The Mouth Is More Than A Set Of Teeth... It Is A Gateway To The Body
Chronic oral inflammation, gum disease, and untreated infections release harmful bacteria and toxins into the bloodstream.
Research has shown that these circulating pathogens can contribute to systemic inflammation, which is a known risk fac tor for cognitive decline, memory loss, and even Alzheimer’s disease. In this way, poor dental health can accelerate brain drain, while proactive dental care can help support brain gain.
Chewing also has a direct neurological benefit. Studies reveal that mastication stimulates blood flow to the brain, improving attention and short-term memory. Furthermore, the relationship works both ways. The brain influences the mouth as much as the mouth influences the brain. Stress, anxiety, and depression often show up first in the dental chair, whether through jaw clenching, teeth grinding, or neglect of oral hygiene. Dentists are often the first health professionals to notice early warning signs of systemic and neurological conditions.
The idea of brain gain reminds us that dentistry is not just about a bright smile. It is about protecting overall wellness, extending healthy years of life, and keeping the mind sharp. Investing in regular dental care, brushing, flossing, professional cleanings, and timely treatment, does more than preserve teeth. It preserves the brain, supporting memory, mood, and cognition.
At E Dental Solutions, under the care of Dr. Wissinger, our commitment to excellence means we look after more than just your smile, we help protect your overall health.
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Dr. Elahe Wissinger
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Holidays and Giving
Where are you? Emotionally? Spiritually? As we navigate the surreal and shocking events at the end of a tumultuous 2025, it is important to take stock, reset our sentiments, and give our bodies and minds respite and a chance to see our way forward into the new year just a few weeks away!
A family friend helped our family years ago during a very difficult time. She was an elder neighbor, gently lifting our family with love and a wealth of knowledge. Practical matters mostly. And certainly much more than that. The message is that it's a step-by-step and diverse set of things that we can tap into in times of need.
As we learned from our gracious neighbor, when we tend to our mental, spiritual, and physical well-being, we're building reservoirs of energy, patience, and compassion that naturally overflow into our relationships and communities.
Mental wellness grows through small, consistent acts: talking with trusted friends, setting gentle boundaries, seeking therapy when needed, and giving ourselves permission to rest without guilt. When we normalize these practices, it becomes easier for others to do the same.
Spiritual health comes from whatever connects us to something larger than ourselves—whether that's nature, prayer, meditation, creative expression, or service to others. These practices remind us that we're part of an interconnected whole, which naturally cultivates empathy and a sense of purpose.
Physical vitality builds through movement that brings joy, nourishing food, adequate sleep, and time outdoors. A pleasant walk. A good night's sleep. Hydration. And generally moving around. When we care for our bodies with kindness rather than criticism, she reminded, we model self-compassion for those around us.
The beautiful truth is that caring for ourselves and caring for others aren't separate paths—they're intertwined. When we prioritize our own well-being, we have more to give. And when we support others with genuine presence and compassion, we often find our own healing deepened.
This path is not always easy, as we learned. Nor fast nor straight. But it begins an outflow of hope and resilience that can carry us to unimaginable places of mental health, strength, and healing. For ourselves and those around us.
Here's wishing you and yours peace and love at a time when we all need it most. We are in it together. And we are collectively blessed with an endless world of love.
JEFF HERR, PUBLISHER
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Jeff Herr | jeff.herr@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Megan Ewing | megan.ewing@citylifestyle.com
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Jessica Bush | jessica.bush@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Broockerd, Julie Brown Patton, Dr. Mateja de Leonni Stanonik, Nicolette Martin, Sybil Velarde
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Preserve Your Mind Protect Your Future
Preventive Neurological Care at Vita Medica Institute
At Vita Medica Institute, internationally recognized neurologist Dr. Mateja de Leonni Stanonik leads with a singular, passionate focus: helping individuals protect and preserve their brain health—today, tomorrow, and well into their golden years.
