What used to be admin offices on the 2^nd floor will now house TMA’s collection of Pre-Columbian art, Spanish Colonial & Post Colonial art, and Latin American folk art.

The collection will offer enhanced, bilingual didactic materials. Ms. Karen has a degree in Art History, so she’s more familiar with art objects like these. But I particularly appreciate the interpretive material that TMA coordinates with each piece so I can better understand the cultural significance and historical periods from which they were created. Moreover, when we visit a new TMA exhibit, we usually take advantage of the Musuem’s free tours guided by their knowledgeable docents. That way we get a great deal more out of each exhibit than we otherwise would.

Here are 3 examples.

From the Pre-Columbian Collection.

El Tajin Style Stela Fragment, from Orizaba Region of Veracruz, Mexico, Late Formative/Early Classic Era, 100 BCE-250 CE, Serpentine.

This thin Stela with low relief carving depicts a male figure in profile, holding a tasseled object, probably a spear or standard. The border beneath the figure includes a snub-nosed mask, and curvilinear step-fret designs. This motif most likely represents a ruler performing a ritual activity.

The style of the Stela is transitional from the aesthetic of Olmec iconography to the later Maya iconography that dominated the region. This artwork is characteristic of the aesthetic that characterizes El Tajin monuments. Similar low relief carvings depicting rulers and incorporating the diagnostic curvilinear step fret design are found in sites such as Cholula, Puebla, a testament to the extent of socio cultural power exerted by elites in the Gulf region during this time period.

From the Spanish Colonial/Post-Colonial Collection.

Virgin of the Immaculate Conception, ca.17th century, wood, paint, gilding, copper, and lace.

This statue depicts the Virgin of the Immaculate Conception, as indicated by the crescent moon upon which the Virgin is standing. Recently restored by a professional conservator, with funding provided by a special grant from Institute of Museums and Library Services, the sculpture is a highlight of TMA’s Spanish Colonial/Post-Colonial collection. Most likely of 17^th century origin, it has clearly been painted multiple times. The intention of the over painting seems to have been to change the message conveyed by the statue. Overtime, the elaborate gilt design on the Virgin’s robes was covered with simple blue paint, the complexion of the figure was changed, and, in general, the statue was made to appear less elaborate.

The Virgin of the Immaculate Conception statue provides an interesting insight into how the Catholic Church modified its iconographic message to be more palatable to Mestizo peoples in the New World by depicting the Virgin Mary less as a regal queen and more as a common woman.

From the Latin American Folk Art Collection.

Tree of Life, Aurelio Flores, 1960, ceramic.

This tree of life is a great example of the work in the Latin American Folk Art collection. This elaborate candelabrum, produced in Puebla, was created by Aurelio Flores, a well-known folk artist. The lively tree is bursting with polychrome birds and flowers in a style that is characteristic of the Flores family. This tree of life depicts the vibrancy of Mexican Folk Art and the degree to which individual creativity, tradition, and regional specialization in folk art production are comingled in the production of these vibrant objects.

Southern Arizona has many fine museums. You can find our favorites at SouthernArizonaGuide.com > Main Menu > Museums.

Mule-drawn streetcar downtown Tucson

Even when the Southern Pacific steamed into town, Tucson’s population was only about 7,000.

Today, the most common complaint I hear about Tucson is the awful condition of our roads, particularly the proliferation of potholes. Every time this subject comes up I recall that Congress Street wasn’t even paved until 1912. From myriad accounts by travelers in those early years, any pavement was better than no pavement.

The roads were very dusty in the dry seasons and knee deep in mud during the wet seasons. Mixed with the overpowering stench of urine and manure from all the livestock, no one would have described our fair city as “a mecca for tourists”.

In 1858, Phocion Way from Ohio was an employee of the Santa Rita Mining Company who arrived in Tucson via the San Antonio and San Diego Mail Line.

“There is a small creek [that] runs through town. The water is alkaline and warm. The hogs wallow in the creek, the Mexicans water their asses and cattle and wash themselves and their clothes and drink water out of the same creek. The Americans have dug a well and procure tolerably good water … which they use.”

There is no tavern or other accommodation here for travelers, and I was obliged to roll myself in my blanket and sleep either in the street or in the corral, as the station house has no windows or floor and was too close and warm. The corral is where they keep their horses and mules, but I slept very comfortably as the ground was made soft by manure. I would rather have slept in the street as a great many natives do, but it is hardly safe for a stranger. Someone might suppose that he had money about his person and quietly stick a knife into him, and no one would be the wiser – there is no law here, or if there is, it is not enforced. Might make right.”

