Zocalo Magazine November 2011

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Z贸 e n zi m a o g a g.c M e Ma n e eZ c S Th n 1/ a b 1 r 20 U r n be o s c vem u T o n

zó•ca•lo Mexican Spanish.

1. a public square or plaza, esp. in the center of a city.

2. a gathering place or the center of activity in a community.

Zócalo Tucson Magazine is an independently published community magazine, showcasing Tucson’s urban arts and culture.

EDITOR Jamie Manser PRODUCTION ARTISTS Troy Martin, David Olsen CONTRIBUTORS Marisa Bernal, Sarah Burton, VK Embee, Emily Gindlesparger, Kelly Lewis, Jim Lipson, KXCI, Jamie Manser, Troy Martin, Jared R. McKinley, Phoenix Michael, Matthew Nelson, David Olsen, Dan Rylander, David Schaeffer, Dolly Spalding, Herb Stratford.

ADVERTISING Marie Hancock PUBLISHER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR David Olsen

CONTACT US: frontdesk@zocalotucson.com P.O. Box 1171 Tucson, AZ 85702-1171 520.955.ZMAG (9624)

November 2011

05 ARTS 06 FILM 23 SCIENCE 24 FOOD&DRINK 26 FASHION 30 COMMUNITY 33 BUSINESS 37 EVENTS 40 TUNES 45 ESCAPE 50 NEWS

ON THE COVER: The Zephyr, by Wil Taylor. Wil and 30 other artists will hang their bicycle inspired artwork at The VelociPrint Show 2011, opening November 12 at Borderlands Brewery. Read more about it on page 11 and visit VelociPrints.com

Zócalo Tucson Magazine is a proud member of All content copyright © 2011 by Media Zócalo, LLC. Reproduction of any material in this or any other issue is prohibited without written permission from the publisher and author.

No person may, without prior written permission of the publisher, take more than one copy of each issue.

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Tucson is home to many nuts, and cycling nuts are toward the top of the list.

I love that about this town. It’s cool to see all types of bicyclists tooling around, from the serious spandex-sporting cyclists on their 500-gear fancy velocipedes to my neighbor whose bike squeaks at a pitch that belongs in a horror movie.

I personally dig a cruiser, big seat for my big bum, wide handles, pedaling at a Sunday morning pace to take in the scene.

As most of you know, November is the proverbial mecca month for cycling nuts, especially between El Tour (page 41) and the GABA Bike Swap (page 44). What’s new this year is art show VelociPrint, in deference to our beloved pedal-powered transporters (page 11). Zócalo loves bikes and art and is a sponsor of this event.

Speaking of art, it’s that time of year again for the Open Studio Tour, where hundreds of artists let you peek inside their creative lairs, read more on page 21.

Of course it’s not November without the All Souls Procession. I am generally shocked when I meet Tucsonans who have not participated in the event, which isn’t all that often. I always say, hey, it’s never too late to be a part of this unique and moving, heartrending and healing, meaningful and sometime surreal occasion. It really does feel like we are walking as one, a community coming together to remember, re-focus, and rejoice the lives/mourn the deaths of those (people, pets, concepts) we love. It takes a lot of dough to put on this spectacular evening, about $75,000 in police costs, street closures and for the grand finale. Give a few bucks, and encourage your buddies to, too. Visit AllSoulsProcession.org to donate and see pages 6 and 8-9.

- Jamie Manser

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Tidbits photo courtesy Demion Clinco

The new Tucson Farmers’ Market at Maynards, every Saturday.

Tile restoration done by the Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation.

Construction of UniSource Energy’s new corporate headquarters at 88 E. Broadway Blvd. is nearly complete. Employees will begin moving into the building early this month, and the building will be finished and fully occupied by the end of the month.

The nine story building will provide 170,000 square feet of office space for more than 500 people working for Tucson Electric Power, UniSource Energy’s principal subsidiary. It includes 11,000 square feet of groundfloor retail space, a state-of-the-art conference center, on-site parking and a long list of environmentally responsible features.

“We have great and diverse restaurants, amazing gift & apparel stores & salons that are open in the evening. Offering free parking in the Tyndall garage is a good way to introduce the new offerings to locals, “ said Jane McCollum, General Manager.

The Tyndall Garage is located on 4th Street between Tyndall & Euclid.

The new weekly Tucson Farmers’ Market at Maynards launched in October to a very warm reception. The market features offerings from 20+ vendors who sell naturally grown produce, fresh baked goods, grass-fed beef, salmon, tamales, botanicals, tea, coffee, tortillas, native Southwestern foods, and lots more. Maynards Market itself also has ready-made foods on hand.

The farmers’ market is every Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., downtown at The Depot, next to Maynards Kitchen and across the street from local landmark Hotel Congress.

In conjunction with the Farmers’ Market, Maynards Chef Addam will prepare a family-style Sunday dinner with fresh ingredients personally selected at the Saturday Farmers’ Market. Seating for up to 16 people is every Sunday at 5pm. Advanced reservations are recommended, 545-0577.

Free parking! Main Gate Square & UA Parking & Transportation are currently piloting an evening validation program just off of University Blvd in the Tyndall Garage. Validation will be in place Monday-Friday from 5 p.m. to midnight. Saturdays & Sundays the garages are already free (except football Saturdays).

All merchants, restaurants & cafes at Main Gate Square will validate with a purchase. If you are attending UA Presents or other events on campus and the Tyndall lot is pay in advance, customers just need to mention that they will be dining or shopping at a Main Gate location and will receive a ticket that a Main Gate Merchant will validate.

The ladies of Preen ended their affair with retail last month in order to focus on their true loves: repairing, designing, and re-working clothing. Enter: new sewing studio. Moving from the storefront at 210 N. 4th Ave., Erin Bradley and Emilie Marchand are now in an intimate studio behind their previous retail space. The ladies are looking forward to being able to spend more quality time working with and focusing solely on their customers. 115 N. Hoff Ave. #101. By appointment only, email preentucson@gmail.com.

Last month, The Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation in partnership with Santa Theresa Tile Works and the Downtown Tucson Partnership organized a three day workshop October 7-9 to restore the 1927 tiles on the Chicago Music Store building.

There were 15 participants from Tucson, Silver City, St. David and as far away as Austin who worked to removed 50 years of paint and dirt, exposing the 1920s yellow and black ceramic tiles.

Over the years the tiles were painted, first gray, then green and finally red. The team striped, cleaned, re‑grouted and replaced these architectural treasures and brought back a rich historic color palette to Congress Street.

After 18½ years of serving the community, Old Pueblo Trolley’s operation of historic streetcars was suspended at the end of October until construction of the modern streetcar project is expected to be finished in 2013. Initial project work will provide an improved drainage system on 7th Street and 8th street necessitating removal of the track and overhead electric conductor. This work is scheduled to be followed by replacement of the single existing track and overhead on 4th Avenue and University Blvd. with new double track and overhead electric supply system. n

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photo courtesy: Karen Falkenstrom/Odaiko Sonora

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ARTS

Beating The Processional Heart

By Emily Gindlesparger On Sunday, November 6, a community gathers on 4th Avenue, with perhaps painted faces and decorated hair, prayers in hand. Diverse traditions are carried down the streets; remembrances placed in the urn to burn, and behind the urn will be Odaiko Sonora, beating the pulse of the All Souls Procession on big drums.

“Taiko have always been used in Japan for this kind of thing: processing through the streets of villages to banish evil spirits and bless the homes, to mark time, for harvest, for grieving, for celebrating,” says Karen Falkenstrom, who co-directs Odaiko Sonora with her partner Rome Hamner.

“As Tucson’s taiko team, it’s kind of our job to be there—to call people to gather, to keep a heartbeat for the dancers’ and walkers’ feet, to fill the air with sound and wake the forces that be to our ceremony.”

The procession is a celebration with an expanding community every year, and this year hosts a new route and welcomes a new finale venue, the Mercado San Agustín on West Congress Street. Donations collected in the hats—hats in hands, hats on bicycles—during the procession will help develop the site into the future festival grounds and pay for the event’s costs.

“The All Souls Procession remains stalwartly real, created each year

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from scratch by the people who participate in it,” Falkenstrom says. “It belongs to everyone who helps make it happen, from digging trenches, to crafting costumes, to playing music, to bringing photos of loved ones who have passed, to cleaning up afterwards.

“The state of the world and this country deserve some attention in this year’s procession,” she continues. With revolutions in the Middle East, protests on Wall Street, and after own tragic shootings in January, “I feel like we are burning off an old way of being, and we have choices about where we are going,” Falkenstrom says.

Our procession, to mark endings and celebrate beginnings, is everything we make it. n The All Souls Procession begins at 6 p.m. Sunday, November 6 in front of Epic Cafe, 745 N. 4th Ave. The Grand Finale is at the Mercado San Agustín, 100 S. Avenida del Convento at West Congress Street, featuring Flam Chen with Community Spirit Group, Roskruge Mariachi, Odaiko Sonora, Batucaxe, Tucson Puppet Works and many others. Visit AllSoulsProcession.org for up-to-date information, other associated events, and to download a prayer form to place in the urn.

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Okay Go by John Randall Nelson

The Art of Velocipedes by Kelly Lewis ve·loc·i·pede: noun - a vehicle, usually having two or three wheels, that is propelled by the rider.

In a time when El Tour de Tucson is putting national attention on cycling, local artists are showing their support for Tucson’s thriving bike community through an exhibit called The VelociPrint Show 2011, in which all works of art are bicycle-related.

In screen prints, wood blocks and limitededition posters, 30 local artists will showcase their love for velocipedes November 12-13 at Borderlands Brewing Company, 119 E. Toole Ave. All of the pieces are $35 regardless of size, with bicycle-advocacy groups BICAS and El Grupo receiving a percentage of the proceeds.

Admission to the show is free.

“My piece is about the culture of Tucson: it’s bicycles and it’s bar life,” said Mel Dominguez, a local artist who painted a set of prints for the show. “Since moving (from Los Angeles) to Tucson, I sort of found my mojo here, and I’ve been so blessed to create and paint some things that I like and enjoy, like bicycles. It’s part of the culture that we love.”

The exhibit is a result of a year’s worth of planning by Nathan Saxton, owner of Borealis Arts, who first became inspired to host the event after visiting ARTCRANK, a bike-themed art poster show in Denver, Colorado.

“I started becoming a bike commuter recently and it’s not an exaggeration to say it’s changed portions of my life for the better,” said Saxton. “There are a lot of people here that respond to the bicycle lifestyle, and that’s represented in beautiful artwork as well.”

Timed a week before El Tour and coinciding with the Greater Arizona Bicycling Association’s Bicycle Swap on Fourth Avenue, the show’s events also features spinning bikes from O2 Fitness and a beer garden with local beers from Borderlands Brewing Company.

“We’re brand new and it’s our first art show here,” said Myles Stone, co-owner of Borderlands. “We’re happy to provide the venue for The VelociPrint Show. We’re all cyclists ourselves, and bicycles are an easy-tie in with beer.”

Local artist Joe Marshall created a wood-cut print titled “Balance” for the exhibit, and says he got involved because of his connection to the biking community as a bike commuter.

“I’ve always liked bikes, I’ve donated work to BICAS a lot and volunteered there,” said Marshall. “I didn’t learn to ride a bike until I was in my 30s, and I fix my own bikes now.”

The VelociPrint Show was funded in part by a grant Saxton received from Kickstarter. com, an online fundraiser in which artists can submit ideas for projects and receive funding if they reach their projected fiscal goal within a

set time frame.

For The VelociPrint Show, the goal was $1250 within 30 days. On the last day of fundraising, the project was still $100 short—until artists and supporters, including Marshall, pitched in to kick them over the edge.

“There was only a day to go and I just said, ‘oh, you can’t get this close and not get it’,” said Marshall, who donated $50. “Tucson has a pretty big bike community and letting people know that, showing that you can use your bike as a way to get around, is a good thing.”

The two days of events are followed by a screening of the film, “On My Own Two Wheels,” at the Fox Theatre, 17 W. Congress St., on November 16.

“The cool thing about the show is that the whole biking community has really gotten behind it, from the super high-money racer crowd to BICAS,” said Saxton. “This entire show has been planned on a bicycle—no air quality was harmed in the making of this art show.” n The exhibit and its events start on Saturday, November 12 at 4 p.m. and run until 10 p.m. that night, featuring beer specials and more.

The family-friendly event is open to all ages.

On Sunday, November 13, things kick off at 11 a.m. run until 4 p.m. For more information, visit VelociPrints.com.

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ARTS

“The Four Harmonious Friends: an elephant, a monkey, a hare and a partridge,” by Ruben Urrea Moreno

Coherent Families of Four Elements

by Dolly Spalding As a small boy, Tucson native Ruben Urrea Moreno regularly spent weekends at his grandmother’s house. No other children lived nearby, so he was encouraged to draw with the materials she supplied for him. “Being in that environment naturally cultivated me sitting down and entertaining myself. I owe a lot to my grandmother.”

He credits this as the impetus for his adult artistic endeavors. In high school, Moreno won an art competition to go to a college art class, but that was the extent of his formal education.

“I wanted to go to art school, but it wasn’t in the family budget.”

Moreno creates with mixed mediums; his series of 22 works on display at Contreras Gallery this month combine charcoal, Prisma Color pencils, oil and chalk pastel, and oil paint. The exhibit, “Socratic Codices: The Eleven Eleven Series,” derives its title from Ruben’s fascination with “dynamic sets of individual, yet collective, members of a family.” He set about collecting examples of “coherent families of four elements.”

