Zocalo Magazine - May 2012

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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, Jon D’Auria, VK Embee, Emily Gindlesparger, Eric Johns, KXCI, Kelly Lewis, Jamie Manser, Troy Martin, Jared McKinley, David Olsen, Tom Prezelski, Randy Peterson, Dolly Spalding, Herb Stratford, Katelyn Swanson, Eric Swedlund, Valerie Vineyard, Johanna Willett PUBLISHER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR David Olsen

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

May 2012

05 EVENTS 07 FILM 14 ARTS 18 COMMUNITY 30 FOOD&DRINK 38 HISTORY 42 ESCAPE 45 TUNES 46 LOOKBACK 49 LIFEINTUCSON 50 TIDBITS

ON THE COVER: Historic neon signs recently restored and installed on Drachman by the Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation and Pima Community College. See article on page 33. Photos and design by David Olsen.

Zócalo Tucson Magazine is a proud member of All content copyright © 2009-2012 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.

May 2012 | THEZMAG.com 3

Z from the editor

There is a palpable energy shift along the closed roads of the streetcar’s construction route.

Of course, vehicular traffic is down, but so is foot traffic. In some places, I expect to see the proverbial tumbleweed bouncing and rolling down the sidewalks. It’s like the construction crew is a gang that has scared everyone off and claimed the town their own.

The erroneous perception is that Downtown and 4th Avenue are non-negotiable. It

seems that once people see fencing and back hoes, and can’t turn down streets they normally could, they flee - claiming to not return until construction is over. That kind of fearbased anxiety is really unfortunate and could spell the demise of locally-owned businesses.

In order to look through the eyes of people who aren’t familiar with the area, I used

my interns as guinea pigs. The destination, smack in the middle of construction at 5th Avenue and Congress Street, was Sparkroot. One intern made it, though didn’t park in the recommended parking structure. The other intern said she was “worried about maneuvering around downtown and getting lost.” I acquiesced and met her at Time Market, and then put her in my car to drive her around Downtown to show her how easy it actually is. This incident made me realize that, in order to help businesses survive with torn up streets, it is going to take the neighbors and Downtown lovers to be ambassadors for the area.

There are about 20 neighborhoods surrounding the city’s core entertainment district,

with the district including Main Gate Square, 4th Avenue, the heart of Downtown and the Westside. Based on loose calculations, there are approximately 18,000 residents in the area.

If these residents care to see locally-owned businesses come out of this construction alive, they are going to have to be proactive.

My suggestion to the lovers of Downtown and its citizenry: create regular outings to your

favorite places and bring your friends. Make it fun – organize something like a Construction Cocktail Club and hit your favorite pubs, or how about a Streetcar Supper Club, a Retail and Restaurant party, Luncheons during Construction, whatever. It seems like the best emissaries for supporting businesses during this time are going to be those of us who know how to maneuver around the barricades. If we don’t, we might be kissing our local flavor goodbye and inviting in the corporate cookie-cutter businesses, and that would really suck.

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- Jamie Manser

Happily Splashin’!

The community came together to help Tucson Parks and Recreation open several more city pools for summer swimming. In addition to the ten extended season pools, the following six pools are opening for the hot season (May 30-August 1): Jacobs Pool, 1010 W. Lind St., Palo Verde Pool, 300 S. Mann Ave., Purple Heart Pool, 9800 E. Rita Rd., Mansfield Pool, 2000 N. 4th Ave., Menlo Pool, 1000 W. Fresno St., Himmel Pool, 1000 N. Tucson Blvd. The press release said Catalina Rotary, Jim Click Automotive Group, Pima Medical Institute, Nova Home Loans, Royal Automotive Group, Watson Chevrolet & Infinity of Tucson, the Emerald Foundation and countless individuals contributed to the program. Details at Tucsonaz.gov/ parksandrec/aquatics.

Tucson Likes For business owners who aren’t into being twits, er, twitterers and have a hard time navigating facey-space, Madden Media has created a new division in their marketing company for handling clients’ social media needs.

TucsonLikes launched in April; complete details and testimonials available at Whatis.tucsonlikes.com.

Bevel Butterfly What’s that flapping at the corner of Toole and 6th Avenues? Why, the newest piece of public art to grace the rest of Toole Avenue’s artistic upgrades, done by kinetic artist Ned Schaper – who is also known as Mat Bevel.

Beyond The Sacred

Tidbits

by Zócalo

The 2nd anniversary of Sacred Machine features a music and art festival on Friday, May 11 and Saturday, May 12. Paula Catherine Valencia, Sacred Machine’s curator, describes the event as “celebrating all things sacred, showcasing some of the most important underground musicians and cutting edge local and international visionary artists. This is a grassroots event created and inspired by artists and musicians, who have come together in celebration of Sacred Machine’s two-year anniversary.” The art exhibit includes 19 local and world-renowned artists from Scotland, New Zealand, Mexico and across the U.S. and opens with a reception at the gallery, 245 E. Congress St. # 123, on May 11 from 7 p.m. to midnight.

The music component happens at Rialto Theatre, 318 E. Congress St., on May 12. Call 777-7403 for details.

Folklore Field School Tucson Meet Yourself is providing an opportunity for people to artistically harness and creatively share their cultural identities through folkloric writing. Instructors include: Dr. James “Big Jim” Griffith (folklore basics), Dr. Maribel Alvarez (research basics), Regina Kelly (writing), Therese Perrault (photography). Sessions run May 18-20 and June 8-9. Cost is $25, registration closes on May 11, and more information is available by emailing info@tucsonmeetyourself.org.

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Poetry Off The Page

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A celebration of wordsmiths boasting more than one medium

by Sarah Burton Photo by George Hirose

The focus of the University of Arizona Poetry Center’s third biennial symposium, happening May 18-20, is on those crafters of words who have taken their already wellestablished art form beyond the printed page, translating it to mediums such as film and video, book arts, theater, song, dance, and even sculpture.

The symposium is an answer to the question: What is a poem if it isn’t written down?

The two previous symposiums featured Native Voices and Conceptual Poetry, but this time around the Poetry Center looked—literally—off the page.

“We were inspired by the remarkable surge of poets now working in other forms, and wanted to provide a forum and stage to showcase these new, cutting-edge works,” explains Annie Guthrie, exhibit curator of the center.

Poets from around the country will alight on Tucson to participate in this rare opportunity. Between Claudia Rankine’s layered video essays, Brent Cunningham’s series of three plays, and Douglas Kearney’s “performative typography,” the field is wide open.

Friday, May 18 is a night of Sonic Lens, highlighting interdisciplinary sound and video art and runs 5:30-9:30 p.m. Poets Theater focusing on stage performances happens Saturday, May 19 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the Rogue Theatre, and Sunday, May 20 features poets who work in dance collaborations and recitation, as well as a screening of never-yet-seen “poemfilms” by contributing poets and writers from all over the country, running 10 a.m.-4:45 p.m. Weekend festivities also include panels with participating poets, as well as discussions and classes on relevant and related subjects.

“It is a rare opportunity for writers to be commissioned these days. We’re really excited to work with the poets to bring new, never-before-seen works to Tucson,” Guthrie says. “The works they will present here for the first time, will surely go on to live in print and online publications, and will be presented, screened, and performed again and again.” n

Poet/artist Cecilia Vicuna performs improvisatory incantations.

Events take place at the Rogue Theatre, 300 E. University Blvd., and the University of Arizona Poetry Center, 1508 E. Helen St. Individual tickets for Friday or Saturday events are $15 each. General admission for the whole weekend of events, panels, and workshops is $150, $80 for students. For more information visit Poetry.Arizona.edu/ Symposia/Poetry-Page.

Viva Fiesta at Cinco on Congress

by Kelly Lewis

Cinco de Mayo this year will include a lot more than a lonely margarita if you head downtown to Cinco on Congress, a three venue crawl put on by Zen Rock and Sapphire Lounge.

Now in its third year, Cinco on Congress is an all-day electronic music festival that begins at 3 p.m. and spans throughout both clubs and Lot 41, the parking lot just west of Sapphire Lounge. Twelve DJs will play throughout the day, including San Francisco’s Ron Reeser, and the evening will feature standard club dance music. One ticket will get you into all three venues.

Andrew Sommers, general manager of Zen Rock, said the event is one of their largest of the year, second only to New Year’s Eve. “We’ve done our Cinco on Congress now for three years and each year, we’ve had 3,0004,000 people,” Sommers said. “This is the first time we’ve extended into lot 41, and the first time we’ve held the event all day.”

The fiesta will also include $3 you-call-its, Patron specials, a margarita bar and food vendors.

Tickets for Cinco on Congress are $10 presale. Cost of tickets at the door are TBA. If you purchase in advance, you can skip the line, said Sommers. To find out more, or purchase tickets, visit Cinco2012.Eventbrite.com. n

Ron Reeser headlines the Cinco on Congress event on May 5. Other Cinco de Mayo events include Agave Fest at Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St., on May 4, and the Cinco de Mayo Beer Tasting at the Sonoran Glass Art Academy, 633 W. 18th St., on May 5.

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Photo courtesy of Tucson Botanical Gardens

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Enjoy the flora and fauna at Tucson Botanical Gardens during National Public Gardens Day on May 11.

A Breath of Fresh Air

by Johanna Willett

Centurions Host “The Ball to End All”

by Kelly Lewis It’s been 42 years since The Centurions, a group of local business and civic leaders, began working to raise money for Carondelet St. Mary’s Hospital.

Nearly $7 million later, they’re throwing “The Ball to End All” on May 19, a lavish masquerade downtown at Congress Street and 5th Avenue behind the Rialto Block that will help pay for the cost of the hospital’s exterior building construction, said Centurion Larry Stern.

“We have a theme party every year, and this year it’s the ‘Great Masquerade Escapade’,” said Stern. “It’s always a lot of fun. We’ve had anywhere between five and seven thousand attendees” over the years.

The Escapade promises a night of dining, dancing and light gambling.

There will also be a Moulin Rouge lounge, a carnivale parade, tarot readings, tattoos, raffle prizes, a costume contest and live music by The Trip.

Tickets are $85 ($50 tax deductible), which includes a handful of drink tickets. Sponsored taxis and shared rides are available for those who end up having just a little too much fun.

“It’s a street party,” said fellow Centurion Kevin Madden. “It’s a celebration. But we do provide free transportation home and we’re very good about monitoring that.”

In the past, The Centurions have been able to raise the funds necessary for a burn unit at St. Mary’s hospital, the oldest hospital in Tucson that primarily services the West and South (and less affluent) sides of town. They’ve also contributed financially to the emergency room, hospice center, and rehab and mental health departments.

“This is our large annual fundraiser,” Madden said. “We work all year towards this one event. It’s a tremendous amount of work but it’s for a very, very good cause.

“It’s a tradition, it’s a Tucson tradition,” Madden explained. “It’s been going on for 42 years now and I’m proud to be a part of it.” n The Great Masquerade Escapade is a 21 and over event that begins at 6 p.m. on Satur-

Take a breather on Friday, May 11 and check out the Tucson Botanical Gardens at 2150 N. Alvernon Way, TucsonBotanical.org, and Tohono Chul Park at 7366 N. Paseo del Norte, TohonoChulPark.org. Both gardens offer free admission throughout the day.

For more information, visit their websites and NationalPublicGardensDay.org.

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day, May 19. The street party encompasses the better part of the Rialto block, along 5th Avenue between Congress Street and Broadway Boulevard. 5th Avenue will be closed as a result. No children are allowed. Purchase tickets online at TheCenturions.com or by calling 873-5032. The $85 tickets will also be sold at the door. photo: Tom Spitz

With skyrocketing temperatures and raging allergies, Tucson’s splash of spring is quickly making room for summer. To celebrate these short months of green, a couple of Tucson’s public gardens will participate in National Public Gardens Day on Friday, May 11.

As many cities around the country emerge from hibernation to see the blossoming flowers in their local gardens, Tucsonans have the chance to snag some last weeks of spring bloom with free admission at gardens like Tucson Botanical Gardens and Tohono Chul Park.

“It’s starting to warm up, but we are still one of the coolest places in the city,” said Darlene Buhrow, the director of marketing and communications at the Tucson Botanical Gardens. “Being here is a great way to connect with all of your senses. Trees are fragrant, and you can hear the birds as they make nests. It’s an awakening.”

Because both the Tucson Botanical Gardens and Tohono Chul Park are situated in major hubs of the city, they offer refuge and shade from the fast pace outside.

Organized by the American Public Gardens Association to make people aware of their community’s public gardens, gardens across the country will also highlight environmental issues specific to local communities—for Tucson that means water.

“Lack of rain, water shortage, soil, and sun are all different here than other places,” said Marcia Ring, the manager of marketing and communications at Tohono Chul Park. “As Tucsonans, we tend to want to enjoy our gardens year-round.” n

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Events

An Arty Cruise

by Jon D’Auria

Photo by Peter L. Kresan/courtesy Davis Dominguez Gallery.

Summer is upon us, which unfortunately means that Tucson’s art gallery season winds down. Luckily, local artists are plunging into the hot season with a bang as Saturday, June 2 marks the 11th annual Summer Art Cruise.

Central Tucson Gallery Association will once again be holding this evening of open houses that includes Downtown’s Conrad Wilde Gallery, Contreras Gallery, David Dominguez Gallery, The Drawing Studio, Obsidian Gallery, Philabaum Glass Gallery & Studio, Raices Taller Gallery and Sacred Machine.

“It’s huge, unexpected and it’s fun,” says Mike Dominguez, co-owner of Davis Dominguez Gallery and director of the event.” It’s the biggest showing that the gallery association holds and it’s the end of the season for us, so it’s an important day for the local artists in town.”

Artists from the community, the region and all over the nation will be represented in varied works including paintings, drawings, sculptures,

Museums/exhibits ARIZONA-SONORA DESERT MUSEUM The Wildlife Art of Ned Aldrich continues through Sun, May 27. Regularly: Desert flora and fauna, animal presentations, Raptor Free Flights, more. $14.50, adults; $4.50, children 6-12. Daily, 7:30am-5pm. 2021 N. Kinney Rd. 883-1380, DesertMuseum.org

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM TUCSON Investigation Station, an exhibit featuring science, technology and engineering, opens this month. Science Sundays takes place every Sunday this summer starting May 20, from 10am-5pm, with hands-on science activities. $8, adults; $6, seniors & children 2-18. Tue-Fri, 9am5pm; Sat-Sun, 10am-5pm. 200 S. 6th Ave. 792-9985, TucsonChildrensMuseum.org

FLANDRAU SCIENCE CENTER

Biters, Hiders, Stinkers & Stingers continues through early summer. Explore the science of venom, camouflage, sharp fangs and poisonous skin. Mon-Fri, 10am-3pm;

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prints, photographs, watercolors, the studio arts and unique objects d’art.