In the 1860’s, J. Ross Browne was a well-known Eastern writer who came through Tucson on a stagecoach headed west.

(Tucson is ) a city of mud boxes, dingy and dilapidated, cracked and baked into a composite of dust and filth; litered about with broken corrals, sheds, bake ovens, carcasses of dead animals, and broken pottery. The best view of Tucson is the rear view on the road to Fort Yuma.”

Congress Street being paved for the first time.

I’m reminded of this picture of Tucson every time I travel down Silverbell or Speedway trying my best to avoid the potholes. Not only could it be worse, it was.

For more histories about Tucson and Southern Arizona, go to SouthernArizonaGuide.com > Local History.

Tucson Museum of Art’s Holiday Artisans Market

Annual Holiday Artisans Market
The Annual Holiday Artisans Market will have more than 140 of the best Southwest artisans offering their unique creations for sale. I’m going because this annual event has proven most useful for acquiring original holiday gifts. Moreover, it saves me from having to go to a mall where I would certainly be assaulted with insipid Christmas music, long lines, and pushy crowds.

Current Exhibits
This event also interests me because it gives me an opportunity to see the Museum’s latest exhibits, Barbara Rogers: Imperative of Beauty, a fifty-five year retrospective; and Henri Matisse: The Pasiphae’ Series. There are also two other exhibits of which I know nothing. The Shape of Things: Four Decades of Paintings & Sculpture and Art + The Machine. I expect to be impressed & enlightened.

There will be food trucks, although I don’t yet know which ones, and a beer garden sponsored by 1702, Nimbus Brewing Company, & Dragoon Brewing Company. On my SouthernArizonaGuide.com website, I have reviewed all of the Southern Arizona breweries that I am aware of, except Bisbee Brewing Company. You can read my local brewery reviews by clicking HERE. I am particularly partial to Nimbus’ Old Monkeyshine.

Admission to the Holiday Artisans Market is FREE, as is admission to the Museum on these days.

El Nacimiento at Tucson Museum of Art

El Nacimiento
In addition, the Museum also celebrates the opening of El Nacimiento on Saturday, November 17th at 1:30 PM. This is Tucson’s most impressive nativity, the creation of Maria Luisa Tena who in this way has honored her mother for over 30 years. El Nacimeinto contains about 800 figurines depicting various Bible stories.

J. Knox Corbett House

Corbett House
The following Friday & Saturday, November 23rd & 24th, the Museum’s historic Corbett House will be decorated in its holiday finest and open to the public. There will be two daily tours on Friday & Saturday at noon & 1 PM. Only one tour at 1 PM on Sunday, November 25th.

At the turn of the last century, the home of J. Knox Corbett was among the prominent mansions along what was then referred to as Snob Hollow. Southern Arizona Guide has a short video of the interior, sans holiday trimmings. Click HERE to watch it.

Admission to this mission-revival treasure is included with Museum admission.

What?  Tucson Museum of Art League holds its 24th annual Treasure House Estate Sale. Visitors will have the opportunity to view and purchase a wide range of fine tableware, jewelry, and furniture. This event is for those who love antiques and collectables. A portion of each sale benefits the Tucson Museum of Art.
Where? Campbell Plaza, 2980 North Campbell Avenue, Suite 130.
When? Saturday 10-3; Sunday Noon-4PM. Member Only Party Friday November 2nd 5-10 PM.
Cost? Free
More Info: Lisa Wilkinson, Director of Public Relations and Marketing at 520-616-2687 or lwilkinson@tucsonmuseumofart.org

What? Western Music Festival
Where? Tombstone
Notice: In case you missed the memo, this event scheduled for November 4^th-6^th has been cancelled.

What? An Art Experience: outdoor “working studios” set-up in tents in front of the village galleries and studios.
Where? Tubac
When? 10AM to 5 PM
Cost? Free

What?
26th Annual 
2012 Tucson Celtic Festival
& Scottish Highland Games.
Celebrate the heritage of Ireland, Scotland and Wales with lots of music, dancing, athletics plus food and drink.