The Power of Prevention
Cognitive decline is not inevitable. Through prevention and proactive care, we can preserve brain function and quality of life well into advanced age.
Too often, cognitive care begins only after noticeable decline. At Vita Medica Institute, prevention is at the forefront. Dr. de Leonni Stanonik works closely with patients to develop personalized strategies to support brain health and longevity, which may include:
• Comprehensive neurological screenings and early detection tools
• Vascular health evaluations and interventions
• Lifestyle modifications to promote cognitive resilience
• Nutritional and metabolic optimization for brain health
• Evidence-based therapies informed by the latest neuroscience
AboutDr. Mateja de Leonni Stanonik
• World-renowned vascular neurologist
These proactive measures are designed to keep patients mentally sharp, active, and independent while preserving their ability to live life fully and joyfully. Leading Excellence in Neurology & Brain Health 3530 E Campo Abierto, Ste #200, Tucson, AZ 85718 (520) 638-5757 | vmi.global
• Leader in cognitive/ behavioral neurology
• Passionate about preserving brain health
1st to
WINTER’S REVEL
ARTICLE BY NICOLETTE MARTIN
Following closely on the coattails of autumnal and winter holidays, the celebration of the new year can often be overlooked due to an understandable desire to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the season. But, a holiday that celebrates past memories and the opportunity for both new experiences and a fresh start shouldn’t lack any of the glitz of its celebratory predecessors. Round out the final days of the year reminiscing on or saying goodbye to the experiences—good and bad—of the previous 12 months with a simple end-ofthe-year gathering that isn’t lacking any of the glamour.
the drinks
Champagne has long been a traditional drink to toast to the new year. Keep it simple but step up your game with your own DIY Champagne cocktail bar. Consider stocking your bar full of custom Champagne or bubbly choices, festive mixers like cranberry juice or rosemary simple syrup and unique garnishes like fresh fruit and herbs or decorative ice cubes with edible flowers.
the decor
There’s no need to go out and buy a ton of additional decor when you just decked the halls (quite literally) with holiday ornamentation. Make those decorations work as hard as you did by repurposing all the greenery, pine cones and wood place settings you just couldn’t say no to. Throw in some neutral napkins, some natural twine and some dried orange peels for a woodsy (and fragrant) twist.
the snacks
Keep your guests happy with the perfect cheese plate. Consider how many people you’ll be serving, whether you’ll be serving before or after dinner and what cheeses you’ll want to include. According to WineFolly.com , sparkling wines pair best with creamy, sticky cheeses due to the high acidity and carbonation.
WHAT YOU NEED
• Cheese board or serving plate
• Assortment of cheeses
We recommend Brie, Port Salut, Muenster, Camembert or Gruyere
PUTTING IT TOGETHER
Cheese is best served at room temperature, so be sure your cheese has time to rest prior to serving. Slice the cheeses and arrange artfully on your cheese board with labels for each. Consider providing separate serving knives for each cheese to avoid any mixing of flavors. Add any additional bites you’d like and enjoy!
the traditions
No matter where you are in the world when the clock strikes midnight, ring in the new year internationally by taking part in one of these worldly traditions.
+ SPAIN Spend Nochevieja (“old night”) at home watching the countdown on TV—you can party later! Are you in need of some luck for the upcoming year? Wearing red underwear for the night may give you some.
+ MEXICO Be sure to have lots of grapes on hand. Demonstrated by Spaniards as well, this tradition involves eating 12 grapes with every strike of the clock, symbolizing good luck for every month of the new year.
+ DENMARK Destroy your frustrations and start the year fresh by smashing unwanted glassware. Danish tradition calls for smashing plates on the doors of friends and loved ones around midnight, but we think you should probably save that part for when you’re actually in Denmark.
+ SCOTLAND Although its singing has become pretty standard worldwide, “Auld Lang Syne” originated in Scotland in 1788 as a poem by Robert Burns. Go ahead and make a cheat sheet for all your friends—we won’t judge.
