Marana News, Dec. 15, 2021

Dec 15, 2021

MARANANEWS The Voice of Marana since 2007

Volume  • Number 

Explorer and Marana News, Dec , 

Dec. 15, 2021

MARANANEWS The Voice of Marana since 2007

Volume  • Number 

Sonoran Sounds

Oct. 7, 2020

Our favorite local music of the year | Page 13

Board of Supervisors names new acting county administrator

INSIDE

Our Town

Mobile Meals for Winter Break | Page 4

Staff Report Tucson Local Media

Voices

Letters to the Editor | Page 10

Photo courtesy of Bobby Bradley / NASA (CC BY-NC 2.0)

UA Astronomers Help NASA Space Telescope Explore Universe’s Past Jeff Gardner

Sports & Rec

Mountain View grad at UA | Page 19

Tucson Local Media

A

husband and wife team of University of Arizona professors and their research group are part of an international group of scientists working on NASA’s new James Webb

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The JWST is planned to succeed the Hubble Space Telescope as NASA’s flagship astrophysics mission, and will be able to observe some of the oldest and most remote objects in the universe.

George Rieke, UA Regents Professor of Astronomy, describes

D! SOL

the mission as “perhaps the most ambitious astronomy project human beings have done.”

George and Marcia Rieke, both UA Regents Professors of Astronomy, have worked with infrared astronomy and NASA missions for decades.

See SPACE TELESCOPE, P6

T

he Pima County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously last week to appoint Jan Lesher to the post of acting county administrator.

Lesher, the chief deputy county administrator, had already been heading up the county administration after Pima County Administrator Chuck Huckelberry suffered a severe head injury and other injuries after he was struck by a car while riding his bike downtown on Oct. 23. Huckelberry is recovering in a rehabilitation facility with no estimate on when he may return to work.

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Explorer and Marana News, Dec 15, 2021

Marana News, Dec , 

EXPLORER The Explorer and Marana News is published every Wednesday and distributed free of charge to homes and in single-copy locations throughout the Northwest Tucson. To find out where you can pick up a free copy of the Explorer and Marana News, go to www.TucsonLocalMedia.com

STAFF ADMINISTRATION Steve T. Strickbine, Publisher Michael Hiatt, Vice President Jaime Hood, General Manager jaime@tucsonlocalmedia.com Claudine Sowards, Accounting claudine@tucsonlocalmedia.com Sheryl Kocher, Receptionist sheryl@tucsonlocalmedia.com EDITORIAL Jim Nintzel, Executive Editor jimn@tucsonlocalmedia.com Jeff Gardner, Managing Editor jeff@tucsonlocalmedia.com Mike Truelsen, Web Editor mike@tucsonlocalmedia.com Alexandra Pere, Staff Reporter apere@tucsonlocalmedia.com PRODUCTION Courtney Oldham, Production Manager, tucsonproduction@timespublications.com Ryan Dyson Graphic Designer ryand@tucsonlocalmedia.com Emily Filener, Graphic Designer emilyf@tucsonlocalmedia.com CIRCULATION Alex Carrasco, Circulation alexc@tucsonlocalmedia.com ADVERTISING TLMSales@TucsonLocalMedia.com Kristin Chester, Account Executive kristin@tucsonlocalmedia.com Lisa Hopper, Account Executive lisa@tucsonlocalmedia.com Candace Murray, Account Executive candace@tucsonlocalmedia.com Tyler Vondrak, Account Executive tyler@tucsonlocalmedia.com NATIONAL ADVERTISING Zac Reynolds, Director of National Advertising Zac@TimesPublications.com EDITORIAL & AD CONTENT The Explorer and Marana News expresses its opinion in the editorial. Opinions expressed in guest commentaries, perspectives, cartoons or letters to the editor are those of the author. The content and claims of any advertisement are the sole responsibility of the advertiser. Tucson Local Media assumes no responsibility for the claims or content of any advertisement. Publisher has the right to edit for size or refuse any advertisement at his or her discretion.

7225 N. Mona Lisa Road, Ste. 125 Tucson, Arizona 85741 PHONE: (520) 797-4384

Copyright:The entire contents of Explorer/Marana News are CopyrightTimes Media Group . No portion may be reproduced in whole or part by any means without the express written permission of the Publisher,Tucson Local Media, 7225 N. Mona Lisa Rd., Ste. 125,Tucson, AZ 85741.

Hot Picks Holiday Nights at Tohono Chul. Northwestern botanical gardens Tohono Chul are lighting up their quiet corner for the holidays. This weekend, you can stroll along paths adorned with more than a million twinkling lights while musicians and artists perform throughout the gardens. In addition to the beautiful views, they are also serving up hot cholocate and holiday treats.

Tohono Chul’s museum shops, greenhouse and exhibits house will also be open during the event.

5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 17 & 18. 7366 Paseo del Norte.

Masks are required at the event. $17.

$7 kids 4 to 17 and college ID holders.

Shred-a-thon 2021.

The Town of Oro Valley is hosting a free document shredding event to prevent ID theft. The public is invited to bring up to five boxes of confidential documents that they’d like to be destroyed. 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 18.

At Naranja Park, 810 W. Naranja Drive.

Paint Night in the Park. Unleash your inner artist at the Marana Heritage River Park Barn. At this community art class, you can practice painting on the 16 x 20 canvas. No experience is necessary. 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 17.

Flaundrau Holiday 12375 North Heritage Park Shows. Our friendly local Drive. More info at maraplanetarium is bringing naaz.gov/town-calendar the holiday cheer with two special shows starting this week. The Season of Light 5-DAY WEATHER Show celebrates different WEDNESDAY festivals of light honoring the Winter Solstice across 60 38 MOSTLY SUNNY many cultures. From THURSDAY Christmas to Hanukkah to ancient Hopi and Ro67 40 MOSTLY SUNNY man festivals of light, this FRIDAY show is a touching—and beautiful!—reminder of 69 40 SUNNY our shared humanity. LaSATURDAY ser Holiday Magic is a laser light show musical, fea68 40 SUNNY turing popular Christmas SUNDAY and seasonal songs that will have you humming 63 41 SUNNY along. Holiday shows are MOUNT LEMMON showing through Dec. 31 SATURDAY at Flaundrau Science Center & Planetarium, 1601 47 21 SUNNY E. University Blvd. See SUNDAY website for information on showtimes and buy 41 20 SUNNY tickets in advance if you can—they often sell out. $9 adults, $8 seniors/military,

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Explorer and Marana News, Dec 15, 2021

Mobile meals available for kids over winter break Alexandra Pere Tucson Local Media

M

arana Unified School District announced a new winter break service schedule for the Marana Cares Mobile meal program, available for free to all children under 18.

Marana Cares Mobile provides free nutritious meals to children under 18 out of a renovated school bus. The mobile service provides internal and external eating areas at two locations this year.

From Dec. 20 to Dec. 24, Marana Cares Mobile will be at the southeast corner of Sandario Road

Marana Cares Mobile winter break schedule: Monday to Friday, Dec. 20-24 Monday to Friday, Dec. 27-31 11 to noon

and Anthony Drive from 11 a.m. to noon. They will also appear at the Marana Water Improvement District, 16560 W. El Tiro Road, from 12:30 to 1:30 pm. Service will continue the next week from Dec. 27 to Dec. 31.

Marana Cares Mobile is supported by private donations and charitable

foundations during winter break. Since 2015, they have provided 19,767 free meals.

Specific menus for Marana Cares Mobile food will be uploaded on the school’s lunch tray website at: f a m i l y. t i t a n k 1 2 . c o m / menu/NNXASH.

Monday: 8 a.m. to noon Wednesday/Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Pfizer (adult and child 5-11 dose), Moderna, Van Buskirk Elementary 725 E. Fair St. Johnson and Johnson 8 a.m. to noon Pfizer (adult dose), Pfizer East Clinic (5-11 dose) 6920 E. Broadway Blvd.

Monday/Thursday, 8 a.m.

Nosotros Academy Abrams Public Health to 7 p.m.

400 N. Grand Ave. Tuesday, 8 a.m. to noon Center Noon to 4 p.m.

3950 S. Country Club Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Pfizer (adult dose), Pfizer Road (5-11 dose) Mobile Clinics Tuesday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Dunbar Pavilion Pfizer (adult and child Thursday, Sept. 16 325 W. Second St. 5-11 dose), Moderna, Orange Grove Middle 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Johnson and Johnson Pfizer (adult dose), ModSchool Tucson Convention 1911 E. Orange Grove erna, Johnson and Johnson Road Center 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

260 S. Church Ave. Monday through Satur- Pfizer (adult dose), Mod- Saturday, Dec. 18 erna, Johnson and Johnday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Holladay Elementary Pfizer (adult and child son 1110 E. 33rd St. 5-11 dose), Moderna, South Tucson Housing 8 a.m. to noon Johnson and Johnson Pfizer (adult dose), Pfizer Authority (5-11 dose) Theresa Lee Health Center 1713 S. Third Ave. 1493 W. Commerce Court 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Monday/Tuesday, 8 a.m. Pfizer (adult dose), Mod- Unscrewed Theater erna, Johnson and John- 4500 E. Speedway Blvd. to 7 p.m.

Noon to 4 p.m.

Wednesday, 1 p.m. to 5 son Pfizer (adult dose), Modp.m. erna, Johnson and Johnson Friday, Dec. 17 Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Southeast corner of Sandario Road and Anthony Drive Next to the Marana Congregation of Jehovah’s Witness Church

12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

16560 W. El Tiro Road (El Tiro Road. & Anway Road) At the Marana Domestic Water Improvement District

Upcoming COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics

P

Standing Clinics ima County is hosting a number of free vaccine clinics. No appointment North Clinic is necessary.

