Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street, tickets start at $20, foxtucson.com. Hosted by 94.9 MIX-FM’s “Greg & Mere in the Morning” and starring Tucson’s top performers, including Katherine Byrnes, Brian Levario, Chach Snook and Crystal Stark, In the Christmas Mood is an evening of singing, dancing, comedy and holiday magic.

Wilde Meyer Gallery Holiday Party, 5 to 7 p.m., Wilde Meyer Gallery, 2890 E. Skyline Drive, Suite 170, free admission, 615-5222, wildemeyer.com. Join the gallery for good cheer and wonderful art.

Live music by harpist Vanessa Myers.

Sunday, December 19

Ranch, 14301 E. Speedway Boulevard, call for charge, 296-6275. Cowboy cookout features live music from Johnny Hall.

Thursday, December 23 “The Nutcracker Ballet,” 7 p.m., Tucson Music Hall, 260 S. Church Avenue, tickets start at $37, ticketmaster.com, ballettucson.org.

Friday, December 24 Merry Christmas Eve! “The Nutcracker Ballet,” 3 p.m., Tucson Music Hall, 260 S. Church Avenue, tickets start at $37, ticketmaster.com, ballettucson.org.

Saturday, December 25 Merry Christmas!

Sunday, December 26 Happy Boxing Day! “The Nutcracker Ballet,” 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., Tucson Music Hall, 260 S. Church Avenue, tickets start at $37, ticketmaster. com, ballettucson.org.

My Bluegrass Heart Béla Fleck, Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas, Stuart Duncan, Edgar Meyer and Bryan Sutton, 7 p.m., Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street, tickets start at $47.50, foxtucson. com.

Monday, December 27

Monday, December 20

Tuesday, December 28

Stroke Support Group, 10:30 a.m. to noon, TMC Infusion Center, 1400 N. Wilmot Road, free, 324-1960, tmcaz. com. Stroke survivors and caregivers are invited to these support groups which provide a forum for learning, listening and socializing with others. The event is monthly and open to stroke survivors and loved ones.

Zoo Lights Holiday Magic Encore Nights, 6 to 8 p.m., Reid Park Zoo, 3400 Zoo Court, tickets start at $11 with discounts for seniors and students, 7913204, reidparkzoo.com.

Tuesday, December 21 Tucson Organic Gardeners, 6:30 p.m., Zoom, free, tucsonorganicgardeners. org, email tucsonorganicgardeners@ gmail.com to request a link. This month’s program is “Proper Pruning of Trees in Tucson” presented by Juan Barba, certified arborist. The programs are held on the third Tuesday of the month, August through April.

Wednesday, December 22 Johnny Hall, 5:30 p.m., Tanque Verde www.LovinLife.com

Zoo Lights Holiday Magic Encore Nights, 6 to 8 p.m., Reid Park Zoo, 3400 Zoo Court, tickets start at $11 with discounts for seniors and students, 7913204, reidparkzoo.com.

Wednesday, December 29 Zoo Lights Holiday Magic Encore Nights, 6 to 8 p.m., Reid Park Zoo, 3400 Zoo Court, tickets start at $11 with discounts for seniors and students, 7913204, reidparkzoo.com.

Thursday, December 30 Zoo Lights Holiday Magic Encore Nights, 6 to 8 p.m., Reid Park Zoo, 3400 Zoo Court, tickets start at $11 with discounts for seniors and students, 7913204, reidparkzoo.com.

Friday, December 31 Happy New Year’s Eve!

Nine years without a cold?

Scientists have discovered a natural way to kill germs fast.

Now thousands of people are using it against viruses and bacteria.

Colds start when cold viruses get in your nose.

Viruses multiply fast. If you Copper can stop germs before they spread. nose or a scratchy throat. don’t stop them early, they Early user Mary Pickrell said, spread and cause misery.

In hundreds of studies, EPA “I can’t believe how good my nose and university researchers have feels.” confirmed that viruses and bacteria “What a wonderful thing!” die almost instantly when touched exclaimed Physician’s Assistant by copper.

