Catalina Foothills, AZ April 2024

Investing in our Community

40 Y E A R S

C e l e b r a t i n g t h e J o u r n e y , C o n t i n u i n g t h e L e g a c y .

In 2024, Ventana Canyon Club and Lodge proudly celebrates 40 years of excellence The support of the Tucson community has been pivotal to our success fostering a legacy of healthy living and shared experiences that connect our members and guests to the local culture, its welcoming people, and the breathtaking landscape We are grateful and excited to continue this journey together with you Here's to another 40 years! ventanacanyonclub.com

Moving Forward — Stronger, Smarter and Increasingly Fulfilled

Hello April! So good to see you again.

This time of year comes on strong with a sense of growth, an urge to explore new places, consider new ideas, dive into new activities, and generally stride into each day with a hunger for more.

Not in a gluttonous way. But a steady outreach. Leaning into new activities. New people. Places. Ideas.

This issue focuses on a new theme: investing in you, yours, and your world. And though investing -- as a concept -- is often money-related, we all find new ways to invest in our health, our worldview, those dear friends, and our family.

This is a time for all of us in the foothills, of all ages, to continue learning more, finding better solutions, discovering.

April 2024

Jeff Herr | jeff.herr@citylifestyle.com

Megan Ewing | megan.ewing@citylifestyle.com PUBLICATION MANAGER

Jessica Bush | jessica.bush@citylifestyle.com

Elena Chabolla, Jeff Herr, Nicole Smith, Sybil Velarde

Catalina Foothills School District, Nicole Smith, Sybil Velarde

formal livin g room, complete with a wet bar and wine refrigerator, sets

f or elegant

and soirees. Indulge in culinary delights in

elegant formal dining room, featuring refined finishes and ample space for hosting dinner parties. For more casual entertaining, the media room awaits offering space for pool table and card gam es, along with cozy movie nights. Prepare to be captivated by t he razor edge pool, creating a mesmerizing visual effect with its v anishing edges. A separate guest house provides privacy and com fort for visitors. Entertain in style in the newly built ramada, surroun ded by 3 fire pits and lush turf. For wine enthusiasts, the cust om-built wine wall showcases up to 300 bottles, adding a touch of sophisticat ion to the home. With

prime corner lot location and panoram ic views of the mountains and desert landscape, this home offers the perf ect blend of luxury, comfort, and natural beauty.

city scene

The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is hosting its 31st annual signature event, the Desert Gala, on Sunday, April 28, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The event is in-person on the grounds of the Desert Museum. Local culinary delicacies, craft libations, and up-close visits with famous animal residents will be on offer. Photography by Liz Kemp

Investing In Our Elders

S.H.I.E.L.D. PROMOTES HEALTH AND HAPPINESS IN AGING

If you’re a fan of Iron Man, Thor, or Captain Marvel, maybe you remember the S.H.I.E.L.D. agent who occasionally appeared and eventually got his own spin-off TV show: Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.

As mere mortals, we don’t possess such superpowers, but we can utilize choice and habit to create our own shield.

The SHIELD plan, developed by McCance Center Co-Director Rudolph Tanzi, is an acronym to remember how to take care of your brain.

SHIELD stands for S leep, H andling stress, I nteraction with friends, E xercise, L earning new things, and D iet. I want to emphasize the social piece of SHIELD, namely, interaction with friends.

As humans, we we are social creatures by default whether that shows in introverted, extroverted, or ambivert behaviors. People with active social lives through their faith community, golf club, book club, or bridge club benefit from positive social engagement.

In addition to the sense of belonging and shared interest of these clubs, they also provide a resource for support when illness or accidents occur. Everyone handles personal challenges differently — some are more apt to reach out, while others prefer to keep matters private. A circle of friends or calls to local agencies or experts is an excellent place to seek support and care.

Lifelong learning is another way to boost brain health. Over a century after the initial documented case of Alzheimer’s disease, there is no known cause or cure. Dementia is the umbrella term used to describe the more than 200 types of diseases that cause cognitive impairment.

These diseases include vascular, aphasia, Parkinson’s, and more.