3550 N. First Ave.

Closed 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month Pfizer (adult and child 5-11 dose), Moderna, Johnson and Johnson

Explorer and Marana News, Dec 15, 2021

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Explorer and Marana News, Dec 15, 2021

READER PHOTO OF THE WEEK Reader Kate Stephany captured this stunning and vibrant sunset while on an evening walk in Tortolita. Send your photos to readerphotos@tucsonlocalmedia.com. Include your name, contact information and details about the photo, including who took it, where it was taken and the subject. Not all photos can be printed. See other photos online at www.tucsonlocalmedia.com.

Illustration courtesy of NASA / University of Arizona

An artist’s impression of what the James Webb Space Telescope will look like in space. The telescope’s massive mirror is seen on top made out of 18 hexagonal sections.

Space Telescope: JWST to launch Dec. 22 Continued from P1

For the JWST, each will work with high-tech infrared imaging devices: Marcia on the telescope’s near-infrared camera, and George on the telescope’s mid-infrared camera. Both instruments observe infrared radiation to collect data on planets in distant solar systems.

“This will provide by far the sharpest and deepest view of the infrared universe,” George said. “In terms of astronomy, this really is a big benchmark.”

The JWST, with initial development dating back to 1996, stretches roughly 70 feet and 45 feet with an estimated cost of $10 billion. It is planned to launch

from French Guiana in South America on Dec. 22.

Because of its focus on visible and infrared light, as well as wielding a far larger mirror, the JWST will be able to observe objects too distant for Hubble to detect.

Tucson’s involvement on the project is only natural, as the field of infrared astronomy more-or-less began in the UA’s Lunar and Planetary Laboratory, according to George. Some infrared astronomy observations were conducted in the 1920s, but he explains the field of research didn’t fully kick in until the 1960s with researchers in Tucson.

“The university really led the whole world in infrared astronomy. We’ve had a central role in all kinds of things,” George

said. “Infrared astronomy started here with Gerard Kuiper’s 61-inch telescope on Mount Lemmon. The problem with doing it from the ground is the telescope is warm, so it’s pouring out infrared photons and you can’t cool it down because water would condense on it. So going to space is really critical because it’s a vacuum where you can cool the telescope down.”

Over George’s career, infrared telescopes have advanced from containing single sensors to millions of sensors. He also previously worked on NASA’s infrared Spitzer Space Telescope, which launched in 2003 and retired last year.

“Space infrared telescopes have always been small, less than a yard in aperture. And that has to

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Explorer and Marana News, Dec 15, 2021

do with what was thought to be constraints on how to get them cold,” George said. “But the big advancement with JWST, as demonstrated by Spitzer, is you can let it cool down by radiating its heat into space. JWST is taking advantage of that by giving us a telescope that is 21 feet, instead of less than three feet. That’s why it’s such a technical marvel.”

This will allow JWST to be far more sensitive than previous space telescopes, with imaging capabilities six to seven times sharper than Spitzer’s.

“The Hubble and Spitzer Space Telescopes revolutionized our understanding of the cosmos,” Marcia said in a UA press release. “But with Webb, we’ll be able to probe gal-

axies much closer to the Big Bang than ever before.

We can currently see galaxies back to 500 to 600 million years post-Big Bang, nearly 13 billion years ago.

And even though the universe was so young at that time, the things we see still look pretty familiar—lots of stars have formed, there are supermassive black holes, quasars and so on.

However, logic dictates that at some point during the first few hundred million years, these familiar-looking objects must have come from somewhere and evolved… After all, galaxies don’t spring up from nothing, virtually overnight.”

Although both of the Riekes are working on the project, George says there is no sense of competition

between the two. After submitting their proposals for the project, he can recall Marcia receiving a phone call of acceptance and shouting joyously down the hall. Then his phone rang with similar news.

“These projects are so big and complicated that competition is generally destructive,” George said.

The telescope’s massive 21-foot diameter presents a unique problem for space launch, as it is too wide to fit into the nose cone of a rocket. To account for this, the JWST will fold up like an umbrella to fit inside the rocket. According to UA, once in space, the telescope will unfold and its instruments will be checked and calibrated, with the telescope’s mirror adjusted

Photo by ESA/CNES/Arianespace on Flickr

James Webb Space Telescope being driven to Guiana Space Centre from the port. It was shipped from California, through the Panama Canal, to French Guiana, where it will launch. to optical perfection. This will happen during a sixmonth period, after which the telescope will be a million miles from Earth. This point in space will allow the JWST to fly effortlessly

with the Earth around the sun, making it possible for the telescope to radio its huge amount of data back to Earth.

“The history of real scientific discoveries is that

you can’t predict what they’ll be,” George said.

“So I hope the astronomical community uses JWST to discover things we’ve never dreamt of.”

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Explorer and Marana News, Dec , 

Omicron found in Arizona as health officials again urge people to get vaccinated Alexandra Pere Tucson Local Media

T

he latest COVID variant, Omicron, was detected in Arizona last week and health care experts predict it’s just a matter of time before the more contagious coronavirus strain is widespread.

The Arizona Department of Health Services and Yavapai County Community Health Services confirmed Arizona’s first known case of the COVID-19 Omicron variant on Dec. 8.

Although some initial data from the South African Medical Research Council indicates the Omicron variant may have less severe symptoms than previous mutations, health officials advise the public to receive vaccinations or booster shots if they have already gotten vaccinated.

Pfizer-BioNTech released preliminary results from a non-peer reviewed study showing the Pfizer

COVID-19 two-dose vaccination series will somewhat neutralize the Omicron variant, but three doses is most effective.

“I think that this finding from Pfizer should be reassuring and should reaffirm to people how important it is for them to get a booster and if they are not vaccinated to please seek vaccination as soon as possible, especially with the holidays coming up,” Pima County Health Department Director Dr. Theresa Cullen said during a Dec. 8 press conference.

As scientists race to understand Omicron, the vaccines are the best option to avoid more shutdowns and more pressure on hospitals, according to Cullen, who said people who are vaccinated protect themselves, their families and their communities.

“While it is not the only way out of this pandemic, it is an essential component for us to be able to move forward and to start recovering,” Cullen said.

The Arizona Department of Helath Services (ADHS) recently released a study showing that unvaccinated Arizonans from July to October were 3.9 times more likely to test positive for COVID-19 and were 15.2 times more likely to die from COVID-19 compared to fully vaccinated people.

Vaccinations reduce the need for hospitalizations by reducing the likelihood of severe COVID symptoms, something that is desperately needed as intensive care unit beds decrease in availability.

Cullen said last week that only 2% of ICU beds were available in Pima County.

“We had the most ICU beds in use by COVID positive patients yesterday since Feb. 7,” Cullen said.

She said the county’s ongoing free vaccine clinics at the Tucson Convention Center had large turnouts for vaccinations, including long waiting lines. She added that more people were

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looking for vaccine shots at sion will likely increase in the Abrams Health Center. fits-and-starts through the holidays before gradually subsiding in early 2022,” Delta wave continues Gerald predicted. “HowWhile Omicron is on the ever, the Omicron variant horizon, Arizona continues may cause cases to rise late to wrestle with the ongo- January 2022.”

Statewide, Gerald noting Delta wave. The virus remains widespread in ed that as of Dec. 9, 2,770 of Arizona’s 8,812 general Arizona.

Epidemiologist Dr. Joe ward beds were occupied Gerald, a professor in the by COVID patients, a 2% UA Zuckerman School of jump from the previous Public Health who has been week. Only 392 beds retracking COVID cases mained available statewide. since the virus first arrived Likewise, the number of in Arizona, reported that COVID patients in ICU as of the week ending Dec. beds continued to climb. A 5, Arizona saw a rate of full 40% of Arizona’s 1,770 404 new COVID cases per ICU beds were occupied by 100,000, “the highest level COVID patients, a jump of 9% from the previous week. since late January 2021.”

Gerald noted that cases Only 86 ICU beds were are increasing among older, available statewide.

A total of 23,040 Arizohighly vaccinated groups, suggesting that as people nans have died after concontinue to let down their tracting COVID, includguard against the corona- ing 2,984 people in Pima virus and immunity wanes County. among those who do not Testing get a booster shot, more The Pima County Board cases and hospitalizations of Supervisors unanimously could be on the horizon.

“In general, transmis- voted to divert $3 million

from the American Rescue Plan Act Fund on Dec. 7 to fund the county’s COVID-19 testing program.

“We expect our Liberty site that Paradigm supports to open up, so it will be available Monday through Saturday,” Cullen said. “We also expect our downtown site supported by Paradigm to expand.”

Pima County offers free COVID-19 antigen rapid tests and PCR tests at the Ellie Towne Center, Tucson Electric Power’s downtown office, and Liberty Plaza.

County officials plan to extend hours at all locations.

The county will also continue to provide free BinaxNOW at-home self-test kits at all Pima County public libraries. Kits will also be provided at the Abrams Public Health Center, 3950 S. County Club Road, on Dec. 17 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Find out details about the public library and their hours: pima.bibliocommons.com/locations

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Explorer and Marana News, Dec 15, 2021

County administrator Continued from P1 “The Board and everyone else in Pima County government want Chuck to know they miss him terribly, that we are heartened by reports of his continued progress, and that we send him our best wishes for a complete recovery and return to work as County Administrator,” Lesher said.

Lesher, who joined Pima County in 2010, has been a chief deputy county administrator since 2017. Prior to joining Pima County, she worked as chief of staff for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, chief of staff for Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano and director of the Arizona Commerce Au-

thority, according to a Pima County press release.

In other action • The Board of Supervisors appointed two new state lawmakers to fill recent vacancies created by resignations.