Julie. Another customer asked, “Is That’s why ancient Greeks and it supposed to work that fast?”

Egyptians used copper to purify water Pat McAllister, 70, received one and heal wounds. They didn’t know for Christmas and called it “one of about microbes, but now we do. the best presents ever. This little The National Institutes of Health jewel really works.” says, “The antimicrobial activity of Frequent flier Karen Gauci used copper is now well established.” to suffer after crowded flights.

Scientists say the high Though skeptical, she tried copper conductance of copper disrupts the on travel days for 2 months. electrical balance in a microbe cell “Sixteen flights and not a sniffle!” by touch and destroys it in seconds. she exclaimed.

Some hospitals tried copper for Businesswoman Rosaleen says touch surfaces like faucets and when people around her show doorknobs. This cut the spread of signs of unwanted germs, she uses MRSA, and other illnesses, by over copper morning and night. “It half and saved lives. saved me last holidays,” she said.

The strong scientific evidence “The kids had crud going around, gave inventor Doug Cornell an but not me.” idea. He made a smooth copper Attorney Donna Blight tried probe with a tip to fit in the bottom copper for her sinus. “I am of his nose. shocked!” she said. “My head The next time he felt a tickle in cleared, no more headache, no his nose that felt like a cold about more congestion.” to start, he rubbed the copper gently A man with trouble breathing in his nose for 60 seconds. through his nose at night tried “It worked!” he exclaimed. “The copper just before bed. “Best sleep cold never got going. That was I’ve had in years!” he said.

September 2012. I use copper in In a lab test, technicians placed the nose every time and I have not 25 million live flu viruses on a had a single cold since then.”

CopperZap. No viruses were found “We don’t make product health alive soon after. claims,” he said, “so I can’t say Made in America of pure copper. cause and effect. But we know 90-day full money back guarantee. copper is antimicrobial.”

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DECEMBER 2021 |

17

Dining

Soul Searching Janet and Ray’s offers Caribbean food with flair

BY VALERIE VINYARD In a city full of restaurants serving an endless variety of foods, Dollie Pearce has managed to carve out a place in the City of Gastronomy.

Janet and Ray’s Caribbean Soul Restaurant fills a niche in Tucson that has been open for a while.

“I think it’s different from other restaurants,” says Pearce, who opened her place May 22. “It’s different than Tucson’s normal. People are happy about that.”

The restaurant is an inviting place. Janet and Ray’s is found in a shopping plaza near 22nd Street and Craycroft Road, in a former Subway sandwich shop.

The restaurant’s walls are dotted with Caribbean artwork. Diners can watch a fry cook prepare many of the entrees, which include burgers ($13.50-$18.50), fish ($15.75-$23), jerk chicken ($15.75), and chicken and waffles ($13.50-$14.50).

In the back, Pearce and her employees do the rest, creating salads ($7-$15.50), sauces, side dishes ($4) and banana pudding ($5.50). The restaurant has 11 employees.

Diners can take a seat at one of the tables or hi-tops that are generously spaced apart. There’s also a bar with a half-dozen barstools, although diners only will see U.S. and Jamaican sodas ($1.99-$2.95) and other nonalcoholic drinks. At least for now, the restaurant doesn’t serve liquor, but diners are welcome to BYOB alcohol to enjoy with their meals.

DJs are planned for weekend nights in January, with Saturday being the restaurant’s Caribbean night.

Pearce says business has been alright so far, considering recent events.

“I don’t really know how to gauge it too much, because we opened during a pandemic,” she says. “We have tons of regulars, and we haven’t really advertised.”

One fan of Janet and Ray’s is Tucsonan Jose Espinoza. Like many regulars, the 48-year-old especially enjoys the fried catfish ($17).

“It’s so good, especially the way it’s fried,” he said. “I could eat it every day.”

Pearce and her engineer husband, Steven, moved from Atlanta to Tucson more

18

| DECEMBER 2021

than five years ago.

“We decided to open something when we decided not to leave as soon as we thought,” said Pearce, who’s Jamaican and grew up in Detroit and New York. “I grew up in a restaurant family.”