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THE MEDITERRANEAN WAY
ARTICLE BY SYBIL VELARDE
Eating well is not about dieting. For me, a healthy lifestyle through food always begins in the kitchen. Each time we sit down to a meal, we have the opportunity to nourish our bodies and delight our senses. When I cook, I think not only about flavor, but also about how food fuels our body’s engine, supports growth, repairs, and keeps us at our very best.
MY MEDITERRANEAN SECRET
What makes the Mediterranean diet so special—and why I live by it—is its variety, freshness, and simplicity. I always begin with unprocessed, fiber-rich foods and plenty of colorful fruits and vegetables. Whole grains and legumes provide the base, while proteins such as lean lamb, beef, or skinless chicken round things out. Whenever possible, I choose hormone- and antibiotic-free meats and wild, not farmed, fish.
Healthy fats are the cornerstone of this lifestyle, and I make sure they show up at every meal. Olives, avocados, nuts, flax, and of course, extra virgin olive oil—what I like to call “liquid gold”— bring balance and richness. It’s no surprise that those who follow this way of eating tend to live longer, with fewer heart problems and less illness.
Carbohydrates give us energy, proteins rebuild muscles and cells, and healthy fats help regulate blood sugar. The key, I’ve learned, is balance. I’m careful to cook oils only at low to moderate temperatures to preserve their benefits and their flavor.
A REGION, A FLAVOR
The Mediterranean region stretches across 22 countries—from Spain to Morocco to Lebanon—each with its own
EATING WELL IN THE FOOTHILLS
Fresh unprocessed food is what we crave.
ingredients and traditions. But no matter where you go, one element remains constant: food is fresh, honest, and shared with family and friends.
This lifestyle has never been about strict rules or counting calories. Instead, it’s about making thoughtful choices: more seafood and poultry, less red meat; more produce and whole grains, fewer processed foods; olive oil instead of butter. For me, it’s a way of eating that feels joyful and sustainable, a rhythm of life that nourishes both body and spirit.
RECIPES I LOVE TO SHARE
Authentic Greek Salad (Horiátiki Salata)
When I think of Mediterranean cuisine, I immediately think of Greek salad. I love the crisp cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, salty Kalamata olives, and tangy feta tossed with olive oil and lemon. It’s bright, fresh, and perfect all spring and summer long.
Salmon with Yogurt, Spinach, Lemon, and Capers (Crete)
This is one of my favorite Cretan dishes. I layer fresh salmon over sliced lemons and cover it with a creamy mixture of Greek yogurt, garlic, dill, and spinach. Baked until tender, it’s luxurious and healthy at once—and pairs beautifully with a salad or lemony rice.
Orange Lemon Potatoes (Crete)
In Crete, nearly every home has lemon and orange trees, and their citrus flavors shine in the simplest dishes. I love roasting potatoes with fresh orange and lemon. It transforms a side dish into something vibrant and distinctly Mediterranean.
Shrimp with Feta and Tomatoes (Crete)
This dish bursts with the flavors of the sea and the garden. I sauté shrimp with onions, garlic, and ripe tomatoes, then finish with feta. Not only is it delicious, but it’s packed with protein, antioxidants, and calcium.
LIVING THE MEDITERRANEAN LIFESTYLE
What I love most about this way of eating is the lifestyle that surrounds it. Meals are never rushed. They’re shared with family and friends, enjoyed slowly, and paired with good conversation. I choose seasonal produce, buy organic whenever I can, and make time for cooking at home—because that’s where the magic happens.
I always remind myself, and others, to relax, enjoy a home-cooked meal, and keep in touch with people who make life wonderful. Here in the Catalina Foothills, where the desert sun glows as golden as the Mediterranean’s, it’s easy to bring this timeless approach into your own kitchen. All it takes is a drizzle of olive oil, a basket of fresh produce, and the people you love gathered around the table.