Arizona is the fastest growing state in the nation for Alzheimer’s and dementia related diseases. Pursuing new things helps create new pathways in the brain. Pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone forces your brain to engage differently. Taking up pickleball, learning a new language, playing an instrument, or practicing a new hobby can boost your brainpower.

Volunteering is another way to challenge yourself and foster social interaction. Consider sharing your career expertise with an area non-profit, becoming an ESL (English as a Second Language) volunteer, or helping at a local animal shelter.

Recognize which parts of your SHIELD are already in place, and which areas may need a little reinforcement. Finding your community is key to maintaining your physical, mental, and social well-being.

After all, what is good for the body is good for the brain, too. Incorporating these habits into our daily routine may be challenging for many of us, but the benefits are well worth the effort!

Nicole J. Smith is the author of “Diagnosis Dementia: Your Guide for Eldercare Planning and Crisis Management.” After her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2021, Nicole took it upon herself to grow her knowledge of dementia and its effects on the mind, body, and well-being of those with the condition. Her book shares her story and many resources for managing aging and caregiving's medical, financial, legal, and emotional aspects. Visit njsmithbooks.com for more information.

“Dementia is the umbrella term used to describe the more than 200 types of diseases that cause cognitive impairment.”

“What is good for the body is probably good for the brain, too.”

FINANCIAL LITERACY GROWS AMONG OUR CHILDREN IN CATALINA FOOTHILLS SCHOOLS

KIDS AND MONEY

Was the first time your middle-schooler gave you financial advice the last?

Probably not if your child is a student at Orange Grove Middle School and has experienced Dawn Willman’s Deep Learning Showcase.

formulating realistic solutions to common problems that many people from all walks of life can relate to.

Students in the showcase say they are more comfortable having conversations with their parents and families about

THIS GENERATION IS MUCH MORE ENGAGED AND AWARE OF THE FORCES IN THE MARKETPLACE AND ECONOMY.

Turns out, seventh- and eighth-graders in Willman’s social studies classes can speak with authority about budgets and personal finance.

Those same students will be better prepared for the business management program when they reach Catalina Foothills High School and begin exploring career possibilities in the business world.

Ms. Willman presents her students with a "personal finance case study" in which these young teenagers identify financial problems, develop solutions and recommendations, and serve as financial advisors to clients in a mock setting.

A short film produced by the Catalina Foothills School District focuses on the details of Ms. Willman’s Deep Learning Showcase, spotlighting student presentations and the process of

finances and that they are learning that many adults need to start saving early enough for the future and for retirement.

Another common problem is debt. It is vital to understand that debt can create lasting problems for people, and the showcase includes some of the sound advice these youngsters are discovering and can articulate clearly. They say they already feel better prepared. Fortunately, the foundational financial literacy trajectory originating at Orange Grove Middle continues at CFHS with the business management program.

Business management and finance teacher Jason Reinhardt, currently in his ninth year at the high school, says the program’s popularity is due, in part, to his students' “curiosity about entrepreneurship, their ability to be creative within the content they explore, as well

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as the opportunities that continuing with the program offer.”

The business management program includes instruction in management theory, project management, human resources management and behavior, accounting and other quantitative methods, purchasing and logistics, organization and production, marketing, and business decision-making.

“Our students bring a unique awareness and point of view to the courses. This generation is much more engaged and aware of the forces in the marketplace and economy. With their strong academic standing and their expectation for comfort in rigorous academic environments, it's great to be able to push them into more creative and philosophical directions within the context of business studies,” Reinhardt says. The program consists of Business Management 1, which prepares students for business and marketing careers, and is open to students in grades 10-12; Business Management 2, which prepares students for careers in business or entrepreneurial endeavors, is open to students in grades 11-12; and Business Management 3, which is designed to prepare students for business and marketing employment, entrepreneurialism, and post-secondary academic endeavors, is open to seniors.