At first, she wanted to open a smoothie bar, but “this is the food I know how to cook.”

She created her menu and included suggestions from her brother and sister, such as Dennis’ lobster mac and cheese ($25) and Kelli’s jerk fusion salad ($15.50).

Because most of Janet and Ray’s items are made from scratch, Pearce rotates entrees daily.

“We can’t cook all of that food in one day,” she says.

“Whatever we can get our hands on at the time, that’s what we will do.”

The restaurant’s busiest day is Sunday, although the fish fry on Fridays, with catfish, whiting fish and snapper, is gaining popularity.

The jerk chicken ($15.75) entrée is Janet and Ray’s best-selling dish and is available daily. Entrees come with two sides, and you can’t go wrong with choosing macaroni and cheese, a quintessential comfort food, as one of them. A helping of tangy coleslaw rounded out the generous plate that included a well-seasoned chicken thigh and drumstick.

The surf and turf burger ($18.50) is available Tuesdays through Fridays and is Pearce’s favorite. The hefty 9-ounce beef patty comes loaded with grilled shrimp, cheese and caramelized onions. To say this flavorful and savory burger was a handful would be an understatement.

It’s almost better eaten with a knife and fork.

“The menu is the most bipolar menu you have ever seen,” Pearce says, laughing. “Whatever is good, you’ll see it on the menu.”

(Above) The grill up front is where a lot of the magic happens. Caribbean paintings and corrugated metal accents add to the clean, modern décor. (Left) The jerk chicken plate ($18.50) comes with two sides, including the housemade macaroni and cheese. (Below) The surf and turf burger ($13.75) is a giant meal in itself.

The 9-ounce patty is covered with shrimp, cheese and onions. (Photos by Jonathan Revies)

Janet and Ray’s Caribbean Soul Restaurant 5443 E. 22nd Street, 372-7500 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesdays to Thursdays, noon to 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and noon-6 p.m.

Sundays. Closed Mondays.

www.LovinLife.com

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DECEMBER 2021 |

19

With a Twist

John Wayne’s spirit(s) lives on

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI There’s more than meets the eye — or palate — with Duke Spirits, an artisan distiller crafting small batches of superior bourbon, rye, tequila and brandy.

The liquor company is an ode to actor John Wayne, who reportedly adored bourbon over other spirits.

The goal of Duke Spirits is simple: to preserve John’s legacy and his dream to craft fine spirits, thanks to founders Ethan Wayne, the actor’s son, and vintner Chris Radomski.

Duke Spirit’s bourbon is inspired by rare bottles unearthed and preserved for over 50 years from John’s

collection.

Its Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey was meticulously blended to match John’s preferred tasting notes. The spirit opens with subtle charred oak, roasted nuts, hints of vanilla, caramel and nutmeg. Mid-palate provides warm pepper spice and toasted nuts, finishing with a deeply satisfying robust sweetness in perfect combination.

Here, Duke Spirits shares two recipes with Lovin’ Life After 50 readers.

Gunsmoke

True Grit Boulevardier Ingredients • 1-1/2 ounces Duke Bourbon • 1 ounce Carpano Antica • 1 ounce Campania Directions Combine ingredients in a mixing glass. Stir and pour over ice.

Garnish with an orange peel.

Ingredients • 1-1/2 ounces Duke Bourbon • 3/4 ounces fresh bay leaf syrup • 3/4 ounces yuzu lemon blend • 3/4 ounces aquafaba • 2 dashes Elemakule Tiki Bitters Directions Dry shake ingredients, add ice and shake again. Strain into a small coupe. Place the cocktail under a glass cloche. Fill with cherrywood smoke (from smoking gun). Let sit for 30 seconds, then enjoy.

Get your copy today!

20

| DECEMBER 2021

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What’s Cooking?

Christmas cookies

BY JAN D’ATRI

What makes this the most wonderful time of the year? Well, besides glad tidings, family and the holiday spirit, it’s gotta be Christmas cookies! Nothing puts a smile on faces like a big platter of goodies decked out and adorned with glitter and glaze!