For more Mediterranean inspiration and recipes, visit atsybilskitchen.com/order-online
Eat the rainbow!
Greek salad for the win!
"I ALWAYS BEGIN WITH UNPROCESSED, FIBER-RICH FOODS AND PLENTY OF COLORFUL FRUITS AND VEGETABLES."
Pescatarians plus!
We knead the dough!
Baking Memories
HOLIDAY COOKIES TO SWEETEN AND ENRICH THE SEASON
ARTICLE BY SYBIL VELARDE (ATSYBILSKITCHEN.COM)
Baking cookies is such a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays—bringing families together and creating those cherished memories. Plus, it’s a mindful, creative activity that gives you a sense of calm and control during the busy season.
Makes 4 dozen cookies
First, let’s get those spices to really shine by simmering them with molasses and brown sugar. Then, we’ll whip up the cookie dough right in the saucepan—no extra bowl needed! Cold butter cools the mixture, and skipping baking powder ensures your gingerbread men hold their perfect shape.
ingredients
For the Cookies:
• 2/3 cup molasses (not robust)
• 2/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into 16 pieces
Rolling pin; assorted 2- to 3-inch cookie cutters; metal offset spatula; pastry bag fitted with 1/8- to 1/4-inch plain tip (optional)
GINGERBREAD MEN COOKIES
directions
In a large saucepan over medium heat, bring the molasses, brown sugar, and spices to a boil, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in baking soda—the mixture will foam. Add the butter, a few pieces at a time, allowing each to melt before adding the next. Stir in the egg until combined, then add 3 3/4 cups flour and the salt, mixing until a dough forms.
Preheat the oven to 325°F. Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface and knead briefly, dusting with remaining flour as needed until soft and pliable. Divide dough in half; wrap one half in plastic wrap and keep at room temperature.
Roll out the remaining dough into a 14-inch round, about 1/8 inch thick. Cut out cookies with cutters and transfer to buttered baking sheets, spacing about 1 inch apart.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, rotating sheets halfway through, until edges are slightly darker. Cool on wire racks. Repeat with remaining dough, re-rolling scraps once.
For the icing, beat together the powdered sugar, egg whites, lemon juice, vanilla, and 1/3 cup water with an electric mixer on moderate speed for 1 minute. Increase to high speed and beat until stiff peaks form, about 3–4 minutes. If spreading rather than piping, thin the icing with water, 1 teaspoon at a time.
If desired, tint portions of icing with food coloring. Spoon into pastry bags or resealable bags, snip a small corner, and pipe designs. Decorate with sprinkles or sanding sugar and allow icing to dry completely, about 1 hour.
Do Ahead: Cookies keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 weeks.
Turn that frown upside down, Mr. Gingerbread. There you go!
Makes 2–3 dozen cookies
The perfect sugar cookie is buttery, crisp, and delicately flavored with vanilla. This simple roll-and-cut recipe delivers timeless flavor and nostalgia—each bite tastes like home.
ingredients
For the Cookies:
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
3- to 4-inch cookie cutters; plastic piping bags or resealable bags; sanding sugar and dragées for decoration (optional)
Directions
Whisk together the flour and salt in a small bowl. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar on medium-high speed until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes with a stand mixer or 6 minutes with a hand mixer. Beat in the egg and vanilla. Reduce speed to low and mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
Form dough into two balls and flatten each into a 6-inch disk. Wrap in plastic and chill until firm, at least 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 350°F. On a lightly floured surface, roll one disk to 1/4 inch thick. Cut out cookies and transfer to baking sheets, spacing 1 inch apart. Bake until edges are lightly golden, about 10–12 minutes. Cool on racks.
Gather and chill scraps, then re-roll once to make additional cookies.