“This event covers every spectrum of the contemporary arts genre and every medium you could imagine. Many new artists are exhibiting who haven’t at this event before and a lot of new artists are showing for the first time ever.”

The event starts at 6 p.m. Attendees are welcome to walk through the galleries, talk with the artists and enjoy the sights and refreshments.

“It’s a gallery walk, so people can go from one location to another and really take it all in without feeling pressure to buy anything. This is really the only event like this that happens all year and after 11 years; we know it will be around for much longer.” n For more information, contact Mike Dominguez at 629-9759 or visit CTGATucson.org for complete gallery list.

Thu-Fri, 6pm-9pm; Sat, 10am-9pm; Sun, 1pm-4pm. $7.50, adults; $5 children 4-15, free under 4. AZ Students with ID, $2. 1601 E. University Blvd. 621-STAR, Flandrau.org

MARS & BEYOND

Our solar system & Mars, featuring the cutting-edge scientific work by UA teams. Mon/Thu/Sun, 9am-5pm; Sat-Sun, 9am-6pm; 2nd Saturdays, 9am-9pm (features 2 for 1 admission from 5pm-9pm and Hands-On science with The Physics Factory). $18 adults, $14 college/seniors/military, $10 children. Science Downtown, 300 E. Congress St. 622-8595, ScienceDowntown.org

MINI-TIME MACHINE MUSEUM

Brass Tracks and Railroad Facts: G Scale Model Railroading shows through June 17. Permanent collection features over 275 miniature houses and room boxes as well as other collectibles organized into three main areas; the Enchanted Realm, History Gallery and Exploring the World. Tue-Sat, 9am-4pm. $7, adults; $6, seniors/ military; $5, 4-17. 4455 E. Camp Lowell Dr. 881-0606, TheMiniTimeMachine.org

TOHONO CHUL PARK Congressional Student Art Exhibit shows May 10-May 27. Entry Gallery: Pollinators: The Art of Interdependence opens May 31.

See website for pricing. Experience a full day free of charge on Fri, May 11 in honor of National Public Gardens Day. Daily events: Reptile Ramble, Eco-Station Walks, more. See the website for other events. Daily, 8am-5pm. $7, 13+; $5, 62+ & military; $3 students; $2 children. 7366 N. Paseo del Norte. 742-6455, TohonoChulPark.org

TUCSON BOTANICAL GARDENS

Weird Plant Sale open to the public on Sat, May 5 from 8am3pm. Camp Hedgehog, a summer camp for kindergarten and first graders, takes place Mon, May 28-Fri, Jun 1. Experience a full day free of charge on Fri, May 11 in honor of National Public Gardens Day. Regular entry fees: $7, adults; $3, children 4-12. Daily, 8:30am-4:30pm (except holidays). 2150 N. Alvernon Way. 326-9686, TucsonBotanical.org

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Funding Literary Activism

by Valerie Vinyard It’s a press almost like no other.

Now in its 19th year of publishing, Tucson’s Kore Press is one of six remaining feminist presses in the United States.

To mark its anniversary of publishing literature by women and transgender writers, Kore Press holds a benefit, the Art & Services Auction and Garden Party, starting at sundown on May 27.

Kore Press is a nationally recognized non-profit that promotes literary activism by publishing female and transgender writers and educating girls. The nonprofit’s publisher and co-founder is Lisa Bowden, a University of Arizona graduate.

After celebrating each year with first fundraising dinners at various restaurants and later brunches at Pastiche Modern Eatery, Bowden “wanted to take a break and mix things up.”

That’s when Chris Carol and Susan Aiken stepped in. Bowden’s former University of Arizona English professors and Kore supporters offered the use of their front yard for the downtown event. Their front yard, complete with rolling lawns, happens to be the historic Franklin House, 402 N. Main Ave. “It’s nice to be on the grass at least once a year,” Bowden said.

“It sort of feels like ‘The Great Gatsby.’ You don’t find that in Tucson.”

Kore has published 60 books to date and continues to grow – which doesn’t mean it hasn’t been difficult at times.

“We have to keep getting really creative about how we keep going,” Bowden said. “The models are changing as we speak; people’s pockets are not as deep as they used to be.”

As its biggest fundraiser, the Auction and Garden party raised $10,000 last year and attracted more than 200 people. Tickets cost $25 at the door and include live music, a silent auction, wine and a buffet from Gallery of Food.

Last year, more than 50 artists provided works and local businesses donated services for the auction.

“There’s something for everyone there,” Bowden said. “Throw a picnic blanket on the lawn and have some food. This is an opportunity for all kinds of people to come together and have a good time.”

Bowden, who graduated from UA with an English and philosophy degree, carefully chose the name of her publishing house.

“Kore is Greek

for ‘daughter,’ and it’s another name for Persephone,” said Bowden, noting that the story of goddess Persephone being above ground and below ground is a metaphor for women. “The literary world is not immune from gender bias.”

A few years ago, Bowden started working with the transgendered, noting that “any marginalized group has a lot in common with other marginalized groups.”

“It’s a point of view not heard as much as others,” she said. “We are blessed to have so many gifted and talented writers and artists in Southern Arizona. There is no shortage.”

Bowden, a poet herself, has co-edited a volume of writing by women who have served in the military.

And last fall, Kore produced and toured its first play, “Coming in Hot,” a one-woman performance adapted for the stage from “Power: Writing by Women in the Ranks, from Vietnam to Iraq.” It tells the stories of women who have served in the U.S. military.

Performances were at 21 local venues and later toured to Hollywood, Seattle and Reno, Nevada.

The Benefit Auction is chaired this year by Kore Press Board Secretary and Treasurer Tracy Crouthamel, who is a marketing and advertising expert. The art side of the auction is hosted by photographer Lisa Roden.

Bowden said it best: “Where else can you wiggle your toes in some cool grass on Memorial Day weekend in Tucson, kick back on a picnic blanket, sip wine, listen to cool tunes, and get some great art for a great cause?” n The Benefit Art & Services Auction & Garden Party is 6-9 p.m. Sunday, May 27 at the Franklin House, 420 N. Main Ave. Tickets are $20 in advance; $25 at the door. Kids under 12-years-old are free. Tickets can be purchased at KorePress.org or by calling 327-2127.

As of press time, participating artists include: Valerie Galloway, Lisa Roden, Wil Taylor, Cynthia Miller, Jude Clarke, Bill Mackey, Maria Lee, Margaret Suchland, Clare Carpenter.

Photo: “My Silent Melancholia,” by Wil Taylor, is an auction item at Kore Press’ Art & Services Auction and Garden Party.

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FILM

film listings Cinema La Placita La Placita Village, 110 S. Church Ave. Thursdays at 7:30pm, $3 suggested donation. CinemaLaPlacita. com Thu 3: Valley Girl Thu 10: The Women Thu 17: Shadow of a Doubt Thu 24: A Streetcar Named Desire Thu 31: Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea Fox Theatre 17 W. Congress St. Admission & times vary. 624-1515, FoxTucsonTheatre.org Thu 10: Citizen Kane Sat 19 & Sun 20: Star Wars: The Clone Wars Sat 26 & Sun 27: Bridge on the River Kwai

Movies Under the Stars

by Jon D’Auria

Cinema La Placita is at La Placita Village, 110 S. Church Ave., at the southwest corner of Broadway Boulevard and Church Avenue. For more information visit CinemaLaPlacita.com.

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Pima Community College PCC Center for the Arts Proscenium Theatre, 2202 W. Anklam Rd. 206-6986. Mon 14 & Tue 15: Ninja Quest (7pm) Pima County Public Libraries 594-5500, Library.Pima.Gov Sat 12: Strong, 1:25pm (Woods Memorial) Mon 14: Strong, 6pm (Himmel Park) Tue 15: Family Movie, 3:30pm (Salazar-Ajo) Sat 19: Strong, 3:30pm (Miller-Golf Links) Mon 21: Strong, 4pm (Mission) Sat 26: Strong, 2pm (Joyner-Green Valley) The Screening Room 127 E. Congress St. 882-0204, Call for information.

Tucson Museum of Art 140 N. Main Ave. 624-2333, TucsonMuseumofArt.org Thu 10: Frida (6pm)

Photo courtesy of ScenicReflections.com

Thursday, May 3 marks the seasonal return of the Cinema La Placita Outdoor Film Series in Downtown Tucson, which merges the great pastimes of enjoying the beautiful weather outdoors and watching timeless movies on a big screen.

Come join your fellow Tucsonans at the beautiful La Placita Village on Thursday nights where $3 gets you admission to a movie screened from a large outdoor projector and all the popcorn you can eat.

The series is embarking on its 13th season this year and will include such cinematic classics as “The Women” from 1939 on May 10, “Shadow of a Doubt” from 1943 on May 17, 1951’s “A Streetcar Named Desire” on May 24, “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” from 1954 on May 31. The season screening opener, the only R rated movie in the bunch, is “Valley Girl” from 1982 on May 3.

Moviegoers of all ages are welcome; including well behaved dogs– given that they exhibit proper movie etiquette–and family attendance is always encouraged.

“The best part about the series is how it brings the community together to do something that is so enjoyable,” says series’ director Erika O’Dowd.

“Over the years, so many people come back each time that friendships are made and people get to know each other. We get to see families with kids grow up watching classic movies and experiencing it all with good people around them.”

O’Dowd, who is responsible for organizing and assembling the events, wants everyone to experience a welcome break in their busy weeks.

“Come downtown and join us after your day to unwind,” says O’Dowd.

“It’s about not just going home after work in the summertime and getting stuck in a routine; it’s about doing something fun in the city and enjoying yourself with friends on a Thursday.” n

The Loft Cinema 3233 E. Speedway Blvd. 795-7777 (show times recording), 322-LOFT, LoftCinema.com Times and admissions vary. Dates indicate first date of movie run.

Thu 3: Monte Walsh Fri 4: Monsieur Lazhar, Clueless, First Friday Shorts: “The Golden Gongs” Sun 6: Sound of Noise Mon 7: The Shape of Things to Come Wed 9: Magic Hour – shorts from the UA’s School of Theatre, Film & Television Thu 10: The Mary Poppins Sing-ALong, Last Call At The Oasis Fri 11: Marley, We Have A Pope, Scarface Sat 12: The Mary Poppins Sing-ALong

Sun 13: Attenberg, PillowTalk Mon 14: Honor and Glory Wed 16: The Forgiveness of Blood Thu 17: A Trip To The Moon, The Extraordinary Voyage Fri 18: Juan of the Dead, The Deep Blue Sea, Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy Sun 20: The Killer Wed 23: For the Benefit of All Beings: The Extraordinary Life of Eminence Garchen Triptrul Rinpoche Fri 25: Boy, Headhunters Wed 30: Gerhard Richter Painting

“Frida” screens at Tucson Museum Of Art on Thu, May 10.

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Events May FRI 4

4TH ANNUAL AGAVE FEST

Features tastings of over 40 agave-derived spirits including tequilas and mezcals; sotols and more, plus samples of signature agave cocktails from Tucson’s best bartenders, award-winning, authentic street tacos, mariachis and live music from Latin Funk Project. 6pm-10pm. $25.

Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress. HotelCongress.com

CANVAS: ART ON THE RUNWAY

Tucson Young Professionals’ First Fridays event features a fashion show inspired by painters such as Sir Joshua Reynolds, Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet and more; featuring a diverse ensemble of designers, fashion stylists, boutiques and brands. 7pm10pm. $25-$40. Fox Theatre, 17 W. Congress St. TYPFirstFridays.com

FRI 4-SUN 6 38TH ANNUAL RODDERS DAY

Tucson Street Rod Association showcases more than 250 hot rod cars, including gleaming examples of Detroit’s finest old cars with new engines. $75. Casino del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Rd. 991-3600, TucsonStreetRodAssociation.com

SAT 5-SUN 6 TUCSON FOLK FESTIVAL 20 hours of free, live acoustic music featuring BeauSolei, Sabra Faulk, Kevin Pakulis, John Coinman, Ernest Troost and Tony Norris. Sat, May 5, noon-9pm; Sun, May 6, 11am-8pm.

Free. El Presidio Park, 160 W. Alameda St. TKMA.org

SAT 5 MISS CINCO DE MAYO 2012 6pm-8pm. $22$27. TCC’s Leo Rich Theatre, 250 S. Church Ave. 7914101, TucsonConventionCenter.org

5TH ANNUAL CHESS FEST 9 Queens presents free chess lessons and a human chess match.

2pm-5pm. Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St. 6228848, 9Queens.org

CINCO DE MAYO BEER TASTING Mexican food, great local beers, live glassblowing, and live music. $20. 4pm-8pm. Sonoran Glass Art Academy, 633 W. 18th St. 884-7814, SonoranGlass.org

CONVENTO NIGHTS: WONDER OF WE Live artists and musicians. A unique evening of art, conversations, and celebration of Tucson’s multicultural character and intellectual diversity. 6pm-11pm. $10. Mercado San Agustin, 100 S. Avenida del Convento. TucsonSocialSociety.com

SUN 6 31ST ANNUAL CINCO DE MAYO 10K Run/Walk and 2 mile fun run/walk. 7am. Registration fees. Cholla High School, 2001 W. Starr Pass Blvd.

AZRoadrunners.org/races

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ZUMBATHON

A benefit for the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition. Non-stop Latin-inspired dancefitness class. $25. 3pm-5pm. Catalina High School, 3645 E. Pima St. Nocc.Kintera.org/TucsonAz

FOOD TRUCK ROUNDUP

Jamaican, Chinese, German, Mexican, barbecue and desserts.

5pm-8pm. Main Gate Square, 943 E. University Blvd.