“I've had the opportunity to work with our curriculum specialists, the state, and our community to build the current program of study,” Reinhardt says,

“OUR STUDENTS BRING A UNIQUE AWARENESS AND POINT OF VIEW TO THE COURSES.”

including the year-two community connections projects in which students work directly with local business owners and operators,” Reinhardt adds that another course, the premier Business 3 Workbased Learning course, is a rigorous internship program that pushes students well past the typical work experience of other high school internship programs. “What I enjoy most here is the support I've had from the community and the district to create a robust, relevant, and rigorous business program of study.”

Career and finance teacher, Madison Tweedy, willl add accounting courses to the curriculum next academic year. She says the reason for bringing accounting into CFHS is because of its importance in the business world — it is known as the language of business, Tweedy notes, and the sooner students are able to grasp that knowledge, the better off they will be if they are planning a business career. “Employers are looking for accounting majors because of this reason. Being able to teach the CFHS students this before they get to college or go into the business world will put them ahead of their colleagues.”

In this course, Tweedy says, students will be working in Microsoft Office Suite,

and those skills will transfer into the workforce. After completing Business 2: Applied Business Systems, students can complete either the Microsoft Office or Quickbooks certification. There is no cost to those enrolled in the course.

“Having these certifications can help them build up their resume. Completing one of these certifications will prove they are proficient,” she says. Those wanting to go on the accounting path will complete the Quickbooks certification and those more interested in Management Information Systems, or MIS, will complete the Microsoft Office certification, Tweedy notes. “The student will ultimately have the decision to get whichever certification they think will benefit them the most or the one they enjoy more.”

Just as those Orange Grove Middle School 7th and 8th-graders were excited to present their findings, solutions, and recommendations to a “client” with financial problems while learning some key strategies, they also talked about applying this knowledge to their own lives. Students in the Business Management program are very accepting and supportive of each other, which inspires them to move past any trepidation when creating, sharing, and presenting their ideas. “We do end up with a lot of business students finding their direction through our program of study,” Reinhardt says.

CITY LIFE.

The City of Rocks is a haven for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers who come to explore its otherworldly landscape. It is also a place for quiet contemplation and reflection, where you can lose yourself in the beauty of the natural world and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Advancing Surgical Care in Tucson

Carondelet Medical Group - Surgical Specialists

There’s strength in numbers. That philosophy has long been embraced in every aspect of society. Today, that same philosophy applies to medical groups. When doctors shift from the private practice model to joining a network of physicians, they often improve the services they can offer their patients. Recently, four respected Tucson general surgeons, Dr. Katie Artz, Dr. Tiffany Son, Dr. Joseph DeVitis and Dr. Kelly Favre, who previously worked together, joined Carondelet Medical Group to form a new practice. Together, Carondelet Medical Group - Surgical Specialists is better able to meet the surgical needs of the community by offering collaborative care and surgical treatment options – all in one convenient location.

These doctors are dedicated to improving the health of the Tucson community and have established many long-term relationships with patients, their families and other physicians. “The long-term relationships that we have will certainly benefit our patients in so many ways, with strong communication between the physicians topping the list,” said Dr. Joseph DeVitis, a general surgeon. “But good communication doesn’t just exist between our surgeons. Each of these doctors—and all the physicians in our network— are committed to transparent communication with patients’ referring doctors. These doctors need to know what is going on with their patients to ensure continuity of care.”

Research from Harvard Medical School supports the idea that communication is key to good healthcare. An article published Jan. 3, 2023, in JAMA Internal Medicine states that, “… strategies that encourage the formation of stronger peer relationships among

physicians can offer a level of continuity of care that is much harder to achieve outside of this type of system.”

Carondelet Medical Group embraces this philosophy. The physician network has served the greater Tucson area for over 100 years, providing a full spectrum of quality medical care to Southern Arizonans. Despite the size and breadth of the network, a commitment to communication remains strong. And while communication between physicians is essential, equally important is that which takes place between a doctor and their patient.

“No surgery is ever routine for us. However, what is routine is that every surgery starts with a conversation, so patients have the answers they need to feel comfortable moving forward,” said Dr. Tiffany Son, a general and bariatric surgeon. “We know that in addition to technology and skill, effective, clear communication leads to the best possible patient experience.”

While the medical community will always be excited to embrace innovative, new technologies and procedures, old-fashioned ideals like empathy and communication remain important in today’s premier medical practices.