For the icing, beat together all ingredients except food coloring for 1 minute on medium speed, then 3–4 minutes on high until stiff peaks form. To spread icing, thin with water, 1 teaspoon at a time. Tint with food coloring if desired, then pipe or spread onto cookies. Decorate and allow icing to dry completely, about 1 hour.
Do Ahead: Dough can be chilled up to 3 days. Baked cookies keep for up to 1 week in an airtight container layered with parchment.
CLASSIC SUGAR COOKIES
Makes 24 cookies
A classic soft and chewy cookie that’s colorful, comforting, and impossible to resist—perfect for bake sales, cookie swaps, or simply sharing a sweet moment at home.
ingredients
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 cup M&M’s
directions
Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, scraping down the sides as needed. Mix in the egg and vanilla until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until just incorporated. Stir in the chocolate chips and M&M’s.
Scoop dough into large balls, about 3 tablespoons each, and place 2 inches apart on the prepared sheet. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are light golden brown (do not overbake). Let cookies cool on the sheet for 1 minute, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
M&M COOKIES WITH CHOCOLATE CHIPS
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Commitment is an understatement when it comes to building relationships with clients. With more than 20 years experience in the Tucson market, I pride myself on providing my clients with the utmost knowledge, professionalism, and responsiveness.
When working with Buyers & Sellers I will always be honest and forthright about the market, home values, and what it will take to make that excellent first impression. It is my duty to make sure I am representing my client’s best interest. My negotiating skills and ability to build trusted relationships is what facilitates a successful close. It would be my pleasure to be of assistance to you!
THE TRUSTED CHOICE
Getting over a major medical crisis isn’t easy, but a trusted provider can help ease the burden. At Encompass Health, we create rehabilitation programs that are specifically designed for each patient’s needs, using advanced technology and innovative treatments to maximize recovery. It’s why so many people and their caregivers choose us. And why we are the trusted choice of a growing number of medical professionals. Northwest Tucson • Tucson encompasshealth.com/area-landing/tucsonarearehab
Conquering Dementia with New Treatments Fulfills Big Dreams in the Catalina Foothills
It’s difficult to imagine that a child’s biggest dreams might actually come true … but Tucson neurologist Dr. Mateja de Leonni Stanonik’s youthful dreams are! She left her home country of Slovenia more than thirty years ago as a teenager in search of her vision: to study the brain and one day cure Alzheimer’s disease! Today, Dr. Leonni is making her dreams come true at her advanced neurological practice in the Catalina Foothills. She said fate and higher powers were involved in her path through academic research, a journey that brought her to working with neuroscience gurus developing new Alzheimer’s disease treatments, some of which have recently been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to slow down the disease in its mild and early stages.
Dementia on the Rise
Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia. Dementia is one of the largest health crises of the 21st century, Dr. de Leonni said, adding that there are more than 55 million people worldwide living with dementia. This number is expected to grow to 139 million by 2050.
Alzheimer’s is one of the most common causes of all dementias and is thought to account for 60-80% of all global dementia cases, she said, adding that apart from the personal tragedies resulting from dementia cases, the financial burden on society is also staggering.
The estimated total worldwide cost of dementia is currently over $1.3 trillion and is expected to increase to $ 2.8 trillion by 2030. See alzint.org/about/dementia-facts-figures/dementia-statistics
But there is finally hope again! “This is most important … we provide meaningful hope and guidance to our patients and their families. I am so honored to have the opportunity to share my experiences with this (foothills) community,” said Dr. de Leonni. “My goal is to continue to push the boundaries of neurological research and provide the best possible care for my patients.”
Dr. Mateja de Leonni Stanonik
Dr. de Leonni Stanonik said we are experiencing a true paradigm shift in diagnosing and treating Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. New findings indicate that Alzheimer’s is a serological disease which, “if detected early, can be slowed down, and potentially even cured,” she said.