MainGateSquare.com

ALL-BREED DOG WASH

Held by Arizona Greyhound Rescue to benefit their greyhounds. 9am1pm. Pantano Animal Clinic, 8333 E. 22nd St. 8867411, AzGreyhoundRescue.org

FRI 11-SAT 12 BEYOND THE SACRED MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL Celebrating all things sacred with underground musicians & cutting-edge international artists. Friday: free opening reception, 7pm-midnight, Sacred Machine, 245 E. Congress St. Saturday: cost TBA, 10pm-2am concert at Rialto Theatre, 318 E. Congress St. 777-7403, SacredMachine.com

FRI 11 NATIONAL PUBLIC GARDENS DAY

Tohono Chul Park, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte, and Tucson Botanical Gardens, 2150 N. Alvernon Way, offer free admission for this nation-wide event. See story on page 8.

SAT 12 2nd SATURDAYS DOWNTOWN

Vox Urbana, Shaky Bones, Aaron Gilmartin on Scott Avenue stage, Southwest Soul Circuit at Rialto; I Dream in Widescreen films at the Fox; Tucson Circus Arts, Parasol Project, food vendors, more. Free. Congress Street, Scott Avenue, Jackson Street. 6pm-10:30pm. 2ndSaturdays.com

NATIONAL TRAIN DAY Recognizing the 143rd anniversary of the creation of the nation’s first transcontinental railroad. Check out Union Pacific’s diesel simulator, climb into the cab of steam engine #1673, more. Free. 10am-4pm. Southern Arizona Transportation Museum, 414 N. Toole Ave. 623-2223, HYPERLINK “http://WWW.TucsonHistoricDepot.org” TucsonHistoricDepot.org

SUN 13 MOTHER’S DAY FIESTA Mexican buffet, mariachi music, face painting, crafts, games, more. 5pm7:30pm. $20 adults, $15 under 14. Reid Park Zoo, 1100 S. Randolph Way. 881-4753 x 19, TucsonZoo.org

WED 16 TWILIGHT WALKING TOUR

Mansions of Main Avenue tour. Meet at NW corner of Main and Alameda. 5:45pm. $15. Optional dinner at El Charro Cafe, 7:45pm. 625-8365, KruseArizona.com

MON 18- THU 21 FRIENDS BOOK SALE Friends of Pima County Library present thousands of great used books at great prices. 9am-4pm. Book Barn, 2230 N. Country Club.

Fpcpl.org

SAT 19 THE GREAT MASQUERADE ESCALADE Fundraiser for St. Mary’s Hospital. Live music, raffle, food, costume contest, more. See story on page 8. $85. 6pm-midnight. Congress Street and 5th Avenue.

873-5032, TheCenturions.com

PAWS OF THE PAST A celebration of all cats and dogs that have found their homes through Hope Animal Shelter. Music, food, pet massages, raffles and more. 10am-2pm. Brandi Fenton Memorial Park, 3482 E. River Rd. 792-9200, HopeAnimalShelter.net

BICAS NEIGHBORHOOD PICNIC AND CELEBRATION Connecting Armory Park youth and seniors through art. See story on page 34.10am4pm. Free. Armory Park Senior Center, 220 S. 5th Ave. 791-4865

SUN 27 ART & SERVICES AUCTION & GARDEN PARTY Include live music, a silent auction, wine and a buffet from Gallery of Food, to benefit Kore Press.

See story on page 13. $25. 6pm. Franklin House, 402 N. Main Ave. 327-2127, KorePress.org.

MON 28 TWILIGHT WALKING TOUR

Armory Park tour. 5:45pm. $15. Royal Elizabeth B&B, 204 S. Scott Ave. Optional dinner at The Cup, 311 E. Congress St. 7:45pm. 625-8365, KruseArizona.com

ONGOING TUESDAY FOR TUCSON

Every Tuesday, La Cocina restaurant hosts a non-profit and donates a portion of sales to the organization. See story on page 35. La Cocina at Old Tucson Artisans, 201 N. Court Ave. 622-0351, LaCocinaTucson.com

TUCSON PADRES BASEBALL

The minor league team’s home games take place at 7:05pm; Sun, 2:05pm: May 21-24. See website for details. $7 general; $5 military, seniors, children ages 3-12. Kino Veteran’s Stadium, 2500 E. Ajo Way, TucsonPadres. com

TUCSON FOOD TOURS

Tucson’s only walking food tour. Combination of foods and a little history of downtown Tucson. Takes you through the historic downtown and 4th Avenue districts of Tucson. $44. 11am. May 2, 4, 8-12, & 21. 477-7986, FoodToursTucson.com

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Stllls from “Choke Harder,” a film by Damon Mosier and Alex Italics, showing at the Fox on May 12

Dreams On The Big Screen

by Herb Stratford Filmmaker Damon Mosier took a non-traditional path to get to the “I Dream In Widescreen” film screening event, an annual May showcase of work by University of Arizona film students at the Fox Theatre. The event shows 16 final thesis films, ranging in length from 5 to 10 minutes each and is a chance for the public to see what the next generation of potential cinema stars has up their sleeves.

For director Mosier, the evening represents the completion of a long journey that started out nearly 15 years ago from very different roots.

Fresh out of Tucson High School in 1997, Mosier had aspirations to follow in his father’s footsteps as a jet fighter pilot and perhaps even to become an astronaut. A few semesters of frustrating Computer Science classes led him to believe he might want to instead follow his passion, and he set out to explore filmmaking.

After attending Pima Community College and working on several local films including the locally produced indie film “The Decoy,” which had a sold-out premiere at the Fox Theatre in 2008, Mosier enrolled at the U of A to get his Bachelor of Fine Arts. His thesis film, entitled “Choke Harder,” follows a pool hustler who finds his match in a rival hustler secretly running the same game. It was shot locally at Trail Dust Town, in the Savoy Opera House with a cast and crew of over 30.

Mosier likes to “set the bar high” and to “push boundaries and try stuff out,” so expect this film to be a bit edgier and mature. Mosier wrote the film with fellow film student Alex Italics, pounding out 8 drafts of the film last summer, and he feels that it represents a true collaboration between the writer and director. It’s likely that Mosier will end up in LA or New York

due to available projects, but his work will light up the Fox’s big screen for at least one night.

The spirit of collaboration and support is one of the things that might make the UA’s film school so unique, says assistant professor Lisanne Skylar. As always, Skylar is proud and excited by her students work, and is pleased by their great collaborations and “emphasis on style.” She noted that this year’s films are “very original and full of fun stories that often turn things on their head.” Another interesting twist for this batch of films is a musical. The first since 2009, “TORPEDO!” adds the complexity of song and dance into a film, quite an admirable act for a student film.

The added bonus to the screenings is the awards portion of the evening. This year there are a total of three awards to be handed out. The grand prize is $5,000 in credit towards film services from FotoKem in the form of their new filmmaker award. There are also two additional prizes for student producing this year. This is the second year FotoKem has made its award, which is unusual for a Los Angeles based entity to support a filmmaking program outside of LA. n “I Dream In Widescreen” is Saturday, May 12 at the Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress St. Doors open at 6pm for the 7pm event, which frequently boasts a full house. For more details on the films to be screened, check out the event’s Facebook page at Facebook.com/ events/148571025268440, or the UA College of Fine Arts website at CFA. arizona.edu/tftv.

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Tucson’s Nature Depicted in Acrylics Photo by Jamie Manser

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Photographed by Wilson Graham

Nestled in her 100 square foot art studio, on a large, tidy and xeriscaped bird-filled lot in mid-town, Nina Duckett sits by an easel, surrounded by paintings large and small. On her easel is a work in progress; a quail perched on a mesquite tree branch, the inspirational photo is affixed above it.

“My husband took this picture of a quail when we had a picnic at Saguaro National Park,” she says. While the desert’s gorgeous blue sky was already beautifully rendered, the outlines of the quail and mesquite patiently await Duckett to infuse them with color and life.

“I’ll doodle some images,” Duckett explains, “and add to it as I go. Some paintings paint themselves; they talk back to you as you paint them.”

Doodling is where Duckett, now 61, began her artistic endeavors. While she took a drawing class in high school, she didn’t explore art further until about eight years ago as the majority of her life centered on marriage and raising two sons.

Originally from Nicaragua, Duckett immi-

She depicts its flora and fauna realistically, yet with a dreamy ting. There’s a shimmering energy to her work that brings the subjects to life.

In “Gato Silbestre,” for example, Duckett created a tactile depth that communicates the silkiness of the feline’s fur. It implores one to reach out and feel its softness, even as one intellectually understands this is paint on a canvas.

“Calliope Hummingbird”

Photographed by Wilson Graham

Nina Duckett in front of her “Studio on the Stravenue.”

grated to the United States in 1961 – San Francisco specifically – when she was 10-years-old.

She said she lived with relatives there because her parents had split and her mother couldn’t come to the U.S. at the time as she had contracted tuberculosis.

Duckett grew up in San Francisco and got married at 19-years-old, and became what she described as a “corporate wife.”

“Like being in the Army, we moved all over.

We lived in Hawaii, Massachusetts, California…

I’ve been around!”

When she was 53-years-old, Duckett and her husband Ralph were living in Phoenix. She was attending real estate school there, hating the courses and the metropolis.

“I’ve lived in a lot of big cities, and there’s no soul, no culture in Phoenix, just a lot of cement.” To counterbalance the real estate classes and Phoenix’s soullessness, Duckett took a “relaxation” course in acrylic painting.

“I was missing culture and reaching for it.”

It was then that she found her artistic calling.

“Acrylic on canvas is the only venue I’ve ever tried and I love it.”

In 2008, Nina and Ralph came back to Tucson (they previously lived here from 20012003) and put down roots. Ralph, now retired, is an avid cyclist – an “Arizona State Cycling Champion for the last 5 years in a row in his age

“Gato Silbestre”

category!” according to Nina.

As a recently established painter in Tucson, Duckett finds inspiration from her cultural background, as well as in the desert’s biodiversity.

by Jamie Manser

She says most of her work is tightly focused on the subjects. “I don’t really do bigger paintings with a lot of details.” That being so, Duckett does have a few vertically oriented 40-inch by 30-inch pieces around her studio, enriched by small elements such as little rocks and their corresponding shadows on the ground underneath birds gathered around a splay of prickly pear cactus.

The majority of Duckett’s approximately 20 paintings in her “Wild-Winged Beasties of Arizona” May exhibit at Contreras Gallery, 110 E. 6th St., are of the scaled-down variety.

Duckett relays that, in consideration of the economy, she chose to “do a lot of little ones so people can take them home.” Her pieces are certainly priced to sell, with most of them in the range of $75 to $100.

In the future, Duckett plans to explore Impressionism. She says she loves “all the Impressionistic artists, that’s what I want to do, but I wanted to get a handle on realism first.” n Duckett’s Contreras Gallery exhibit opens on May 5 with a reception from 6 p.m.-10 p.m.

It exhibits until May 26. See some of her work online at NinaDuckett.com. Gallery details at ContrerasHouseFineArt.com.

May 2012 | THEZMAG.com 19

Katie Mann’s “Forgotten” won 1st place in the Curious Camera Competition.

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Anomalous Imagery

by Zócalo staff At the end of April, Photographic Works’ ArtsEye Gallery opened its 4th annual Curious Camera Competition exhibit – a themed event with the goal of people having “fun with photography,” as described

by Rachel Castillo via email.

Castillo, the media creative for Photographic Works and the gallery, said the idea is to “get and keep people excited about analogue and anything curious about photography. Curious Camera is our photographic playground.”

While Photographic Works has been around for over a quarter of a century, its ArtsEye Gallery had its first exhibit in 2007 and the Curious Camera Competition first took place in 2009. Shows are either curated or competitions. Curated shows are put together by Photographic Works’ President and owner Mary Findysz. The competitions, which include submissions from local, national, and international photographers, are juried by outside judges.

Judges, explained Castillo, are typically “artists or art professors or (those who) work extensively in the art/photo industry. Usually they are immersed in local culture and have a feel for Tucson and what the art scene here is like.”

For Curious Camera, the eclectic bunch of submissions came from across the U.S. as well as from Portugal, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Canada, United Kingdom, Austria, Greece, Australia, Sweden and Spain. The three winners of the competition, and its honorable mentions, were judged by Zócalo’s Publisher David Olsen and Editor Jamie Manser.

Olsen and Manser had to whittle down the 326 submissions to first, second and third places and then chose 30 honorable mentions. The two spent about three hours on the process and were not told who the photographers were or where they were from. However, all of the submitted entries were made by using either a pinhole, plastic, vintage, instant or cell phone camera.

Olsen mentioned, “What a wonderful opportunity this was, to view and select images from around the globe. I have a special appreciation for vintage and alternative photography, so it was an enjoyable experience to comb through such an diverse set of photographs. Once the show opened, it was a thrill to finaly discover who the photographers were and what kinds of cameras and techniques they used to capture their shots.”

“It was a super challenging, and interesting, task,” Manser said.

“The majority of the photos were really strong. It was a great learning experience. I do feel that the images we picked are a good balance between and representative of photographic and technical prowess that combines both of our personal tastes.”

The 33 winning images are framed and hanging on the gallery’s walls; the rest of the photos are being shown on a large digital display in the gallery’s lobby.

Gerald Figel’s “Pushing up Daisies” won 2nd pla ce in the Curious Camera Competition. Fig el resides in Nashville , TN.

Tucsonan Linda Bohlk e’s “Leap of Faith” wo n 3rd place in the Curious Camera Compet ition.

The exhibit, at 3550 E. Grant Rd., runs through July. Find information on it, and upcoming competitions, at CuriousCamera.com, ArtsEye.com or call 325-0260.

May 2012 | THEZMAG.com 21

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Arts

“Rojo Noche,” acrylic on canvas

by Josh Goldberg.

“St. Anak,” acrylic on wood

by Alfred Quiroz.

“Blowing Sands,” watercolor

by Andy Polk.

Small Things Considered

The 20th Annual Small Works Invitational

by Dolly Spalding On May 10, Davis Dominguez Gallery opens its gala exhibit, “Small Works Invitational,” featuring paintings, drawings and sculpture by over 70 artists. The gallery’s co-owner Candace Davis described the three separate groups of invitees: the gallery’s usual exhibitors, community “stalwarts” such as Nancy Tokar Miller (normally represented by other galleries) and “wild cards” (newcomers).