Supervisors appointed Democrat Chris Mathis to a House seat in Legislative District 9, which includes Oro Valley, Marana, the Catalina Foothills and parts of Tucson. The seat was previously held by Democrat Randy Friese, who stepped down to focus on his medical work during the ongoing pandemic.

Mathis is an attorney and the husband of Colleen Mathis, who chaired Arizona’s Independent Redistricting Commission during the

2010 redistricting cycle.

“I would like to thank the Pima County Board of Supervisors for appointing me to represent LD 9 in the Arizona House of Representatives. It’s an honor to follow Dr. Randy Friese, whose service to our community as a trauma surgeon and public servant is truly extraordinary,” said Mathis in a prepared statement.

Supervisors also appointed Morgan Abraham to a House seat in Legislative District 10, which includes central and eastern Tucson.

“I’m honored and grateful to be chosen to represent Pima County in the House of Representatives,” said Abraham in a prepared statement. “I’m looking

forward to working on legislation that promotes economic opportunity here in Pima County and across the state.”

Abraham serves as an intelligence officer in the Army Reserve and runs an affordable housing development company.

This is the last year that both districts will have their current boundaries, as the Independent Redistricting Commission is in the process of redrawing the state’s political boundaries for the 2022 election cycle.

Pima County • Supervisors unanimously approved a redistricting process for Pima County’s political maps with the creation of a Redistricting Advisory Committee that will host at least five public meetings after Jan. 18. The committee will provide the board with its

recommendations for the new boundaries by April 30.

The Board will then approve new maps by July 1.

The new political maps will be used for the Pima County Board of Supervisors as well as the Pima Community College governing board.

• On a 4-1 vote, supervisors approved a one-year agreement to continue to provide up to $425,000 legal aid to tenants facing eviction in Pima County.

The legal work will be done by Southern Arizona Legal Aid, the Ferguson Hill law firm and attorney Paul Gattone.

“Through contracts with nonprofits and private lawyers, the Office of Emergency Eviction Legal Services provides access to justice to tenants facing eviction,” said Andrew Flagg, Community & Workforce De-

velopment’s deputy director who oversees the county’s Office of Emergency Eviction Legal Services. “In the first three months of operation, the office served nearly 400 households. The master agreement approved today will allow Pima County to continue to provide these services to hundreds more households in 2022.”

Since March, Pima County, the City of Tucson and the nonprofit Community Investment Corporation have distributed nearly $38 million in rental assistance and more than $3.6 million in utility assistance.

• Supervisors approved naming the Sheriff ’s Department headquarters at 1750 E. Benson Highway for Clarence Dupnik, who served as Pima County sheriff from 1980 until his retirement in 2015.

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Explorer and Marana News, Dec , 

VOICES LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

ORO VALLEY CANCEL CULTURE

I

am sad to say that the ‘Cancel Culture’ rage that is plaguing America is alive and well in Oro Valley.

A recent Oro Valley zoning posting along Tangerine Road and Rancho Vistoso Boulevard announcing the possibility of a small down-zon-

ing from a commercial use to high density residential was met on Next Door by an onslaught of anti-development comments.

“Apartments!!” they screamed. “It will be a traffic nightmare… like a So Cal congested freeway” was another comment. You would think Godzilla was on his/her way to ravage the area.

Run, Forest, run!!

So here are the facts. A very small piece of vacant in-fill is being looked at for development. The surrounding land uses

5th Now in our 3

are high density residential to the north across Woodburn, commercial across Rancho Vistoso to the east, vacant land diagonally across the intersection and commercial across Tangerine to the south. The buildings themselves will be single story, some duplex units, but 65% will be single detached one-, two- and three-bedroom homes.

So you ask, “What’s the rub? Where does ‘cancel culture’ come in?”

These units will be RENTAL units. You

know… rental people… riff-raff. One person commented, “Terrible congestion already… crime is ticking upwards here because non-homeowners residing here.”

Another, “We don’t need any NEW development.”

One individual chose this thread to make the following comment, “OVPD is the worst in the country.” Yet, another, “Hopefully the mortgage backed securities will fail just like in 08 and the banks, builders, mortgage bottom feeding industries will fail.”

How’s this one: “Shoving a bunch of rentals in the middle of established neighborhood does not create jobs, unless you’re paid to pick up trash or remove graffiti.”

There is a moderate

sized group of residents in Oro Valley who, now that they are here, don’t want anyone else to move into Oro Valley and certainly not “renters.” They’re cancelled!!!

Surely we are better than this!!! Aren’t we??

Don Cox Oro Valley

SINEMA DISAPPOINTS

W

hy can’t Sen. Kyrsten Sinema work with Democrats “across-the-aisle” from herself and get the John Lewis voting rights act and reconciliation BBB

legislation passed? She needs to agree to remove the filibuster to pass both since her “acrossthe-aisle” achievements with Republicans seem to be over and done with. Scoring two “F’s” and one “B+” doesn’t cut it.

Why doesn’t the senator spend time promoting voting rights and the Build Back Better bill instead of herself?

Lois Berkowitz Oro Valley Want to see your opinion in the paper? Send your letter to the editor to tucsoneditor@tucsonlocalmedia. com. Submission does not guarantee print. Limit your letter to 350 words. Guest commentaries should be limited to 600 words.

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Tech Talk: Robots on campus and lasers in Oro Valley Jeff Gardner Tucson Local Media

W

ith a major research university in our backyard, a strong military presence, and an innovative company across the metropolitan area, Southern Arizona has a lot of interesting science, medical, and technology news. Here is a breakdown of the most interesting recent developments.

Robots on campus.

No, we’re not talking about brainwashed students. In late November, the University of Arizo-

na began using a fleet of autonomous rovers that deliver food to students from on-campus dining locations. In a partnership between the UA and food delivery service GrubHub, Wildcat students can use the GrubHub app for the robots to navigate campus on their own and deliver food. UA is the second campus to offer this delivery option, following Ohio State University.

“We know that our students are very interested in forward-thinking tech applications such as smart vending machines, and we hope that with this new delivery option, we can offer quicker deliveries, especially during rush

times, across campus,” said Christine Carlson, director of dining and nutrition for UA’s Arizona Student Unions.

The rovers were developed by Yandex, a Russian multinational technology company that develops a variety of internet-related products, including self-driving cars. The rovers weigh roughly 100 pounds and are a bit larger than a microwave.

With six wheels and several cameras, the robots drive between three and five miles per hour. According to UA, the rovers will operate seven days a week, and students can request delivery to popular locations on campus in-

cluding dorms, the Main Library, Albert B. Weaver Science-Engineering Library, McKale Memorial Center and more.

Once an order comes into one of the participating dining locations, staff will prepare the order for takeout as they normally would, place it inside a rover’s cargo compartment and send the rover on its way. Students who order the food will also receive a unique “retrieval code,” meaning only they can access the food.

In case a rover gets stuck or needs help, it can send a request to a remote human operator, who can assess the situation and provide recommenda-

Photo courtesy of the University of Arizona

Yandex rovers on the University of Arizona campus are now delivering food to students and faculty. ogy company Leonardo Electronics US Inc. purLaser Lab. The Tuc- chased 12 acres in Oro son area is maintain- Valley’s Innovation Park ing its role as a laser and with plans to construct a optical sciences hub. In Continued on P15 early December, technoltions on how to proceed.

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Marana News, Dec. 15, 2021

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Watch your moles for signs of melanoma Mia Smitt

Special to Tucson Local Media

W

e hear a lot about skin cancer, especially here where the sun shines about 286 days per year here in the desert. (The U.S. average is only 205 sunny days.)

We are urged to use sunscreen and avoid midday sun exposure to avoid skin cancer. As the warmest

weather wanes, it is easy to become more careless about skin protection.

There are various types of skin cancer but the most deadly is melanoma.

Approximately 106,110 people will be diagnosed this year in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society, including an estimated 62,620 men and 48,850 women.

Melanoma is a malignancy of the skin cells

called melanocytes, the specialized cells which produce the pigment that gives our skin, eyes, and hair their color.

When skin is exposed to sunlight, melanocytes produce more pigment, causing the skin to get darker. Usually cells grow, divide, and die according to their life cycle. Sometimes cells mutate, growing and dividing more rapidly than normal cells.

These abnormal cells

clump together to form tumors. Some may be malignant and invade healthy tissues, spreading to other parts of the body. Melanoma is a malignant skin cancer; if left unchecked, the cancer can spread to distant parts of the body and cause death.

Melanomas can appear anywhere on the body but are usually found on the legs in women, and abdomen, chest, back and scalp in men. They are most

common in older adults, with 65 being the average age at diagnosis, but melanoma is not uncommon in young people and it is one of the most common cancers in young adults, especially women.

Moles are non-cancerous growths, or clusters of melanocytes and surrounding tissue. A mole is also called a nevus, and several are called nevi.

Moles are common, with most adults having be-

tween 10 and 40 on various parts of the body.

They may be tan, brown, pink, or a color close to person’s natural skin tone.

They can be raised or flat, are usually round or oval, and about the size of a pencil eraser. Moles may be present at birth or may appear later. They usually fade away in older people.

Moles do not return once they are removed.

Continued on P21

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Explorer and Marana News, Dec , 

LIVEN UP

Our Favorite Tucson Albums from 2021 Jeff Gardner Tucson Local Media

T

ucson artists always manage to explore beyond the dusty musical confines listeners may expect from “the Old Pueblo.” And this year is no exception.

If any artistic good did come from the pandemic, it’s that creators had plenty of time to focus on and explore their craft. The albums out of Tucson this year certainly reflect that, with songs about isolation and uncertainty. But for every one of those, there was another song demanding perseverance and collaboration. Our favorite albums to come out of Tucson this year (ranked in no particular order) reminded us just how intertwined music is with community—and got us excited to see some of these musicians performing live once again.