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These include the familiar and the exotic, the mundane and the supernatural. At the age of 13, Moreno first became aware of how often he noticed “11:11.” Wanting to decipher what appeared to be a message, he says, “I decided I would explore the number and come up with my own meaning for it. This is what 11:11 means to me, families of four ones.” This led to his 23 year fascination with the show’s theme, demonstrating his rigorous and exacting exploration of the underlying intellectual ideas.

Moreno is attempting, as he eloquently describes in his artist’s statement, “to intervene on behalf of society and Nature to highlight the connection we have between the two, but that is so easily forgotten.” And so floats before us a perfectly proportioned and elegant array of symbolic storytelling. His delicately rendered illustrations combine mythology, religion and cultural images.

“The concepts are inspired by things that already exist,” Moreno explains. “I didn’t create it. I’m just bringing it to light.”

With exquisite draftsmanship, a restrained

color palette that ties each individual painting to its companions, an unerring sense of composition, a surprising and singular lack of any artistic clichés whatsoever, an ability to convey motion and emotion, Moreno has created what amounts to an epic narrative, a saga. And he has done it without resorting to magnification; the works are modest in size, painted on smooth birch panels.

The sets include The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, The Four Noble Truths, The Four Natural Forces, The Four Negative Qualities, The Four Oceans, and so forth. Ultimately, he plans 80 paintings to explore what might be called the “Universe of Four.” n The show runs November 2-26, with an opening reception on November 5 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Contreras Gallery is located at 110 E. 6th St., and ContrerasHouseFineArt.com or call 398-6557. Visit Moreno’s online home at RubenUrreaMoreno.com.

ARTS

Nick Georgiou: Paper Elegies (through November 22) at The Temple Gallery.

Art Galleries/exhibits ART GALLERY

November’s Dream: ceramics

by Melissa Miller and Miles Thompson, acrylic paintings by Alex Arshansky, plus works by 17 other artists. Reception Nov. 2, 11am-4pm, exhibits until Dec. 1. Thurs-Sat, 11am-4pm and by appointment, 4055800. 1122 N. Stone Ave.

ARTSEYE GALLERY

Phone-ography showcases images captured using a camera phone, through Nov. 28. Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm; Sat 10am-5pm. 3550 E. Grant Rd. 327-7291, ArtsEye.com

ARTS MARKETPLACE GALLERY Recollections by Linda Chappel shows Nov. 1-Nov. 28; reception Nov. 12, 6:30pm-8pm. Centered on the theme of the relationship between our species and the natural world. Thurs-Sat, 12pm-6pm and by appointment.

403 N. 6th Ave., 882-3988. ArtsMarketplace.org

ATLAS FINE ART SERVICES Force

Fields, opening with a reception Nov. 5 from 6pm-9pm, features paintings and works on paper by Robert Alberetti, Jerry Jacobson and Douglas Leichter, runs through Nov. 26. Tue-Thu, 11am-6pm; Fri-Sat, 11am-7pm. 41 S. 6th Ave. 622-2139

BLUE RAVEN GALLERY

Highlands, Lowlands: A Green Journey exhibit continues through Nov. 5. Fins, Fur, Feathers and Scales opens Nov. 12, with a reception from 3pm-6pm, featuring scales, exoskeletons and animal works. Exhibits through Jan. 14.

Holiday Artisans Market opens Nov. 19, runs through Jan 14. Thu, noon-4pm; Fri, noon-5pm; Sat 11am-5pm. 3042 N. 1st Ave. 623-1003, BlueRavenGalleryandGifts.com

BOHEMIA Bits and Pieces, the mosaic of Michelle Legler continues until Nov 16. Sun-Mon, 11am to 4pm; Tue-Sat, 10am to 6pm. 2920 E. Broadway Blvd.

882-0800, BohemiaTucson.com

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photo: © Estate of Allan D’Arcangelo

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“Landscape III” by Allan D’Arcangelo, serigraph, on exhibit at PCC’s Louis Carlos Bernal Gallery.

BOREALIS ARTS The VelociPrint Show features 30 art pieces related to bicycles with events Nov. 1213. Borderlands Brewery, 119 E. Toole Ave. 301-6680, VelociPrints.com

CENTER FOR CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY Creative Continuum: The History of the Center for Creative Photography continues until Nov 27. Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm; Sun, noon-5pm. 1030 N. Olive Rd. 6217968, CreativePhotography.org

CONRAD WILDE GALLERY This Is a Recording: A Series of International Video and Performance Art is presented by guest curators Sama Alshaibi and Gary Setzer on Fri, Nov. 4, 6pm-9pm. Tue-Sat, 11am-5pm.

439 N. 6th Ave. #171. 622-8997, ConradWildeGallery.com

CONTRERAS GALLERY Socratic Codices, The Eleven Eleven Series by Ruben Urrea Moreno exhibits Nov. 2-Nov. 26. Reception Sat, Nov. 5, 6pm-10pm.

Tues-Fri 11am-5pm, Sat 11am-4pm. 110 E. 6th St. 398-6557, ContrerasHouseFineArt.com

DAVIS DOMINGUEZ GALLERY

The Polks

by Andrew Polk continues through Nov 5. Paintings and works on paper by Jan Olsson and clay sculpture

by Joy Fox opens Nov. 10, runs through Dec. 17. TueFri, 11am-5pm; Sat, 11am-4pm. 154 E. 6th St. 6299759, DavisDominguez.com

DECO Ignite: Neon and Light Art Show - a collection

used art supplies will be sold as part of a fundraiser on Sat, Nov. 5, 10am-4pm. Tue-Sat, noon-4pm. 33 S. 6th Ave. 620-0947, TheDrawingStudio.org.

ETHERTON GALLERY

Rockin’ The Desert continues until Nov 12. Slow Light by Kate Breakey, Nov. 15-Jan 21. Opening reception on Sat, Nov. 19, 7pm-10pm. Tue-Sat, 11am-5pm. 135 S. 6th Ave. 6247370, EthertonGallery.com

FLUXX STUDIO & GALLERY Streets: An exhibition of urban surroundings features the photography of Christopher Munoz and Grady Corbitt. Opens Nov. 5, 6pm-9pm. 882-0242

GEORGE STRASBURGER STUDIO & GALLERY Oil on linen portraits and character studies. Thu-Sun, 11am-4pm. 172 E. Toole St. 882-2160, GeorgeStrasburger.com

JOSEPH GROSS GALLERY

Impetus, curated by Thinkspace Gallery continues until Nov. 9.

Terraria Gigantica: The World Under Glass by Dana Fritz opens Nov. 16. Opening reception Thu, Nov. 17, 5pm-6:30pm. Artist’s panel discussion on Fri, Nov. 18, 5pm-6:30pm. Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm; Sat-Sun, 10am-4pm. 1031 N. Olive Rd. 626-4215, www.cfa. arizona.edu/galleries

LOUIS CARLOS BERNAL GALLERY

of contemporary lights created by local artists continues through. Jan 15. Tue-Wed, Sat, 11am-4pm; ThuFri, 11am-5pm. 2612 E. Broadway Blvd. 319-0888, DecoArtTucson.com

Limited Edition: Prints From Artist-Collectors continues through Dec. 16. Gallery talk is Nov. 3, 1:30pm2:30pm and reception is from 5pm-7pm. Mon/Wed, 10:30am-5pm; Tue/Thu, 10am-5pm; Fri, 10am-3pm.

2202 W. Anklam Rd.206-6942, Pima.Edu/cfa

DEGRAZIA GALLERY IN THE SUN

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART

The Little Gallery presents Liz Vaughn: Oil on Canvas, Nov. 6-Nov 18. Daily, 10am-4pm. 6300 N. Swan Rd. 2999191, DeGrazia.org

THE DRAWING STUDIO

Landscape (un) Tamed: Order and Chaos in the Natural World, continues until Nov. 5. Small Wonders opening reception Sat, Nov. 19, 6pm-9pm. ARTCetera, a collection of

Raymond Pettibon: The Punk Years, 1978-86 currently exhibits. Opening Nov. 12 with a reception at 6pm is Camp Bosworth: Plata o Plomo. Wed-Sun, noon-5pm. $8, adults; free, children under 12, members, military; free to all second Wednesday of the month. 265 S. Church Ave. 624-5019, MOCA-Tucson.org

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photo: Creatista/Scott Griessel

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A Modernized “Lear” Breaks New Ground

by Herb Stratford How do you really make an impression on a great theatre town like Tucson? Maybe it’s by breaking new ground, while presenting a classic that has been collaboratively re-envisioned to reflect the current world. Beowulf Alley’s presentation of the Shakespeare tale “King Lear” is doing all this and more during its run, through November 19.

Brought to the stage by veteran playwright and director Michael Fenlason, the traditional four and a half-hour production of “Lear” has been altered to fit a two and a half-hour window. While retaining the original language by Shakespeare, the play has been updated to modern times via setting and costuming. Where we once had an historic tale of royal deception, betrayal and familial conflict, we now have a tale with a protagonist who is a modern ”king” of industry, a businessman, as the lead. Wrestling with homelessness as opposed to a storm, this “Lear” gives audiences elements of contemporary life to relate to.

Will these changes make the play more audience friendly, while still retaining the language of the period? Will it work in a way that some modern film adaptations of Shakespeare’s classics have, or not? That is the question.

Fenlason, the 2011 Arizona Playwriting Award winner, says this pro-

duction resonates deeply given our current world condition. He says this version, while somewhat unique, is a true collaboration with cast members. While he had a specific vision for many aspects of the production, he has been thrilled with the cast and their contributions to the final product.

Fenlason is excited about other details of the production including the use of the “whole theatre” for entrances and exits and the “stripped down” nature of the production. In fact, this production of “Lear” marks a milestone of sorts for Beowulf Alley, it’s the first time that the theatre company presents a classic play on its stage.

Fenlason assures us that the play still has its “heart intact,” and hopes to possibly see this version continue on if audiences are enjoying it as much as he and his cast are.

“One of the best things about this experience is getting to sit and listen to ‘Lear’ for six weeks straight in rehearsal,” Fenlason enthuses. n “Lear” continues its production through November 19 at Beowulf Alley Theatre Company, 11 S. Sixth Ave. Visit BeowulfAlley.org for specific show times and ticket prices.

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Museums/Exhibits ARIZONA HISTORICAL SOCIETY “Buried

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Under Rumors: Fog, Fact, and the Kidnapping of June Robles” on Sat, Nov 12 at 10:30am, a piece of Tucson’s history presented by Paul Cool. $15. Exhibits: $5, adults; $4 seniors & students, 12-18; free, children under 12 and the 1st Saturday of each month.

Mon-Sat, 10am to 4pm. 949 E. 2nd St. 628-5774, ArizonaHistoricalSociety.org

PHILABAUM GLASS STUDIO & GALLERY Harvest continues through Dec. 3. TPAC Open Studio Tours on Nov. 12. Annual Studio Sale dates are Nov. 25-26, Nov. 29-30. Tue-Sat, 10am-5pm. 711 S. 6th Ave. 884-7404, PhilabaumGlass.com

PORTER HALL GALLERY Arizona Centennial: Pima Celebrates opens Nov. 6 and shows through Nov. 30. Selected works focus on Tucson and surrounding areas, through explorations of the land and the people.

Free opening reception on Sun, Nov. 20, 2pm-4pm.

Daily, 8:30am-4:30pm. $8, Adults; $4, Children 4-12; Free, Children 3 and younger. 2150 N. Alvernon Way. 326-9686, TucsonBotanical.org

RAICES TALLER 222 ART GALLERY Dia de los Muertos exhibit opens with a reception on Wed, Nov. 2 from 7pm-8pm and runs through Nov. 26. FriSat, 1pm-5pm & by appointment. 218 E. 6th St. 8815335, RaicesTaller222.webs.com

STONE DRAGON STUDIO Lawrence W. Lee: Paintings and Sculptures, extended through Dec. 3.

Thurs-Sat, 11am-4pm and by appointment. 1122 N. Stone Ave. 405-5800

TEMPLE GALLERY

Nick Georgiou: Paper Elegies continues through Nov. 22. Ken Figuered: Altered States opens Nov. 26, continues through Jan. 3. Mon– Fri, 10am-5pm. 330 S. Scott Ave. 624-7370, EthertonGallery.com

TUCSON MUSEUM OF ART Who Shot Rock & Roll: A Photographic History, 1955 to the Present showcases a variety of rock stars in different lights; runs through Jan. 15. El Nacimiento opens Nov. 20 and continues through March 18. Art of Latin America continues through Feb. 2013. Tue-Sat, 10am-4pm; Sun, noon-4pm. $8, adults; $6, seniors; $3, students 13+; free, children under 12, members Free to all the first Sunday of the month. 140 N. Main Ave. 6242333, TucsonMuseumofArt.org

UA ART MUSEUM

Good Vibrations: The Guitar as Design, Craft and Function shows until Jan. 15.

Tue-Fri, 9am-5pm; Sat-Sun, noon-4pm. $5 adults; children/students/faculty, free. 1031 N. Olive Rd. ArtMuseum.arizona.edu

UA POETRY CENTER Portraits of Poets by Gwyneth Scally exhibit opens Nov. 22, continues through Jan. 13. Mon/Thurs, 9am-8pm; Tues/Wed, 9am-6pm; Fri, 9am-5pm. 1508 E. Helen St. 626-3765, Poetry.

Arizona.Edu

WOMANKRAFT ART GALLERY The Holiday Bazaar opens Nov. 5 and continues through Dec. 21.