The most popular of Davis Dominguez’s offerings, the show is celebrating its 20th anniversary, and in the sometimes acutely ephemeral universe of art galleries, the perseverance, expertise and acumen of Davis and coowner Mike Dominguez are emphatically demonstrated. After 36 years “in the business,” the pair is a seemingly permanent fixture on the Tucson cultural scene, a circumstance that delights – and perhaps bemuses – Candace Davis. Two decades ago, the two created this annual, irresistible, not-to-be-missed event. It now kicks off the Central Gallery Association’s Summer Art Cruise on June 2, which is itself a seductive justification for snowbirds to delay their departure for the high country by at least long enough to drop in and be mesmerized by a stunning visual feast.

Internationally renowned textile/fiber artist Claire Campbell Park has been contributing to the show for more than 10 years and thinks she was the first textile/fiber artist to be invited. She particularly likes this exhibit because of “the way it forms community,” and admires Mike and Candace for opening and keeping going a contemporary art gallery in Tucson – “really changing the scene for so many artists.” She never misses a Small Works opening. “It’s such a gathering of people.”

Her specific technique (silkscreen painted paper is cut into very thin strips and woven) was developed especially for Small Works. “For the last several years, I’ve been weaving painted paper. I love to experiment with color and understand color relationships. And get that glow, that hum that you get when you put colors together in a knowledgeable way. I consider them meditations.”

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Park tries to bring to the viewer, in these luminous abstractions, a distilled sense of the values that matter to her; reverence, the Infinite, patience, beauty, gratitude, dignity. “These are the things I value and try to put into my art.”

Adon Banuelos is one of Small Works new “wild cards,” although he has been part of the Davis Dominguez scene for a year as a bartender for openings. During one such recent occasion, he was approached by Candace. “It was a nice surprise. I was working the bar, and Candace came up and invited me – I guess she heard from someone else that I make stuff.”

A native of Nogales, Banuelos’ father was his first teacher, a sign painter and amateur artist. He moved to Tucson at 17 and graduated from Artworks Academy (the high school run by the Tucson Museum of Art).

Then came several semesters of college and a job at Creative Machines, where he’s been ever since. For Small Works, he will show a pencil drawing that is representative of his penchant for perfectly depicting delicate little objects.

“I started drawing small objects I had on my desk because I didn’t know what to draw.” Shopping in the Lost Barrio, he found 1970s-era locks from India and bought several. “One drawing wouldn’t tell the story. So I bought two locks, and I’m working on drawing the second lock. I have fun arranging the items next to each other, balancing them out. I feel an urge to make something. I like the idea of drawing things that I have.” He also draws fanciful shoes and makes whimsical furniture, the latter project the subject of a Tucson Pima Arts Council grant proposal. n Davis Dominguez Gallery is located at 154 E. 6th St., online at DavisDominguez.com and 629-9759. The exhibit runs from May 10 to June 30.

The opening reception on Saturday, June 2, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., is part of the Central Tucson Gallery Association’s Summer Art Cruise. Gallery hours are Tuesday-Friday 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

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Photo by Ed Flores

Performances of “Great American Dance Tour” take place May 10-13.

by Herb Stratford

Dance Tucson’s Artifact Dance Project hosts the tour de force “Great American Dance Tour” for four performances May 10-13 at the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre. The show, featuring 28 dancers and a dozen professional musicians has toured the world and features a program full of diverse dance styles spanning the 1920’s to the present day. With only 299 seats, it is likely to sell out quickly. Tucson audiences will be able to experience the show before it heads off for five weeks of touring, including a stop in Shanghai, China. The Stevie Eller Dance Theatre is located at 1737 E. University Blvd. on the University of Arizona Campus Mall, and adjacent parking is available. For more information visit ArtifactDanceProject.com, or call 344-8984.

Hanging Hoopleville The Drawing Studio hosts “Hoopleville: The Cartoon World of David Kish” from May 5-26 at their location, 33 S. 6th Ave. Kish fans, who know his cartoon display from his regular pieces in the Tucson Weekly, will be surprised to find other genres Kish works in including posters, games, fine art works and even a 100-piece puzzle. There will be a reception on May 5 from 6 to 9pm, and the Drawing Studio is open from noon to 4pm Tuesday through Saturday. They will be open during Second Saturdays on May 12 from 6pm to 9pm with free giveaways. Visit TheDrawingStudio.org for more information.

Art Continuing through June 1, at the Temple of Music and Art Gallery is an exhibit entitled “Red: A Juried Invitational.” Presented in conjunction with the final show in the Arizona Theatre Company’s 2011-2012 season, which is also entitled “Red,” this show features 43 images in various materials including photography, printmaking, fiber, drawing and mixed media. Drawn from a statewide call, artists were asked to interpret what the color red meant to them with the only guideline being a size restriction. The show can be viewed at the Temple of Music and Art, located at 330 S. Scott Ave., Monday through Friday from 10am to 5pm. EthertonGallery.com. n

May 2012 | THEZMAG.com 23

“Broken Beauty” by Valerie Galloway is featured as part of “Red: A Juried Invitational” at the Temple Gallery.

art Galleries/exhibits ARTSEYE GALLERY 4th annual Curious Camera Event features images from around the world made with pinhole, plastic, vintage, instant and cell phone cameras. Show continues through July. Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm; Sat, 10am-5pm. 3550 E. Grant Rd. 327-7291. ArtsEye.com

BLUE RAVEN GALLERY All Things Great and Small continues through May 26. Folk musicians play for community food bank on May 20, 7pm-9pm. Musicians include: Kevin Pakulis, Amy Langley, Michael Dues, Ray St. Clair and Bill Ronstadt. $10 donation. Thu, noon-4pm; Fri, noon-5pm; Sat, 11am-5pm. 3042 N. 1st Ave. 623-1003, BlueRavenGalleryandGifts.com

CENTER FOR CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY Speaking in Tongues: Wallace Berman and Robert Heinecken continues through June 17. Permanent Collection Exhibtion curated by River Bullock, Ansel Adams Intern, continues through June 17. Photo Fridays, an exclusive look at the Center’s world renowned fine art photograph collection on May 4, 11:30am-3:30pm. Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm; Sun, noon5pm. 1030 N. Olive Rd. 621-7968, CreativePhotography.org

CONTRERAS GALLERY

Wild-Winged Beasties of Arizona by Nina Duckett shows May 5-May 26. Reception Sat, May 5, 6pm. Tues-Fri 11am-5pm, Sat 11am4pm. 110 E. 6th St. 398-6557, ContrerasHouseFineArt.com

DAVIS DOMINGUEZ GALLERY The Grace of Form by Bruce McGrew and Tim Murphy with sculptures by Judith Stewart continues through Sat, May 5. Small Things Considered -20th Small Works Invitational, opens May 10. Thu-Fri, 11am5pm; Sat, 11am-4pm. 154 E. 6th St. 629-9759, DavisDominguez.com

DECO It’s A Dry Heat Garden Art opens with a reception on May 19, 6pm-9pm.

Tue-Wed & Sat, 11am-4pm; Thu-Fri, 11am-5pm. 2612 E. Broadway Blvd. 3190888, DecoArtTucson.com

THE DRAWING STUDIO

Hoopleville: The Cartoon World of David Kish shows May 5-May 26. Receptions May 5 & May 12. Art of Summer open house for youth and teen (ages 9-18) on May 6. 2pm-4pm. Tue-Sat, noon-4pm. 33 S. 6th Ave. 620-0947, TheDrawingStudio.org

ETHERTON GALLERY This Land, This Sea: Joe Forkan, Nancy Tokar-Miller and Lisa M. Robinson continues through May 26. Tue-Sat, 11am-5pm. 135 S. 6th Ave. 624-7370, EthertonGallery.com

JOSEPH GROSS GALLERY 2012 Master of Fine Arts Thesis Exhibit continues through May 13. Above and Below by artist Josh Keyes opens May 21. Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm; Sat-Sun, 10am-4pm. 1031 N. Olive Rd. 626-4215, CFA.arizona.edu/galleries

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART 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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“Ceide Fields” by Joe Forkan is featured as part of “This Land, This Sea” exhibit at Etherton Gallery through Sat, May 26.

OBSIDIAN GALLERY Two Person Exhibit- Mary Fischer and Patricia Sannit continues through May 12. Obsidian Gallery, 410 N. Toole Ave., #120. 577-3598, Obsidian-Gallery.com

PHILABAUM GLASS GALLERY & STUDIO

Philabaum & Phriends opens May 5. Tue-Sat, 10am-5pm. 711 S. 6th Ave. 884-7404, PhilabaumGlass.com

PORTER HALL GALLERY Art by Adam and Miwa Block continues through May 28. Art by Susanna Castro opens May 31. $8, Adults; $4, Children 4-12; Free, Children 3 and younger. 2150 N. Alvernon Way. 326-9686, TucsonBotanical.org

RAICES TALLER 222 ART GALLERY Mujeres, Mujeres, Mujeres: the 8th annual exhibition of art by women, continues through June 2. Fri-Sat, 1pm-5pm & by appointment. 218 E. 6th St. 881-5335, RaicesTaller222.webs.com

STONE DRAGON STUDIO

Jim Gruhl’s Endangered Cultures continues through May 25. Wed-Sat, 11am-4pm & by appointment, 405-5800. 1122 N. Stone Ave. 624-7099, HolyJoeStudio.com

TEMPLE GALLERY

Red: A Juried Invitational continues through June 1.

Mon–Fri, 10am-5pm. 330 S. Scott Ave. 624-7370, EthertonGallery.com

TUCSON MUSEUM OF ART

Tesoros del Pueblo: Latin American Folk Art, Frida Kahlo: Through the Lens of Nickolas Muray, and Frida’s Style: Traditional Women’s Costumes from Mexico continue through June. (Con)text continues through May 27. smARTy Pants - Desert Discovery, children ages 3-5 explore nature through the Western Art Collection on May 19. 10am. Picture This! Art for Families: These Boots Are Made For Walking: families create and design their own cowboy boots on May 6. 1pm. Plus ongoing exhibits. Tue-Wed, Fri-Sat, 10am-6pm; Thu, 10am-8pm; Sun, noon-6pm. $8, adults; $6, seniors; $3, students 13+; free, children under 12. Free to all the first Sunday of the month. 140 N. Main Ave. 624-2333, TucsonMuseumofArt.org

UA ART MUSEUM

Master Joshua Olivera “Palimpsest: An Image of What Once Was” opens May 4 with a reception from 5pm-7pm. David Headley and Sol LeWitt Days opens May 24. Tue-Fri, 9am-5pm; Sat-Sun, noon-4pm. $5 adults; children/students/faculty, free. 1031 N. Olive Rd. ArtMuseum.arizona.edu

UA POETRY CENTER

Artistexts: Curated by Johanna Drucker continues through June. A Poetry off the Page: Symposium Exhibits continues through May 31. Mon/Thurs, 9am-8pm; Tues/Wed, 9am-6pm; Fri, 9am-5pm. 1508 E. Helen St. 626-3765, Poetry.Arizona.Edu

WILDE MEYER GALLERY

Something about the Southwest shows May 3-June 6. Interiors, Objects and Little Worlds shows May 3-June 6. Earth and Sky shows May 3-May 26. Mon-Fri, 10am-5:30pm. Wilde Meyer Gallery, 3001 E. Skyline Dr. WildeMeyer.com

WOMANKRAFT ART GALLERY Drawing Down the Muse continues through May 28. Reception Sat, May 7, 7pm-10pm. 388 S. Stone Ave. 629-9976, WomanKraft.org

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MAY EVENTS

JUNE EVENTS

4th Annual Agave Fest at Hotel Congress on Fri, May 4, 6pm10pm, featuring tastings of over 40 agave-derived spirits including tequilas & mezcals plus samples of signature agave cocktails from Tucson’s best bartenders, along with authentic tacos, mariachis & live music from Latin Funk Project.

First Fridays, presented by Tucson Young Professionals, hosts a fashion event – Canvas Art on the Runway – at the Fox Theatre on Fri, May 4, 7pm-10pm.

From 4pm-8pm on Sat, May 5, the Sonoran Glass Art Academy hosts its Cinco de Mayo Beer Tasting with various tastings from 2 local breweries along with Mexican food, live glassblowing & live music.

The 9 Queens annual Chess Fest is at Hotel Congress on May 5, starting at 2pm, with free chess lessons & a human chess match.

Starting at 3pm on Sat, May 5 is the 3rd Annual Cinco on Congress Street, featuring DJs, drink specials & live music at Sapphire Lounge, Zen Rock & Lot 41.

The 27th Annual Tucson Folk Festival takes place Sat, May 5-Sun, May 6, hosted & organized by the Tucson Kitchen Musicians Association. The weekend-long, free event includes over 200 musicians performing on 5 stages in Downtown’s Presidio District, centered at El Presidio Park.

Fri, June 1 sees folk/country songstress Gillian ate, 8pm.

On Sat, June 2 is the Summer Art Cruise, a self-guided gallery tour presented by the Central Tucson Gallery Association that includes over 10 galleries hosting receptions in & around downtown, starting at 6pm.

The 6th annual Meet Me Downtown 5k Night Run/Walk, hosted by the Arizona Roadrunners is Sat, June 2, starting at 7pm. It features a children’s pavilion, a free movie at the Fox Theatre, a free family-friendly movie by Cinema La Placita, great snacks & post-race food, discounts for a rockin’ night out at local restaurants & bars, a special performance from Tucson rock & roll icon LeeAnn Savage.

2nd Saturdays summer edition happens again on June 9.

On Sat, June 16, legendary Roger McGuinn of The Byrds fame is at the Fox Theatre, 7:30pm.

Sunday, June 24 is the 15th Annual El Dia De San Juan Fiesta - a celebration of the summer rains and is the only event that celebrates with the ‘Charreada’ (Mexican Rodeo), on Downtown’s Westside at Mercado San Agustin.

Be sure to visit DowntownTucson.org for up-to-date information.

Beyond The Sacred Music & Arts Festival celebrates Sacred Machine’s 2nd anniversary with an art reception on Fri, May 11 & a music fest at Rialto Theatre on Sat, May 12.

On Sat, May 12, 2nd Saturdays celebrates its 2nd anniversary with great local bands (Aaron Gilmartin, Shaky Bones, Vox Urbana, Southwest Soul Circuit), food trucks & more, 6pm-11pm.

On Sat, May 19, The Centurions host its annual fundraiserdowntown, with the theme “The Great Masquerade Escapade.” Activities, centered at Congress St & 5th Ave, include a Moulin Rouge Lounge, a carnivale parade, live music & dancing, raffles, more, starting at 6pm.