There will be musical performances all day, massed Bagpipe Bands, unique Celtic Merchants & Eateries, Scottish Clans, Heritage & Cultural Booths, Highland Athletics & more. On the dance stage there will be Irish & Scottish performances including Highland Dance and Solo Bagpipe competitions! Also: games, crafts, jumping castles, storytelling, a petting zoo. Plus Saturday night concert and fire dance performances.
Where? Rillito Raceway Park 4502 N First Ave Tucson, AZ 85718
When? Friday 5:30-10PM; Saturday 9AM-10PM; Sunday 9AM-5PM
Cost? Under 5 Free; 5-15yo $5 each day; Adults $20 each day
More Info: http://www.tucsoncelticfestival.org

Sunday, November 4th
What? All Souls Procession & Dance of the Dead.
This annual event is uniquely Tucson. Everyone is invited to put on a costume and mask and join in the parade to honor the dearly departed.
Where? Downtown Tucson
When? Participants gather: 5 PM at Toole Ave. & Congress St. Parade begins at 6 PM
and proceeds along Alameda to West Congress and ends at Mercado San Agustin west of the freeway.

All Souls Parade Route

All Souls Parade Route

More Info: www.allsoulsprocession.org
Ticket Event: Dance of the Dead featuring the band Ozomatli. 8 PM.
Procession of Little Angels: Children are encouraged to create a fantasy persona at this event Nov. 3, the day before the main procession. Workshops and a parade are among the highlights; noon-10 p.m. Free.

The turquoise line seen here is the path of The Presidio Trail historic walking tour through Downtown Tucson

Yesterday, I took Zippy, my 3-wheel electric scooter, downtown to photograph that urban environment. Mostly, I took pictures of modern structures. Click HERE to view them. Early Saturdays & Sundays, downtown is generally serene. Aside from a few sleepy homeless people, I only met a few joggers and dog-walkers.

Next week, I intend to begin photographing some of the more historical buildings along the Presidio Trail, a walking tour of historic downtown Tucson. You can view and download the map by clicking HERE.

Perhaps you’d like to join me. Every time I do something like this I learns something new and interesting about my hometown. For example, a guard at the old Pima County Courthouse told me that after the Dillinger gang was arrested by Tucson police in 1934, they were arraigned here. Bet you didn’t know that.

Heading east now for wine tasting in the park by the railroad tracks in Old Town Willcox. Still trying to find a Southern Arizona wine I can recommend. It’s a hard job, but someone gotta do it.

Here are a few worthwhile events, mostly free and family-friendly.

Sunday, November 4th
What? All Souls Procession & Dance of the Dead.
Where? Downtown Tucson
When? Participants gather: 5 PM at Toole Ave. & Congress St. Parade begins at 6 PM and proceeds along Alameda to West Congress and ends at Mercado San Agustin west of the freeway.

All Souls Parade Route

More Info: www.allsoulsprocession.org
Ticket Event: Dance of the Dead featuring the band Ozomatli. 8 PM.
Procession of Little Angels: Children are encouraged to create a fantasy persona at this event Nov. 3, the day before the main procession. Workshops and a parade are among the highlights; noon-10 p.m. Free.

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Tuesday November 6^th: VOTE, if you haven’t already. The idea here is not to vote because it’s our civic duty. Rather, vote to celebrate the end of what seemed like an endless campaign season.

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Saturday & Sunday November 10^th  & 11^th:
What? La Encantada Performing & Fine Arts Festival.  Live music, art exhibitions, ballet, and activities for the kids.
Where? La Encantada Shopping Center, Skyline & Campbell.
When? Saturday

11a.m.  Full Sail – blues
12 p.m. Violin Stars – youth violin group
1 p.m.   Desert Deuce – guitar / cello
2 p.m.   Cobblestone – Irish folk (fiddle) – Irish
3 p.m.   ForTheLuvvaMusic – piano vocal jazz
4 p.m.   CDO Youth String Quartet – string quartet

Sunday
11 a.m  TBA
12 p.m. Jeff & Patricia – folk, country, Americana
1 p.m.   Ballet Rincon Performance Ensemble – ballet dancing
2 p.m.   Those Beatle Guys – Beatles cover band
3 p.m.   Butch Diggs – jazz sax

Dralion: Cirque du Soleil

Wednesday – Sunday November 21^st to 25^th
What? “Dralion” by Cirque du Soleil
Where? Tucson Arena: 260 South Church Street, Tucson, AZ 85701
When? Afternoon & Evening Performances. Click here for details.

Click here for discount tickets

Hotel Congress HoCo Fest 2012

What? HoCo Fest 2012. Party like it’s 1979! HoCo Fest started in 2004 and is Arizona’s longest running solar-powered music festival. Beginning on Friday, August 31 and continuing through Monday, September 3, HoCo Fest 2012 will take over Hotel Congress featuring local and national music acts playing on indoor and outdoor stages, with all ages welcome.
Where? Hotel Congress – Club Congress
When? Doors open at 7 p.m.
How Much? $15
More Info: http://www.hotelcongress.com/club/

Saturday September 1^st.