XIXA Genesis Psychedelic desert rock group XIXA doubled down on their style for Genesis, mixing cumbia and tejano and Gothic aesthetics for a unique borderlands blend. With philosophical and alchemical references throughout, Genesis attempts to distill the mystery and power of the Sonoran Desert, but never loses any of the fun or energy that made XIXA’s previous music so engaging. Tracks like “Soma” and “Eve of Agnes” are further bolstered thanks to guest appearances from an international roster of musicians. Combine their hypnotic percussion and guitars with Brian Lopez and Gabriel Sullivan’s smoky vocals, and you have a wonderful replication of dancing in the dark desert.

Karima Walker Waking the Dreaming Body Recorded in a makeshift home studio, Karima Walker’s delicate combination of ambient and folk is a warm kind of lonely.

The aptly named Waking the Dreaming Body sees Walker spilling out her heart over sparse guitar and piano, with tender poetry in her lyrics. The songs often give way to vast ambient stretches that manage to feel equally important, as if Walker is ruminating on how to continue the album’s thread. She explained that during recording sessions, she found herself “thinking about the mirroring that happens when you seek connection to others and to the natural world—when you try to bring the outside in.”

Rarely does something so touching feel so ready to come apart in your hands,

granting credence to that old study claiming the human soul weighs less than a pound.

Mute Swan Only Ever Mute Swan is the kind of band that makes you wonder why you don’t go out to more live music.

Their heavy yet dreamy style of rock certainly has stage presence, but their new album Only Ever also manages to capture that massive sound. The album opens with steady drums and shimmering guitar, which slowly builds into a mellow jam that still manages to feel

all-encompassing.

The distant, airy vocals and layers of guitar pedals add a surreal backdrop for the central melodies to billow on top of. Only Ever wins this year’s award for sounding like you’re afloat in a silver cloud, with the occasional lightning bolt.

songs soaked in reverb and floating instrumenAsphalt Astronaut tals, but it never gets in Andromeda the way of storytelling or For her second al- Asphalt Astronaut’s gentle bum, Asphalt Astronaut vocal delivery. moves away from folk Desert Fantasy in exchange for a colDonde Duermes lection of dark, ambient pop songs. As the album This playful collection title implies, it’s a spacey and hushed collection of of tributes to the Tucson music, with bright points landscape atones for the keeping the album from countless sterile beat tapes being too brooding. Al- to be found online. Yes, though it is technically a the songs are instrumental break-up album, Asphalt and built around percusAstronaut sidesteps con- sion, but there’s not a moventional topics by sing- ment where they feel lacking about mythological ing or underdeveloped. creatures and the night Continued on P27 sky. Andromeda is heavy on atmosphere, with most

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Visit www.tucsonlocalmedia.com/livenup/calendar to submit your free calendar listing.

For event advertising, contact us (520) 797-4384 or tlmsales@tucsonlocalmedia.com

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SATURDAY, DEC. 18

• Celebrate HOPE for the HOLIDAYS at the Christmas spectacular variety show presented by Tucson Dance Academy filled with music, song, dancers and inspirational stories.

Details: 7:30 p.m.; DesertView Performing Arts Center, 39900 S. Clubhouse Drive; $30; 520-825-2818.

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FRIDAY TO SUNDAY THROUGH DEC. 19

• Catch a performance of the new holiday production for the entire family Escape for the Holidays featuring siblings solving secrets hidden in songs, stories and traditions.

Details: 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 2 p.m.

Sunday; Arizona Rose Theatre, 4500 N. Oracle Road, Suite 329; $20, $11 children; 520-888-0509; arizonarosetheatre.com.

• Enjoy a performance of the classic-style White Christmas The Musical. Details: 7 p.m. Friday, 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday; Arts Express Theatre, Park Place Mall, 5870 E. Broadway Blvd., Suite 214; $40; arts-express.org.

5th Ave.; $15-$20; zuzimoveit.org.

THURSDAY TO SUNDAY, DEC. 2326

• Take a magical journey through swirling snowflakes, giant mice and soldiers and the breathtaking Kingdom of the Sweets at the beloved Ballet Tucson production The Nutcracker. Details: 7 p.m. Thursday, 3 p.m. Friday; 1 and 5 p.m. Sunday; Tucson Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave.; $25-$65; ticketmaster.com.

WEDNESDAY TO FRIDAY AND SUNDAY THROUGH DEC. 24

• Bring the kids and grandma to the Jingle Bell Rockin’ Revue with all your favorite holiday hits guaranteed to put you in the Christmas spirit.

Details: 6 p.m. Wednesday-Friday, 2 or 3 p.m. select Sundays; Gaslight Music Hall, 13005 N. Oracle Road; $27, $15 children; 520-529-1000 or gaslightmusichall.com.

MUSIC

Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa, Lookout Tucson Bar & Grill; 245 E. Ina Road; $10; 602-349-3137.

FRIDAY, DEC. 17

• Kick up your heels at the Music for the Soul Dance Party with The George Howard Band. Details: 7 p.m.; Gaslight Music Hall, 13005 N. Oracle Road; $20; 520-529-1000 or gaslightmusichall.com.

• Listen to the music of singer, songwriter, guitarist, poet and actor Pokey LaFarge performing timeless and multi-hued songs. Details: 7:30 p.m.; Fox Theatre, 17 W. Congress St.; $23-$38; foxtucson.com.

• Unwrap the history and legends behind holiday traditions at the SaddleBrooke Singers’ A Toast to Traditions featuring some of your most beloved Christmas carols and holiday songs. Details: 7:30 p.m.; DesertView Performing Arts Center, 39900 S. Clubhouse Drive; $20; 520-825-2818.

SATURDAY, DEC. 18

• Celebrate the holidays in a special way at the Most Wonderful Time of the Year with the Pete THURSDAY TO SATURDAY, Swan Band. Details: 2 and 6 p.m.; DEC. 1618 Gaslight Music Hall, 13005 N. • Listen to Live Music Concerts preOracle Road; $27; 520-529-1000 or sented by the Southern Arizona Arts gaslightmusichall.com.

TUESDAY, DEC. 21 and Cultural Alliance featuring jazz on • Listen to the Tucson Boys • Don’t miss the ZUZI! Dance Winter Solstice Celebration “Where You Place Thursday, rock on Friday and blues on Chorus Holiday Concert featuring Your Feet.”Details: 8 p.m.; Scoundrel and Saturday. Details: 5-7 p.m. Thursday, traditional classics, popular music, 6-8 p.m. Friday-Saturday; Westward patriotic melodies and western folk Scamp Theatre, in the Historic Y, 738 N.

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Explorer and Marana News, Dec , 

songs. Details: 3 p.m.; UA Crowder Hall, 1017 N. Olive Road; $15-$20; $8 children; boyschorus.org.

• Don’t delay to get your tickets to Shine On Floyd by a tribute band that plays all the classics note-fornote and a light and laser show.

Details: 7 p.m.; Berger Performing Arts Center, 1200 W. Speedway Blvd.; $30; 602-750-7268.

• Liven up your holidays with Tucson’s favorite holiday tradition In the Christmas Mood: A Holiday Music Spectacular featuring timeless treasures and new songs that’ll make your season merry and bright. Details: 7:30 p.m.; Fox Theatre, 17 W. Congress St.; $20-$38; foxtucson.com.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Way; $15, $4 children; 520-326with over a million twinkling 9686 or tucsonbotanical.org. lights while musicians and artists perform throughout the gardens at Holiday Nights. Details: 5:30-8:30 p.m.; Tohono Chul Park, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte; $17, $6 children; 520-742-6455.

CHILDREN

SATURDAY, DEC. 18

• Celebrate a twenty-year neighborhood icon at the North Stone Avenue Mural Restoration bringing together artists and local students in a community-inspired project reflecting what the platform of public art can accomplish when done well. Details: 2-4 p.m.; Stone Avenue between Roger and Limberlost Roads; free.

DAILY THROUGH DEC. 26

• Bring the kids and grandma to the annual family-friendly holiday tradition Winterhaven Festival of Lights and bring a donation for the Community Food Bank of Southern THURSDAY TO SUNDAY, Arizona. Details: 6-10 p.m.; WinterDEC. 1631 • Bring the entire family to the annu- haven Neighborhood, Fort Lowell al favorites “Season of Light” and Road between Country Club Road and Tucson Blvd.; free admission but “Holiday Laser Show” weaving donations welcome; winterhaventogether the Winter Solstice with festival.org. the history of light festivals across times and cultures and a laser show full of Christmas and seasonal songs. DAILY THROUGH DEC. 30 • Stroll through the twinkling lights Details: “Season of Light”: 3:30 and enjoy family fun at ZooLights: p.m. Tuesday and Thursday; 2 p.m.

Holiday Magic. Details: 6-8 p.m.; Wednesday, Friday and Saturday; Reid Park Zoo, 3400 E. Zoo Ct.; $11; 12:30 p.m. Sunday; “Holiday Laser 520-791-3204 or reidparkzoo.org.

Show”: 2 p.m. Tuesday, 3:30 p.m.

Saturday-Sunday; Flandrau Science WEDNESDAY TO SUNDAY Center & Planetarium, 1601 E. University Blvd.; $9, $7 youth/students; THROUGH JAN. 2 • Enjoy a lighted holiday stroll 520-621-7827 or flandrau.org. among thousands of luminarias, and poinsettias with festive FRIDAY TO SATURDAY, DEC. lanterns holiday music playing at Wander1718 land. Details: 5:30-8:30 p.m.; Tucson • Stroll along paths garlanded Botanical Gardens, 2150 N. Alvernon

SATURDAY, DEC. 18

• Make and take crafts, meet Santa and play holiday games amid the festive decorations at Winter Wonderland. Details: 10 a.m.-noon; International Wildlife Museum, 4800 W. Gates Pass Road; $5; 520-7984867 or thewildlifemuseum.org.