Big names bands at the TCC music hall in May include Morrissey performing on May 23 & Jane’s Addiction on May 31.

Starting in May & running every Thursday through October is Cinema La Placita, showing classic films under the starts at the La Placitia Village plaza, 7:30pm.

Welch at the Fox The-

Downtow n’s Great Summer Happenin gs!

Arts

Broadway In Tucson presents “Mary Poppins” May 16-May 20.

Performances ART.if.ACT DANCE PROJECT The Great American Dance Tour shows in Tucson Thu, May 10-Sun, May 13. $15-$25. Stevie Eller Dance Theatre, 1737 E. University Blvd. ArtIfActDanceProject.com

ARIZONA ONSTAGE PRODUCTIONS Steel Magnolias continues through Sun, May 13. Various times and prices. Temple of Music and Art, 330 S. Scott Ave. 270-3332, ArizonaOnStage.org

BALLET TUCSON

Cinderella, the classic rags-to-riches Disney tale, shows Sat, May 5-Sun, May 6. Times and prices vary. Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Blvd. 903-1445, BalletTucson.org

BEOWULF ALLEY THEATRE COMPANY

Sins of the Mother shows Thu, May 3-Mon, May 7. Various show times. Old Time Radio Theatre presents two classic radio shows on Sat, May 5 at 3pm. Beowulf Alley, 11 S. 6th Ave. 882-0555, BeowulfAlley.org.

BLACK CHERRY BURLESQUE Tantalizing burlesque performance on Fri, May 4 at 8pm and 10pm. Surly Wench Pub, 424 N. 4th Ave. 882-0009, TucsonBurlesque.com

BROADWAY IN TUCSON

Mary Poppins, the classic Disney story about a magical nanny, takes the stage Wed, May 16-Sun, May 20. Various times and prices.

TCC’s Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave. 903-2929, BroadwayInTucson.com

CARNIVAL OF ILLUSION The first two weekends in May, Sarlot and Eyed bring magical performances. See website for dates and times. Tucson Double Tree Hotel, 445 S. Alvernon Way. 615-5299, CarnivalOfIllusion.com

CIVIC ORCHESTRA OF TUCSON Conducted by Director Herschel Kreloff, the orchestra plays jazz, classics, show tunes and Big Band sounds in a free concert on Sun, May 6 at 7pm. Reid Park, 900 S. Randolph Way. 730-3371, CotMusic.org.

THE GASLIGHT THEATRE The Three Musketeers continues through Sun, June 3. Concerts include: Woah Mama! A Tribute to Mothers, Sisters, and Friends on Mon, May 7 at 7pm, Mariachi Extravaganza on Mon, May 14 at 7pm, The Retro Rockets on Mon, May 21 at 7pm, and Legends of Country on Mon, May 28 at 7pm.

Gaslight Theatre, 7010 E. Broadway Blvd. 886-9428, TheGaslightTheatre.com

LIVE THEATRE WORKSHOP The Cocktail Hour continues through June 3.

All Together Theatre presents Thumbelina on Sundays at 1pm through June 10. Live Theatre Workshop, 5317 E. Speedway Blvd. 327-4242, LiveTheatreWorkshop.org

MUSIC AND MEMORIES

The 10th Anniversary concert features performances by Tucson Symphony Orchestra Musicians, The Arizona Repertory Singers, Paloma Winds, Jeremy Reynolds, John Milbauer and more. The evening benefits the Under-Insured Cancer Patients’ Endowment Fund of the Academy of Cancer Wellness and includes a silent auction. Sat, May 12. 6:15pm. Grace St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 2331 E. Adams St. 722-4581, CancerHealth.org

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Photo courtesy of DeviantArt.com

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Photo courtesy of Ryan Fagan.

Carlise Ellis, Shanna Brock, Chris Moseley and Michael Woodson perfom in “The Cocktail Hour” which continues at Live Theatre Workshop through June 3.

NOT BURNT OUT JUST UNSCREWED The improv comedy troupe performs Fri, May 4, 7:30 pm at Revolutionary Grounds Coffee House, 606 N. 4th Ave., for audiences of all ages. Another performance is Fri, May 18, 7pm at Rock N Java Café, 7555 W. Twin Peaks Rd. Free. 861-2986, UnscrewedComedy.com

ODYSSEY STORYTELLING SERIES Sticks and Stones: Politics on the Playground premieres Thu, May 3 at 7pm. $7. Fluxx Studio and Gallery, 416 E. 9th St. 730-4112, OdysseyStorytelling.com

PCC DANCE Four Seasons shows Fri, May 11 at 7:30pm; Sat, May 12 at 2pm & 7:30pm. PCC Center for the Arts Recital Hall, 2202 W. Anklam Rd. 206-6670, Pima.edu/cfa

PIMA ARTS Gershwin Spectacular concert on Thu, May 3. 7:30pm. Pima Community College Chorale & College Singers Spring Concert on Sun, May 6. 3pm. Pima Community College Center for the Arts, 2202 W. Anklam Rd. 206-6600, Pima.edu/cfa

THE ROGUE THEATRE The Winter’s Tale by William Shakespeare continues through Sun, May 13. Thu-Sat, 7:30pm; Sun, 2pm. Various ticket prices. 738 N. 5th Ave. 551-2053, TheRogueTheatre.org

STUDIO CONNECTIONS

Godspell, Jr: the Broadway version of the life of Jesus takes place Fri, May 4-Sun, May 6. Fri-Sat, 7:30pm; Sun, 2pm. $8. St Francis in the Foothills, 4625 E. River Rd. 329-3707, StudioConnections.net

TUCSON ALLIANCE OF DRAMATIC ARTISTS

Three one-act play readings: Two Saturdays in June, Waiting and UROK will be performed Fri, May 4-Sat, May 5. A reading of the full-length play Style and Substance, A Love Story...

Sort of! takes place Sat, May 5. Free. 6:30pm. ART Gallery, 1122 N. Stone Ave. 6247099, HolyJoeStudio.com

TUCSON CONVENTION CENTER Academy of Ballet presents Heidi on Sun, May 27 from 2pm-5pm. $13.Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Ave. TucsonConventionCenter.org.

TUCSON JAZZ SOCIETY Big Band Express and Crystal Stark - Jazz Under the Stars on Fri, May 4, 7pm. Triple Threat Divas-Jazz Under the Stars is Fri, May 11, 7pm. Tohono Chul Park, 7366 N. Paseo Del Norte. 903-1265, TucsonJazz.org

TUCSON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Young Composers Project Reading Session on Sat, May 5, 7pm. Tucson Symphony Center, 2175 N. 6th Ave. 882-8585, TucsonSymphony.org

TUCSON GUITAR SOCIETY Guitar in the Woods with Michael Friedman on Thu, May 3 from 6:30pm-7:45pm at Woods Library. Riley Wakefield performs Mon, May 14 from 2:30pm-4pm. Holsclaw Hall, 1017 N. Olive Rd. 342-0022. TucsonGuitarSociety.org

ZUZI! DANCE COMPANY “Come Together”: A Beatles-Inspired Dance Concert shows Fri, May 11-Sun, May 13. $15-$18. Zuzi’s Little Theater, 738 N. 5th Ave. 629-0237, ZuziMoveIt.org

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Photo by Paul Davis Sr.

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Community

Clowning Around

For some kids, imagination can entail playful conceptions of castles and dragons, but for those desiring to combine whimsy with reality a local circus troupe can take them on an actual journey of discovery and mastery.

Teaching kids seven and older the ropes of circus arts - from aerial silk and stilt walking to juggling and more - the Tucson International School of Circus and Performing Arts will host two, two-week summer camps between May 28 and June 28.

“It’s really a mix of creativity and art and fantasy,” said Nadia Hagen, a Tucson Circus Arts director and a poi, or fire twirling, instructor. “All of those things play into circus. You are making entertainment for yourself.”

The camp, in its third year, includes everything from the aforementioned skills to Taiko drumming and costume design - quickly sucking participants into a world of allure and color.

“For me, circus is kind of a hook,” explained Hagen, a professional performer and artist who ran away from home to join a circus when she was 17-years-old. “It makes you be really present in the moment and that can be addictive for some kids.”

Hagen anticipates about 120 kids at this year’s camp. Many will be previous students, gravitating back to a community of collaboration and excitement.

Marisa Campa, now 17, signed up for the first circus camp two years ago. Stilt walking snagged her, despite initial apprehension.

“It creates an escape, even though it was kind of scary at first,” Campa said. “Little kids had to pull me away from the wall. I felt like a

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baby giraffe.”

It took Campa three days to learn to stilt walk independently, but she mastered it, and her passion grew. Last November, Campa participated in the All Souls Procession, towering over the crowd on her stilts.

“It was the best experience of my whole life,” Campa said. “Circus arts and performing give you a way to express how you’re really feeling because you’re in costume.”

Beyond the “cool factor” that attracts many kids, circus arts meld creativity with strength.

For instance, learning aerial silk requires not only grace, but also the muscular ability to clamber up fifteen feet of silk.

“This isn’t boot camp, and we don’t yell, ‘Soldier, get up there!’” Hagen said. “They coach each other and are eventually able to do things that they don’t think are possible.”

Although many kids approach riskier arts with trepidation, they cave under encouragement from peers and the thrill of shattering boundaries. Stilt walking in particular has acquired a following, as children who spend most of their days looking up at the world can marvel at the perspective change – standing a few feet taller.

“We have kids who ask the whole time, ‘Can I stay on my stilts?’ and sometimes we let them stay up,” Hagen said. “We have parents who say that their kids put their stilts on at home, fall asleep wearing them, and wake up with them on.”

Parents will see the fruition of the camp’s classes during a recital at the end of the two weeks. The opportunity to don a vibrant per-

by Johanna Willett

sonality and demonstrate new skills gives many children their first taste of the spotlight and a glimpse into the fantastic.

The kids get to sample every circus art taught during camp and, this year, will experience new classes such as clowning and hoops.

The WonderFools - Tucson-based circus artists, clowns and educators - will introduce clowning to summer camp participants for the first time this summer. Becky Renfrow, a juggler, clown and cohort of The WonderFools with Zack Armstrong, looks forward to nurturing active imaginations.

“Clowning is about being inspired by simple wonders of everyday life and giving the imagination permission to touch absurdity,” Renfrow said in an email. “Kids are, of course, naturally brilliant at this.”

A summer camp of circus arts means a dose of make-believe in real time and an infusion of community building.

“We need to create the imagery, the characters and the music we want to see in our world,” Hagen said. “That needs to come from the bottom up. You give people the creative skills, and then they create that culture.” n Register for Tucson Circus Arts’ 2012 summer camp at TucsonCircusArts.com. It takes place at The Rhythm Industry, 1013 S. Tyndall Ave., Monday-Friday, May 28-June 8 and June 18June 28 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Photo: Tucson Circus Arts teaches kids stilt walking, among many other circus skills.

May 2012 | THEZMAG.com 31

Photos courtesy Tu Nidito

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Community

Photos courtesy Tu Nidito

A Remarkable Organization

Scenes from previous Tu Nidito functions.

by Valerie Vinyard Many people don’t quite know what Tu Nidito Children and Family Services is all about.

Ask one of the more than 800 families served last year, however, and they’ll tell you it offered comfort, hope and valuable information while living with and supporting a family member with a serious illness.

“I just think it’s amazing,” said Jackie Tofel, who started going to Tu Nidito in 2008 with her children after her husband was diagnosed with colon cancer. “I am so grateful to Tu Nidito for all they’ve done for us. It’s a safe place.”

Tu Nidito, which translates to “your little nest,” is just that: a nest and a haven for grieving families. Assistant director Ciara Garcia said Tu Nidito provides emotional, social and educational support.

Tu Nidito offers seven core programs: Children to Children, which provides bereavement support to children ages 3½ to 18 who have experienced the death of a loved one; Young Adults, an ongoing grief support program for ages 18 to 29; Children Who Have a Parent With a Serious Medical Condition, which includes cancer, HIV/AIDS and cystic fibrosis; Pathways, which provides home, hospital, and communitybased support to children ages birth to 18 diagnosed with a serious medical condition and their parents and siblings; Family Ties, for families who are coping with a child’s life-threatening medical condition; and Angels By Your Side, a program that supports families from the Pathways program whose child have died.

Tu Nidito’s not nearly as sad or depressing of a place as you would think, according to Jessica Fossmeyer, development coordinator.

“There is a lot of joy here,” she said. “Yes,

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there is sadness, but there’s a lot of laughter, too.”

The nonprofit organization welcomed its first client in October 1996 and served 12 families its first year.

“We are really the only kind of agency anywhere that provides the whole package,” said Liz McCusker, executive director of Tu Nidito.

“We can be working with families for years and be there through the ups and downs.

“A lot can happen in a year or two or three.

We’re really there. There’s nobody like us. Tucson should be proud.”

Over the years, Tu Nidito has grown. Last year, it served 900 children.

“Over 90 cents of every dollar that’s donated goes directly to program support,” McCusker said. “We have over 300 volunteers. We’re lean and mean.”

On Saturday, May 12, Tu Nidito hosts its signature fundraiser, The Remarkable Celebration, which raised $211,000 last year. The theme will be American Bandstand and will feature L.A.based band Mrs. Robinson and have live and silent auctions.

“It’s an opportunity to come together and celebrate life, today, tomorrow and every day thereafter,” Fossmeyer said. “It’s not like your other black-tie fundraisers. That’s why people keep coming back.”

Garcia agreed, noting that “no event recognizes mothers in Tucson.”

Tofel is one of those mothers. She and her children, Sydney and Josh, started going to Tu Nidito biweekly when her husband was diagnosed with cancer.

“I thought it would be a good place for them

to talk to someone,” Tofel said. “It has been an amazing, amazing experience for them.”

Tofel, 43, is one of the five honorees at the May gala. Her husband passed away in February 2011, and the family continues using Tu Nidito for support.

“They met other kids who parents have had cancer,” Tofel said. “They formed really great bonds.” Tofel said she has also found solace through Tu Nidito.

“It’s helped me be able to know how to talk about where I’m at now. It was very helpful to be able to talk about your feelings and not be judged.”

In addition to Tofel, this year’s Remarkable Mothers are: • Marjorie Rees, who started Gut Check Foundation in 2010 with her husband, Dwight, after their 18-year-old son died from clostridium septicum infection.