Receptions: Sat, Nov. 5 and Dec. 3, 7pm-10pm. Tue-Sat, 1pm-5pm. 388 S. Stone Ave. 629-9976, WomanKraft.org

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by Herb Stratford

AZ Historical SOCIETY FT. LOWELL

See Rock City & Other Destinations

Life at the Fort: Living History Presentation on Sat, Nov 5, 10am-4pm, with a 4th U.S. Cavalry Regimental Band concert at 2pm. Free. AHS Ft. Lowell Museum, 2900 N. Craycroft Rd. 885-3832, ArizonaHistoricalSociety.org

Arizona Onstage Productions is presenting “See Rock City & Other Destinations” November 3-20. The story is a contemporary musical about connections and missed opportunities at tourist destinations across America. The mixture of urban tales, set to original songs and dialog, features ten cast members and incorporates pop, rock and funk musical styles. The play, by Brad Alexander and Adam Mathias, was nominated for six Drama Desk awards and won the 2011 award for best book. Following “See Rock City” each night are performances of “Devil Boys from Beyond,” a high camp spoof on 1950s low-budget sci-fi flicks written by Buddy Thomas and Kenneth Elliot. Shows are at Temple of Music and Art’s intimate Cabaret space, 330 S. Scott Ave., Thursdays-Saturdays along with Sunday matinees. ArizonaOnstage.org

As I Lay Dying One family’s ordeal to fulfill a dying wish is the backdrop for the powerful William Faulkner play “As I Lay Dying.” On the way to bury their mother in Jefferson, Mississippi - with her coffin strapped to their wooden wagon - different characters’ motivations and relationships soon become exposed. The play is on stage Thursdays-Saturdays along with Sunday matinees, November 3-20, at Rogue’s space, 300 E. University Blvd. TheRogueTheatre.org.

Literature + Dance KORE Press presents an evening length performance of Emily Dickenson inspired dance by NewARTiculations Dance Theatre and Katherine Ferrier of The Architects. The evening also features new musical compositions by Vicki Brown.

The performance, “If My Verse Is Alive,” is part of KORE Press’ “The Big Read Tucson,” which received an NEA grant to promote reading in the community. The overall “Big Read” project has over 40 partners and is presenting a variety of events that began in September and runs through December 10. This performance takes place at Pima Community College’s Proscenium Theatre, 2202 W. Anklam Rd. on November 12.

For more information visit KOREPress.org. n

COLOSSAL CAVE MOUNTAIN PARK Sunday in The Park presents Landscaping for Wildlife and Sustainability! on Sun, Nov 6 at 2pm and 3:15pm.

See the website for other events. Regular hours: Daily, 8am-5pm. $11 adults; $6 children 5-12. 16721 E. Old Spanish Trail, 647-7275, ColossalCave.com

FLANDRAU SCIENCE CENTER It’s A Gas: The Bright Side of Science runs through Dec; featuring 12 interactive components, a collection of neon lights, and other displays that showcase new knowledge about the gases in our atmosphere and how they affect our lives. Mon-Fri, 10am-3pm; Thu-Fri, 6pm9pm; Sat, 10am-9pm; Sun, 1pm-4pm. $7.50, adults, children 4-15, $5, under 4, free. AZ Students with ID, $2. 1601 E. University Blvd. 621-STAR, Flandrau.org

So AZ TRANSPORTATION MUSEUM The Union Pacific Railroad brings the Centennial Steam Train into the Downtown Historic Depot on Sat, Nov 12 at 8am; it leaves at 9:15am. Free. Learn how the railroad impacted Tucson since its arrival in March 1880.

Tue-Thu & Sun, 11am-3pm; Fri-Sat, 10am-4pm. 414 N. Toole Ave. 623-2223, TucsonHistoricDepot.org

TUCSON BOTANICAL GARDENS An exhibit of Day of the Dead-related papier-mâché artwork continues through Sun, Nov 20. Butterfly Magic, Arizona’s only live tropical butterfly exhibit, continues through April (special pricing for this exhibit). $7, adults; $3, children 4-12. Daily, 8:30am-4:30pm (except holidays). 2150 N. Alvernon Way. 326-9686, TucsonBotanical.org

TUCSON MUSICIANS MUSEUM

Grand opening! Internationally known photographer George Howard unveils his photographs of members of the TMM in the new space on Sat, Nov 19. 12pm-3pm.

17th Street Market, 840 E. 17th St. 624-8821, TucsonMusiciansMuseum.org

TOHONO CHUL PARK Día de los Muertos runs through Nov 6 in the Main Gallery; Wordplay opens Nov 10. Art Journaling continues through Nov 14 in the Entry Gallery; Holiday For the Park begins Nov 17. Daily events: Reptile Ramble, Eco-Station Walks, more. See the website for other events. Daily, 8am5pm. $8, 13+; $6, 62+; $5 military; $4 students; $2 children. 7366 N. Paseo del Norte. 742-6455, TohonoChulPark.org

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arts

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The Artists Welcome You

by Sarah Burton If practice makes perfect, the Open Studio Tour’s nearly 24-year run means this annual arts event can’t get any better, right? Not so fast. Thanks to new virtual tools available this year, attendees can now plot out tour stops with ease. Decide which studios you’d like to visit, and simply chart a path online using the Tucson Pima Arts Council’s website or download the app available online through The Arizona Daily Star.

Local artists open their creative spaces during this free, weekend event November 12-13, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. A staggering 217 studios all over town (and some as far as Green Valley), from transformed garages and galleries to multiple-artist warehouses, welcome visitors to observe, ask questions and enjoy a firsthand view of the creative process. The Jewish Community Center, 3800 E. River Rd., hosts a preview exhibit through November 9, with a reception that evening from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

After 11 years of participating in the studio tour, it’s clear painter Gavin Hugh Troy relishes having contact with those interested in the local art scene. “The tour has always been an incredibly positive experience for me,” he explains. “For artists to get that rare chance to open up their workspace, really share the creative process with the public, is rewarding to say the least.”

Troy and many of the other artists in the downtown-area collective Citi-

zens Artists Warehouse, 44 W. 6th St., look forward to answering questions and interacting with visitors.

Far from the concentration of downtown artists, woodturner Lynne Yamaguchi knows none of the tour attendees she sees in her eastside studio are accidental.

“There aren’t a lot of other participating artists near me, so in the years I’ve been part of the tour, visitors I get tend to be specifically interested in my work,” she says. In the local art scene, Yamaguchi is one of the few in her medium, making for quite a fascinating demonstration. And worth making a mess: “My studio is always full of sawdust, so when I clean it up for the tour I’m hesitant to mess it up again,” she laughs, “but people like seeing how the turning is done.”

Whether you’ve already spotted your favorite painters and sculptors on the program, or you’re out to learn about some new-to-you local artists, the Tucson Pima Arts Council’s Fall Open Studio Tour promises an educational and inspiring weekend activity. n Visit TucsonPimaArtsCouncil.org for all the details.

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photo courtesy: Beowulf Alley Theatre

Old Time Radio Theatre

Performances ARID ROSE THEATRE “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead” runs Nov 10-Nov 27. Thu-Sat, 7:30pm; Sun, 2pm. Arid Rose Theater, 127 S. 4th Ave. 982-6812, AridRoseTheater.com

ARIZONA FRIENDS OF CHAMBER MUSIC Boris Andrianov and Alexander Kobrin present an afternoon of cello and piano on Sun, Nov 6, 3pm. Morgenstern Piano Trio performs Wed, Nov 9, 7:30pm.

TCC’s Leo Rich Theatre, 260 S. Church Ave. 5773769, ArizonaChamberMusic.org

ARIZONA ONSTAGE PRODUCTIONS “See Rock City & Other Destinations” and “Devil Boys from Beyond” shows Thu-Sun, Nov 3-Nov 20. Temple of Music and Art’s Cabaret Theatre, 330 S. Scott Ave. 270-3332, ArizonaOnStage.org

ARIZONA OPERA

Charles Gounod’s “Faust” is Sat, Nov 19, 7:30pm; Sun, Nov 20, 2pm. TCC’s Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave. 293-4336, AZOpera.com

ARIZONA THEATRE COMPANY

“God of Carnage” continues through Sat, Nov 12. “Daddy Long Legs” is Nov 26 through Dec 17. Various show times.

Cafe Bohemia: “Used To Was (Maybe Did)” is Sun, Nov 20 at 8pm. Temple of Music and Art, 330 S. Scott Ave. 884-8210, ArizonaTheatre.org

BEOWULF ALLEY THEATRE “Lear” a modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s “King Lear” continues through Sun, Nov 20. Old Time Radio Theatre presents classic radio shows at 7pm on Nov. 1: “Fibber McGee and Molly: Fall Housecleaning” & “Suspense: Three Skeleton Key” and on Nov. 15: “Lights Out: Bon Voyage”& “NBC’S Greatest Moments in History: The Landing of the Pilgrims.” Beowulf Alley Theatre, 11 S. 6th Ave. 882-0555, BeowulfAlley.org

BERGER PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Italian composer and pianist Ludovico Einaudi performs Thu, Nov. 3, 7:30pm. Orla Fallon performs Fri, Nov. 4, 7:30pm. Lisa Otey’s Boogie Woogie Blowout is Nov. 13, 3pm. Berger Performing Arts Center, 1200 W. Speedway Blvd. 770-3762, BergerCenter.com

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photo courtesy: Arizona Friends of Chamber Music

ARTS

photo courtesy: Up With People

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Up With People, “A Song for the World,” is at the Fox Theatre, Nov. 12.

BLACK CHERRY BURLESQUE

Arizona Friends of Chamber Music presents cellist Boris Andrianov Sun, Nov 6, 3pm.

Tantalizing burlesque performance on Fri, Nov 4. at 8pm & 10pm.

Surly Wench Pub, 424 N. 4th Ave. 882-0009, TucsonBurlesque.com

N. 4th Ave., all ages & Fri, Nov. 18, 7pm at Rock N Java Café, 7555 W. Twin Peaks Rd. Free. 861-2986, UnscrewedComedy.com

CARNIVAL OF ILLUSION

Sarlot and Eyed perform Fridays and Saturdays through November.

Tucson Double Tree Hotel, 445 S. Alvernon Way. 6155299, CarnivalOfIllusion.com

ing: Taking the Plunge” is Nov. 3, 7pm. $7. Club Congress, 311 E. Congress St. 730-4112, OdysseyStorytelling.com

FOX THEATRE

and continues through Nov. 20. Proscenium Theatre, 2202 W. Anklam Rd. 206-6670, Pima.edu/cfa

“Re-celebrate” the first night at the Fox with Judy Collins: Chasing Rainbows Gala, Nov. 4, 6pm. Sat., Nov. 12: Up With People, see listing below. Sat., Nov. 19: Showfolk from the Desert - Philip Fortenberry & Kristen Hertzenberg bring a wealth of Broadway theatrical experience to Tucson, 2pm.

Fox Theatre, 17 W. Congress St. 624-1515, FoxTucsonTheatre.org

THE GASLIGHT THEATRE

“The Wizard of the Rings” continues through Nov 13. “Christmas in the Big Apple” opens Thu, Nov. 17 and continues through Jan. 1. 7010 E. Broadway Blvd. 886-9428, TheGaslightTheatre.com

INVISIBLE THEATRE

“Circle Mirror Transformation” continues through Nov. 20. Invisible Theatre, 1400 N. 1st Ave. 882-9721, InvisibleTheatre.com

LIVE THEATRE WORKSHOP “The Foreigner,” following a devious group of characters dealing with a stranger they think does not speak English, continues through Nov. 13. “Thom Pain (Based on Nothing)” continues through Nov. 12. “The Tortoise and The Hare” opens Nov. 6 and shows Sunday afternoons until Jan. 29. “Reckless” opens Nov. 17 and continues through Dec. 31. Various times and prices. Live Theatre Workshop, 5317 E. Speedway Blvd. 327-4242, LiveTheatreWorkshop.org

MZEKALA The popular purveyors of Balkan music and culture celebrates 20 years of performing together for Tucson audiences on Nov. 5, 7:30pm. Grace St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 2331 E. Adams St. 9820556, Mzekala.org

NOT BURNT OUT JUST UNSCREWED The improv comedy troupe performs Fri, Nov. 4 at 7:30 pm, Revolutionary Grounds Coffee House, 606

ODYSSEY STORYTELLING SERIES “Fall-

PCC THEATRE ARTS “Roosters” opens Nov. 9

THE ROGUE THEATRE

“As I Lay Dying” opens Nov. 3 and continues through Nov. 20. Thu-Sat, 7:30pm, Sun, 2pm. The Rogue Theatre, 738 N. 5th Ave. 551-2053, TheRogueTheater.org

TUCSON JAZZ SOCIETY

Jazz Under the Stars: Hiran Perez and Manteca bring Latin jazz & salsa on Nov. 4, 7:30pm. Tohono Chul Park, 7336 N. Paseo Del Norte. 903-1265, TucsonJazz.org

TUCSON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Just For Kids presents the TSO Brass Quintet at the Tucson Symphony Center, Nov. 5 at 10am & 11:15am. MasterWorks Series, “Outside of the Bachs,” is at Catalina Foothills High School, Nov. 5, 8pm; Nov. 6, 2pm. Classic Series - The New World, Barber & Bernstein - with conductor George Hanson and violinist Aaron Boyd perform at the TCC’s Music Hall on Fri, Nov. 11, 8pm; Sun, Nov. 13, 2pm. TucsonSymphony.org

UA’S ARIZONA REPERTORY THEATRE The Secret Garden opens Nov. 6 and continues through Dec. 4. Marroney Theatre, 1025 N. Olive Rd. 621-1162, web.cfa.arizona.edu/theatre

UA PRESENTS Kings of Salsa perform Nov. 12, 8pm at Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Blvd. The UA Dance Ensemble’s “Premium Blend” is on stage at Stevie Eller Theatre, 1737 E. University Blvd., ThuSun, Nov. 17-Dec. 4. 621-3341, UAPresents.org

UP WITH PEOPLE

The newest production, “A Song for the World,” is a dance and live music performance with a cast and staff of 100 representing 20 countries. Nov. 12, 7pm. Fox Theatre, 17 W. Congress St. 624-1515, UpWithPeople.org/Tucson

Photo courtesy Loft Cinema.

film

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Lars Von Trier’s “Melancholia,” starring Kirsten Dunst, Charlotte Gainsbourg and Kiefer Sutherland.