Carondelet Medical Group - Surgical Specialists is conveniently located on Wilmot Road in Tucson and is affiliated with Carondelet Health Network.

The practice is currently accepting new patients and is committed to providing appointments in a timely manner.

Carondelet Medical Group - Surgical Specialists

1951 N. Wilmot Rd., Bldg. 2 Tucson, AZ 85712

CREDIT UNION FIGHTS FINANCIAL ILLITERACY IN TUCSON

Who wouldn't want to earn gift cards and other rewards while simultaneously enhancing their financial education?

Tucson Federal Credit Union recently partnered with Zogo, a leading financial technology company, to bring Zogo's app to its members. The app, developed by Duke University students, guides individuals through 800+ bite-sized financial educational modules.

“Zogo’s innovative way of engaging kids through gamification and rewarding them as they learn is a perfect fit for us," said Matthew Gaspari, TFCU’s chief executive officer and president. "Our goal of meeting members where they are extends beyond our products and services and includes members of all ages. As their financial partner, it is our responsibility to help them develop a firm foundation now to prepare them for the future.”

Zogo offers a Teen Financial Curriculum that can be used with a TFCU Jump Up Debit Account to help pre-teens and teens prepare for their financial future. The curriculum focuses on borrowing, earning, financial protection, saving, investing, and smart spending.

“All of Zogo’s content meets the national standards for financial literacy,” said Gaspari. “As users successfully answer questions, they accumulate points they can redeem for gift cards and other rewards.”

TFCU members can participate in the financial learning curriculum and earn gift cards from stores, including Apple, Nike, Starbucks, Walmart, eBay, Amazon, and more. Gift card denomination depends on how much the app is used, ranging from $5 to $100.

“Financial education is often something young people find boring or intimidating,” says Shyam Pradheep, General Manager of Zogo. “That’s why we created Zogo, a reimagined approach to financial education that makes learning about personal finances exciting and engaging for people of all ages. We’re grateful to partner with Tucson Federal Credit Union to make this vision a reality.”

Nearly 84% of teens say they look to their parents for information about money, according to a study by Junior Achievement. However, T Rowe Price's 11th Annual "Parents, Kids, and Money" survey found that nearly half of parents said they miss opportunities to talk to their kids about money. And 25% said they are reluctant to discuss financial topics with their kids. However, the same report found that three out of four parents think financial apps are an excellent way to teach about financial matters.

The Zogo app is now available to TFCU members at no cost on the Apple app store and Google Play stores. For more information, please visit tucsonfcu.com. To learn more about the app, visit zogo. com or follow @zogofinance on Instagram.

Dmitry Familtsev, MD, PhD General Cardiology

Dmitry Familtsev, MD, PhD is a board-certified cardiologist. He specializes in treating adult patients for a variety of cardiovascular diseases and is certified as a registered physician in vascular interpretation (RPVI).

• Arrhythmias

• Cardiometabolic disease

• Cardio-oncology

• Cardiovascular disease

• Heart failure and cardiomyopathies

• Ischemic heart disease

• Peripheral vascular disease

• Primary cardiovascular prevention

• Structural heart disease

• Vascular medicine

Treat Yourself To Excellence

Food is and has always been medicine. Eating healthy is closely linked to living a healthy life. A nutritious diet has numerous benefits, including reducing the risk of diseases, improving mood, enhancing memory, and supporting overall well-being. Healthy eating involves consuming a variety of nutrient-dense foods from all major food groups, such as lean proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, and colorful fruits and vegetables, together with local spices and herbs to heal the mind, body, and soul. Avoid foods high in trans fats, added salt, and sugar.

Research shows that maintaining a healthy weight, preventing diseases like diabetes and heart disease, improving mood, increasing energy levels, and enhancing the quality of life are all outcomes of eating a balanced and nutritious diet. Additionally, healthy eating habits can lead to sustained weight maintenance, better mood regulation, increased energy levels, disease prevention, and improved overall health.