• Enjoy treats and pose for a photo at Story Time with Mrs. Claus sponsored by Chantilly Tea. Details: 1 and 2:30 p.m.; CATALYST, Tucson Mall, 4500 N. Oracle Road; $18; chantillytea.com.

SATURDAY AND TUESDAY, DEC. 18 AND 21

• Celebrate the holiday season with Red Herring Puppets at the Italian Christmas Story capturing the mystery and majesty of the season as it embodies the spirit of goodness and hope. Details: 7 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m.

Tuesday; Tucson Mall, 4500 N. Oracle Road; $10; redherringpuppets.com.

Tech Talk

Continued from P11

semiconductor laser manufacturing facility. Construction on the facility is expected to begin in spring 2022. Sun Corridor, Inc., a Southern Arizona economic development organization, announced that Leonardo Electronics’ new site is expected to expand over five years and will add an additional 170 jobs with a total capital investment of approximately $100 million, resulting in an estimated economic impact of more than $300,000,000 over the next decade.

“This new larger facility will support our business growth across all key market segments,” said Matthew Keegan, president and CEO, Leonardo Electronics US Inc. “We ultimately selected Innovation Park in Oro Valley due to its proximity to our existing employee base and exceptional talent in the region, which is one of the leading photonics technology hubs in the country.”

Leonardo Electronics is a US subsidiary of Leonardo, an Italian global aerospace, defense and security company. Oro Valley’s Innovation Park already

houses multiple upscale technology and medical companies, including Roche Tissue Diagnostics, Meggitt Securaplane and the Oro Valley Hospital.

“We are thrilled to welcome Leonardo Electronics US to Oro Valley and to the Innovation Park family of high-tech and bio science companies,” said Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield. “Leonardo’s specialized manufacturing techniques and international reach complement the other high caliber companies in our community, bringing quality jobs to Oro Valley and enhancing the town’s reputation as a bioscience and high-tech hub. We look forward to seeing them grow and thrive for many years to come.”

FRIDAY TO SUNDAY THROUGH DEC. 19

• Join the fun and pandemonium at the traditional holiday production Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree: A Christmas Sing-A-Long back this year and bigger and better than ever. Details: 7 p.m.

Friday-Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday; Live Theatre Workshop Children’s Theatre, 3322 E. Fort Lowell Road; $12, $10 children; 520-327-4242.

Tis’ The Season for Candle Safety The National Fire Protection Association offers the following tips that may help reduce the risk for fire and injury in your home this holiday season.

• Blow out candles when you leave a room or go to bed.

Christmas Christmas Eve ServicesEve Services • Keep candles 12 inches away from anything that can burn.

Please join or us online in-person or online • Use candle holders that are sturdy, and won’t tip over easily.

Please join us in-person Christmas Eve Services

Dec. 24 at 3:30 pm and 7:00 pm Dec. 24 at 3:30 pm and join 7:00 pm or online Please us in-person

• Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface.

• Use caution when lighting candles; keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame.

• Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home.

• Never leave a child alone in a room with a burning candle.

• Keep matches and lighters out of reach from children.

Casas Casas Adobes Adobes Congregational Congregational Church Casas Adobes Congregational Dec. 24 at 3:30 pmChurch and 7:00 pm Church United Church of Christ United Church of Christ Casas Adobes Congregational Church United Church of Christ 6801 North United ChurchOracle of ChristRd., Tucson 6801 North Oracle Rd., Tucson 6801 North Oracle Rd., Tucson 6801 North Oraclewww.caucc.org/christmas Rd., Tucson www.caucc.org/christmas www.caucc.org/christmas Golder Ranch Fire District Administration | 3885 E. Golder Ranch Drive, Tucson, AZ 85739 | grfdaz.gov www.caucc.org/christmas

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LIVEN UP

Explorer and Marana News, Dec , 

The Jons celebrate the season at the Rialto Theater this weekend Matthew Singer

Special to Tucson Local Media

W

hen the world went into lockdown last year, the presumed silver lining was that we’d all have enough free time to complete those personal projects that life’s daily obligations previously kept getting in the way of. That’s not quite how it played out for everyone, of course, but some people did manage to peel themselves off the couch and away from their seventh rewatch of The Office long enough to get something done.

In the case of veteran Tucson Latin rockers the Jons, it was finally realizing an idea the band had been kicking around for nearly half its existence: recording a Christmas album.

“We’d been talking about it for so long. I’m talking maybe 10 years,” says drummer James Peters. “Everybody does it.

All the big bands do it.

We thought we should do it because it’d be funny for a Tucson band to do a Christmas record.”

For fans of the band, which formed two decades ago when its founding members were just out of high school, the project must’ve also seemed long overdue: The Jons’ holiday shows at Club Congress have become an annual tradition. Capturing the spirit on record just made sense. So, in the not-soholly-jolly month of May 2020, the septet convened at Peters’ home studio and attempted to conjure some Yuletide cheer, revamping 10 holiday classics in the band’s energetic, hornheavy, genre-jumping style. A Very Jons Christmas arrived on Bandcamp and CD last November—a gift for fans at the end of an exceedingly difficult year.

But with the pandemic surging, there was no possibility to do a show to celebrate it. The band

livestreamed a few performances to push the album, but it didn’t feel nearly the same. That makes the upcoming return of the A Very Jons Christmas concert—which this year graduates from Club Congress to the larger Rialto Theatre—both something of a delayed album release show and a homecoming for the band, which hasn’t played a headlining gig in Tucson since its last Christmas show in 2019.

“We were like, ‘All right, it’s time to try to book something in Tucson again,’ and that’s when the Christmas show came up,” says singer-trumpeter Jon Villa. “Why not come back with one of the happiest shows ever?”

In fairness, “happiest show ever” could describe most of the shows the Jons play. Spreading good vibes is pretty much the band’s whole mission. Growing up together in Nogales, Arizona, Villa, Peters and the since-departed Sergio

Mendoza started the Jons in 2000 after reconnecting in Tucson. (Villa insists the name was a mutual decision.) Initially, the idea was to sound like “a Latin version of the Beatles,” but as the lineup expanded, the approach became much more eclectic, leaping from salsa and cumbia rhythms to ska, punk and pop, all while keeping the party energy high. Members have come and gone, and in some cases come back, but the Jons have stayed a Tucson music institution for 20 years, even as other commitments have made hometown gigs increasingly rare. (Villa, Peters and bassist Javier “Escubi” Gamez tour with Phoenix cult favorites Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers, while Peters also drums in ex-member Mendoza’s “indie mambo” project Orkesta Mendoza.)

So yeah, if anyone in the city is equipped to wring fresh fun out of some hoary old chestnuts, it’s

probably these guys. bleeped curse words.) But A Very Jons Christmas it never sounds like 10 is, indeed, a very Jons-style different bands playing 10 Christmas album. While different songs. Held tothe band’s holiday live sets gether by the vibrant horn have consisted of covers section and Villa’s velvety and covers-of-covers, for croon, it only sounds like the recording, the band the Jons. set out to create all-new The songs will make arrangements of tradition- their live debut this week al classics. True to form, at the Rialto, a show that’ll the album takes several also feature cameos from stylistic zigzags. “White other Tucson musicians, Christmas” and “Winter as well as solo sets from Wonderland” both get Roger Clyne and Jons keyslinky, uptempo makeo- boardist Paul Jenkins. It’s vers, bringing to mind im- another small gift for what ages of spending the hol- was once again an exhaustiday at a Mexican resort ing year—but this time rather than a snowed-in around, it’s not just for the cabin. The instrumental fans, but the band, too. take on “Little Drummer “The people that are Sponsored by the St. Mark’s Fine Arts Boy” is similarly sweltergoing out to shows, they& Gra ing, propelled by twangy just want to let loose. surf guitars, while “Here They want to forget about Comes Santa Claus” starts all the restrictions we’ve with department-store pi- had for the past two years ano before exploding into or whatever, and they just a chugging, almost snarl- want to go out and have ing punk interpretation. fun anddisplaying listen to music Dozens of vendors unique g (In between, there are a and have a good time,” kindVilla crafts of“And, handmade few partiallyone-of-a improvised says. well, us cera jewelry, and the more. skits, made up mostlyart, of holiday as a band items, kind of want band in-jokes—and some same thing.”

Masterpiece Festi

Christmas Eve Services

Lessons and Carols: - 11 a.m. A service of Scripture and song that tells the Christmas story. Communion will be served.

Blessing of the Children: A family-oriented service with carols and a blessing of the children.

- 2 p.m. Dove Mountain CSTEM School, 5650 W. Moore Rd. - 4 p.m. Main campus, 1431 W. Magee Rd.

12th Annual Arts & Crafts S 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday, No

Door Prize Drawings/Food/Free Admission/Fre

A Modern Worship Service: - 6 p.m. With contemporary Praise Band and communion * A Traditional Candlelight Service: - 8 p.m. With Celebration Singers, concludes with candle lighting. *This service will be livestreamed on YouTube UMC St. Mark’s Oro Valley and on umcstmarks.org.

A Traditional Candlelight Service: - 10 p.m. With Chancel Choir and communion; concludes with candle lighting.

www.umcstmarks.org (Southwest corner of La Cañada and Ma 1431 W. Magee Rd., Tucson AZ 85704 (520) 297-2062 www.umcstmarks.org

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SPORTS EXTRA POINT WITH TOM DANEHY &RECREATION Mountain View grad now announcing games for the UA women’s basketball team Tom Danehy

Special to Tucson Local Media

I

f it wasn’t always your dream, is a dream job really that? Brody Dryden, the new playby-play announcer for the University of Arizona women’s basketball team, will argue that it is. Possessing an impressive lineage and having inherited a smooth, FM deejay voice, Dryden has hit the big time without ever having to have gone through the small time.