Cinema Smorgasboard

by Herb Stratford

Peggy Johnson has special a present for Tucson film lovers this month.

Attending the second annual Loft Film Festival will be like opening a big eight-day cinema care package from around the world.

Taking place November 10-17, the festival is showing “films you haven’t seen,” according to Johnson, the Loft’s Executive Director. Featuring flicks culled from multiple national and international film festivals (Sundance, Palm Springs, South by Southwest, Cannes), the weeklong smorgasbord of excellence will present features from all over the globe including Finland, Great Britain, France, Japan and Greece. Also filling out the schedule are films submitted to the festival and some tracked down from distributors based on word of mouth. With two-dozen films on tap, there’s something for everyone this year.

Last year’s inaugural festival was a success for the Loft thanks in part to great programming, an engaged audience and strong sponsor support.

All three of those elements seem primed to return for more this year. The Loft Film Festival was also a financial success according to Johnson, and will actually be reducing the cost of a festival pass down to $75 for Loft members and $100 for non-members. Johnson says moving forward, the festival will likely continue to function as a week-long “boutique” festival that stays small and manageable.

Oftentimes, independent film lovers do not get the chance to experience the festival pathos - the total immersion in film over a concentrated time. The Loft Film Festival will bring that experience to town.

“We want to give the public a taste of what we do everyday, but in a film festival sized dose,” said Johnson.

Highlights this year include the excellent documentary on Sesame Street puppeteer Kevin Clash, “Being Elmo,” the two most talked about films from the Cannes film festival this year, Lars Von Trier’s “Melancholia,” and Lynne Ramsay’s “We Need to Talk About Kevin,” starring Tilda Swinton. Also showing are “Le Havre” and the devastating film “Tyrannosaur.”

Johnson was nearly giddy about the screening of “House of Boys,” and the scheduled participation of legendary actor Udo Kier – a veteran of numerous films from “Flesh for Frankenstein” to “Blade” to “My Own Private Idaho” and “Ace Ventura.”

As of press time, the schedule was still being finalized. Visit the Loft Film Festival’s website, LoftFilmFest.com, for up-to-date information. All films screen at Loft Cinema, 3233 E. Speedway Blvd. 795-7777. n

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science

downtown’s Cosmic Perspective

Photo courtesy Science Downtown

by Jamie Manser Since the dawn of mankind, humans have looked at the heavens with wonderment, perhaps even with fearful awe. Ancient Homo sapiens likely stared at the bejeweled night sky and probably thought the same things we do today, “Why am I here? Who created all of this?”

While the big “Why” and “Who” questions may never truly be answered by our species, the what, when, where and how are coming to light with “Mars & Beyond: Search for Life on other Planets” at Science Downtown, 300 E. Congress St. at 5th Avenue.

Science Downtown, a non-profit arm of Rialto Arts and Antiquities Downtown (RAAD) is focused on showcasing the world-renowned work of the University of Arizona’s College of Science in the same space where RAAD has housed exhibits since May 2010 (Bodies…The Exhibition, Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition and Tutankhamun: Wonderful Things from the Pharoah’s Tomb).

“This is the first time all of this science has been curated for a worldclass exhibit,” said Don Martin, chairman of Science Downtown and co-owner of the historic Rialto Block, with the exception of the Rialto Theatre. In the process of putting the exhibit together, Education Director Shawndon Lex explained that “everything had to be approved by the U of A, so everything is accurate and up-to-date.”

The mind-blowing exhibit features collaborations between several departments in UA’s College of Science, Biosphere 2, Flandrau Science Center and the UA’s Museum of Art. In the foyer/gift shop, each guest is welcomed with an introductory narrative by Joaquin Ruiz, Dean, UA College of Science. The first room past the box office features Robert T. McCall’s futuristic art, which has been on USPS stamps, on NASA patches and inspired the space station in “2001: A Space Odyssey.” In the middle of the room is an OmniGlobe, a fascinating 3D digital display that features everything from tsunami wave patterns on Earth to the planets of our solar system, along with their moons. One could easily spend a couple hours exploring OmniGlobe’s wide-ranging information, available at the touch of a finger.

Around the corner and on the left side of the next hallway, a wall map shows the distance between the sun and the planets on a scale that centers the sun at 5th Avenue and Congress Street, running east down Broadway Boulevard. On the right side of that hallway are interesting

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facts about and gorgeous pictures of each of the planets. At the end is the Pluto contest, a “favorite sayings contest,” Martin said, where attendees can submit their thoughts on the dwarf planet. “They will be posted on the website, and monthly winners get a dinner for four at a downtown restaurant.”

Mars & Beyond also covers meteorites and asteroids, “can’t live with ‘em, can’t live without ‘em,” Martin said; a Biosphere 2 area and, of course, an in-depth Mars exhibit displaying fabulous images along with replicas of the Phoenix Mars Lander and the HiRISE high-resolution camera orbiting the Red Planet.

As remarkable as the exhibit is, it is equally impressive how quickly it all came together. Martin said conceptual talks began six months ago after Fletcher McCusker, CEO of Providence Service Corp., saw the Phoenix Mars Lander replica at UA. “Fletcher was talking to Joaquin Ruiz (Dean, UA College of Science) and told Ruiz they needed to bring the Lander downtown.” Martin goes on to explain that Ruiz was interested in having a downtown portal for the community to learn about what was happening at the College of Science.

“The UA has been involved on every mission to Mars and has led several,” Martin said. “About four months ago, Ruiz introduced me to Bill Plant at Flandrau (Science Center) and said to look around UA and Biosphere and Flandrau. The UA kicked it around their leadership, and the Friday before King Tut closed (August 29), we met and decided, ‘Let’s do it.’ So, it was 55 days from that decision to the opening on October 22.

“People thought I was out of my mind, ‘The UA can never move that fast,’ they said. And, UA has been very responsive. I’ve been working with over a dozen scientists and they pick up their phones and respond to emails.

“It’s fun and interesting information, easy to absorb,” Martin said. “It’s part of your entertainment downtown. We didn’t need any more bars and restaurants. We need housing and cool stuff like this.” n Hours are Sunday, Monday, Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. During 2nd Saturdays, the exhibit runs until 9 p.m. and features admission discounts. Learn more at ScienceDowntown.org

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food&drink

Cooking the Wild Southwest: Delicious Recipes for Desert Plants Author: Carolyn Niethammer University of Arizona Press (2011) Review by Dan Rylander This wonderful new release is the product of Arizonan Carolyn Niethammer’s forty years of personal research and living an informed eating and cooking life. The author of the “Tumbleweed Gourmet,” “The Prickly Pear Cookbook” and “The New Southwest Cookbook” has the native wild harvest of the Southwest’s environs squarely in her sights.

It is in part cookbook, a practical guide to harvesting native desert fruits and plants legally and without too many stickers in the hands, and part gentle exhortation to the reading public to explore and enjoy indigenous foods: “Including some of these delicious and easily available plants in our diets even once and a while can keep us connected to our beautiful and generous Southwest homeland.”

With a hefty sprinkling of enough ethnobotanical and folklore references to both Native American and Sonoran Mexican traditions to pique the interest of the scientifically minded, the volume is a welcome addition to the rapidly expanding literature addressing locally raised foods, traditional foods, healthier foods, and native foods. When available, the nutritional benefits of these wonderful “free” edibles are provided.

Twenty-three wild foods are lovingly described, harvesting techniques explained, along with tested recipes replete with cooking tips. For example, greens like pigweed, lambsquarter, watercress and purslane (verdolagas to our Spanish speaking friends) can be located and harvested wildly, and utilized in any way that store-bought greens can.

The Mesquite pod, a grand dame of wild southwest foods, can be collected easily and milled into flour by Desert Harvesters (see page 42). There’s a staggering amount of meals that could be made from locally grown pods, yet mesquites’ bounty ends up in landfills and down our street drains every year. If you have a dog, you know they are edible, as surely as your dog crunches on the pods’ sweet flavor.

Twenty-six recipes for mesquite meal, syrup and broth are provided.

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Niethammer points out the irony of the global system of expensively distributing food while ignoring sources closer to home. For example, Christopher Columbus carried the prickly pear cactus (literally hundreds of species exist, nearly all edible), back to the Old World. Prickly pear has been incorporated into the fabric of eating and growing in such far-flung places as Italy, Spain, Israel and Madagascar. Italian raised prickly pear fruit are imported to New York gourmet Italian markets as “Barbary figs” at premium prices to the purchaser (and to the planet), as Italian émigrés in New York cannot live without their taste of home, while the fruit generally goes unused in its Southwestern locale.

The author opines that the fruit of Engelmann’s prickly pear, a common landscaping plant, are the best. She recommends carefully harvesting the fruits using tongs or heavy leather gloves and a bucket. Preparation requires a pair of heavy rubber gloves, a stiff vegetable brush and the willingness to accept a few stickers. “Do not let the stickers become a big irritation, physically or psychologically,” she writes. Concoctions like the prickly pear citrus marinade and sauce sound tasty, as does prickly pear sangria. Prickly pear pads, called nopal, are a delicate vegetable low in calories. Nopalitos and chicken in culichi sauce will definitely be on this writer’s list of “to try” recipes.

Oak acorns, piñon pine seeds, cholla buds and fruits, barrel cactus fruit and the archetypical saguaro cactus fruit, all receive their due. The largess of the desert and uplands in various seasons is frankly breathtaking. n On November 12, Carolyn Niethammer gives a cooking demo and talk at Tohono Chul Park, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte, from 9 a.m.-11 a.m.

On November 18 is a discussion at Antigone Books, 411 N. 4th Ave., starting at 7 p.m.

More information on the book is at www.UAPress.arizona.edu.

OUT TO LUNCH

by Jamie Manser

Just west of 6th Avenue on Speedway Boulevard is a Tucson fixture, The Garland Bistro.

Established in 1974, the 3-room restaurant is nestled in a quaint house and is a cozy place to get some satisfying eats.

To say the menu is eclectic is almost an understatement; the menu is huge and offers over 60 items to nosh on. I can’t image a person who couldn’t find a plate to enjoy as options abound for herbivores, omnivores and carnivores. This is the place my body cries for when I need a big helping of veggies to nourish my body, mind and soul.

As a creature of habit, I generally make a meal of the house salad. Piled high on an oval plate are mixed greens, artichoke hearts, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, mushrooms, hardboiled eggs, and cheddar and feta cheeses. It also comes with the option of picking two more items from these four: chicken or tuna salad, hummus, avocado.

While I’m mostly a fan of lunch and dinner fare, The Garland is well-known for their scrumptious breakfasts. They serve everything from fruit, granola, French toast and crepes to pancakes, waffles, eggs, omelets, and colossal egg-based platters – all of which can be substituted with tofu.

There’s also sandwiches, soups, burros, enchiladas, pasta, Vietnamese cuisine, sushi, and of course appetizers and desserts. The day Zócalo writer Kelly Lewis and I went, we couldn’t resist a slice of German Chocolate cake. It was sinful, yet heavenly.

Bear in mind, The Garland is better suited for the leisurely diner as there typically is only one server taking care of customers. n The Garland Bistro, 119 E. Speedway Blvd., is open Wednesday-Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Take-out orders are available by calling 882-3999.

View the menu online at GarlandTucson.com.

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photo by Kelly Lewis

food&drink

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happy hour photo: Vikki Dempsey

Mixology Miss Peggy If the walls of The Buffet Bar and Crock Pot could talk, they’d probably only have half as many stories as Peggy Barclay. Known as “Miss Peggy,” the iconic bartender has been an integral part of The Buffet, 538 E. 9th St., for the past 30 years.

“The former owner grabbed me up the day I turned 50,” said Barclay, who recently turned 80. “I’ve seen three generations go through this bar with me—grandfathers, then fathers, then sons.”

If you’ve ever been to “The Buff” in the morning, there’s a good chance you’ve run into Miss Peggy, who works three days a week from 6 a.m. to noon. She’s sassy, fun, loves her customers and they love her right back.

“This is my bar,” Barclay said. “I love my people, my people seem to really appreciate me, and that’s all I can ask for.”

Throughout the years, Barclay has watched the crowd change from largely university students to a multi-purpose neighborhood bar, and helped hold down the fort when the bar changed ownership four years ago. A native of Michigan, Barclay came to Tucson over 35 years ago when her husband was transferred here with the Air Force. She quickly picked up stints bartending, first at a bar called The Western Posada, which sat on the corner of Stone Avenue and Broadway Boulevard, she said, and then at The Dutchman, which is now 47 Scott.

“Ted (Bair, the former owner of the Buffet) used to come over and watch me,” Barclay said. “He was breathing down my neck for four months before he decided he wanted me, and I’ve been here ever since.”