Furthermore, the connection between healthy eating and an active lifestyle is significant. Choosing nutritious foods provides the energy needed for physical activity. Being physically active can also increase awareness of how food impacts health. Carbohydrates are essential for fueling an active lifestyle. Please look at some of our favorite healthy recipes that will help you invest in your health and yourself.

REAL FOOD FOR A HEALTHY LIFE

Fruit and Nut Bars

Makes 16 bars

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

• 1/2 cup almonds

• 3/4 cup honey

• 2 3/4 cups rolled oats

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

• 3/4 cup dried chopped apples

• 1/2 cup raisins

• 1/2 cup sliced dates

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

DIRECTIONS

Preheat the oven to 325F. Lightly grease a 9x13 baking sheet. Spread the nuts on the baking sheet and toast lightly for 5 minutes. Simultaneously, warm honey over low heat to the consistency of thin syrup. Place the nuts in a food processor and chop briefly. Add the oats, cranberries, apples, raisins, dates, and cinnamon, and mix briefly till coarsely chopped. Place in a bowl and drizzle the warm honey on top until the mixture binds together. Spray the baking sheet lightly and press the mixture into the pan until the mixture is even. Freeze for 30 minutes and cut into bars.

Lemon-Herb Roasted Salmon

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS

• 1 pound salmon

• l lemon

• 1/2 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil

• 1 teaspoon chives

• 1 teaspoon parsley

• 1/2 teaspoon tarragon

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• Pinch black pepper

DIRECTIONS

Wash herbs, dry them, and chop them. Set aside. Place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and lightly spray with oil. Season salmon with herbs, salt, and pepper. Slice lemon into rounds and place over the fish. Roast salmon in a 350F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until done.

Alsatian Plum Cake

INGREDIENTS

• 3 fresh plums

• For frangipane paste:

• 1/4 cup almond paste

• 2 tablespoons melted butter

• 2 tablespoons nonfat sour cream

• 4 tablespoons sugar

• 1 large whole egg

• 3/4 teaspoon vanilla

• 1/4 cup all purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

DIRECTIONS

Preheat the oven to 350F. In a medium bowl, cream together almond paste, butter, and sour cream. Stir in egg and vanilla. Gradually stir in the flour and sugar. Set aside. Cut plums in half and remove the pit. Scoop 3 tablespoons of the frangipane paste into a ramekin. Place 1/2 of the plum in the center of the paste and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of brown sugar. Bake 30–35 minutes or until the plum is roasted and the cake is spongy.

MASSAGE

Therapy

INVESTING IN YOUR HIGHER SELF

Having self awareness of what the body is presenting is a significant aspect and gift of massage therapy.

“The body is a sponge. It absorbs our environment, our posture, our conditions, and the big one…stress,” said Carol Mikel, a massage therapist with over 10 years of experience.

Mikel brings her own “tool box” to each treatment. For each and every treatment, massage therapists bring a collection of both physical and mental tools to give the best experience

possible to their clients. Sure, she brings her longstanding experience with techniques, physical tools, special oils, and soothing lotions, to name just a few, but Mikel states self awareness is a huge part of the wellness that can be achieved through massage therapy, “The body talks, we just need to listen.”

During an intake, Mikel observes how her client is sitting or standing. She examines the position of the shoulders and upper traps. How many of us are always massaging sore upper traps, neck and the back of head? How many of us are doing this while reading this magazine?

Mikel visually gives her clients an example of FHP (forward head posture), “I hold up my index finger as an example of the neck, then make a soft fist as an example of the neck and place it on top of my index finger. The cervical spine is built to support the head, but when the head is consistently looking down and forward at cell phones, laptops, and books, this pulls on the neck, upper traps & shoulders/pecs. You can counteract this tension with stretches and self awareness.” Mikel’s advice for battling neck pain and poor posture? Bring your cell phone up to your eyes and put your laptop or book on a pillow on your lap so that they are at eye level. Your neck and upper traps will thank you.

Along with the massage treatment, Mikel discusses with clients ways to reduce stress. “The body intakes stress the same way it takes in air, water and food… daily. Recognizing what your stressors are, from deadlines to traffic, to a long line at the grocery store, and how to alleviate them is key. “We all have stress in our lives. In this case, less would be so much more”.