He gets to broadcast the play-by-play for a team ranked in the Top 10 nationally, a program that, after having lay dormant for a couple decades, has now burst onto the national scene, joining the likes of storied programs like Baylor and UConn in the process. And it’s a team that has developed a crazy local following that is still on an upward trajectory.

Having been a girls’ basketball coach for most of the past couple decades, I’ve always rooted for the women’s teams at Pima College and the University of Arizona. (For a long, long time, it was much easier to do so with Pima.)

I would listen to the UA radio broadcasts on the hard-to-find station that plays music for people

who have already died. I’d be driving along, listening and imagining that it was just me and the announcer and maybe four other people in the Tucson metropolitan area.

And what a strange trip that was. Back in the day, the voice of the Wildcat women’s team was Derrick Palmer. He knew basketball, he knew how to talk on the radio and he was the biggest homer of all time. It was like he had watched the movie “Major League” and tuned out all the stuff about baseball and love and stuff, and instead just concentrated on Bob Uecker’s radio announcing delivery. (“Man, we really got hosed on that call.”) He would remain fixated on a certain call or play that hadn’t gone the Wildcats’ way, still talking about it after minutes had elapsed on the play clock.

It was naughty fun listening to somebody who was so unashamedly biased in favor of the team for whom he was announcing. Palmer was also fortunate to be in the right place at the right time, handling the play-by-play duties as the Wildcat women rode their self-generated tsunami to national prominence, culminating with a spot in the National Championship game.

Stepping into that role could not have been easy for anyone, let alone for someone who was still in high school when the current head coach was first hired.

Brody Dryden, at first glance, had a fairly typical Tucson upbringing. He went to the local public schools, played some ball, and was a rabid Wildcat fan. But unbeknownst to many, he had an extra layer to his Wildcat fandom.

His dad is the legendary University of Arizona announcer Brian Jeffries.

(Jeffries is a stage name, you know, like Cary Grant was to Archibald Leach.)

Dryden went to high school at Marana Mountain View. He actually played basketball for the Mountain Lions, but tennis was his main sport.

“Basketball was always my favorite sport,” he explains, “but I was definitely better at tennis. After I left high school and stopped playing structured basketball, I actually got much better at it. I spent a lot of time at the campus rec center playing pickup ball.”

When he got to the UA, he majored in journalism and got into the campus radio station, KAMP (1570-AM). He did a lot of little things for the station, but then he broadcast the

Arizona Bowl in 2019 and the dream part kicked in.

A couple years later, in his senior year, he was doing the play-by-play for the final season in the stellar career of UA legendary softball coach Mike Candrea. When the women’s basketball gig opened up, he jumped on it.

“I owe my dad a great deal of gratitude,” he said.

“He has always been so helpful and so professional. I would watch him spread out the rosters

the top of her craft?

“Adia is wonderful.

Sometimes when I’m doing play-by-play, she’ll be standing right in front of me. I suppose it could be intimidating, but she lets me do my thing.”

He is obviously a fan, but hopes to maintain the family tradition of professionalism over all else.

“I’m living the dream,” he says. “And so far, every game I’ve ever called has been a Wildcat win.”

on the dining room table and go over all of the names in preparation for a game. He has given me some great advice, as well.

You should listen to your broadcasts, but don’t be hyper-critical. There’s no such thing as a perfect broadcast. You’re going to make mistakes; just try to learn from them.”

And what is it like working basically for and (disquietingly near) Adia Barnes, who in just a few short years, has risen to

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WWII veteran and COVID survivor Col. Richard Bushong recently celebrated his 98th birthday at the Pima Air and Space Museum, where he has volunteered for 29 years. A veteran of both WWII and the Vietnam War, Bushong is seen here sitting beneath the B-17 bomber he flew multiple missions in. Read more on page 12.

mask mandates, while events of more than 50 people would no longer require permission from local governments. ov. Doug Ducey lifted all Ducey also said requirements coronavirus restrictions for businesses to limit occupancy last week regarding local and take other steps to reduce the ordinances, businesses and spread of COVID would shift to events. recommendations and bars could Ducey said he would block now operate at full capacity. local jurisdictions from enacting Ducey noted the state’s on-

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going vaccination efforts—as of Monday, March 29, at least 2 million Arizonans had been given COVID-19 vaccines and 1.2 million were fully vaccinated. In addition, hospitalizations had decreased considerably since the January peak during the winter wave.

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aking charge of a police department with more than 100 officers is no easy feat even during a good year.

But Oro Valley Police Chief Kara Riley’s first year on the job included a pandemic, nationwide protests, natural disasters and shifting regulations.

In the law enforcement profession for nearly 30 years, Riley says 2020 turned out to be the most rewarding of her profession.

“We were really put to task and had some difficult, difficult times,” Riley said. “These challenges were things that haven’t been experienced in the law enforcement profession in many years, and the pandemic was just one of them.”

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(Left to right) Andy Cathey, Donny Cathey and Carly Timpf.

Photo by Gavin Dunham/HSSA

Cathey’s Sewing Drive Supports Humane Society

Valley fever dangers | Page 6

Sports & Rec

Jeff Gardner for local nonprofits. In addition, something for a charity… Animals Tucson Local Media Cathey’s also raises funds for the touch everyone’s lives, so to supore than a hundred shelter selected nonprofit from raffles and port a charity that helps house and animals awaiting adoption events. This year, the Humane So- support animals is always worthare now a little more com- ciety of Southern Arizona received while.” The sewing takes place durfortable — and stylish — 165 pet bandanas, 85 cat beds and ing Cathey’s Saturday classes, and thanks to a donation from Cathey’s $3,250. culminates in awards given to the Sewing & Vacuum to the Humane “Every year we try to choose a volunteers who are most artistic Society of Southern Arizona. different nonprofit, as locally ori- and go above-and-beyond. During

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The donations are part of ented as possible, with a sewing the finale, attendees vote on their New golf tourney Cathey’s annual Christmas-In-Ju- challenge we can connect them to,” favorites and the best use of emly sewing event, where customers said owner Donny Cathey. “Often broidery to decide the winners. | Page 15 and staff create specialized items it’s not too difficult to come up with

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Volume 28 • Number 33

What to keep in mind when choosing solar and contractors | Special Section

I’LL RETIRE IN ANOTHER DECADE

Watershed Renewal

The Voice of Marana since 2007

Home Sweet Home

work with federal government on vaccination sites | Page 5

INSIDE

RETIREMENT LIVING

MARANANEWS

August 18, 2021

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or more than nine weeks Arizona has seen an exponential increase in COVID-19 cases and public health experts predict the surge would likely exceed cases and hospitalizations seen last summer 2020.

In his latest COVID-19 forecast updated Aug. 14, Dr. Joe Gerald, an epidemiologist with the UA Zuckerman School of Public Health, reported Arizona has a rate of transmission of 255 cases per 100,000 individuals per week as of Aug. 8 and would likely soon exceed the rates seen during the summer of 2020, of 409 cases per 100,000 residents.

“While I am hopeful we will not reach the levels seen in the winter of 2021, the experience of other states (e.g., Louisiana) combined with inaction of our local and state officials suggests this may be wishful thinking,” said Gerald.

“Another wave of cases and hospitalizations caused by the Delta variant is now certain; the only question remaining is just how big.”

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Lawsuit: Fertility doctor fathered his patients’ children | Page 4 • UA assistant professor’s book becoming a movie | Page 9

FOOTHILLS NEWS

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DESERT TIMES The Voice of Southwest Tucson

V  • N 

Jan. 6, 2021 • Volume 11 • Number 1 • www.TucsonLocalMedia.com

Summer Survival 2021

It’s time to get out and safely have fun this summer | Special Section

INSIDE

FIDO FRESHENERS

As you were

A new startup business out of the University of Arizona is getting to the science behind bad dog breath, and how to cure it with specialized bacteria.

Pictured are co-founders Eric Lyons and Scott Zentack. Read more on page 6.

Experts say vaccinated people can resume most activities | Page 4

Past the worst of it

UA researcher ends COVID reports | Page 5

2020 in the rearview Looking back at the biggest local stories from an unprecedented year| Page 2

Local Music

Desert Heart, Mountain Soul | Page 9

should fire him.”

On May 5, the group received a letter from Finchem’s lawyers, which according to the Recall Finchem website, “demands Rural Arizonans for Accountability destroy all campaign materials Finchem incorrectly deems ‘defamatory’ and publish retractions in local newspapers. If not, Finchem’s lawyers promise to sue.”

Rural Arizonans’ lawyers rejected Finchem’s demand and stated they would seek sanctions against him should he sue.

See FINCHEM, P10

See MARANA, P8

Lawmaker threatens to sue recall proponents C D Tucson Local Media

S

tate Rep. Mark Finchem sent a “cease and desist” order to the group petitioning for his recall, threatening to sue the group for defamation.

The Republican, who represents District 11, faces a recall by Rural Arizonans for Accountability, a group of his district’s constituents, for spreading voter fraud conspiracy theories and his ties to the “Stop the Steal” rioters at the Jan. 6 Insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.

Natali Fierros, co-executive

Director of Rural Arizona Action, said they were approached by Finchem’s constituents to help organize the recall. “We exist to empower people, regular folks who are involved in the democratic system and really recalling an elected official is a power reserved for the people of Arizona by our state’s constitution,” said Fierros.