Working the morning shift has given her a pretty diverse the crowd of regulars, including hospital staff that come in for a drink after their shift to unwind, firefighters from three different units and locals from all walks of life.

by Kelly Lewis

“I like The Buffet and their specials in general, but Miss Peggy is a legend around here,” said Jenner Bryant, a customer at the bar. “If there’s a problem here, everyone will stand up and take care of the situation if Miss Peggy’s alone, and I’ve always liked that.”

Though she’s substantially scaled back her hours from the nearly 70 a week she used to put in, Miss Peggy says she has no plans on leaving anytime soon. Her 80th birthday was in July, and the bar threw a little party in conjunction with Bair’s 85th birthday to celebrate.

“That was probably the nicest thing that ever happened to me,” Barclay said. “I’ve never regretted one moment at this bar. I love it. I’m going to be here, until the day I’m not here.”

On Trends in Mixology: “This is and old-fashioned bar, we’ve been here since 1934, so all of our trends are set. There are so many things going on with flavored vodkas and now we have Jack Daniels Honey. The lady nurses that come in here seem to like it.”

Favorite Ingredients: “I’m not a mixologist, I’m a bartender. I can make any drink. When I started working at 6 a.m., the crowd seemed to like my Bloody Marys. I use good vodka, my own mixture and V8, topped with a mixture Pope (Wine and Liquors) carries for bloodys.”

Signature Drink: The Nurses Special 1 oz. Bacardi Rum 1 oz. Sweet Tea Vodka splash Cranberry splash 7-up splash Sweet & Sour Club Soda Combine ingredients in a tall glass over ice. Shake or blend. Garnish with lime, cherry or orange. n Learn more about “The Buff” at TheBuffetBar. com or call 623-6811.

Hacienda’s Rustic Elegance

by V. K. Embee Gorgeous scenery on the drive up to Hacienda del Sol and a colorful garden stroll are the prelude to happy hour at the Terraza Garden Patio and Lounge. Monday through Friday from 3pm-6pm all small plates are ½ off and drinks are specially priced. Try the crab cakes ($6) served with balsamic molasses and mango puree, crunch into the satisfying seafood flautas ($3) with a moist flavorful filling. For a freshfrom-the-garden delight, sip a bowl of grilled golden tomato gazpacho ($3). Warm caprese bruschetta ($4) features panela cheese and savory tomato jam with grilled ciabatta, and a mound of greens punctuated with basil. All of the small plates are artistically presented and appetizer-size. Many of the fruits, vegetables and herbs are grown in the adjacent organic garden.

All selections from the extensive wine list are available by the glass for $5 or $8. Well drinks are $3.50 and beers are ½ off. House margaritas are $5, and the Hacienda Margarita made with Cazadores Reposado and agave nectar is $6. Although not discounted during happy hour, the specialty “Culinary Cocktails and Infusions” are worth trying, such as the awardwinning Hacienda Cooler ($10) made with gin, cucumber, cilantro, and lime juice.

Built in 1929 as a girls’ boarding school, Hacienda del Sol evolved into a guest ranch (and legendary hideaway of Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy). Terraza Lounge features cozy, intimate spaces, and a resonant piano. Visually drink in the spectacular views of the Catalinas through the windows, or outside on the patio. n Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch Resort is located at 5501 N. Hacienda del Sol Rd. Details at HaciendaDelSol.com and 299-1501.

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fashion

Southwestern Gothic Styled by Jamaica Cole Photos by Krysta Jabczenski On Tierra (top): Lust or Rust maxi dress ($56) Swindlers, yellow rosette scarf ($22) Church of Satin.

On Harry (middle): Vintage black western shirt ($18.95) How Sweet it Was, ceramic rose bolo tie stylist’s own. Skulls by Tucson Sugar Skulls.

On Isadora (bottom): Formal damask dress ($78) by Sapphire Cordial for Church of Satin, Spanish hat ($9.95) How Sweet it Was. On Tucker (bottom): Vera Cruz button up ($75) Swindlers, vintage suspenders ($12) How Sweet it Was, hat and pants model’s own.

On revelers (bottom): Western shirts from The Savvy Bum and Zia Vintage, mariachi costumes (for rent) How Sweet it Was, red ruffled dress by Erin Bradley for Preen.

Hair and makeup by Danielle Cushing, Mauricio Fregoso Salon. For full shoot, see www.KrystaJabczenski.com and www.churchofsatinhandmade.com. Special thanks to Joseph Valentino, Young Hunter, Flam Chen and Degrazia Gallery in the Sun. n

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photos by Krysta Jabczenski

community

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Tucson’s Scottish Rite Cathedral

by David Schaeffer If you’ve read The DaVinci Code, you probably have a nebulous notion of the Freemasons as a far-reaching secret organization with vaguely sinister aims. Having lived within a stone’s throw of the Freemason’s Scottish Rite Cathedral (on South Scott Avenue) at three different times, I passed the building countless times and always had a similar impression: imposing granite façade, few windows, silence. But a recent visit to the Cathedral gave me (and photographer Krysta Jabczenski) an expanded view of the Freemasons and their role in our community. Our guide for the visit was Michael Atchley, Personal Representative of the Sovereign Grand Inspector General in Arizona. Admittedly, it’s a pretty cool title.

Dedicated in 1916, the Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in Tucson, having opened only four years after Arizona gained statehood. Freemasonry itself has been a presence in Tucson since 1875, and several recognizable names in southern Arizona history have been affiliated with the group: Roskruge, Goldwater, Randolph and Drachman, among others.

While the Freemasons have long been a part of Tucson, their goals and activities have rarely been publicized.

The exterior of the Scottish Rite Cathedral (Scottish Rite being one group within Freemasonry) may be a little forbidding, but the interior is anything but. There are massive ornate halls with spectacular stage backdrops and classical chandeliers, gorgeous stained-glass windows, mysterious winding hallways and staircases, a well-stocked lending library containing valuable southern Arizona history, and a pipe-organ that has to be seen to be believed. In addition, the Cathedral boasts a full-service dining hall and kitchen, as well as Tucson’s oldest evaporative-cooling system: a granite and water vent system that still cools parts of the building. All told, the building is a well-preserved monument to craftsmanship and the continuing presence of the Freemasons in Tucson.

While I had always been interested in seeing the inside of the building, the main focus of this visit was to find out what, exactly, the Freemasons do. And while Mr. Atchley could not tell me too many particulars of what goes on during their meetings (it is, of course, a private membershipbased organization), he spoke freely of the history of the group and of the charities that the Tucson Scottish Rite supports: Wings on Words, a child speech and language center on 6th Avenue and Speedway, and Children’s Clinic at Tucson Medical Center foremost among them. These charities are supported by the dues of the 1200 members of Freemasonry in Tucson, as well as by the subsidiary organizations within Freemasonry: Daughters of the Nile and Eastern Star for women, DeMolay for the youth sector. In addition, parts of the building (the halls, dining rooms, kitchen, etc.) are available for events such as weddings, banquets and meetings.

As an organization, the Freemasons have long been perceived as a society that keeps its own secrets. Having spent a few hours inside their walls, I may not know much more about the inner workings of Freemasonry, but I can definitely attest to the beauty of the Cathedral and to the openness of the Mr. Atchley in speaking about the history of the group.

Go check it out - within those walls is a valuable sense of Tucson’s history and future. n The Freemason’s Scottish Rite Cathedral, 160 S. Scott Ave., is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 1p.m., Monday through Friday. Learn more at TucsonScottishRite.org. Questions regarding events and tours can be directed to 622-8364 or secretary@tucsonscottishrite.org

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community

Notes From a Plant Freak

by Jared R. McKinley

Species of Interest

Square Window Leaf - Haworthia truncata var. truncata

continued on page 37

Tutuli “Buddy” Michael (left) makes friends at Miko’s Corner Playground.

Loco For Local: Dog Parks

by Phoenix Michael Hi, guys! Man’s best friend here with a guest column for Zócalo Tucson Magazine. As a part time sniffing consultant and expert on all things fetchable, I’ve been asked to contribute this month’s Loco For Local piece on the City of Tucson Parks & Recreation’s off-leash dog areas. I was happy to oblige!

My grownup and I began our tour at Christopher Columbus Park, 4600 N. Silverbell Rd. The city’s first dog park is also one of its best. 14,000 square feet and open from dawn to dusk! I didn’t know what to smell first.

A ramada provided shade for our humans while we dogs romped (there was this one brown beagle with a Frisbee...anyway.) There was even a lake nearby, although I had to be on my leash again to go see it. Memo to you ducks: consider yourself warned.

As civic-minded Tucsonans we were pleased to find Sixth Avenue Dog Park, 2075 N. 6th Ave., in the stewardship of conscientious neighborhood residents who know picking up after their pooches is just good manners.

Responsible owners and well-behaved dogs of all shapes, sizes and colors are welcome from sunrise to sunset daily here too. My thoughts? That female Chihuahua’s rump certainly was fascinating.

At Reid Park, north of 22nd Street and east of Country Club Road, my owner explained Miko’s Corner Playground is so named in memory of a Tucson Police Department K-9 dog that perished in the line of duty while chasing a criminal. What better way to remember his bravery than with two acres of turf for us dogs to tear around on? As a miniature dachshund, I was particularly pleased to find a separate area just for small guys like me! Miko’s Corner is open 7 a.m.-10 p.m. daily; use the Picnic Place or Concert Place entrances off Country Club Road.

The sandy off-leash area at Jacobs Park, 3300 N. Fairview Ave., was smaller than some I’ve seen but no less fun to frolic in; look for it on the west edge of the park. This spot has a reputation for the eccentric yet harmless characters, both human and canine, often found here between dawn and dusk. Five stars!

The east side’s spacious and serene Udall Park, 7290 E. Tanque Verde Rd., was next. With an acre set aside for leash-free shenanigans from 6 a.m.-10 p.m. daily, I had quite a blast marking my territory here before our final stop. And then suddenly, there it was: Tucson’s largest off-leash dog area, Palo Verde Park, 300 S. Mann Ave. Its glorious 38,000 square feet are open 6 a.m.-10:30 p.m. daily. I slept the whole way home! n Call 791-4873 or visit TucsonAZ.gov/parksandrec/offleash for rules and regulations governing off-leash dog area usage.

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photo: Phoenix Michael

Known collectively as Window Leaf Plants (so called because of the translucent “windows” that allow light to pass into the succulent leaves), Haworthia comprises approximately 70+ species endemic to South Africa (there is an increasing number of varieties, selections and cultivars emerging on the market, particularly from Japanese breeders). Generally these easy-to-cultivate species grow particularly fast and spread out quickly to fill out a container. Occasionally you will want to lift plants out of the soil and divide them up (you can give away crowded out clumps to friends).

Plants will need protection from frost. Often on a patio, there is sufficient protection, especially in warmer parts of Tucson like downtown. You can always easily take plants inside on the coldest nights since most of the time people grow them in pots. Just remember to put them back outside during the day since the cool season is when they grow the most and need light.

Square Window Leaf is an especially attractive variety with striking, architectural form. Grow plants in containers and let dry out slightly between

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Business

Plant Freak

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continued from page 34 watering - this will differ in frequency depending on the size of container you use, and how water retentive the soil is. Use well drained soil. Plants are amazingly resistant to neglect and can bounce back from very withered, emaciated states. Plants can tolerate full sun but usually look best in part sun, or in filtered sun like under a shade cloth or mesquite tree.

Seasonal Guidelines

November-December

Fall is finally here. Even when the day is warm, the evenings are cool and the plants are showing their gratitude.

Some nursery bedding plants foretelling the season’s arrival are snapdragons, stock, pansies, petunias, alyssum, lobelia, and most telling that the cool season has arrived, calendula. Some nurseries may still be selling vinca, lisianthus, celosia, zinnia, portulaca and other warm season annuals for cheap.

If you get them, just remember frost will put most of them out for the season.

This is the time to pull out any summer-worn tomato plants and make room for cilantro, parsley, lettuces and cabbages and “root crops” like carrots, radishes and beets. You should also be setting out broccoli and cauliflower.

Your pepper and basil plants might be worth hanging on to for just a little longer if still producing.

Bulbs start appearing in the nurseries. Most can be planted now (and best in subsequent groupings over the next few months). But you will need to refrigerate hyacinth, tulip and crocus bulbs for about a month before planting.

Fall is the best season for planting most species of plants, with the exception of some of the more frost tender plants like bougainvillea. Start preparing for frost. Cloth covers are sold in nurseries, though an old sheet works just fine. An early frost is very much possible. Last winter had some dreadfully cold nights and lots of plants took a hard beating; a reminder to always be prepared for cold snaps even if the path from the kitchen to the garbage can outside still causes one to break a sweat. n

Mercado San Agustin Continues to Expand

by Jim Lipson While it’s easy to talk about the unfulfilled promise of downtown development and Rio Nuevo, Mercado San Agustin, in the 900 block of West Congress Street, continues to evolve as a Westside diamond in the rough.

With 15,000 square feet of expansive retail space appearing cavernous at times, much of that is about to change with the coming of Agustin, a new Mediterranean bistro style restaurant and grill.

Mercado’s Executive Director Kira Dixon-Weinstein and Mercado’s Restaurant Partner Glen Stosius are set for a “soft opening” in early December with a more formal grand opening tentatively set to coincide with the Mercado’s Holiday Bizarre on December 16.

The restaurant, slated to feature indoor and outdoor seating with a courtyard extension, will serve up seafood entrees, a raw oyster bar, a variety of organic salads and what Stosius describes as “traditional handmade cocktails.”