“The body talks, we just need to listen.”

One way to reduce your stress is with breath. Breathe with purpose. Take a natural inhale of breath, then on your exhale, extend that count. Try inhaling to a count of 5 and exhale to a count of 10, adjusting according to body and lung comfort. This technique doesn’t solve your predicament at the time, but it sure is nice to be able to breathe through it, and achieve peace for your body and higher self.

Carol Mikel

“The body heals when it’s in a ‘rest-anddigest’ state as opposed to a ‘flight and fright,” encouraging others to take time to rest and focus on themselves.”

Carol Mikel specialized in Myofascial Release (MFR) which focuses on the web-like connective tissue (fascia) that can adhere to the muscle fibers. MFR is performed at a specific area of the body. Another speciality of hers is focusing on Neuromuscular Massage Therapy (NMT), a technique focused on an area of the body that is experiencing muscle spasms and/or trigger points. Carol is also an expert in Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF), involving passive stretching and isometric muscle contractions. CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is also a subtle and effective method. Treatments promote the movement of fluids in and around the central nervous system, acting as a “reset” with the goal of enhancing the body’s natural healing abilities. Mikel explains that “the body heals when it’s in a ‘rest-and-digest’ state as opposed to a ‘flight and fright,” encouraging others to take time to rest and focus on themselves.

Interested in getting in contact with Carol? Contact her at 520-344-2207.

RECHARGING YOUR SOUL IN

Travel is no longer just a luxury, it’s an investment that has the power to enrich our lives in ways that traditional financial investments cannot. It broadens our horizons, enhances personal and professional growth, and allows you to recharge your mind and body.

Crystal-clear waters and perfectly white sandy beaches await to recharge the spirits of all weary travelers.

Cancún is known around the world as one of Mexico’s finest tourist destinations. Steeped in the rich history of the Mexican Caribbean, Cancún offers visitors the best that the Yucatán Peninsula has to offer. Whether you are coming for the all-inclusive resort experience or are looking to enjoy the seemingly never-ending gorgeous beaches, Cancún has it all. Unbelievably fresh and delicious seasonal cuisine, great weather, a rich cultural history, exquisitely clear turquoise blue Caribbean waters, and vibrant coral reefs are all waiting for you to explore when you arrive.

Nature lovers, environmentalists, thrill seekers, and luxury destination travel enthusiasts all have a place to call home in Cancún. Boulevard Kukulkan, more commonly known as the Hotel Zone, is home to Cancún’s most luxurious all-inclusive hotels and boasts some of the city’s finest restaurants, nightclubs, and shopping centers. This fifteen-mile-long sand bar separates the Caribbean Sea from the Laguna Inchoate. The brackish waters of

the lagoon’s nature reserve and Mangrove ecosystem offer an exciting, ecologically friendly look into the rich natural history of Cancún. On the other side of the boulevard, crystal-clear waters and perfectly white sandy beaches await to recharge the spirits of all weary travelers.

The JW Marriott Resort and Spa is the place to stay while in Cancún. You'll be met by the most gracious of staff and a high level of service is standard across the property. This impeccably designed resort features multiple pools, an incredible spa, countless delicious restaurants, and a delightful lobby bar featuring over 150 signature margaritas.

Caring for the mind and body should be an essential part of everyone’s travel. A little physical exercise is a necessary element of any vacation for me. Puerto Maya Cancún combines a look into the historical Mayan culture of the Yucatán followed by an amazing speed boat tour of both the lagoon and the sea. And, just when you think it can’t get any better, it’s time to jump in and swim around. Snorkeling on the vibrant coral reefs and visiting MUSA, the Cancun Underwater Museum of Art, absolutely recharges the mind, body, and soul. It is an incredible workout!

If you care to go a little further out of the city, Cenotes Zapote Eco-Tour awaits. Cenotes are natural sinkholes that expose cool, refreshing, groundwater

that is both invigorating and spiritually refreshing at the same time. There are over 6000 cenotes on the Yucatán, each one is unique and otherworldly. Floating or frolicking in the cool waters inside the earth is the ultimate spa experience. There are zip lines or diving platforms at most cenotes and they are well worth experiencing.