These tricolored cookies are among my very favorite to bake up, decorate and give as gifts for the holidays. Why do I love these cookies so much?

First, this basic stocking cookie recipe is just right. With its combination of butter and shortening, you get the great flavor of butter, and the shortening makes the cookies soft but still great for decorating. Second, they are so colorful, and that color is achieved in such an easy way.

All you do is make one batch of batter and color two parts with green and red. Now you have a predecorated cookie that just gets a glaze and a tiny bit of decorating sugar. No fuss.

No muss. Just gorgeous and scrumptious cookies that are fa-la-la-la lovely to eat and to share.

JOIN US ONLINE FOR THE FOLLOWING VIRTUAL EVENTS/CLASSES

Monday

DECEMBER

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SLOW THE AGING PROCESS: DISCOVERING OLLI 2:00 p.m.

Join Scott Aldridge, UA Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, for a brief introduction into their lectures, classes and lifelong learning programs.

Christmas cookies Ingredients • 1 cup sugar • 1/2 cup Crisco shortening • 1/2 cup butter • 1 large egg • 1 8-ounce carton of sour cream • 1 teaspoon vanilla • 1/8 teaspoon almond extract • 4-3/4 cups flour • 1 teaspoon baking soda • 1 teaspoon baking powder • 1/2 teaspoon salt Directions Cream together shortening, butter and sugar until light and fluff y.

Add egg, beating until well blended.

Stir in sour cream, vanilla and almond extract, mixing well.

Add flour, baking powder, soda and salt, beating well until dough forms into a ball.

Add to cream mixture and beat well.

Divide into three equal parts. Add red food coloring to one ball, mixing to a bright red color. To the second ball, add green food coloring and repeat process. Do not color third ball. Chill at least one hour. When ready to bake, tear off pieces of each colored dough ball and create a mosaic on a Silpat (silicone baking mat) or parchment paper. Roll out colored dough to 1/4 inch thick. Using cookie cutters, cut out designs.

Tuesday

DECEMBER

7

Wednesday

Use up remaining dough scraps by combining them together, rolling out and cutting out more cookies. Bake for 9 to 10 minutes at 350 degrees. When slightly cooled, brush with icing and add decorative sprinkles. Keep cookies in an airtight container.

Cookies can be frozen before they are iced.

Cookie icing Ingredients • 2 cups powdered sugar • 1/8 teaspoon almond or vanilla extract • Enough water to create a glaze Directions Stir powdered sugar, almond extract and water to desired consistency. If glaze is too thick, add more water. If too thin, add more powdered sugar. Glaze should be thin and runny enough for the decorative colors of the cookie to show through.

DECEMBER

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Thursday

DECEMBER

16

SLOW THE AGING PROCESS: HIGH INTENSITY INTERVAL TRAINING 2:00 p.m.

Mary Mellady, TMC Wellness, shares how you can reverse some cellular aspects of aging in any kind of workout from walking to weight training.

RESOLUTION SOLUTION: MAKING HEALTH HABITS STICK 10:00 a.m.

Join Mary Mellady, RD, TMC Wellness, as she shares tips to help you focus on how to make changes that will be part of your long-term routine.

I LOVE BOOKS! 2:00 p.m.

Join our monthly lively and fun book club. This month we’re discussing Skipping Christmas by John Grisham.

You will receive a link to watch the classes live when you register in advance at TMCAZ.COM OR BY CALLING 520-324-1960 For more information and a full list of events, visit TMCAZ.COM/SENIORS

Watch how-to videos at bit.ly/JanDAtri www.LovinLife.com

DECEMBER 2021 |

21

Do You Have Pain/Numbness/Tingling in the Feet/Legs???

A doctor has moved to Tucson that treats neuropathy (nerve problems), and his name is Dr Trent Freeman DC (Dr T). He has been treating Neuropathy for the last 10 years.