With four star restaurant experiences in Miami and New York, he goes on to say that Agustin will distinguish itself “with the quality and simplicity of its ingredients and with its casual but professional service standards.”

Hopefully Agustin will serve as a much needed anchor business that can provide a steadier flow of foot traffic into the Mercado seven days a week. With that kind of exposure, the Mercado’s several other creative endeavors - the Community Food Bank sponsored Santa Cruz Farmers Market (Thursday afternoons), the Sunday morning brunch market, and the soon to arrive Café Libra Coffee Cart, along with special events - can begin to flourish not only on their own but as part of a larger development.

And speaking of the bigger picture, Agustin (the restaurant) is but one of three major projects that Stosius and Dixon-Weinstein are simultaneously working on. Adjacent to the restaurant, come February or March, will be the Cabinet Room. A mezzanine bar with dark mood lighting and lots of leather, Stosius describes this throwback style watering hole with words like “mysterious, a gentleman’s club.” (Perhaps à la AMC’s hit show “Mad Men?”) Completing the north end development of the Mercado will be the Four Mile Market. Described as a European-style market, this will also give more purpose and substance to a space crying out to be seen and experienced. “This is an exciting time,” says Stosius. “We’ll have coffee and cocktails within the month and as you can see there is a lot going on.”

Complimenting the new in-house construction and the current businesses, which include a Mexican bakery, taqueria and a sno-cone stand, is the Mercado’s 3800 square feet of enclosed courtyard. “I’m a mom of three,” says Dixon-Weinstein, “and I want a place where kids can be free to safely wander around.” n Special events in November, presented by the All Souls Procession, include “A Celebration of Memories” on Nov. 2 and the All Souls Procession Grand Finale on Nov. 6. Further details about Mercado San Agustin are online at MercadoSanAgustin.com.

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photo: Jamie Manser

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Business

Hamilton Distillers

A sneak peek at Tucson’s sole distilling operation

by Sarah Burton After 25 years making gallery-quality custom wood furniture, Arroyo Design took its last orders in August, and will work until next May to wrap up those remaining pieces before shutting down. But that’s not to say owner Stephen Paul is taking a breather of any kind. In fact, partnering with daughter Amanda Paul, he’s already on to the next adventure: Hamilton Distillers. Whiskey, to be exact.

“My wife and I are scotch drinkers, and we got to thinking, ‘why don’t we make this ourselves?’” Stephen says, elucidating the path to becoming Tucson’s only distillery. Naming the operation after Stephen’s mother’s maiden name seemed a natural choice, since Arroyo Design had been named after wife Elaine’s maiden name. But from furniture to booze?

Amanda explains this is not such a stretch for her father, “Before furniture, he was a science teacher and it really comes down to chemistry. He’s really having fun with that aspect of this whole thing.”

Learning to malt their own barley, researching in Scotland and creating a batch of single-malt whiskey using a small copper-pot still, all resulted in a prototype so successful it won investors over with one taste. Now a shiny 39-gallon copper still imported from Portugal sits, patiently awaiting phase one of this family effort, set to begin in December. After aging only a year and a half, product should be ready for tasting by mid-2013. Stephen explains the science behind such a short amount time: “We’ll be using small,

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5-gallon oak barrels to age, so the ratio of barrel surface area to volume of spirit is greater, thereby speeding up the process.”

The distillery will start out with four or five craft spirits, made and aged for market testing in a handful of local restaurants. In fact, until trademarking is complete, details on the products are extremely top secret.

That makes sense considering they are developing a spirit that’s proving difficult to classify since, research so far has confirmed, nothing like it has ever been made. n Though not live as of press time, the website will be HamiltonDistillers.com.

Getting Licensed “A distilling license is basically a liquor license,” Stephen Paul clarifies at the photo shoot. “You have to first get approved by the city before you can go to the state.” Being the first to apply for a distilling license in Tucson, Amanda Paul said it was a long process that took about eight months. Hamilton Distillers is one of three distilleries in Arizona.

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Events November Fri 4

BEAR DOWN FRIDAYS

Homecoming party on University Boulevard with the Pride of Arizona Marching Band, Wilbur and Wilma, the marching band’s Pom & Drum Lines, more. 4pm-9pm. MainGateSquare.com

Fri 4-Sun 6 CELTIC FESTIVAL & Scottish Highland Games: music, dancing, athletic events, food & drink. Times vary. Prices Vary. Rillito Park, 4502 N. First Ave. TucsonCelticFestival.org

ALL SOULS PROCESSION WEEKEND Celebrate Día de Los Muertos with music, events and a procession. See pages 8-9 and the website for the specific events, times, and maps. AllSoulsProcession.org

Sat 5 GREYHOUNDS & FRIENDS:

Fall Festival Fundraiser. Entertainment, shopping, more. $5/family.

Brandi Fenton Memorial Park, 3482 E. River Rd. 8867411, AZGreyhoundRescue.org

1ST SATURDAY ART WALK

Galley receptions. Some galleries include Contreras Gallery, Fragment Galley, Sacred Machine, La Pilita Museum, The Drawing Studio and more! 6pm-9pm. Downtown. CTGATucson.org/first-sat.html

Sat 5-Sun 13 3rd TUCSON INTERNATIONAL GUITAR FESTIVAL Experience the musical talents of The Assad Brothers, Tucson Guitar Society Orchestra, Rene Izquierdo and more! Prices vary. Holsclaw Recital Hall, 1017 N. Olive. 342-0022, TucsonGuitarSociety.org

Sun 6 PICTURE THIS! Art for Families: Fifteen Minutes of Fame. Experience the photographic history of Rock & Roll at the Museum and create your own 15 minutes of fame while constructing a 3-dimensional tunnel book. For children 6–12 & their adult companions.

1pm. Free. Tucson Museum of Art, 140 N. Main Ave. 624-2333, TucsonArts.com

FREE HEALTH AND SAFETY FAIR Health screenings, child fingerprinting, bike rodeo, live desert animal safety/awareness, self-defense classes, educational booths, demonstrations, kids rides and more!

10am-2pm. Tanque Verde Swap Meet, 4100 S. Palo Verde Rd. 294-4252, TanqueVerdeSwapMeet.com

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Thu 10 THE NIGHT OF BROKEN GLASS

Exactly 73 years ago, the lives of Jews in Germany were unalterably shattered one horrible night. The TJCL presents actual diary excerpts from some of the young Jews who lived through the horror. 7pm. Tucson Jewish Community Center, 3800 E. River Rd. 299-3000, TucsonJCC.org

Fri 11-Sun 13 TUS CON 38

SciFi & Fantasy convention with special guest David A. Williams and author guest of honor Patricia Briggs. Author readings, autographs, art, gaming,more. Times vary. InnSuites Hotel Tucson CityCenter, 475 N. Granada. TusconSciFiCon.com

Sat 12 GABA BIKE SWAP Everything for the casual &

Sat 19 JERÔME BEILLARD FESTIVAL FOR LIFE Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation’s 23rd Festival For Life with live music, art auctions, more. Prices vary.

Tucson Chinese Cultural Center, 1288 W. River Rd. FestivalForLife.org

28th EL TOUR DE TUCSON

Over 9,000 cyclists of all ages and abilities. Participants include novice, intermediate, advanced, & professional riders.

Various races, locations & times. Registration fees.

745-2033, PerimeterBicycling.com

FAMILY DAYS AT THE POETRY CENTER Writing activities/performance featuring youth from Voices, Inc. 10am-1pm. UA Poetry Center, 1508 E. Helen St. 626-3765, Poetry.Arizona.Edu

Sun 20

serious bike enthusiasts. 8am-2pm. 4th Avenue between 6th & 9th Streets. 624-5004, BikeGABA.org

ST. AUGUSTINE CATHEDRAL ART AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL Local Artisans show-

LIVING HISTORY DAY Sample Spanish Colo-

casing jewelry, yard art, wood carvings, food, more.

25 turkeys will be raffled off, $1/ticket. 8am-3pm. St. Augustine Cathedral, 192 S. Stone Ave. 623-6351, AugustineCathedral.org

nial food, listen to stories of old Tucson, learn period crafts; musket & cannon firings. 10am-3pm. Free.

Presidio San Agustín del Tucson, 133 W. Washington St. 837-8119, TucsonPresidioTrust.org

2ND SATURDAYS

A monthly downtown fest with Spirit Familia, Planet Jam, Kristen Chandler on Scott Avenue Stage. Up With People performing at The Fox and Kevin and Tanishia Hamilton playing at The Rialto Arts and Antiquities Patio. Free. 6pm-10:30pm.

Congress Street, 2ndSaturdays.com

PUTTING ON THE RITZ...CRACKER! The Family Simcha Gala benefits the Children & Youth Department. Prices vary. 6pm. Tucson Jewish Community Center, 3800 E. River Rd. 299-3000, TucsonJCC.org

AN EVENING OF PLAY Adults-only soiree with wine blending to physics “phun” to grown-up twists on childhood treats and more. Benefits the Children’s Museum programming and exhibits. 6:30pm. $125/ person. Children’s Museum Tucson, 200 S. 6th Ave. 792-9985, ChildrensMuseumTucson.org

Sat 12-Sun 13 OPEN STUDIO TOUR Over 200 artists in Tucson & Pima County open their studios in a self-guided tour. TucsonPimaArtsCouncil.org

Fri 18-Sun 20 HOLIDAY CRAFT MARKET

More than 120 artists offer unique creations in jewelry, ceramics, watercolors, & metal work. Kids area, live music, more.

10am-5pm. Free. Tucson Museum of Art, 140 N. Main Ave. 624-2333, TucsonArts.com

Thu 24 CROSS-COUNTRY CLASSIC Southern Arizona Roadrunners’ European-style 5K includes hurdling hay bales & water jumps. Proceeds benefit Toys for Tots. 8am women’s 5K, 8:45am men’s 5K, 9:30am coed 1.5 fun run. Registration fees. Reid Park, Ramada 10, Country Club & 22nd St. 326-9383, AZRoadRunners.org

Fri 25-Sat 26 HOLIDAY NIGHTS-UNIQUELY TUCSON The Park is transformed into a Winter Wonderland with over 750,000 holiday lights and a special desert snowman. 5:30pm-8:30pm. See website for prices. Tohono Chul Park, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte. 742-6455, TohonoChulPark.org

Sat 26-Sun 27 NATIVE AMERICAN SOCIAL & CRAFT MARKET Experience the life and history of several Indian nations with tribal dancers, children’s activities, traditional foods, more. Noon-dusk. Free/donation.

Call 622-4900 for location. USAIndianInfo.org

Ongoing UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA ICECATS Home hockey games: Nov 4-5 (Weber State), 11-12 (Colorado State). 7:30pm. $5-$15. TCC Arena, 260 S. Church Ave. Hockey.Arizona.edu.

photo courtesy of Perimeter Bicycling

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Cycling for Tucson’s Charities

El Tour de Tucson benefits local nonprofits and the city at large

by Sarah Burton One day a year, the Saturday before Thanksgiving, more than 9,000 cyclists from here and across the country hit the streets along Tucson’s outskirts in an impressive stream of tires, spandex, bike chains, and helmets.

This year, November 19 marks the 29th annual El Tour de Tucson—the infamous cycling spectacle and America’s largest perimeter event of its kind—put on by Perimeter Bicycling and The University of Arizona Medical Center.

And there’s good reason for all the hype. Not only do participants pedal through what Outside Magazine dubbed the best road-biking city in the country, but for great causes. Last year’s El Tour de Tucson raised more than $1.6 million for local nonprofits. Beneficiaries for the upcoming ride include the likes of Tu Nidito Children & Family Services, Ben’s Bells Project, Humane Society of Southern Arizona, and Casa de los Niños, to name just a few.

“Without the support of El Tour, our organization might not exist today,” says Liz McCusker, Executive Director of Tu Nidito, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting children who’ve been seriously impacted by illness or death.

The local group has been the primary beneficiary of El Tour since 1997, totaling nearly $3 million. “The partnership has ensured our ability to grow and thrive, making our services available to all eligible children who so desperately need them,” she explains.

The local economy can also look forward to benefitting from El Tour, with a bump of an estimated $16-$20 million the week of the event, thanks to thousands of out-of-state participants. California resident Marc Perry can testify this event is worth the trip, having impressively participated in El Tour for the last 20 years (possibly 21, but who can blame the guy for losing track).

“I was told early on by cycling buddies that most century rides (100 miles and over) pale in comparison…and they were right,” he admits.

Exchanging with fellow riders what Perry dubs “war stories”—a dropped water bottle here, falling out of the pack there and carb-loading the night before—are all in the fun spirit of the race. But the real draw? “The organization and support of the ride,” Perry answers, “It’s just fantastic.”

For those not able or interested in riding outdoors, LeMond Fitness offers the chance to skip the potholes, hills, and sun, with the sixth annual Indoor El Tour. “This option is modeled after the main event, so you can be involved even if you can’t hit the streets or even be in town,” explains director of LeMond Fitness Indoor El Tour, Michele Wyatt.

During the week leading up to the Saturday event, participants in this alternate tour can log minutes instead of miles on stationary bikes from anywhere in the country—still competing and riding for charity—and even go ride together at the finish line November 19.

“Last year we had a great challenge between five soldiers stationed in Afghanistan riding on stationary bikes against a participant here,” Wyatt recalls. “It goes to show you can ride from pretty much anywhere, if you want to be involved.”

There’s no need to be a professional, but why not ride among them?

Different starting points on the route offer cyclists 111, 85, 60, or 42-mile rides through Tucson’s surrounding terrain. For anyone looking to provide moral support and going to cheer on cyclists along the way, a route map is available on the Perimeter Bicycling website.