These treatments with the latest Alzheimer’s medications mark significant milestones in the fight against this neurodegenerative disease. New medications, such as lecanemab, donunemab, and aducanumab (discontinued by the manufacturer in 2024), target the amyloid plaques in the brain that are characteristic of Alzheimer’s.
And she said that encouraging clinical trials evaluating a new drug, LM11A-31, could possibly increase the brain’s resilience to Alzheimer’s-driven changes. See medicalxpress.com/news/202405-results-human-clinical-trial-early.html.
Meanwhile, there are also ongoing clinical studies in Europe and elsewhere where significant lifestyle changes can reverse memory loss in dementia, she said.
“This is compelling new information that has never been elucidated before. In addition, I have developed meaningful social interventions, fasting regimens, and have integrated a variety of natural supplements which support the amyloid targeting therapy.
The Power of Prevention
Cognitive decline is not inevitable. Through prevention and proactive care, we can preserve brain function and quality of life well into advanced age. Too often, cognitive care begins only after a noticeable decline. At Vita Medica Institute, prevention is at the forefront.
More detail leads to better treatments
Building strong brain health is a holistic practice.
Dr. de Leonni Stanonik, a world-renowned vascular neurologist, is a leader in cognitive/behavioral neurology. She collaborates with peers worldwide to continue this essential advancement in increasing brain health.
Her network made great strides during her medical research, but also as the (former) Surgeon General of the Republic of Slovenia. She also served as the Consul of the Republic of Slovenia.
The team at the Vita Medica Institute today works closely with patients to develop personalized strategies to support brain health and longevity, which may include:
• Comprehensive neurological screenings and early detection tools
• Vascular health evaluations and interventions
• Lifestyle modifications to promote cognitive resilience
• Nutritional and metabolic optimization for brain health
• Evidence-based therapies informed by the latest neuroscience.
“These proactive measures are designed to keep patients mentally sharp, active, and independent while preserving their ability to live life fully and joyfully,” she said.
At the Vita Medica Institute in the Catalina Foothills, internationally recognized neurologist Dr. Mateja de Leonni Stanonik leads with a singular, passionate focus: helping individuals protect and preserve their brain health—today, tomorrow, and well into their golden years.
Lion's Mane is one of the natural treatments to support brain health.
Holiday Entertaining Boards
The holidays are here and entertaining is in full swing. If you are looking for the perfect appetizer to easily feed a crowd these simple and beautiful boards are sure to please.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Holiday Wreath Charcuterie Board
• Fig Jelly
• Honey
• Variety of Cheeses
• Salami or meat of choice
• Olives (provide a variety)
• Walnuts, Pecans, Pistachios and any favorite nut
• Grapes, berries, persimmon
• Crackers
Place the jars of sauces and olives on the board first. Next place the cheeses on opposing sides. Add meats and fruits next. Layer in crackers, nuts and seeds and fill in any spots with extra nuts. Use fresh Rosemary or fresh greenery to add wreath accent in the center of the charcuterie board. Garnish with fresh cranberries. CONTINUED >
Sweet Treat Cocoa Board
• A variety of fresh berries or desired fruit
• Marshmallows
• Hot Cocoa Mix
• Chocolate Covered Pretzels
• Chocolate Covered Cherries
• Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers
• Chocolate Covered Biscotti
• Hot Cocoa Bomb
• Holiday Cookie Cutter
Place your favorite holiday cookie cutter on the board first. Fill the cookie cutter with mini marshmallows. Next, layer the large items first. Begin with the chocolate covered Biscotti and build around that using berries. Pile the berries high. Next add a variety of chocolate covered treats on opposite sides of each other between the mounds of berries. Be sure to add touches of berries around the edges. If space allows, place hot cocoa on board. Otherwise, set bowl full of hot cocoa mix and any additional hot cocoa fixings adjacent to the board.
The Pastry Board
• Donuts
• Cinnamon Rolls
• French Beignets
• Rosemary sprigs for garnish
Layer board with larger pastries first and layer in with smaller pastry next. Garnish board with holiday sprigs or fresh herbs.