“If enough registered voters sign that petition and they agree that Finchem does lack integrity, that he is dangerous and an ineffective legislator, then it goes to the voters in that district to get a chance to vote on whether or not they

Marana’s Class of 2021 took on big challenges C D Tucson Local Media

M

arana High School Salutatorian Diya Patel didn’t sugarcoat the challenges of the last year in her graduation speech last month.

“I think most people would agree with me when I say that this has been a dreadful year,” Patel said. “Graduation speeches in the past have included stories of proms, formals and football games. However, this year we had to adjust to a brand new way of life full of Zoom calls, masks and COVID tests, which consisted of massive Q-tips being shoved up our noses. Instead of reminiscing on a joyful high school experience, we are all sitting here today, collectively taking a deep breath and just being grateful that we’re finally here.”

Patel, like so many other students, longed for a year of normalcy, but instead lived through a pandemic. Patel and fellow Marana Unified School District graduates expressed the woes of trying to graduate while juggling a series of changes beyond their control caused by the COVID-19 outbreak.

“This past year, the Class of 2021 proved that we were some of the most adaptable

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Explorer and Marana News, Dec , 

Athlete of the Week: Canyon Del Oro’s Anita Lopez Tom Danehy

Special to Tucson Local Media

T

here was an episode of “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” in which (main character) Mary Richards was going to receive an award at a banquet on Saturday.

But, beginning on Monday of that week, stuff just started happening. Her dry cleaning got messed up, she came down with the flu, and her hair wouldn’t hold a curl. By banquet time, she was a total disaster.

It wasn’t quite that bad for Anita Lopez, but she

has definitely had better weeks. It actually started off OK. Her Canyon Del Oro basketball team got its first win of the season, a double-digit victory over Walden Grove. But then things started going downhill.

First, she wasn’t feeling quite right. Then the Dorados got rocked by visiting Sahuarita. By the end of that game, it felt as though Lilliputians were playing a spirited game of rugby on the inside of her neck. Then came the diagnosis—strep throat. And it had spread throughout her team.

When I spoke her to

her on Friday, she sounded like Jimmy Durante had gargled sandpaper and Pop Rocks. It was hilarious, mostly because I was feeling perfectly fine.

She told me how she had also played volleyball and softball in middle school before giving them up to concentrate on basketball. Having suffered through the pandemic season (with a dismal 1-9 record), she’s hoping to have a strong senior season, even if it means occasionally having to be a 5’ 5” post player.

“Yes, sometimes I play in the post, but I’m mostly out on the wing,” she ex-

plains. “I’ll do whatever I can to help the team.”

An excellent student whose favorite subject is math (always the correct answer), she plans on attending Arizona State in the fall and majoring in law and public safety.

Speaking to me by phone from her home in Oracle, she expressed concern for her ill teammates and lamented that two of her team’s games had to be postposed, perchance to be re-scheduled. But she just knew that she was going to be fine the next day. You see, Saturday was the winter formal. No way she was going to be sick

and miss that, even if she did sound like a laryngitic goose and had a triple-digit temperature!

Trying to lighten the mood a bit, I asked her to name her favorite basketball movie. So, she says “1000 to 1,” a gut-wrenching story about a stud athlete who scores 1,000 points in high-school basketball, then suffers a stroke and spends the rest of the movie trying to rehab himself so that he can score at least one point in college.

Seriously?! (That has to be the strep throat talking…or rasping, as the case may be.)

Mask Wearing is Encouraged

I contacted her a few days later. She said she was feeling better, that she had gone to the dance and that most of her teammates were already on the mend. Soon it would be back to being the shortest post player in the 4A Kino Region.

Marana News, Dec. , 

Health & Wellness: Watching for signs of melanoma Continued from P12

While anyone can get melanoma skin cancer, there are risk factors that increase the chances of contracting this illness. Ultraviolet light can be dangerous and prolonged sun exposure to the point of burning greatly increases the risk of skin cancer in later years. All those summers of tanning have a cumulative effect.

In the United States, Arizona, Florida and Hawaii have greater incidences of skin cancers than do areas with less sunlight. Tanning booths have caused an increase in melanoma rates nationwide due to the UVA and UVB exposure.

People with fairer complexions have a greater risk; melanomas are 20 times more common in whites than people of African American descent. A family history of melanoma can increase one’s risk; 10 percent of people diagnosed with melanoma have family members who also have the disease. A personal history of any skin cancer (basal cell, squamous cell, or melanoma) in the past increases the chances of a recurrence. A weakened immune system due to illnesses such as HIV or lymphoma, and chemotherapy treatments will also increase the risk of melanoma. The number of moles a person has (regardless of type) can in-

crease the risk of contracting melanoma. The risk increase when the number of moles reaches or exceeds 50.

There are classic warning signs of melanoma.

“ABCDE” is simple to remember: A is for asymmetry. Imagine the lesion cut in half and the two sides will not look the same B is for borders. They are not well defined but irregular, or almost a shaggy appearance.

C is for color. The color is not uniform and may have two or more different colors.

D is for diameter, more than 6 millimeters.

E is for both elevation (changing height)

and evolving, if the lesion shows changes in size, shape or color and if it begins to bleed, itch or become painful. Any or all of these symptoms warrant a visit to your primary health care provider of to your dermatologist for evaluation.

Diagnosis is done with a biopsy and there are several treatment options depending on the staging of the melanoma.

There are five stages, 0-4. The lower the number, the less invasive; stage 0 means the cancer is localized and can be removed with relative ease and stage 4 would indicate that it has spread to a distant site and more difficult to treat.

They must be surgically re-

moved and chemotherapy, radiation and sometimes immunologic therapy may follow.

Prevention can save a lot of heartache in later years. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Stay out of tanning booths.

Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, and reapply often if swimming or perspiring heavily. Wear sunglasses in bright sunlight.

(Melanoma can also occur in the pigmented areas of the eyes.) Wear a hat when outdoors. Regularly examine your skin and look for the ABCDEs. Contact your primary healthcare provider if you find a sore that will not

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heal, a mole that bleeds and/or itches, a fast-growing mole, or a scaly or crusted growth on your skin. Any skin changes causing concern warrants an evaluation by your PCP. It is never too late to protect your skin. And as winter approaches, don’t think the risk for skin cancer decreases. As the weather cools, we are generally more covered but faces, arms, hands, legs, and scalps are always exposed. And in southern Arizona, shorts and tank tops are worn year round, so be diligent and always protect your skin!

Mia Smitt is a retired nurse living in Marana.

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HOROSCOPE By Holiday Mathis 3

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maintenance people 10 Eponym of a famed N.Y.C. deli 14 One who’s got the goods 16 Contents of Lago Titicaca 17 56-Across, to a dairy farmer 18 South African currency 19 Singer Rita 20 Side with tandoori chicken 21 Backed up, say 22 56-Across, to a smartphone user 25 On and on and on 28 x or y, in math class 29 ___ hand 30 State bird of Arizona or South Carolina 31 Debtor’s note 34 56-Across, to a gambler 39 Battle of Britain grp.

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and Romans to treat wounds

42 BuzzFeed offering 43 Becomes more and more

irksome

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protesters

50 Succeeded in 51 Bad, in Bolivia 52 “Wanna ___?”

55 Apple variety 56 Small amount 59 Mishap during a shave 60 Pharmacist’s workplace in a

hospital

61 They consist of reps 62 Actor Buddy of “The Beverly

Hillbillies”

63 Rustic verse

DOWN 1 Nordic capital 2 Marvel movie directed by

Kenneth Branagh

Know Us, Know Your Community

Robbins 9 Genesis craft 10 Gold standards 11 Its dried stalks can be used to make didgeridoos 12 The “dial” in “Don’t touch that dial” 13 Attractive, fashionable man, in modern parlance 15 “Yeezus” rapper 21 Author of the “Fear Street” series 22 Cartoon character who says “Swiper, no swiping!”

23 Stinger 24 Jump on the ice 25 Day of the week named after 2-Down: Abbr.

26 Actress Chaplin 27 “___ said!”

30 Is, in hindsight 31 Wait for the light to change, say 32 What helium and nitrogen lack 33 Exploits 35 Olympic event featuring a table 36 Not bring up 37 Popular flip phone of the mid2000s 38 Sworn words 42 Ones who treat people poorly?

43 Frothy beverage 44 Title woman in a hit song by Dexys Midnight Runners 45 Disdain 46 Lookalikes 47 “___ the Clown” (classic episode of “The Simpsons”) 48 Put into law 49 Make ___ of things 52 Bit of hair decoration 53 Professor ’iggins 54 Texter’s sign-off 56 Dedicated work 57 Writing tip?

58 CBS series with spinoffs

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You know the world. You’ve been places and related to many different types of people. You took risks, and now you get to enjoy one of the rewards, which is your ease in myriad situations. Because you can relax around new people and situations, you will be given options not afforded to others.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). The world is full of narcissists, egomaniacs and drama stars, and there’s no way to avoid difficult people altogether. While you’re not the casting director of your entire life, you most certainly can curate your main social circle. You’ll choose who to keep close. You’ll find excellent and qualified candidates this week.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). There’s a decision to be made. In the past, you would have brought it to the group or let those close to you weigh in.

But you’re the one who is going to be living the outcome of this choice. Think it through, then pick what gives you the best shot at delight, adventure and enjoyment.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). There are no shortcuts in relationships. People can become fast friends, but those bonds are only as strong as the number of moments it takes to braid them.