Kids can also get in on the action, choosing from shorter starting points for the El Tour Fun Ride. The finish line remains downtown, but has moved this year to Armory Park, across the street from the Tucson Children’s Museum at 221 S. 6th Ave. There, all-day festivities and a special medallion await participants.

For more information or to register for any of the tours mentioned, visit PerimeterBicycling.com or call 745-2033. n

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photo courtesy: Desert Harvesters

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Events

Mesquite pods can be milled into flour, and used as a base for honey and many other treats.

Meals from Mesquite

by Kelly Lewis Hungry? That mesquite tree in your yard can make for some seriously tasty treats, and local non-profit Desert Harvesters can help you get started by milling your mesquite pods to make a gluten-free flour.

“We wanted to reconnect people with the abundance of the Sonoran desert, and we wanted to bring it back into the urban core and into their daily lives,” said Brad Lancaster, co-founder of Desert Harvesters.

Desert Harvesters is a volunteer-run organization that formed in 2003 out of an effort to plant food-bearing native trees in the Dunbar Spring neighborhood. For the past nine years they have held a mesquite pancake breakfast fundraiser, inviting members of the community to come down to the Dunbar Spring Organic Community Garden and bring mesquite pods to run through a mill.

This year, they’re aiming to show off the diversity of mesquite by hosting a community bake sale in the community garden on November 20 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The cost of milling your own mesquite pods is $2 per gallon with a $5 minimum.

“We’re asking the community to come out and to bring some of their favorite mesquite-based treats,” said Amy Valdés Schwemm, a Desert Harvesters volunteer. “I’ve heard some people are bringing mesquite cookies and mesquite shortbread, and we’ll also have mesquite ginger cookies, scones and cookies with mesquite jelly.”

Lancaster said he hopes the bake sale will pleasantly surprise attendees by introducing them to a wider range of things you can do with mes-

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quite.

“I think it’s going to add a lot of diversity to the offerings, so people will be able to try much more than pancakes,” Lancaster said. “But what’s more, it really offers people another opportunity to get involved, and that’s what we want. We want people talking to each other and sharing ideas, and food is one of the best ways we can share and exchange.”

Desert Harvesters will also bring their mill down to the Santa Cruz River Farmers’ Market at Mercado San Agustin, 100 S. Avenida del Convento at West Congress Street, on November 17 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

If you’re interested in milling your own mesquite pods at the bake sale or the farmer’s market, bring pods that are nice and dry and were collected from the tree, not from the ground, said Valdés Schwemm. Check for black mold spots on the pod, and if none are found, taste to see if the skin of the pod is sweet. If it is, you’ve got yourself a mesquite tree that’s perfect for producing flour to bake with.

“It’s really exciting to cook with,” said Valdés Schwemm. “We make a lot of things with it. At the moment I’m working on a mesquite mole myself.” n Visit DesertHarvesters.org for details and learn more about cooking with mesquite from the organization’s “Eat Mesquite! A Cookbook,” which is available for purchase online. The event on Sunday, November 20 also features live music and children’s activities.

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Events

‘Tis the Season to Be a Bicyclist

by Kelly Lewis The Greater Arizona Bicycling Association is a local non-profit, noncompetitive bicycling club that provides bicycling education and hosts a variety of local rides. They have held the swap twice annually since 1999—once in the spring, and once in the fall, typically the week before El Tour de Tucson. GABA does not charge vendors to participate in the swap, and Yares said the event usually brings out about 3,000-4,000 sellers and shoppers.

“It’s great to have it on Fourth Avenue, because the bike nuts can come down, and their friends and family members that aren’t bike nuts can walk around, go shopping, or eat lunch,” Yares said.

The event also helps support small local businesses on Fourth Avenue, said Tallis. “It’s good for everyone,” Tallis added. “It’s good for the community, good for the merchants, good for the soul; events like these are the fabric that makes up who we are.” n photo: Denyse Leventman/Hot Shots By Dee

It’s like Christmas for cyclists—on November 12, a chunk of Fourth Avenue will be shut down to make room for the Bicycle Swap, a semiannual event put on by the Greater Arizona Bicycling Association (GABA) in which all things bicycle will be up for grabs.

Whether you’re looking for a new set of handlebars, a bike seat or a vintage collector’s item, chances are, you’ll find it here.

“People show up from all over the West to sell their leftover bicycle parts, shops will come down and bring their inventory, everyone sets up on the sides of the street and anything bikerelated is welcome,” said Greg Yares, Bicycle Swap coordinator for GABA. “If you like bicycles, it’s wonderful, because you’ll never know what you’ll find.”

The swap begins at 8 a.m. and continues until 2 p.m., on Fourth Avenue between Sixth and Ninth Streets. For cyclists, a bike valet will be provided by El Grupo.

“I’ve been told it’s the second largest bicycle swap meet in North America, and the cool thing is, it’s free, free, free,” said Kurt Tallis, Fourth Avenue Merchant’s Association Events & Marketing Director.

Visit BikeGABA.org and FourthAvenue.org for more GABA and Fourth Avenue events.

Altruistic Giving

by Emily Gindlesparger

photo: Mike Edgeton/Edgeton Photography

“It first started here in Tucson in the early 90s,” Pat Bjorhovde besays of Tucson. Jones is the chairperson of National Philanthropy Day. “We gins, explaining the Youth in Philanthropy initiative. “The Association of care about each other; we pay attention; and that is reflected in our philFundraising Professionals started a program encouraging chapters to get anthropic community.” involved with teaching youth in philanthropy to kids,” In Tucson that community includes more and more she says, so she volunteered to teach a lesson in phiyoung people. Newly created this year, the Outstandlanthropy at Salpointe Catholic High School. ing Youth Philanthropists Award will go to the Noah “I found that to have had quite an impact on me, Cohen Memorial Youth Philanthropy Fund, a program and several years later when I went off to do a Masencouraging middle school students to donate some ters I decided I wanted to do my graduate research of their bar and bat mitzvah gifts to nonprofits. “They on how kids learn the value of philanthropy.” are teaching kids how to be responsible citizens,” This sparked one of her most memorable achieveJones elaborates. “That’s really what’s going to bring ments in an already multifaceted career. Bjorhovde us into tomorrow.” n was a professional fundraiser, benefitting the University of Arizona’s College of Fine Arts and the Tucson The National Philanthropy Luncheon, presented by Symphony Orchestra, among others; she worked the Association of Fundraising Professionals, will be with chapters of the Association of Fundraising Proheld on November 9 at the Westin La Paloma Resort, fessionals from Arizona to North Carolina. This year 3800 E. Sunrise Dr., starting at 11 a.m. More inforshe is being honored with the Lifetime Achievement mation at AFPSOAZ.org/National-Philanthropy-Day Award on National Philanthropy Day, Wednesday, NoThis year’s other honorees include: vember 9.

Outstanding Philanthropist of the Year: The Youth in Philanthropy program now has a Allan and Alfie Norville working high school curriculum that was launched Outstanding Corporate or Foundation Philanthropist: this year across the United States and Canada. “I’m CITI Outstanding Fundraising Profesvery excited about that,” Bjorhovde says, “because Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser: sional Brenda Goldsmith (left) and it’s something that I saw as a need ten years ago in Camerone Elise Parker Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser my graduate research and now we have a high school Outstanding Fundraising Professional: Camerone Elise Parker (right) curriculum that can actually be used.”

Brenda Goldsmith, Executive Director of El Rio Health “Here we care about our neighbors,” Nancy Jones

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KXCI’s Five

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Tucson’s community radio station, 91.3FM, features cuts from the following new albums in November. Also visit KXCI.org.

Tom Waits, Bad As Me (Anti-) Tom’s first studio album in seven years is another milestone in his career, delivering both rocking blues and howling gospel-tinged numbers.

Joe Cocker, Hard Knocks (429 Records) Another voice more gravel than honey – and we love him for it – Joe Cocker is back with another set of soul/r&b songs backed by an all-star collection of studio musicians.

Songwriting vs Marketing

by Jamie Manser

Deer Tick, Divine Providence (Partisan) The band set out to finally record an album that captures the raw energy of their live shows – and they succeeded with this must-have raucous rock record.

Coldplay, Mylo Xyloto (Capitol) Love them or hate them (we have deejays in both camps), Coldplay is smart enough to bring in Brian Eno for this album; he adds the innovation and edge that have been missing on past releases.

And it’s that season: we’ll be prepping to share new holiday music from folks like Kate Bush, Jack Johnson, Carole King, and Matt Costa. n

Write, record, promote, tour nationally – rinse. Repeat for six years.

Tiring? Ryanhood thought so, and decided to come home last year for a reprieve from its DIY efforts to break into the music biz. It’s not like the band wasn’t making headway. The pop duo got plenty of cred by opening for the likes of Jason Mraz, Matt Nathanson, and Train.

What happened, wrote Cameron Hood via email, was “We just got so fatigued from meeting with labels and managers and big wigs who would basically say, ‘Yeah, you guys are really talented, but we don’t know how we would sell you.’”

Hood clarified that he and band mate Ryan Green didn’t burn out on writing music; it was making the sales pitch. “We had to give ourselves permission to stop thinking about how we would market ourselves, how we were going to succeed and all that. Within a few months of being home, we were both feeling a lot more creative. We stopped asking, ‘How will we market this?’ and only asked, ‘Is this beautiful? Does this move me?’

“There’s nothing like having the Catalinas to set you straight when you get turned around.”

Re-focusing on those values, Ryanhood started recording its new album “After Night Came Sun” last December at Ryan Alfred’s home studio. Alfred is credited as a producer, engineer and coach. “He just kept pushing us to make our performances as real and emotional as we could make them. I’m really grateful to him, because he got a lot out of us, and he kept it fun the whole time.”

The 12-tracks definitely emanate emotional realism via romantic pop with top-notch musicianship and superb production, with songs that express the duo’s personal and professional struggles and evolutions.

Highlights include: “Second City” – about 1871’s Great Chicago Fire with fab pop sensibilities and hooks, Green’s mandolin gives it an Irish ting; the percussion aptly accentuates the singing and instrumentation.

Hood wrote the lyrics, inspired by the city’s fire, its rebound and his break-up with a Chicago girl. “I was pretty taken with the concept that almost the entire city had burned completely to the ground, and then had been rebuilt even bigger and more beautiful the second time.”

“Something More” is a soaring, heartfelt ballad about self-exploration and discovery that includes beautiful stings (Ben Nisbet, violin; Emma Votapek, viola) and lovely backing vocals.

“The Meaning In Me” covers the universal theme about losing oneself. I’ve fallen apart, pretending I’m ok but I feel so far away, and I’ve lost the meaning in me. Scribed by Green, Hood explained that it speaks “to that feeling of being all about appearances and selling things, but losing your heart in the process.”

There are many more exceptional cuts on the album, which features a stellar line-up of Tucson musicians, including: Silver Thread Trio, Chris Giambelluca, Nadim Shehab, Gary Mackender and numerous others.

Overall, Hood said he is “happy that we got to drop the business part of music for a while and make a big, colorful art project. We’re better at songwriting than spreadsheets.” n The CD release is Friday, November 4 at Rialto Theatre, 318 E. Congress St.; Silver Thread Trio opens. Check out Ryanhood.com for links to tunes and videos. Visit TheZMag.com/article-816ryanhood-coming-home.html for the full interview with Cameron Hood.

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2ND SATURDAYS DOWNTOWN Congress Street, 2ndSaturdaysDowntown.com Sat 12: Scott Stage - Kristen Chandler, Spirit Familia, Planet Jam; Fox Theatre - Up With People; street performances.

AVA AMPHITHEATER at Casino Del Sol 5655 W. Valencia Rd. 800-3449453, CasinoDelSol.com/AVA Tue 1: Ozomatli Fri 4: Daughtry Fri 11: Pepe Aguilar Sat 12: Tim McGraw Fri 18: Jenni Rivera

BOONDOCKS LOUNGE 3306 N. 1st Ave. 690-0991, BoondocksLounge.com Mondays: The Bryan Dean Trio Thursdays: L.D., Gila Bend Fridays: Neon Prophet Sat 5: Tony and the Torpedoes Sun 6: Heather Hardy and the Li’l Mama Band Sat 12: Bluz Nite, Honeyboy Sun 13: Ron Pandy CD release Sat 19: Whole Lotta Zep Sun 20: Last Call Girls, Mr. Boogie Woogie Wed 23: Heather Hardy and the Li’l Mama Band

CLUB CONGRESS 311 E. Congress St. 622-8848, HotelCongress.com/club Thu 1: NoBunny Fri 2: Dean’s List, Oncue, Gilbert Forte, Danger James Sun 4: Boots Electric Tue 8: Ra Ra Riot, Delicate Steve, Yellow Ostrich Thu 10: Araab Muzik Wed 16: The Sword Fri 19: Centro-Matic, Polica Sat 20: MyTown Music Community Concert Tue 22: Melt Banana, 400 Blows, Stareater Wed 23: Tom Russell Fri 25: Macklemore, Ryan Lewis, Champagne Champagne, Xperience Sat 26: Hip Hop & Love Tour -

Murs,Tabi Bonney, Ski Beatz & the Senseis, McKenzie Eddy, Sean O’Connell, Da$h Sun 27: The Koffin Kats, The Returners, Demon City Wreckers

FOX TUCSON THEATRE 17 W. Congress St. 624-1515, FoxTucsonTheatre.org Sun 13: Classic Albums Live: Fleetwood Mac’s “Rumours” Tue 15: Pink Martini Fri 18: John Prine, Loudon Wainwright III Sun 20: Jadi Norris & The Presidio Boys

THE HUT 305 N. 4th Ave. 623-3200, HutTucson.com Fri 11: Ones Love Benefit for Educational Enrichment Foundation.