Maybe you have seen him interviewed on CBS by Steve Ochoa or during the Dr Oz show, maybe you saw him on NBC. He has brought this new treatment to persons suffering from neuropathy in Tucson. He uses two kinds of Light to stimulate the nerves to function better. He uses pulsed infrared technology that helps reduce the pain, and FDA approved cold lasers that help the cells function better. He offers his consultation for FREE. He looks at the interview time as a time for him to see if you have the type of neuropathy that he treats but more importantly, for you to interview him and see if he is someone that you would like to work with. His clinic is certified with the Neuropathy Treatment Centers of America and he has received advanced training in the treatment of neuropathy. There are fewer than 100 doctors in America that have received this advanced training in this type of therapy. Dr T looks at neuropathy as a thief that comes to your life and starts to steal from you. If you allow neuropathy to continue, it will steal your independence (driving, walking, balance) As Dr T says “Everyday we are having more success relieving neuropathy pain, WHY NOT YOU?” Give his office a call and schedule the FREE consultation and see if you qualify for this new therapy 520-445-6784.

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We’ve Been Doing Reverse Mortgages For Over 30 Years For A Reason…

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When Maria and Diego were young, they didn’t think about owning a home, let alone retirement!

As they grew older, as we all do, they wanted the American dream, owning a home. That dream for Maria and Diego took hard work.

With a good job, paying the bills, mortgage and of course keeping up with the kids, their house is more than just a home. It is the family they’ve built and the life they have lived. It was worth it all.

Now nearing retirement age, they are looking forward to enjoying what they earned. Maria and Diego couldn’t wait to sit back and relax and enjoy the fruits of their labor.

But even with all their careful planning, unforeseen events and unexpected expenses diminished the assets they set aside for their retirement. The only realistic option they could see was to sell their retirement home in Sun Lakes.

It felt like an impossible task.

Luckily, their son, knowing how

hard they worked and desired to stay in their home, suggested an alternative; a reverse mortgage.

Maria and Diego’s credit card debt were not a part of their retirement plans, but Sun American Mortgage stepped in to help turn a bad situation into an opportunity for them to stay in their home. With 30 years of experience assisting Arizona seniors in similar situations Sun American Mortgage is a leader in the Reverse Mortgage industry. Instead of selling their precious home they worked so hard for in Sun Lakes, Maria and Diego were able to turn to the equity in their own home to pay off their credit card debt and get back on track to retire better.

With their reverse mortgage line of credit, they can take money in and out of their home without recourse.

They can make payments on their reverse mortgage if they want to, but also feel safe knowing that in a pinch, no payment is required. They pay their property taxes, homeowners’

insurance and HOA fees as always.

Maria and Diego have options.

They can simply pay the interest, make a full payment every other month, make two payments every month, or never make a payment again for as long as they live in the house. The reverse mortgage gave them the flexibility to live the future they dreamed of, even though their retirement plans didn’t go quite as planned, they can… retire better.

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This material is not provided by, nor was it approved by the Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) or by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA).

22

| DECEMBER 2021

Columns The Healthy Geezer

Studies show acupuncture is helpful

BY FRED CICETTI arthritis in my knee.

Q II’mhavethinking about trying acupuncture, but my friends think I’m nuts. What do you think? recent studies show A Several osteoarthritis symptoms can be relieved with acupuncture. One Scandinavian study reported that 25% of patients canceled their plans for knee surgery after acupuncture.

About 15 million Americans have tried this needle therapy. The World Health Organization recommends it for more than 40 conditions as diverse as asthma and nausea from chemotherapy. The Food and Drug Administration regulates acupuncture needles.

So, no, I don’t think you’re nuts.

By the third century B.C., the Chinese had documented a medical system that is based on qi (pronounced “chee”), a concept of vital energy that is believed to flow throughout the body.

Qi is said to regulate a person’s physical, spiritual, emotional and mental balance. Advocates of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) say qi is affected by yin (negative energy) and yang (positive energy). When the flow of qi is disrupted and yin and yang are unbalanced, the condition leads to pain and disease, according to TCM. Treatments that are integral to this ancient system are herbal and nutritional therapy, restorative physical exercises, meditation, acupuncture and remedial massage.