You’ll enjoy creating relationships. It’s important work, and you’ll give it your full attention and care. Trust is built over time but can be broken in an instant.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You will lead with a vision of what’s good for the group. You, like every other individual, will benefit as the group does. What happens through this mission will be more valuable than what can be stated in financial terms. Lives will be different because of what you do together.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). When asked, you’ll give an honest answer. Still, you’ll consider your audience and whether they have a right to know or are just being nosy. More importantly, when you’re not asked, you’ll keep your opinion to yourself. There’s safety in steering conversation to safe, pleasant and positive topics.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). There’s no reason to stress about what to do, which way to go, who to be with or anything of the sort because, in all of these regards, there isn’t one right idea for you. You’ve grown so versatile that there are many options that would be an excellent fit for you. Explore the possibilities.

Your future is bright.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). At some point in this fast journey through the thick blur of the week, you’ll be wise to lay on the brakes.

Given your momentum, it may take your entire body weight to bring the mechanics to a full stop, but it will be of great benefit to come to a screeching halt, if only for a moment, to ask, “Who is taking care of me?”

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Events of the past don’t change, but the version of them you tell yourself and others can’t help but evolve.

Looking back, you’ll realize things you didn’t before. Your memories will come to mean something different. A fresh take on your story is coming together to empower you for the next adventure.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). You’ll be made aware of the price of a prize. Figure in the emotional labor and the energetic tax, and it’s way higher than previously assessed, though you may still be interested. In general, you’re not told often enough how valuable your contributions are. Remind yourself so you’ll have the courage to ask more of life.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You could drive a hard bargain if you really wanted to, but you realize

Crossword Puzzle Answers

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that there is much more to gain in any deal than the dollar amount can encompass. You’ll negotiate on matters worthwhile, which may not be financial. Mutually satisfying deals will be struck quickly and without formal contracts.

O T I S D R A M A K A T Z S H O P K E E P E R A G U A L O W F A T M I L K R A N D O R A N A A N S A V E D D Y I N G B A T T E R Y T O N O E N D A X I S H O U R W R E N I O U U N F A V O R A B L E O D D S R A F A M A S A L O E Q U I Z F E S T E R S T H E U L T R A R I C H W O N A T M A L O B E T I M A C O N E P E R C E N T N I C K D I S P E N S A R Y S E T S E B S E N I D Y L

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ARIES (March 21-April 19). You could do it alone, but you’ll get there much faster with coaching. Whether it’s a knotty problem or a fun goal, bring it to an objective party. Truthfully, this person doesn’t even have to be skilled on the topic to show you things you hadn’t considered before, expose your blind spots or provide you with accountability.

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Explorer and Marana News, Dec , 

Worship Guide 520.797.4384

METHODIST

METHODIST

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VISTA DE LA MONTAÑA UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

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Changing the world through Christ, by caring for all people

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LUTHERAN

8:30 & 10 a.m. in person 10 a.m. online umcstmarks.org/live-worship

Please joinWorship us for for In-Person Vista Sunday at 10Church amand Please join us LIVE! Online service Children’s Sunday School Live Streamed Worship Service Sunday @ 10am @ 10:00am at 10:15 am after the children’s www.vistaumc.org www.vistaumc.org time in the church service or watch anytime using the the previor watch anytime using ous broadcast previous broadcast Adult Sunday Schoolbutton!

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11:15 am Please visit our website and/ 3001 E. Miravista Catalina or VistaUMC onLane, Facebook for Facebookfor viewing and daily updates updates on our our viewing on Locatedand on daily Oracle Rd. between Sunday services. services.

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Wilds Rd. & Golder Ranch Rd.

1431 W. Magee Rd. (520-297-2062) www.umcstmarks.org

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(520) 825-1985 www.vistaumc.org

Christmas Eve Services

UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

Christmas Services or onlin Please join Eve us in-person

Casas Adobes Congregational Church An Open and Affirming Congregation of the UCC

Please join usyouin-person No matter who are or whereor youonline are

Dec. 24 journey, at 3:30you pm 7:00 pm on life’s areand welcome here!

Dec. 24 at 3:30 pm and 7:00 pmEve Services Casas Adobes Christmas

Casas Adobes Congregational Church

Call 520-797-4384 CATHOLIC

CATHOLIC ST. MARK THE EVANGELIST CATHOLIC CHURCH

2727 W. TANGERINE ROAD ORO VALLEY, AZ 85742 520.469.7835 WWW.STMARKOV.COM

Reconciliation: T-F at 7:30 am, Sat at 3:15 pm and by appointment.

SATURDAY: 4:00 PM Vigil Mass SUNDAY: 7:00 AM 8:30 AM Masks required 10:00 AM 11:30 AM

Christmas Concert December 22nd 8:00 pm Live-streamed on all our media platforms

Christmas Mass Schedule

Friday 24th—Christmas Eve 4:00 pm Vigil Mass 6:00 pm Vigil Mass Saturday 25th—Christmas Midnight Mass 7:00 am Mass 8:30 am Mass 10:00 am Mass 11:30 am Mass You can listen from your car during all Masses on Station 106.1 FM

Join Congregational UsPlease forjoin Church Casas Adobes Congregational Church us in-person or online United Church of Christ United Church of Christ In-Person Dec. 24 and at 3:30 pm and 7:00 pm United Church of Christ6801 North Oracle Rd., Tucson Casas Adobes Congregational Church North Oracle Rd., Tucson 68016801 North Oracle Rd.,www.caucc.org/christmas Tucson United Church of Christ Online Worship Services 6801 North Oracle Rd., Tucson www.caucc.org/christmas www.caucc.org/christmas www.caucc.org/christmas www.caucc.org/welcome/worship 520.297.1181 | info@caucc.org | 6801 N. Oracle Road

LUTHERAN RESURRECTION LUTHERAN CHURCH AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER

11575 N. 1st Ave. Oro Valley, AZ 85737 (520) 575-9901

Welcome to Resurrection Lutheran! Come join us every Saturday evening or on Sunday for worship!

Oro Valley Location

5:00 pm Saturday evening Worship 7:45 am and 9:15 am Traditional Worship 10:45 am Contemporary Worship Friday, December 24 3:00pm Family Candlelight Service 5:00pm Contemporary Candlelight Service 7:00 and 9:00pm Traditional Candlelight services

NO services Christmas Day. Sunday, December 26 - 1 service only 9:15 am Lessons and Carols Wednesday Advent Services December 1, 8,15 and 22 at 12 noon

SaddleBrooke Location

SaddleBrooke 9:00 am Worship HOA1 Clubhouse Vermilion Room.

SaddleBrooke Christmas Eve Service at 1:00 pm HOA1 Vermilion Room Online worship available anytime to fit your schedule.

Check our website for more information

www.orovalley.org

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Explorer and Marana News, Dec , 

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Marana News, Dec. , 

Classifieds Tucson Albums EXPLORER MARANA NEWS

Al Foul. At more than an hour, this tribute album 520.797.4384 jumps everywhere from The Place “To Find” Everything You Need Classifieds@tucsonlocalmedia.com blues to rock to pop, but EMPLOYMENT GENERAL maintains an uplifting the desert sunrise. atmosphere. But the fact Continued from P13 TRAIN ONLINE TO DO MEDICAL BILLING! Bethe project is a result of come a Medical Office ProVarious Artists local artists and their cafessional online at CTI! Get Al Foul: A Tribute to the maraderie probably repTrained, Certified & ready One and Only resents Tucson more than Donde Duermes is a to work in months! Call 866-459-5480. The Misany one song can. dense yet groovy series of sion, Program Information Not a traditional alcompositions inspired by and Tuition is located at David Huckfelt desert sights, with songs bum, but this collection CareerTechnical.edu/confrom more than a dozRoom Enough, Time like “Dark Side of the sumer-information. (M-F en Tucson musicians 8am-6pm ET) (AzCAN) Enough Dune,” “Ocotillo Wand,” and “Arroyo Seco.” The saw plenty of play time Immediate NW On the pleasantly subsongs may start with a around the Weekly officRemodeler Asst es this year—and all for a versive Room Enough, new-agey drum founSpecializing in NW Tucson & Oro Valley. Min dation, but they mix in good cause. Local trouba- Time Enough, folk singer supervision - frame, tile, swirling synthesizers, dours like Calexico, Leila David Huckfelt sought to paint, drywall, texture. acoustic strings, marimba Lopez, Howe Gelb, Naim “deconstruct the cowboy Needs reliable and more. This makes for Amor, Katie Haverly, myth.” The album is still transportation, clean record, trustworthy, a rich sonic palette that Golden Boots and more rooted in the singer/songhonest, neat appearance jumps everywhere from lent their time and talent writer tradition, but rein& communication skills. cumbia to funk to EDM to raise medical funds vents folk standards with Please email work history, to ambient as gorgeous as for local rockabilly rebel multiple vocal lines and resume and pay scale to

one more great collection of local music going to a good cause. The original Luz de Vida, released in 2011, saw Tucson musicians gather and record music to raise funds for victims of the mass shooting at Gabby Giffords’ Congress on Your Corner. For the 10th anniversary, Luz de Vida II raises funds for the local nonprofit Homicide Survivors Inc. This collection of conscious and inspired folk and rock includes Tucson-affiliated artists like Calexico, The Resonars, XIXA, Dr. Dog, Hannah Yeun and more.

Various Artists Kudos to Tucson musiLuz de Vida II cians for making damnWe figure we might near everything better as well use this space to this year. spread the love and fit in the occasional electronic instrument. Huckfelt’s smooth singing and poetry mix surprisingly well with his efforts to avoid any and all limitations or thematic constraints.

It’s an album hell-bent on common-ground after years of division. Accompanied by a fleet of Tucson musicians and indigenous artists, Huckfelt lays out the roadmap for a new kind of Americana music, one that stretches across the lonesome prairie into the mountains and woods beyond.

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Explorer and Marana News, Dec , 

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Explorer and Marana News, Dec 15, 2021

Explorer and Marana News, Dec 15, 2021