While it is nice to explore the “Hotel Zone”,  you don't have to leave the hotel to experience fine international dining at its best!

Sacbé Beach Shack, located in the adjoining Marriott property was beyond belief. Situated directly on the sandy beaches beneath the hotel, the "beach shack" is a whimsically designed bar and dining room offering a perfect oceanside culinary experience. The freshest local ingredients were artfully combined to create a scrumptious offering that highlights regional Mexican cuisines. The mezcal lab experience with famed Master Mezcalier, Chef Benjamín Nava Vargas was an unexpected treat and opened a door to a delicious understanding and appreciation of small-batch mezcals.

Other JW Marriott Resort and Spa culinary treasures include Hana Polynesian Grill’s themed dining room. Perfectly crafty cocktails paired wonderfully with the authentic Polynesian Islands menu. The evening’s festivities were highlighted by a completely themed costumed troupe of singers and dancers performing time-honored Polynesian fire dances. While visiting, be sure to explore Kasai Izakaya, Club 91, and Bravo, a very fresh take on modern Spanish cuisine.

And, when it feels like it’s time to leave the hotel again, check out Chambao Cancún. Just think of it as an interactive curated dinner theatre experience with pop-up music, dance, fashion, and acrobatic activations staged throughout the evening.

Cancún should be at the top of everyone’s travel list in 2024. Trust me, you can thank me later.

JW-Marriott.marriott.com

PuertoMayaCancun.com

CenotesZapote.com

ChambaoRestaurant.com

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

APRIL 1ST

Madaras Gallery - 3035 N Swan Rd 11:00 AM

Ray Tigerman returns to Madaras Gallery with a new collection of original acrylic paintings. This never-before-seen collection is filled with impactful imagery, bold colors, and his recognizable modern artistic style. Tigerman masterfully blends his distinctive style with authentic cultural influences to create brilliant homages to indigenous Southwest people. The event runs through April 11.

APRIL 1ST

Salavat Fidai: The Pencil is Mightier.

The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures -- 4455 E. Camp Lowell Drive | 9:00 AM

Acclaimed microsculptor Salavat Fidai returns to The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures with the exhibit Salavat Fidai: The Pencil is Mightier.  With a small craft knife and microscope, Fidai transforms the characters and symbols of larger-than-life global icons – including  Game of Thrones,  Marvel, and  Star Wars – into miniscule sculptures on the tips of pencils. Through May 15.

APRIL 1ST

Etherton Gallery -- 340 S. Convent Ave. | 11:00 AM

Signs & Signals presents a new series of abstract paintings on metal inspired by 19th century Mexican retablo painting by Phoenix artist, Matt Magee, and new work by Tucson artist, Andy Burgess, including screen prints, collages, and paintings influenced by

events

20th century architecture. Artist Pete Connolly’s work will be on display In the Cases. Tuesdays through Saturdays through April 6.

APRIL 4TH

An Evening with Suzy Bogguss

Fox Tucson Theatre -- 17 W. Congress St. | 7:30 PM

During the creative explosion that was country music in the 1990s, Suzy Bogguss sold 4 million records with sparkling radio hits like “Outbound Plane,” “Someday Soon,” “Letting Go,” “Drive South,” and “Hey Cinderella." She also took time off to make an album with the legendary Chet Atkins and an album of modern swing music with Ray Benson of Asleep At The Wheel.

APRIL 5TH

2024 Tucson Folk Festival

Various locations and times. Please see the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance (SAACA) website. 7:00 PM

The 39th Annual Tucson Folk Festival is Arizona's largest free public music festival. Thursday night is the kick off party with an acoustic showcase at Monterey Court. Friday night features our annual Stefan George Memorial Songwriting Competition on the Plaza Stage at Jacome Plaza. The main event continues all weekend across five stages downtown and more than 125 live performances. Through April 7.