• Roxanna Green, who founded the Christina-Taylor Green Memorial Foundation after her daughter died in the Jan. 8, 2011, shooting that injured former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords.

• Kim Bourne, who helped establish the Southern Arizona Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

• Dr. Jody Comstock, who’s involved with the Dream Street Foundation, which provides programs for seriously ill children. n

Now in its 11th year, The Remarkable Celebration takes place at 6 p.m. May 12 at Loews Ventana Canyon Resort. Tickets cost $175. Details at TuNidito.org or call 322-9155.

Community

Histor ic Signs Resurrec ted

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by Eric Swedlund

“It’s cool to be able to go back in and restore something that has the history,” Cook says. “It’s an adventure. It’s a little bit like sign archaeology.”

Just acquiring the signs in the first place was a challenge. The Tropicana sign, installed in 1960 on Miracle Mile, was sitting on top of a storage container in a yard, rescued by a private citizen when it was unceremoniously chopped down like a tree in 2004.

Part of the sign had caved in and the corners were rusted out.

Cook had to cut the sign into two pieces so it could be transported. The crew stripped all the wiring out and redid the electrical work, neon tubing, hand painted everything and, after lending it for display briefly at the Joel D. Valdez Main Library, retrofitted the sign on to new poles.

“It’s harder than starting from the beginning. We’re trying like heck not to destroy the original fabric of the sign. Folks grew up with it and remember it. It takes them back to childhood,” Cook says. “We have so little of it left and this is a great collection. It’s an impressive run right through that part of town.”

Both Cook and Clinco hope the Drachman signs will spur other owners of historic signs to take up the restoration effort.

Cook & Company is currently working on the Pueblo Hotel diving girl sign on Sixth Avenue just south of Broadway Boulevard at 12th Street.

The dry desert climate has been kind to the signs, with little rain or snow to hasten their degradation.

“I think you’re going to see some immediate interest and, over time, an ongoing effort to salvage and save these signs,” Cook says. n photo: David Olsen

Drachman Street is glowing once again.

The Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation and Pima Community College partnered to restore and install classic neon signs from Tucson’s past as a Neon Art Walk along the north edge of PCC’s Downtown Campus.

The four historic signs – the Tropicana Motor Hotel, Magic Carpet Golf, Medina Sporting Goods and Arizonan Hotel/Canyon State Motor Lodge – line a stretch of Drachman Street that once was (along with Miracle Mile, Oracle Road and Stone Avenue) Highways 80 and 89, the pre-Interstate main drag into Tucson.

“This whole corridor was once the gateway to Tucson. These signs festooned the street. The American culture of the early and mid 20th century and its relationship to automobiles is exemplified in these signs,” explains Demion Clinco, president of the Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation.

“They’re an exuberant part of mid-century modernism. They’re really American folk art.”

The multi-year project began with a successful effort to change the city’s sign code to allow for the removal, restoration and re-installation of neon signs. About 300 businesses and individuals contributed time and money for the roughly $100,000 project, which was spearheaded by the Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation and the Oracle Area Revitalization Plan.

The signs were meticulously restored, with photos as guides, to their original condition and colors. The work included neon tube benders, specialized metal work, hand painting and the crane operators who hoisted the signs into place.

“Almost all of the original buildings are gone. These are orphan signs,” Clinco says. “Our hope in doing this project is that other owners of signs will restore them.”

Jude Cook of Cook & Company Signmakers says the restoration effort unearthed some repainting and changes throughout the years, but the company stuck to the original look.

Find out more at TucsonHistoricPreservationFoundation.org/projects/ neon-art-walk. Know of a Historic Tucson Sign that is in storage or in a backyard that should be restored? Contact the foundation at info@ preservetucson.org.

May 2012 | THEZMAG.com 33

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Community

Historic Perspectives

by Valerie Vinyard

Young and old bond over stories and photos

Photo by Casey Wollschlaeger

Imagine being a 10-year-old, hearing a story from your 82-year-old graphs from the project will be pasted on the senior center and the school. neighbor about when your street was nothing but a dirt road, or listening to Wheat paste is glue made of flour and water. a seventy-something man talk about a game of hide-and-seek that ended During a mid-April get-together at St. Andrews Episcopal Church, two in whippings by a belt for those unlucky enough to be discovered; and pre-teens took turns recording and interviewing a handful of seniors from learning from seniors about how everyone actually knew their neighbors the neighborhood. Listening intently, the boys seemed fascinated by the back in the day. seniors’ stories.

The folks in the Armory Park neighborhood and those with Bicycle One mother, Betts Putnam-Hidalgo relayed how her 11-year-old son, Inter-Community Art and Salvage, or BICAS, wanted that to happen. They Danilo Moises Hidalgo Putnam, reacted after meeting the seniors. hoped to build a lasting bridge of understanding across the gap between “My quiet, non-talkative boy returns from this stuff bursting with stoyoung and old. ries to tell and will he ever forget what Prohibition was all about when he Hence, “Bridging has seen the liquor botGenerations: BICAS Contles found at the bottom necting Armory Park Seof someone’s outhouse? niors and Youth through This is just a terrific expeArt” was born. rience for him.”

The project brings toArtist Janet K. Miller, gether two geographically who creates anonymous, close but generationally non-commissioned pubdistanced groups: the Arlic works in the downtown mory Park seniors and area, has lived in the Aryouth from Safford K-8 mory Park neighborhood Magnet School, 200 E. for 27 years and helped 13th St., in a project to with the project by going document the lives and door to door to recruit elhistories of each group. ders and youth. She said Once funded with about 25 people became an $8,900 Kresge Arts involved, with a slight main Tucson II: P.L.A.C.E. jority being in the older Initiative Grant from the group.

Tucson Pima Arts CounAfter the May 19 celcil, BICAS Art Coordinator ebration, Miller hopes Casey Wollschlaeger and similar activities continue a team of volunteers startin Armory Park. ed spreading the word.

“It would be really fun At the start of the venin the future to have a kids Viola Terrazas sharing photographs with Nathan Rix at her house in Armory Park as part ture, seniors and youth gathering with people who of the Bridging Generations: BICAS Connecting Armory Park Seniors and Youth through interviewed each other are kids now,” she said.

Art project. using a questionnaire “We could rent a van and about family, school and work in addition to turning points in their lives drive slowly around the neighborhood. The elders’ memories are really betand changes they have witnessed in their neighborhood. They met over ter triggered on the street rather than being in a building somewhere.” five weeks, exchanging stories and photos.

Miller said other neighborhoods could benefit from this, too.

Wollschlaeger said that the project has given seniors the chance to “Any neighborhood that’s older than 30 or 40 years old is going to pass on their accumulated wisdom and skills, and it has given the younger have layers and layers of memories,” she said. “This is a project that other participants a chance to teach the seniors new skills, especially in techneighborhoods can copy and get great stories and sense of place from for nology. younger generations.” n It will culminate with a free celebration May 19 at the Armory Park Senior Center.

The celebration is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 19 at the Armory A wheat-paste artist named Chip Thomas, who also is a doctor and a Park Senior Center, 220 S. 5th Ave. Admission is free. Email art@bicas. photographer on the Navajo nation, will be on hand to adhere one of his org for more information. photographs on the senior center’s exterior wall. Other blown-up photo-

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Photo by Makele White.

Tuesdays for Tucson

La Cocina serves up philanthropy

Community

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Molly Kollier and Amy Rude perform during a recent Tuesdays for Tucson that benefited the Community Food Bank, hosted by City High School seniors.

by Emily Gindlesparger To Jo Schneider, owner of La Cocina, the restaurant’s Tuesdays for Tucson program was an elegant solution to a problem.

“You can’t imagine how many organizations are in need, especially now when things are being cut,” Schneider says of the frequent calls made to La Cocina by non-profits, asking for donations.

“Trying to say ‘yes’ to everyone who calls is nearly impossible, so this is a fun way to bring everyone together and have a relaxing, fundraising evening. There’s so many wonderful organizations, so many things you want to say yes to. So we decided to do something.”

The result is Tuesdays for Tucson, a weekly offer for non-profit organizations to come use the La Cocina space to host fundraisers at no cost, and in addition the organization gets 10% of the evening’s profits. Some of the events are big, with amazing entertainment up on stage and silent auctions; others have been more low-key, like the vegetarian meet-up group that came, had dinner, and asked for the proceeds to be donated to an animal rescue.

“It was designed as a way to take the pressure off of trying to figure out how to donate money to the causes we believe in, and to get the name out there so people realize this is an incredibly beautiful space,” Schneider explains.

It’s a sustainable kind of philanthropy, one that benefits the restaurant and the organizations alike; an idea that has filled the schedule nearly every Tuesday since they began the project a year ago.

“We have this beautiful, amazing environment; I get to work with incredible people and it was a way to bring everyone together. We as a man-

agement team are very community-minded,” Schneider says. “We do run this business with an enormous heart.”

This month, Tuesdays for Tucson hosts: May 1: Center for Biological Diversity - The Center for Biological Diversity works to protect species near extinction through research, social media and legal means, with a focus on habitat preservation.

May 8: NEW ARTiculations Dance Theater - NEW ART is a troupe that creates performances exploring community issues through dance, such as their recent production “Flow: Dancing for Water Awareness in the Desert.”

May 15: D-S Rescue - D-S Rescue provides care for animals in need, pairs them with new homes, and provides animal care classes, riding lessons, a petting zoo and other special events.

May 22: University Medical Center Child Abuse - University Medical Center staff are holding this benefit to raise money for a prospective Child Abuse center to offer protective services in Diamond Children’s Medical Center.

May 29: PAWSitively Cats - PAWSitively Cats is a no-kill cat shelter providing homes and adoption services for Tucson cats. n To submit an event for Tuesdays for Tucson, email marcywildcat@cox.net.

For more information, visit LaCocinaTucson.com and click on Community & Links. La Cocina is located at 201 N. Court Ave. Call 622-0351 for more information.

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Community

Tucson Village Farm pumpkin patch at sunset.

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Photos by Brian Fobes Powell

The People’s Garden

by Katelyn Swanson With the help of some little hands and a whole lot of effort, the Tucson Village Farm has established itself as a great outdoor lab for delicious, experiential learning. The working urban farm is primarily run by kids, for kids, and promotes getting in touch with food through close encounters of the food cycle.

The farm is part of the Pima County Cooperative Extension and the University of Arizona and is located mid-town at 4210 N. Campbell Ave. “We started two years ago with a row of beds, a packet of donated seeds, and my three tools from home,” said Leza Carter, program director and founder of Tucson Village Farm.

The farm has since expanded greatly and offers a number of seed-to-table programs for the community.

One of its biggest programs is the summer Farm Camp, which takes place in June during two different one-week sessions. Campers have the opportunity to take advantage of the several stages of the farm including planting, harvesting, composting and even milking the mechanical milking cow that is housed in the barn next to the farm. Kids not only get the opportunity see how the farm functions, but are also encouraged to embrace their inner chef as they turn their hard work into satisfying meals for the

Members of the Tucson Village Farm 4H group harvest peanuts.

rest of the week as well.

“During the camp we get to do all those kinds of things that we don’t have time for in the other programs,” Carter said. “Campers get to harvest wheat, which is ready by June for harvesting.

They winnow it, mill it and then take it into the kitchen and make their own pizza dough. We also bring in a live goat that the kids milk and make their own goat cheese.”

There is already a waiting list for the camp, but there are still a number of scholarship slots available. These scholarships are funded by another program held by the farm called “U-Pick Tuesdays,” which allows the public to pick the farm’s seasonal, organic veggies between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Some summer crops include tomatoes, basil, peppers, eggplant, cucumbers, and melons. Participants are charged by the pound at market prices said Carter. Currently, all of the proceeds go towards the scholarships.

The farm also hosts two student programs including “Growing Forward” for kindergarteners to fifth graders and “Digging Deeper” for grades six to 12, which take groups of anywhere from 85-120 students at a time. Both field trip based programs allow students to take part in the farm and learn about the nutritional benefits of knowing where their food comes from.

“At my school, every class went over four

days and everybody loved it,” said Tracie Ianni, a Kindergarten teacher at Borton Primary Magnet School, 700 E. 22nd St. “It’s really important that kids understand the connection between the Earth and their plate and their plate back to the Earth. My favorite part was just to see the children engaged.”

Carter also has big plans for the farm in the future. Currently, she is looking towards raising money to build a certified teaching kitchen, which would allow community members to use the facility for a small fee to prep their food goods - which is required to sell the goods at a farmer’s market. The farm also hopes to eventually expand its programs, working with both adults and children to further enhance the food experience at home.

“I named it Tucson Village Farm for a reason. I really feel it’s the people’s farm, so we want people to have access to it as much as possible,” Carter said. “We’ve only been here for two years, but we’re movers and shakers, so we’re always looking towards the future.” n For more information on all of the farm’s programs contact Leza Carter by email at Tucsonvillagefarm@gmail.com or by phone at 626-5161. Details at TucsonVillageFarm.org.

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food&drink

Notes From A Plant Freak

by Jared R. McKinley This month is the last big push for spring planting in the vegetable garden. If you waited too long to plant peppers or tomatoes, get some Jerusalem artichokes. You can plant the tubers you eat, often found at specialty grocery stores like 17th Street Market. Just plant them in the garden. They need relatively little care but if you feel like using some organic fertilizer, go ahead. But not too much. Oh, and to top off the benefits, Jerusalem artichokes are really just perennial sunflowers, so you get the pretty flowers too (and the birds really like the seeds).

Plant Freak, Jared R. McKinley.

Location, Location, Location

by V.K. Embee

Photos by Vikki Dempsey

Wooden café tables and chairs surrounded by original artwork for sale provide a warm, charming atmosphere. Service is friendly and attentive.

Pleasant music plays softly in the background. On our visit, two musicians stopped by to rehearse Beethoven’s first violin sonata. Sit by the large bay window for excellent people-watching. A smoking and a non-smoking patio are available.

Delectables is located at 533 N. 4th Ave. Find out more at Delectables.com or call 884-9289.