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DIY Gift Wrapping That Stands Out During
The Season
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
‘Tis the season to get crafty, clever or characterized! Wellwrapped holiday packages create immediate enthusiasm and somehow seem to make gifts more meaningful. Whether going for shiny, vintage, colorful, rustic, playful or eco-friendly impressions, the following are some Do-It-Yourself gift-wrapping ideas to make the wrapping process even more satisfying. Simply applying jute twine to gifts provides a ‘less is more’ vibe.
ADD NATURAL TOUCHES TO CRAFT PAPER:
For gifts with a rustic, organic feel, use seasonal accents, such as sprigs, pine cones and cinnamon sticks, tied up with twine, encircling recycled paper for the wrapping.
FIRST INITIAL DECORATION:
In lieu of a gift tag, attach an oversized paper mâché letter of the recipient’s first initial to the top of the box. The letter then can serve as customized décor, too.
POLKA DOTS:
Wrap gifts in plain craft paper and then cut out big, multicolored polka dots to glue down. It’s hard not to smile at big, bright dots.
CARDBOARD BOX SNOWPERSON:
Wrap three or four boxes in white paper, with different gifts inside, and then stack them. Tape the boxes together,
the SEASON
tapering to the top. Glue buttons on the bottom ones, create a snowperson’s face on the top one, with carrot nose cut out of orange paper. Attach a real hat, if desired. Tie wider, festive bow around the snowperson’s ‘neck.’ Add a real corncob pipe for a bonus finishing touch, if preferred.
MINI TREE GIFT WRAPPING:
Pine needles and small tips of real tree branches make quick and easy mini Christmas trees that can be glued onto Christmas gifts. They will smell nice, too.
BOOK PAGE WRAPPING PAPER:
Repurpose old book pages by cutting out
shapes of dreidels, snowflakes, ornaments, candles or reindeer to paste on gifts.
DIY STAMP WRAPPING PAPER:
Wrap gifts in solid colors of paper. Secure ink stamps and an ink pad in a themed color(s), and stamp the paper as much or as little as desired.
UNBOXED:
Apply other types of containers, rather than boxes or bags, for gift wrapping; examples: canisters, pillow cases, baskets, fabric scraps, maps, glass containers, towels, blankets, scarves, Bento bags (also called triangle bags or origami bags).
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SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
DECEMBER 1ST
Featured Exhibition: Brush Drawings of Ted DeGrazia
DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Museum -- 6300 N. Swan Rd. | 10:00 AM
Dating from 1945 to 1963, these paintings highlight a dynamic period in DeGrazia’s career, with most pieces completed in the 1950s. Each brushstroke captures motion and feeling, whether it’s a child at play, a ballerina middance, a cowboy at work, or musicians lost in their song. Horses, miners, and other iconic figures, too. Daily until 4:00 PM thru January 28th
DECEMBER 1ST
Ed Mell and Maynard Dixon: Icons of the West
Maynard Dixon and Native American Art Museum -- 6866 E. Sunrise Dr., Suite 150
Don’t miss this show of works by Ed Mell and Maynard Dixon. Icons of the West is a title of reverence and artistic weight that both men exemplified during their creative journey. A unique thread of experiences, yet parallel storylines of discovery and voice, in a singular, driven fashion; few manage to achieve this. Until 5:00 PM through Jan. 31.
DECEMBER 3RD
Art of the American West | Arte del Oeste Americano
Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block -- 140 N. Main Ave. | 10:00 AM
The Art of the American West collection consists of historic and contemporary works of art from the past 200 years. Comprised of an assortment of
paintings, sculptures, works on paper, photography, and other media – it represents artists who live in or are inspired by the American West. Until 5 PM Wednesdays through Saturdays until February 8.