APRIL 6TH

23rd Master Gardener Home Garden Tour

4210 N Campbell Avenue and various locations  | 9:00 AM

The Pima County Master Gardeners will be showcasing their own beauti-

ful gardens for inspiration and education. The five gardens are in the Catalina Foothills and Central Tucson. The Cooperative Extension will also be open, including special exhibits from the Desert Museum, Tucson Audubon Society, and the Southwest Arizona Bee Association. Until 3:00 PM. Check the website for ticket locations.

APRIL 6TH

The Place Where Clouds Are Formed

Center for Creative Photography

-- 1030 North Olive Road | 10:00 AM

The project features photography made in partnership with the Traditional O’odham Leaders (TOL) and from villages in Quitovac, Cu:wĭ I-ge:sk (San Francisquito), and Sonoyta—towns located in Sonora, Mexico—as well as Quitobaquito and the surrounding lands in Southern Arizona. Images and sculptures are in conversation with poems written and recorded in O’odham and English and translated into Spanish. Through August 31.

APRIL 13TH

Great Paper Airplane Fly-Off

Pima Air & Space Museum -- 6000 E. Valencia Road | 9:30 AM

Compete to throw the farthest paper airplane and win amazing prizes. Each contestant will build and throw their paper airplane in three age groups. The top three from each age group will compete for 1st 2nd and 3rd place. Age brackets:

• 6-8 years

• 9-11 years

• 12-14 years

Free registration for the contentant and up to four guests here: www.pima air.org/great-paper-airplane-fly-off

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We Put

First.

APRIL 17TH

Tucson Tango Festival

Marriott Tucson University Park Hotel -- 880 E. 2nd St.

The Tucson Tango Festival introduces international tango instruction, workshops for all levels of dancers, milongas (social dances), and live music from a tango orchestra.

Demos & lectures, too. Times vary; please check the website. Through April 21.

APRIL 20TH

46th Annual Blessing of Sonoita Vineyards

Sonoita Vineyards -- 290 ElginCanelo Rd. in Elgin | 10:00 AM

Sonoita Vineyards Winery, in Elgin, celebrates the beginning of the summer and growing season! This festival includes tastings, pairings, tours of the winery and vineyard, and a procession through the vineyard behind Father Greg, who has been giving the vineyard its annual blessing for years.

APRIL 27TH

Arizona Opera: Don Giovanni

Linda Ronstadt Music Hall -- 240 S Church Avenue | 7:30 PM

Mozart’s  Don Giovanni, regarded by many as one of the greatest operas of all time, tells the centuries-old story of the libertine Don Juan.

The opera follows Don Giovanni’s salacious escapades, aided and abetted by his servant Leporello. Giovanni makes his rounds seducing and duping numerous characters, bragging along the way. Will Don Giovanni repent?

Also Sunday, April 28 at 2:00 PM.

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INDOOR PLANT GUIDE

Investing in indoor plants can not only spruce up your living space, but also bring numerous health and well-being benefits

SNAKE PLANT:

The Snake Plant is for anyone from a green thumb to a black thumb because anyone can grow it. These hardy plants can adapt to any environment and can live in both high light and low light.

HOPE PEPEROMIA:

The Hope Peperomia likes medium to bright direct sunlight. It does well as a tabletop plant or a hanging plant. Watering is only needed one time a month regardless of plant size.

Bringing the outdoors in with the use of house plants is a great way to add color and dimension to your space. We sat down with Jesse Nelson at Family Tree Nursery, based in Kansas, and discussed the benefits of incorporating plant life into your home. “There are plenty of studies on the health benefits of plants, and the evidence suggests that being around plants and caring for plant life increases overall wellness,” explains Nelson. “Anytime you bring a plant into a home or work environment, it’s going to make you feel better. It is going to beautify the space in a way that art cannot, and they also have the added benefit of  purifying the air.” There are a wide variety of indoor plants that work for any space and light situation that you may have. Regardless if you have a green thumb or a black thumb, there are plant varieties that fit your lifestyle. Here are a few of our favorite indoor plants to incorporate into your home.

ZZ PLANT:

The ZZ plant, which its formal name is Zamioculas Zamiifolia, is a very easy plant to care for. They like anything from low light to bright light. These plants are hard to kill and can go a long time without being watered.

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