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Photo by Nadine Roselle

Looking for a calm and refreshing harbor during the invasion of the Modern Streetcar? In the face of construction, Delectables is still open and still offers a happy hour in the heart of 4th Avenue Monday through Friday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Appetizers and bar drinks are 15% off. If you’re in a martini mood, several varieties of gin and vodka are available. Try the refreshingly crisp Crop Organic Cucumber Vodka ($7.65), served in a cocktail glass festooned with artfully arranged strips of fresh cucumber. Other specialty cocktails include the Bloody Mary ($5.95-$8.50), Velvet Elvis ($5.95), and St. Germain Cocktail ($7.65). Order a wine flight to sample 3 different whites ($5.95) or 3 reds ($6.80). If you visit on a Wednesday, all bottles of wine are half off from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The cheese and fruit platter with French bread ($12.75) is a European picnic at your table. You get the chef’s choice of five cheeses, including one artisan cheese. White cheddar, Danish havarti, brie, and Jarlsberg Swiss almost hide the treasure on the wooden board: a ball of yummy cream cheese with caramelized shallots rolled in walnuts and drizzled with honey. Apple slices, orange sections, cantaloupe, watermelon, and red grapes complete the colorful palette. The smooth, velvety white bean hummus ($5.10) is served with fresh, toasty pita triangles and garnished with olive slices, peperoncinis and tomato wedges.

It’s also not too late to plant another multi-tasker in the garden: amaranth. This gorgeous plant gets tall, often has brightly colored foliage, and has edible leaves in addition to the grain it provides. Pick tender foliage when young and eat raw or in stir-fries, soups...treat amaranth like spinach. It is really nice during the summer when most cool season greens have long-since bolted. Shake the grain from the chaff at the end of the season when the plant has flowered and seeded. Amaranth grain is very useful but the simplest method of cooking is to boil in water on low flame.

It cooks quickly and can be eaten like porridge. Amaranth is a balanced food, containing a lot more protein than most of our common grains, and way more delicious and nutty-flavored. Seed can be obtained from Native Seed/SEARCH (NativeSeeds.org).

Protect plants you already have by keeping them watered. But also, a technique that is not employed enough in Tucson is mulching. Use two layers of mulch: add one thick layer of finished compost (if you don’t have compost, get it from the nursery) between plants. Avoid burying plants deeper with the mulch unless they are plants like tomatoes that love being buried deeper. Then add a thick layer of coarse straw (they are about $8 for a bale which is enough for most people’s entire gardens). This will keep the moisture in the soil longer, and also break down and feed your plants, the worms, and the friendly microorganisms and other critters that benefit your plants.

Finally, don’t let failure get you down. Even the best of gardeners have failures in the summer. When you grow plants, you are participating with nature which will not always favor your needs. It’s ok to be reminded that we are not the center of the universe and that sometimes another species’ needs will prevail. Use the opportunity to learn. n Jared R. McKinley maintains a blog on gardening at PlantFreak.wordpress.com.

May 2012 | THEZMAG.com 39

ZZfood&drink food&Drink

Draft

Wine Pours

Through

Tucson

by Kelly Lewis

Put a cork in it…or not! Draft wine is the latest trend sweeping across the nation and local restaurateurs are ordering it by the keg.

Lodge on the Desert, The Abbey, Hub Restaurant & Creamery, Playground Bar & Lounge and Union Public House all offer wine on draft, which has several advantages over traditional bottled wine.

“It kind of all makes sense,” said Brian Metzger, owner of The Abbey, 6960 E. Sunset Dr. “In 2008 and 2009, the economy was tanking and tons of wineries had wine they couldn’t do anything with. The benefit to us as restaurateurs is that we get this great juice that comes with a discounted price from what it used to be, because it saves the wineries money from corking, bottling and labeling.”

With no airflow to the wine, keg wine can last much longer than traditional bottled wine — some say up to six months — and there is virtually no spoilage. It’s also better for the environment, as keg wine eliminates glass recycling and corking.

“We like the sustainability factor more than anything,” said executive chef Ryan Clark of Lodge on the Desert, 306 N. Alvernon Way, the first Tucson restaurant to offer wine from the tap. “As a hotel we’re very sustainable, plus, the wine’s of great quality but is less expensive so that we can give bet-

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Find out more about these restaurants online at: UnionTucson.com, LodgeOnTheDesert.com, HubDowntown.com, TheAbbeyTucson.com.

food&drink

Z Photo by Kelly Lewis

ter value to the guest, and there’s no waste whatsoever.”

Union Public House in St. Philip’s Plaza at River Road and Campbell Avenue has 16 wines on draft—8 white and 8 red—which retail between $6 and $10 per glass. Draft wine increases bartender efficiency, said co-owner Grant Krueger, and customer response has been overwhelmingly positive.

“All of our wines by the glass pour on draft, and many of our customers don’t even know that we serve it this way,” Krueger said. “Most customers don’t care about whether or not wine comes from draft as long as it’s delicious, and some really nice, high-quality wines are now available on draft.”

The other advantage to draft wine, Krueger added, is that you’re able to better control the temperature of the wine with individual thermostats.

Most major blends of wine can now be purchased by the keg. The Abbey carries a Chardonnay and a red custom-blended Syrah, both from Napa Valley, while Union offers everything from Zinfandel to Riesling, Pinot Grigio, Merlot and much more.

“Now, you can get any type of wine that you want,” Metzger said.

“You can get anything you want including Italian wine, German Riesling, or anything from the U.S. you want. It’s going to keep growing, too, I think, and you’ll start to see different producers creating this wine.”

While there are several advantages to ordering wine by the keg, some wine connoisseurs may feel it takes the romance out of wine.

“There are some examples of keg wine that aren’t really great so you need to sample and taste with the right producers before you order,” Metzger said. “As this trend grows, you’ll see more specialized producers and more restaurants doing tap wine, and we can continue giving our guests better wine for better money.” n

Billy Elliott, co-owner with wife Valaree, of Eilliott's on Congress.

Elliott’s on Congress Opens in May

by Kelly Lewis If you like bacon, vodka, or bacon-infused vodka, Elliott’s on Congress, a low-key American fare restaurant opening this month at 135 E. Congress St., is calling your name.

“There’s bacon on everything and a lot of spicy food,” said Billy Elliott, co-owner with wife Valaree. “We wanted to keep it simple. I’ve been saying its American cuisine but I don’t want to sound like it’s a T.G.I. Fridays or an Applebee’s. It’s American fare with unique touches.”

Elliott, 30, has years of bartending experience at both Bison Witches and Solaris Restaurant in Green Valley, but said this will be his first venture as a restaurant owner.

“It’s been a fun process,” Elliott says of working to open doors. “It’s this weird balance of excitement and nervousness but as we get closer, we’re so excited.”

One cool thing Elliott plans on expanding is the list of vodka infusions on offer at the restaurant bar. Some infusions may include jalapeno, cucumber, herbs and spices, and, of course, bacon.

“The bacon-flavored vodka is really good,” Elliott said. “We will be able to make some killer Bloody Marys with horseradish, peppercorn, jalapeno and bacon-vodka.”

The menu at Elliott’s on Congress includes a range of options, from mussels to tacos, salads, sandwiches and burgers. Signature dishes will include fish and chips with parmesan-garlic fries, buffalo bleu-cheese burgers, and hot vodka pasta with—you guessed it—bacon in a vodka sauce. Dessert items include chocolate covered bacon or deep-fried PB&J. Elliott’s on Congress will also cater to the downtown lunch crowd, with daily specials and quick service.

“I know how lunches are downtown,” Elliott said. “It’s from 12 to 1 p.m. and they want to be in and out. It’s important we can have food out in 10 minutes.”

Although Congress Street is currently under construction outside of his front door, Elliott said he’s not too worried about the street closure affecting business.

“The road construction is not great for us,” he admits. “But once we get past this, it will be fine. It’s a great time for downtown.” n Elliott’s on Congress, 135 E. Congress St., plans to open this month. Check them out online by searching on Facebook or call 622-5500.

May 2012 | THEZMAG.com 41

History French officers and soldiers in Sonora around 1865.

Cinco de Mayo’s Origins: A Tucson Perspective

by Tom Prezelski

42 THEZMAG.com | May 2012

publican guerilla campaign was making their continued occupation very expensive. They believed that the wealth of Sonora’s silver mines could help make the venture worthwhile. With French support, imperial partisans scored a series of victories against Pesqueira’s forces, until the Governor was forced to disband his army and flee across the border in September, 1865.

He established a headquarters at Calabazas,

Governor Ignacio Pesqueira.

in the hills north of modern Nogales, and lived under the protection of a United States Army garrison there.

The Imperialists made one foray across the border, when some 350 Opatas under Colonel Refugio Tanori attacked a ranching community in the San Rafael Valley in November, 1865.

United States troopers from Calabazas rode in pursuit as far south as Imuris, but Tanori’s ir-

regulars melted into the countryside.

From Calabazas, one of Pesqueira’s officers, Colonel Federico Ronstadt, ventured to Tucson to find help in re-building the Governor’s broken army. Leading citizens of Tucson, including Sam Hughes, Estevan Ochoa, Hiram Stevens and Pinckney R. Tully, donated some $24,000 to outfit a new company of soldiers.

Meanwhile, the adventure was becoming unpopular in France, and they were slowly beginning to withdraw their forces. In Sonora, the French fell back to Guaymas in the spring of 1866, and Imperialists suffered defeat at the hands of Republican irregulars. Pesqueira returned to Sonora at the head of a new force, re-taking Hermosillo on May 4, 1866. The Republicans soon secured the rest of the province.

The war continued in other parts of Mexico until Maximilian was captured and executed in June, 1867.

Though the war went on for five years, the initial triumph of the Republicans at Puebla was regarded across the Americas as a symbol of resistance to colonial arrogance. Nonetheless, the holiday is of secondary importance in Mexico, and is more celebrated north of the border.

United States observations of Cinco de Mayo can be traced to California, where bonfire rallies and parades were organized to celebrate the anniversary as early as 1863. Given Maximilian’s ties to the Confederacy, the state’s Spanish speaking population rallied around not only the cause of Juarez, but also that of Lincoln. Hundreds of them joined the Union army as a special battalion called the Native Cavalry. It was these men who were posted to Calabazas during Pesqueira’s exile.

Considering the role of our region in this history, and Pesqueria’s victory at Hermosillo, May 4 would be just as appropriate a date for celebration here in the Sonoran borderlands. n

Image from “Galeria de Sonorenses Ilustres. Impulsores de Artes Graficas, Hermosillo, 1948.”

Cinco de Mayo is not Mexican Independence Day. Sometimes called El Dia de la Batalla de Puebla, it actually celebrates a victory by a Mexican force over the French Army at Puebla on May 5, 1862. This was not by any means the last battle in what was a long war to determine the future political course of Mexico that would eventually involve Tucson and Southern Arizona.

A complicated and drawn-out affair, the Guerra de la Intervención Francesa (“War of the French Intervention”) defies simple explanation, but some background is necessary.

A civil war erupted between a liberal faction (“Republicans”) that rallied around President Benito Juarez and conservatives opposed to his program of reforms. In January 1862, with the United States distracted by its own troubles, the French used the flimsy pretense of Mexican debts to land a force at Veracruz and intervene in the conflict on behalf of the conservatives.

Somehow in all this, the conservative cause got co-opted, and an Austrian nobleman, Maximilian von Habsburg, was installed as Emperor of Mexico on April 10, 1864.

The remote province of Sonora saw very little of the conflict until late in 1864. Sonoran Governor Ignacio Pesqueira was a Republican, but there was little reason for him to take action until his political rivals declared for the Empire and rose against him. The Yaquis and the Opatas, who were disenfranchised by his land-reform policies, saw any change as a potential improvement, and joined the rebels. Pesqueira’s forces were able to hold them off until March of 1865, when a French force of 1200 landed at Guaymas.

Sonora had little strategic value to the French, who had re-taken Puebla in 1863 and followed with a string of victories that cemented their hold on central Mexico. However, a Re-

Courtesy of Hernandez, Armando Quijada and Corella, Juan Antonio Ruibal, “Historia General de Sonora vol. III: Periodo del Mexico Independiente 18311883.” Gobierno del Estado de Sonora, Hermosillo, 1985.

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May 2012 | THEZMAG.com 43

44 THEZMAG.com | May 2012

Photos by Emily Gindlesparger

Escape

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Stunning Geology, Fabulous Hikes & Cooler Climes

by Emily Gindlesparger Amid vortexes, lava tubes, and natural arches, the most magical thing about Sedona is the color. Year-round, the deep green juniper and oak trees contrast with flaming red-orange rock, a color that’s somehow radical and soothing at once. Black lava pebbles litter the red mesas. Add in the last holdout of wildflowers and cacti blooms, May is a picturesque time to visit Sedona.

When temperatures start to crawl up in the Tucson valley, residents begin making their weekend migrations, chasing the cooler temperatures upstate. Sedona stays an average of ten degrees cooler than Tucson; perennial water in Oak Creek and the oak and pine forests give even greater escapes from the heat. Sitting just under the lip of the Mogollon Rim, Sedona is a biological mix of Sierra Madre high desert and Rocky Mountain woodland, set in a geology all its own. Soft rock layers at the base of the Mogollon Rim have made the edge vulnerable to erosion over the millennia, causing the rim to recede north and exposing the amazing buttes and spires, stained red by rust, that we see today.

Weaving through all this is a network of multi-use trails, where hikers can get up-close views of amazing and weird rock formations from short hikes, like the popular and photogenic Devil’s Bridge, a standalone arch looking out to red and white bluffs across the valley. Sedona holds secrets as well, like the hidden arch in Fay Canyon, a feature that evades detection until the viewer is standing right underneath it. But perhaps one of the most stunning overall views is the hike to Wilson Mountain, a strenuous out-and-back hike that winds 5.3 miles (10.6 miles round-trip) and gains 2,500 feet to the summit of Wilson at 7,122 feet. The trek starts with a view

down Oak Creek and then quickly diverts into lush forest where the contrast between red rock and wilderness is stark and beautiful. The summit is a plateau 2 miles long that offers stunning views of the red rock crags and San Francisco peaks to the north and the city of Sedona nestled in its iconic geology to the south.

For folks looking for a more casual stroll, the Wilson Canyon trail under the peak is a shaded, easy 3-mile jaunt up to a hill with equally spectacular views of Wilson Mountain and labyrinthine rock towers.

Equestrians can find miles of gorgeous vistas on horseback, and mountain bikers can cruise and caper on slick rock. For rock climbers, there are challenging sandstone lines; and to complete the high desert playground there’s the cool water of Oak Creek Canyon for a dip at the end of every adventure.