DECEMBER 6TH
Downtown Parade of Lights & Festival
Armory Park -- 220 S. 6th Ave. | 6:30 PM
The Parade of Lights & Festival is Downtown Tucson’s premier holiday event, bringing together the entire local community from all walks of life to celebrate. In a grand scale proces sion throughout an illuminated and decorated downtown, take in the cav alcade of colorful floats, baile folklor ico dancers, and marching mariachis! Parade is adjacent to a fantastic festival in Armory Park.
DECEMBER 6TH
Reveille Mens Chorus Holiday Spectacular: Off for the Holidays
Leo Rich Theater -- 260 S. Church Ave. | 7:30 PM
One of Tucson’s internationally recognized men’s choruses stages its annual winter musical production at the Leo Rich Theater downtown. This year’s theme, “Off for the Holidays,” features a holiday season of inspired musical numbers throughout the ages. Also Sunday at 2:00 PM.
DECEMBER 6TH
Tucson Tamale & Heritage Festival
Casino del Sol AVA Amphitheater -5565 W. Valencia Rd. | 10:00 AM
Eat fresh tamales and celebrate local borderland heritage. Savor the rich tastes, smells, and variations of tamales from the Southwest and Mexico, and discover the culinary tradition of making tamales for Christmas at the 20th Annual Tucson Tamal & Heritage Festival! Until 5 PM. From your
Alexandra Martin, DMD and Lane McCoy, DDS
DECEMBER 12TH
56th Annual Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair
Historic Fourth Avenue -- 316 N. Fourth Ave. | 10:00 AM
The 56-year-old, family-friendly tradition brings over 350,000 people to the heart of the Old Pueblo every year. The Fair hosts artists from around the world, offers decadent food, and features local entertainment, providing something for everyone of all ages. This bi-annual Top 100 nationwide event takes full advantage of our wonderful Sonoran Desert climate. Also Dec. 14 until 4 PM.
DECEMBER 13TH
Holidays in Tucson with Calexico & U of A Dance
Linda Ronstadt Music Hall -- 260 S. Church Ave. | 7:30 PM
Dance and rock and carols, oh my! Spend your holidays with the TSO and some familiar faces from Tucson. U of A Dance performs to Duke Ellington’s big band version of the Nutcracker, and local favorites Calexico collaborate with TSO with a combination of classics and holiday favorites. Also on Dec. 14th at 2 PM.
DECEMBER 14TH
Chanukah Lighting Ceremony
El Presidio Park Downtown -- 160 W. Alameda St. | 5:00 PM
Join the annual Chanukah lighting ceremony of Tucson’s tallest Menorah at El Presidio Park, with songs, holiday treats, crafts, and personal Menorahs to take home. Until 6:00 PM
DECEMBER 19TH
The Nutcracker Ballet
Linda Ronstadt Music Hall -- 260 S. Church Ave. | 7:00 PM
A world of wonder awaits you at Ballet Tucson’s The Nutcracker, in partnership with the Tucson Symphony Orchestra! This award-winning production brings the enchanting story of The Nutcracker to life with sensational dancing, lavish sets and costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score performed by the Tucson Symphony Orchestra’s world-class musicians. Also Saturday and Sunday at 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM
DECEMBER 27TH
Snoop Dogg’s Arizona Bowl Game
Arizona Stadium -- 545 N. National Championship Dr. | 2:30 PM Tucson’s official football festival, the Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl, presented by Gin & Juice by Dre and Snoop, returns to Arizona Stadium on the University of Arizona campus. This annual post-season college football game matches teams from the Mountain West Conference and the Mid-American Conference.
JANUARY 6TH
Broadway in Tucson: THE WIZ
THE WIZ returns “home” to stages across America in an all-new tour, direct from Broadway. This groundbreaking twist on The Wizard of Oz changed the face of Broadway—from its iconic score, packed with soul, gospel, rock, and 1970s funk, to its stirring tale of Dorothy’s journey to find her place. Through Jan. 11th. Please see website for dates and times.