LA COCINA @ OLD TOWN ARTISANS 201 N. Court Ave. 623-6024, LaCocinaTucson.com Wednesdays: Rock Star Fantasy Karaoke with Jim Howell Band Thursdays: Stefan George, Tom Walbank Fridays: Greg Morton & Friends Thu 3: Lana Rebe Sat 5: The Last Call Girls Sat 12: Kitchen On Fire (6pm); Kate Becker & The Zodiacs (8pm) Sat 19: Diane Van Deurzen & Lisa Otey

PLUSH 340 E. 6th St. 798-1298, PlushTucson.com Tues 1: John Shipe Wed 2: Tracy Shedd Thu 3: Mr. Gnome, Startreater, Some of Them Are Old Fri 4: Greensky Bluegrass, Oakhurst Sat 5: Tesoro, Romantasy Cabaret’s Va Va Voom!

Sun 6: Michael P. Mon 7: Mates of State, Generationals Tues 8: The Tangelos Wed 9: Chapter 24, Hairsprayfireandgirls Thu 10: Delta Nove

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Fri 11: Mr. Free and the Satellite Freakout, The Inspector Cluzo, Marianne Dissard (main); Ferrodyne (lounge) Sat 12: Bob Log III, Acorn Bcorn, Otherly Love Sun 13: Bryan Parker Wed 16: Dry River Yacht Club Thu 17: Kaia Chesney Sat 19: Destroy: Launch party for The Destroyer Mon 21: Jamie O’Brien Tue 22: The Possibles Wed 23: Casa Maria Benefit Thu 24: Some of Them Are Old Sat 26: The Lusitania, Jamestown Revival, Lunar Light Collectors Sun 27: Stefan George Mon 28: Hank Topless Tue 29: Hans Hutchinson Wed 30: Planet Jam

RED ROOM AT GRILL 100 E. Congress St. 623-7621, RedRoomTucson.blogspot.com Mondays: Matt & Alix’s Little Gems Vinyl Party Wednesdays: St. St. & Young Hunter Saturdays: George Rosenberg Thu 3: Eric Ketchup Presents: 400 Blows Fri 4: Scooter Rally Sat 5: Shark Pants, Underground Railroad To Candyland Tue 8: Sex Church, JJCVN, Standard Deviance Thu 10: Of The Painted Choir Fri 11: La Cerca Sat 12: Big Eyes, Lenguas Largas Mon 14: Culture Kids, Shark Pants Fri 25: Club de Vest de Jean, Technicolor Hearts

RHYTHM & ROOTS Plaza Palamino, 2970 N. Swan Rd. 319-9966, RhythmandRoots. org Sat 5: Maria Maldaur and Her Red Hot Bluesiana Band Fri 11: Gary Stroutsos Ensemble Sat 12: Ronstadt Generations with Sparky and Rhonda Rucker

RIALTO THEATRE 318 E. Congress St. 740-1000, RialtoTheatre.com

Wed 2: Tinariwen Fri 4: Ryanhood, Silver Thread Trio Sun 6: Calexico – Dance of the Dead Mon 7: Alesana, A Skylit Drive, Sleeping With Sirens, Attilla, Memphis May Fire Tue 8: The Bo-Keys Thu 10: Lucky Tubb & The Modern Day Troubadours, The Honky Tonk Underground Sat 12: Mac Miller Tue 22: Between The Buried And Me, Animals As Leaders, Tesseract

SKY BAR 536 N. 4th Ave. 622-4300, SkyBarTucson.com Thu 3: The Ghost Wolves, The Asteroid Shop Sat 5: The Cosmeticators, The Distortionists, Thriftstore Throwdown Thu 10: Carl Durant, Corey Cottrell Sat 12: Amy Rude, Ferrodyne Thu 17: Le Chat Lunatique Sat 19: La Cerca, One Big Happy Sound

SOLAR CULTURE 31 E. Toole Ave. 884-0874, SolarCulture.org Fri 4: Jayme Stone Sat 5: Youth Lagoon, Gross Magic Wed 9: Tera Melos, Man Jr.

SURLY WENCH PUB 424 N. 4th Ave., 882-0009, SurlyWenchPub.com Thu 3: Squidling Bros Sideshow Fri 4: Black Cherry Burlesque Sat 5: Gaza Strip, The Unday, Sugar Stains Fri 11: Early Black, Hairsprayfireandgirls Sat 12: Fineline Revisited Fri 18: Shrimp Chaperone, The Furys Sat 19: Club Sanctuary Fri 26: Fineline Revisited

VAUDEVILLE 110 E. Congress St. 6223535, MySpace.com/ vaudevilledowntowntucson Sat 12: C-Money

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Hairsprayfireandgirls at Plush Nov. 9, Surly Wench Nov. 11.

Other live music venues include: BLUEFIN 7053 N. Oracle Rd. 531-8500, BluefinTucson.com

CASA VICENTE 375 S. Stone Ave. 884-5253, CasaVicente.com

CHE’S LOUNGE 350 N. 4th Ave. 623-2088, ChesLounge.com

CUSHING STREET BAR & RESTAURANT 198 W. Cushing St. 622-7984, CushingStreet.com

DELECTABLES RESTAURANT & CATERING 533 N. 4th Ave. 884-9289, Delectables.com

135 S. 6th Ave. 623-7700, DowntownKitchen.com

FROG & FIRKIN 874 E. University Blvd. 623-7507, FrogandFirkin.com

Maria Maldaur and Her Red Hot Bluesiana Band perform Nov 5 at Plaza Palomino.

Photo courtesy Rhythm & Roots

DOWNTOWN KITCHEN + COCKTAILS

J BAR 3770 E. Sunrise Dr. 615-6100, Janos.com

Murs performs at Club Congress Nov. 26 with the Hip Hop & Love Tour.

KINGFISHER 2564 E. Grant Rd. 323-7739, KingFisherTucson.com

LUNA BELLA 2970 N. Swan Rd. LunaBellaRestaurant.com

NIMBUS BREWERY 3850 E. 44th St. 745-9175 & 6464 E. Tanque Verde Rd. 7331111, NimbusBeer.com

THE ROCK photo: Darryl Richardson

136 N. Park Ave. RockTucson. com

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Musicians Museum Finds a Home

by Jim Lipson

Sabra Faulk Acoustic Angel (Big Beautiful Babe Music) “My parents had a country band, that’s where I cut my teeth, I was five or six and I would go to the rehearsals,” Sabra Faulk remembers. “They were a really good band, that’s where it started for me.”

On her new 11-track album, Faulk incorporates the country music of her youth with Americana and blues; she is the sole songwriter and plays most of the instruments. While the lyrics, music and the guest musicians definitely command attention, it is Faulk’s gorgeous singing that draws in the listener.

Title track, “Acoustic Angel,” pays homage to Lucinda Williams (Old gravel roads and Delta Blues and a love that didn’t stay) with perfectly punctuated dobro by John Jensen. Following is “I Said,” a lyrically searing tune – Shut up, I said, your words fall down like clouds made of lead. And I want things you can’t give me anyway – that features Heather Hardy’s strong, scintillating violin. Break-up song, “Temporary,” is actually encouraging with an upbeat vibe: Put it in perspective, keep your objective, don’t you life in mortal fear.

“I Can’t Say No” is heartbreakingly beautiful; in “Tell the Truth” one can hear the frustration with political agendas, “Trouble” is a sexy, bluesy tune about the appeal of those “bad news” lovers.

Track eight, “The Curse,” is about the anguish of chemotherapy and Faulk’s mother’s battle with breast cancer (which she won). I can’t believe that I let you under my skin. Instead of making it better, you just make it worse. Sometimes the cure is more like a curse. “It’s sort of her voice saying, ‘I get that I have to do this, but I don’t like it and I don’t like you’,” Faulk explains.

Ending the album is “Fireflies and Moonbeams,” a sweet lullaby Faulk originally wrote in 2006 for a compilation album that benefitted the New Beginnings for Women and Children charity. Faulk says she initially struggled with writer’s block until “all of a sudden one night, I thought of the ‘Fireflies and Moonbeams’ line, and the whole song came from there. It came to me from a muse somewhere because it just wrote itself. I just started writing and it all came out.”

The entire album is a must-have for fans of the genres, and the $15 price is well worth it.

The CD release is Sunday, December 4 at Boondocks, 3306 N. 1st Ave. Confirmed to join Faulk that night are Beverly Seckinger, Mitzi Cowell, Bunny Kirby and Heather Hardy. First Sundays are usually Hardy’s Lil’ Mama Blues and Barbeque, but, Faulk says, “Heather is graciously allowing me to use that night for my CD release and I really appreciate that.” More at SabraFaulk.com.

Born and raised in Willcox, Arizona, Faulk’s music education came at an early age. “My mom taught me how to harmonize, she taught me how to play guitar and I went on teaching myself.

When I was around eight and a half (years old), my dad had this cool little fender guitar, and when he’d go off to work, he’d tell me not to touch his guitar, and I’d wait until he left,” Faulk laughs at the memory. n

No one needs to make a case for how great a town Tucson is for music, but it’s still important that we do. Between the Arizona Blues Hall of Fame and the Tucson Area Music Awards and its annual TAMMIES Hall of Fame inductions, we get to honor the accomplishments and the legacies of many fine musicians.

Yet, as wonderful as it is to have these Halls of Fame, other on than their respective websites, there wasn’t a location to learn about who these people are.

Enter the Tucson Musicians Museum (TMM).

Six years ago George Howard and Susan French, co-founders of TMM, had the vision to establish what French refers to as “an actual brick and mortar facility to pay tribute to those who have contributed so much to our rich local musical heritage.” Although she says the museum has had an “annex” at Lowes Ventana Canyon, on Saturday, November 19, the Tucson Musicians Museum will officially christen its new home within 17th Street Music, 840 E. 17th St.

French also says that she and Howard wanted the museum to be active in the community. And while it may have begun as a way for Howard, a musician and professional photographer, to showcase his growing collection of outstanding portraits of local musicians, TMM sponsors a mentorship program that benefits budding young musicians. The Mariachi Kids and Junior Strings, beneficiaries of the mentorship program, are featured performers at the opening event.

Currently TMM has 112 members, almost all of whom can be found on the walls of 17th Street Music, showcased in Howard’s impressive black and white portraitures. And it’s an extraordinary group. While many of the usual suspects are on the walls—folks who are members of the aforementioned halls of fame—there are also dozens of folks who have toiled for years, and if not in obscurity, certainly outside of the limelight. This group includes folks like Julian Ackerley, Director of the Tucson Boys Chorus; Phil and Joe Levkowitz, previous co-owners of the Chicago Store (who both passed away in 2004); and John Markovich, a bassist and electronics whiz who is a first call amp and sound system repair guy. n The museum’s grand opening is from noon-3pm on Saturday, November 19 and includes performances from Stefan George and Bryan Dean, one of this year’s ten inductees. More information about TMM and the event is at TucsonMusiciansMuseum.org.

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Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is unlike anywhere else. Among dense stands of saguaro, palo verde and ocotillo, you’ll find unfamiliar cacti and bulbous elephant trees erupting from the ground. Rugged mountains rise high above the desert floor, with their dramatic pinnacles beckoning adventurous hikers.

There are many hikes to choose from within Organ Pipe, but the one I highly recommend is the trek to Bull Pasture. To get there, take the Ajo Mountain Drive just east of the Visitor Center. Diverse plant communities, unusual cacti, and out-of-this-world geology are just a few of the things you’ll see along the way.

The trek begins with a relatively flat approach into Estes Canyon. This changes quickly, as the trail rises steeply to ascend high into the Ajo Mountains. It’s only a 4.1-mile roundtrip hike, but you’re guaranteed to get a great workout in a short amount of time. This hike is best done as a loop; take the direct route to Bull Pasture and the ridgeline, then return via the north fork trail.

Aside from the awesome views at Bull Pasture, my favorite part about this hike is the rich diversity of geological wonders found all along the trail. Even if you don’t know much about geology, it’s easy to be awestruck by the colors, textures and strange rocks all around you.

The Estes Canyon-Bull Pasture Trails take you through the innards of an extinct volcano, revealing many different rocks, minerals, crystals and ash flows that allude to the tumultuous creation of this mountain range.

If you like to pedal as well as hike and want to get the most out of your Organ Pipe experience, bring your bike! The Ajo Mountain Drive is best enjoyed as a mountain bike trip and the 21 miles will pass quickly as you gaze in awe at the wonders around you. The road is well maintained so there are no technical obstacles.

Winter is the ideal season for hiking and biking in Organ Pipe, but I’ve found that all seasons offer something special in this awesome national monument. Heavy winter rains give life to abundance of wildflowers in March and April. The summer months can be scorching, but that’s when the organ pipe cacti bloom their magnificent lavender-white flowers. No matter when you go, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument will delight anyone who loves the desert.

escape

Among the Organ Pipes

by Matthew J. Nelson

photo: Matthew J. Nelson

Making Your Escape From Tucson, drive west on Ajo Highway (Hwy. 86) for 120 miles to Why. Head south on Hwy. 85 for 22 miles and look for the Visitor Center sign on your right. n Details on Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument at (520) 387-6849; NPS.gov/orpi.

t Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is home to a fascinating variety of botanical and geological wonders.

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