Making your Escape Drive north on I-10 to Phoenix, then take I-17 north for 98 miles to Hwy 179 and head north. Soon you’ll be in red rock country, and access to local hikes can be found along the highway. For the Wilson Canyon and Wilson Mountain trailhead, keep heading north to Sedona proper, where the highway meets 89A at a “Y” intersection in the middle of town. Take the right (north) fork of 89A. The parking lot is off the highway, just north of the Midgley Bridge. A $5 Red Rock pass is required in this and some other areas. For more information on hiking and camping, visit RedRockCountry.org. n

May 2012 | THEZMAG.com 45

Z

KXCI’s 5

tunes

Tucson’s community radio station, at 91.3FM and KXCI.org, spins tracks from the following new albums this month.

Norah Jones “Little Broken Hearts” (Blue Note) Norah continues a developing trend among musicians of stretching themselves by employing odd choices as producers – in this case, she’s teamed up with Danger Mouse for a highly anticipated new set of tunes.

BeauSoleil headlines the Tucson Folk Festival on Sat, May 5.

“The Greatest Little Festival in the World” Tucson Folk Festival celebrates its 27th Year

by Emily Gindlesparger “Folk music is a very expansive art form,” explains Jim Lipson of the Tucson Kitchen Musicians Association, and there’s no better place to listen to all its permutations than the Tucson Folk Festival, May 5 and 6, on five stages across El Presidio Park and surrounding landmarks.

“Sometimes we refer to it as ‘the greatest little festival in the world,’” Lipson says. “It is 20 hours of music, non-stop, and it’s free. The vibe is off the charts; there’s so much great music that happens constantly, continuously, and one of the biggest challenges people have at the festival is figuring out who they’re going to see.”

From the Appalachian-inspired songstresses Silver Thread Trio to the Brazilian rhythms of Batucaxé to the bluesy Sabra Faulk, there are as many flavors of folk as there are performers in the lineup. In its first year, the festival showcased about 35 acts; now in its 27th year, there will be 130 musicians to enjoy.

“There’s always so much great music that no one’s ever heard of,” Lipson adds. “These people come out of the woodwork. It’s got this great grassroots feel to it, and for me, it’s inspiring.”

El Presidio Park, the Tucson Museum of Art, Old Pima County Courthouse, City Hall and Old Town Artisans will be filled with food and craft vendors, workshop spaces for learning to make folk instruments and create folk music, and of course, stages.

Slated acts are joined by new talent from the Young

46 THEZMAG.com | May 2012

Artist’s Stage for performers under 18, and a Songwriting Contest, where 10 artists will perform to win a 25-minute performance on Saturday. The scope of the event is more than just a way to listen to music; it’s a way to gather and grow a whole community from Tucson across the country.

One of the best ways to bring people together is to get them to dance, and this year the headlining act will do just that. Saturday night, BeauSoleil takes the stage at 9 p.m. with Creole-Cajun dance music.

“You hear people talk about the Tucson sound, and it’s usually in the context of rock music,” Lipson says.

“I think it’s important for people to understand that folk music and acoustic music makes up a lot of the great music happening in Tucson. We have people coming from all over the world, all over the country, people not just from Arizona and the southwest. It’s part of our cultural legacy.” n Tucson Folk Festival is centered at Downtown’s El Presidio Park, 160 W. Alameda St. at Church Avenue.

Featured performers include BeauSoleil, Sabra Faulk, Kevin Pakulis and John Coinman, with special guests Ernest Troost and Tony Norris. The weekend kicks off at noon on Saturday, May 5 with entertainment running to 10 p.m. that evening. It starts up again at 11 a.m. on Sunday, May 6 and ends at 9 p.m. For more information, visit the Tucson Kitchen Musicians Association at TKMA.org.

Various artists “Occupy This Album” (Razor & Tie) Get political with 73 songs over 4 CDs, with contributors as old as Pete Seeger and Willie Nelson and as new as My Pet Dragon and Aeroplane Pageant.

Diamond Rugs “Diamond Rugs” (Partisan) The self-titled debut from the newest indie-rock super group featured members of Deer Tick, Los Lobos, Black Lips and Dead Confederate.

The Dandy Warhols “This Machine” (The End) The Portland rockers are back for their eighth album that they’ve self-described as “woody guitar-driven grunge.” Sounds like a fun combination.

Paul Thorn “What The Hell Is Going On?” (Perpetual Obscurity) Paul swaps his trademark wit for a collection of covers, lending a new voice to songs by Buddy & Julie Miller, Rick Danko, Allen Toussaint and many others. n

Photo by Skwid Inc

Last Call Brawlers

Last Call Brawlers Brawlin’ along as hard as ever

by Eric Johns

Five-time Tammy Award winners the Last Call Brawlers are pounding the local music scene again in their own special way, fusing fast and snotty punk, ska, rockabilly, folk, blues and good song-writing into their own brand of American rock ‘n’ roll on their latest release, “The Pressures of Living, the Darkness of Dying.”

Around since 1999, the band now qualifies as ‘vintage.’ The lineup features Marty Muerto on vocals and harmonic, Eric Eulberg on base and backing vocals, Justin Valdez on guitars, mandolin, and backing vocals, and Joel “Pappa Bear” Dunst on drums and vocals. The group has steadily moved its musical compass to newer settings, adding to the rockabilly of their ‘01 release “Huffin and Puffin” by embracing punk on their selftitled 2003 release, and picking up the speed on in 2008 with “Pointing Fingers.”

After hitting the hot sauce and mixing up their style on “Last Call Brawlers – with Rice and Beans on the Side,” a six-song EP released in 2009 with local and multi-talented musician Gary Mackender on accordion, LCB is releasing their latest on Saturday, May 5 at Surly Wench Pub along with special guests The Besmirchers and The Mission Creeps.

This ten-track release features songs about fighting Mexican miners (Los Mineros), breaking up (Timeage), and loss (1/20). There is punk here, songs that sound almost ‘Poguesque’ and break your heart. Listen to Six String Rhythm, and see if you agree that music takes the pressures of life and eases them, and makes dying, well makes it less of a career option for all of us. The musicianship is first-rate and delivered with feeling.

At times the band launches into group vocals that will raise the hair on the back of the neck. In the end, this is American music, and damn good American music at that.

Jump with the Last Call Brawlers on May 5, 10 p.m., at Surly Wench Pub, 424 N. 4th Ave. Visit the band’s website at ReverbNation.com/lastcallbrawlers.

May 2012 | THEZMAG.com 47

Photo by Scott Eklund/Red Box Pictures

Photo courtesy of TheSynchBox.net

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tunes

REO Speedwagon performs on Fri, May 4 at the AVA Ampitheater.

LIVE MUSIC 17th Street Market 840 E. 17th St. 792-2588, SeventeenthStreetMusic.com Sat 5: Tom Potter Sat 12: Nancy McCallion & Danny Krieger Sat 26: Way Out West

2ND SATURDAYS DOWNTOWN Congress Street, 2ndSaturdaysDowntown.com Sat 12: Vox Urbana, Shaky Bones, Aaron Gilmartin on Scott Avenue stage, Southwest Soul Circuit at Rialto; Tucson Circus Arts, Parasol Project & more.

AVA AMPHITHEATER at Casino Del Sol 5655 W. Valencia Rd. CasinoDelSol.com Fri 4: Reo Speedwagon, Styx Sat 12: Gabriel Iglesias Thu 31: Chickenfoot

BOONDOCKS LOUNGE 3306 N. 1st Ave. 690-0991, BoondocksLounge.com Mondays: The Bryan Dean Trio Fridays: Neon Prophet Thu 3: Phatback Diet Sat 5: Tony and The Torpedoes Sun 6: Heather Hardy and the Lil Mama Band Thu 10: Phatback Diet Sun 20: Last Call Girls

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Kottonmouth Kings perform with Twiztid on Thu, May 24 at the Rialto Theatre.

CLUB CONGRESS 311 E. Congress St. 622-8848, HotelCongress.com/club Fri 4: 4th Annual Agave Fest; Allo Darlin’, The Wave Pictures, A House a Home Sat 5: Tennis Sun 6: Lambchop Tue 8: Memoryhouse Wed 9: Devin the Dude Sat 12: Ryan David Green, Sweet Ghosts, Carlos Arzate Tue 15: Todd Barry Wed 16: Black Dice, Sleep Driver Fri 18: Imagine Dragons, Downtown Brown, Mr. Free, The Satellite Freakout, Flagrante Delicto Sun 20: Great Lake Swimmers, Cold Specks Tue 22: Khaira Arby Wed 23: Plants and Animals Sat 26: The Tryst Mon 28: Greg Laswell

FOX TUCSON THEATRE 17 W. Congress St. 624-1515, FoxTucsonTheatre.org Sun 6: Michael McDonald Thu 24: Taj Mahal Tue 29: Marshall Tucker Band

HACIENDA DEL SOL 5501 N. Hacienda del Sol Rd. 299-1501, HaciendadelSol.com Tue 1-Thu 3: Aaron Gilmartin Fri 4-Sun 6: Freddy Vesely Sat 5: Aaron Gilmartin Mon 7-Thu 10: Aaron Gilmartin Sat 12: Tesoro Sat 12-Sun 13: Freddy Vesely Sun 20: Freddy Vesely

Sat 26: GSol Sun 27: Freddy Vesely

THE HUT 305 N. 4th Ave. 623-3200, HutTucson.com Mon 7: Midnight Ghost Train

LA COCINA @ OLD TOWN ARTISANS 201 N. Court Ave. 623-6024, LaCocinaTucson.com Wednesdays: Elephant Head Thursdays: Stefan George, Double R Nites Fridays: Greg Morton, Double R Nites Saturdays: Dance party with DJ Herm Sundays: Sunday Brunch with Miss Lana Rebel, Kevin Michael Mayfield Tue 29: Live music for Shelter Animals

MAIN GATE SQUARE Geronimo Plaza Courtyard Fri 4: The Tryst Wed 18: Domingo DeGrazia Band

PLUSH 340 E. 6th St. 798-1298, PlushTucson.com Tue 1: Al Perry Thu 3: Kyle Bronsdon Sat 5: The Holy Rolling Empire Mon 7: Dylan Charles Wed 9: Naim Amor Thu 10: Dutch Holly Fri 11: The Silver Thread Trio, Beth Bombara & The Ebanjolist Sat 12: Lotus Plaza, Frankie Broyles

Sun 13: Jamie O’Brien Tue 15: The Cave Singers Wed 16: Vanity Theft, Enemies!

Thu 17: Black Jackalope Ensemble Fri 18: Amy Rude, The Cordials, The Shondes Sat 19: Alcoholic Faith Mission, You Won’t Wed 23: Hank Topless Fri 25: YACHT Wed 30: Lunar Light Collectors

RIALTO THEATRE 318 E. Congress St. 740-1000, RialtoTheatre.com Wed 2: Pato Banton, Spirit Familia, Planet Jam Thu 10: Bodeans Sat 12: Southwest Soul Circuit Fri 18: Spiritualized Thu 24: Twiztid, Kottonmouth Kings Fri 25: Andre Nickatina, Mumbls

SKY BAR 536 N. 4th Ave. 622-4300, SkyBarTucson.com Mondays: Team Trivia Tuesdays: Jazz Wednesdays: Open Mic Thursdays: Live Music Fridays: Spinning and Hot Era Sat 12: Tesia Coll Sat 26: Tesia Coll

SOLAR CULTURE 31 E. Toole Ave. 884-0874, SolarCulture.org Wed 9: Black Bananas Fri 18: Parcematone, Swansea

Photo by Dan Stein

Khaira Arby performs at Hotel Congress on Tue, May 22.

tunes

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Aaron Gilmartin performs at 2nd Saturdays on the Scott Avenue stage May 12.

CASA VICENTE

424 N. 4th Ave., 882-0009, SurlyWenchPub.com Mondays: Black Mondays with DC Matt McCoy and a weekly guest Tue 1: Artphag Wed 2: Warlock Wednesday Fri 4: Black Cherry Burlesque Sat 5: Last Call Brawlers CD Release, Bemirchers & Mission Creeps Sat 12: Fineline Revisited Tue 15: Supersuckers Wed 16: Warlock Wednesday Fri 18: Club Sanctuary Sat 26: Fineline Revisited

375 S. Stone Ave. 884-5253, CasaVicente.com Tuesdays: Live Classical Guitar Wednesdays: Live Guitar Thursdays: Classical Guitar Friday and Saturdays: Flamenco Guitar and Performances

TUCSON MUSIC HALL 260 S. Church Ave. TucsonConventionCenter.org Wed 23: Morrissey Thu 31: Jane’s Addiction, The Duke Spirit

Z MANSION 288 N. Church Ave. 623-4889, ZMansion.com Tue 1: Walter Belcher Mon 14: Diane Von Deurzen

Other venues: BLUEFIN 7053 N. Oracle Rd. 531-8500, BluefinTucson.com Sundays: George Howard Duo Sat 5: Kevin Pakulis & Amy Langley Sat 12: Kevin Pakulis & Amy Langley Sat 19: Stephan George Sat 26: Roscoe’s Art of Swing

©Jay Blakesberg/Retna LTD.

SURLY WENCH PUB

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

KINGFISHER

Taj Mahal performs Thu, May 24 at the Fox Theatre.

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

LUNA BELLA 2970 N. Swan Rd. LunaBellaRestaurant.com

MONTEREY COURT 505 W. Miracle Mile, MontereyCourtAZ.com

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

VAUDEVILLE 110 E. Congress St. 6223535, MySpace.com/ vaudevilledowntowntucson Tennis performs at Club Congress on Sat, May 5.

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lookBack

by Z贸calo staff

Left to right, top to bottom: Festival en el Barrio, El Presidio Neighborhood on April 7; An April sunset; VIPs at the Sun Link modern streetcar construction kick-off ceremony; An April copy of Z贸calo adorns a hand cart at the main library plaza; A handful of historic neon signs are restored and officially lit during a ceremony on Drachman in late April.

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lifeinTucson

by Andrew Brown

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Left to right, top to bottom: Great Tucson Iditarod Race team “Divinity by Design;” Great Tucson Iditarod Race team “The Dive Bar;” Post Apocalyptic Pop opening at BLX; Crush at Tucson Museum of Art; Chef Janos Wilder at Crush; Feast Staff at Crush; Pastiche staff at Crush; Andy Parker skating at MOCA.

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