To correct the flow of qi, acupuncture uses superfine metal needles inserted into the skin at more than 2,000 “acupoints” along pathways known as “meridians.” It is believed that there are 12 main meridians and eight secondary meridians. The points can also be stimulated with heated herbs, magnets, mild electrical current, manual pressure, low-frequency lasers or even bee stings.

Most acupuncture patients feel little

or no pain as the needles are inserted.

Some people are energized by treatment, while others feel relaxed. Improper needle placement, movement of the patient, or a defect in the needle can cause soreness and pain during treatment.

Relatively few complications from acupuncture have been reported to the FDA. However, inadequate sterilization of needles and improper administration have led to complications. When done improperly, acupuncture can cause serious problems such as infections and punctured organs.

Western scientists don’t know how acupuncture works. However, studies show that stimulating acupoints causes multiple biologic responses. For example, this stimulation can prompt the release of the body’s natural pain-killing endorphins.

If you are interested in acupuncture, ask your doctor about it. Health care practitioners can be a resource for referrals to acupuncturists. More medical doctors, including neurologists, anesthesiologists and specialists in physical medicine, are becoming trained in acupuncture.

About 10,000 acupuncturists practice in the United States. Most are state regulated. More than 4,000 doctors have completed a recognized acupuncture training program.

Look for an acupuncture practitioner who is licensed and credentialed. And check with your insurer before you start treatment to see whether acupuncture will be covered for your condition. www.LovinLife.com

Ask the Expert

10 tips on traveling with diabetes

BY TUCSON MEDICAL CENTER Things that come with a holiday trip — trying new foods, eating at different times, and being more active (or less) than normal — can all have an impact on your diabetes management.

That’s not to say you shouldn’t take the trip. (You totally should.)

“You just have to plan ahead,” said Nancy Klug, diabetes educator at Tucson Medical Center. “The more you do, the more you’ll be able to relax and enjoy your trip.”

Here are 10 ways to ensure you feel your best while on holiday: • Get a checkup before your trip to make sure you know how planned activities might affect your diabetes and how to adjust your insulin dose if you’re in another time zone. Also, ask your doctor to write a letter stating that you have diabetes and why you need your medical supplies, and to give prescriptions for medications in case you lose them or run out.

• Get a medical ID bracelet that states you have diabetes.

• Pack your diabetes supplies in a carry-on bag if you’re flying. answers • Bring twice as much medicine as you think you’ll need (make sure it’s in the pharmacy bottles).

• If you’re flying, get an optional TSA notification card to help the screening process go more smoothly.

Get your copy today! www.LovinLife.com

• If you’re driving, pack a cooler with healthy snacks and water. Keep your insulin in there, too. Just don’t put it directly on the ice pack. If you’re flying, order a special meal that fits your meal plan or pack one.

• Get out of the car and walk every hour or two. If you’re flying, get up and walk up and down the aisle a few times.

• Set your alarm for taking medicine. It can be easy to forget while you’re out and about.

• If you plan on being more active than normal, keep close watch on your blood sugar and adjust food and insulin as needed.

• If you’re traveling to another country, learn the language enough to say helpful phrases such as “where is the nearest pharmacy” or “I have diabetes.”

TMC offers a variety of diabetes education opportunities, including free sessions and support that cover many topics. You can also download PDF files of the Diabetes Management Handbook and Living with Diabetes While Pregnant at no cost. Go online to tmcaz.com for more information.

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DECEMBER 2021 |

23

P3 is that support system that helps coordinate your healthcare.

-Mike Candrea, Former University of Arizona Head Softball Coach

You can’t win in softball… or life… without a team to support you. P3 Arizona is that support system for your healthcare. From doctor appointments to medication questions– the P3 Care Team is here to help you have a winning season of health.

Get the care you DESERVE.

Call us to help you navigate your AEP OPTIONS today.

Learn more at (520) 462-8060 I P3Arizona.org

24

| DECEMBER 2021

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