What? Tucson Museum of Miniatures – FREE ADMISSION TODAY ONLY
Come celebrate their 3^rd anniversary. The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures, located in a 15,560 square foot, state-of-the-art museum displays an entertaining and interactive array of antique and contemporary miniatures as well as enchanting artifacts.

The Museum is a miniature time machine, by which the visitor sets off on a self-guided tour through different lands and times both real and imagined. Over 275 miniature houses, room boxes and enchanting collectibles are part of the extraordinary collection in this educational and magical environment, appealing to visitors of all ages, interests and talents.
Where?  4455 East Camp Lowell Drive, Tucson, AZ, 85712.

What? Concert for Kids
Children from all over Tucson, and as young as 2 years old, can explore a “magical” opportunity to interact and learn from a widely-recognized and talented educator, conductor and performer.

Exploring music since his roots in Europe and now working with children through local arts organizations, László Veres of the Tucson Pops Orchestra will engage with kids and teach the musical workings of instruments and sound during Musical Magic for Kids.
Where? Town of Oro Valley’s Council Chambers, 11000 N. La Canada Dr.
When? Concerts begin at 10 a.m. -”Peter and the Wolf” on Saturday, Sept. 1 and “The Nutcracker” on Saturday, Oct. 6
How Much? Free
More Info: www.saaca.org

What? Free Lecture: Wyatt Earp, Capitalist
Historian/author Garner Palenske presents this intriguing story of Wyatt Earp’s involvement in horse racing, gambling, and mining at Tombstone City Archives. Palenske is the author of the much acclaimed book, Wyatt Earp in San Diego, Life After Tombstone.

Free book given away and opportunity to meet the author immediately following at Tombstone Old West Books, 4th and Allen Streets.
Where? Tombstone City Archives 6th And Fremont Streets
When? 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

 Saturday-Sunday-Monday September 1^st – 3^rd

What? Rendezvous of the Gunfighters
Gunfighter groups from throughout the U.S. gather in Tombstone to perform. Activities include a Most-Authentic Costume Contest. Sponsored by the Tombstone Wild Bunch.
Where? Tombstone / Allen Street / OK Corral
When? The 1880’s costume parade will begin Sunday, September 2^nd at 12 noon.
More Info: www.tombstonewildbunch.com/

 Sunday September 2nd

 What? Member-Only Pancake Breakfast in Celebration of The Desert Museum’s 60^th B’day.
Where? Ironwood Terrace Restaurant in the Desert Museum
When? 8 AM – 11 AM
How Much? Members 8 and older: $12. Ages 4-7: $5. Three & under and anyone born in 1952: FREE.

What? Bisbee’s 47th Annual Brewery Gulch Daze.
Events will include a the Soiled Dove Race, Wacky Pet Parade, Kids Games, Recycled Art Auction, Silent Auction, Miz Ole’ Biz Contest & live music by Buzz & the Soul Senders.
Where? Brewery Gulch in Old Bisbee.
When? 8 AM – 5 PM.
How Much? FREE (except food & drink, of course)

What? Jeff Kashiwa & Crystal Stark in Concert
Kashiwa is one of the most diverse, in demand sax players in all of contemporary jazz. A year after leaving The Rippingtons, Kashiwa was an immediate smash on the smooth jazz charts, scoring a #1 hit for over eight weeks on the Radio & Records chart.  His sound ranges from funky pop to more classic traditional jazz – this show will have it all.  Joining Kashiwa for several numbers will be Tucson favorite, singer Crystal Stark.
Where?  Loews Ventana Canyon, 7000 N. Resort Rd.
When?  7:30 PM
How Much? $20 – $35
More Info:  http://tucsonjazz.org/

 Throughout September

 What? Phantom of the Opera.
“Will the chorus girl Christine rise to the occasion after Diva Soprano, Carlotta, storms off the stage during dress rehearsal? Who will be seated in the mysterious Box #5…where programs disappear and ghoulish laughter echoes? Join the Gaslight artistes as they transform the stage back to post-Revolution Paris to revive The Phantom Of The Opera – a love story of musical inspiration and hidden longing, along with a palate-pleasing portion of goofy song and dance.“

Popcorn is complimentary to all theatre-goers, but there are also servers on-hand if you want to order from the menu.
Where? Gaslight Theater. 7010 E. Broadway.
When? Sundays at 3:00pm and 7:00pm; Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 7:00pm; Fridays and Saturdays at 6:00pm and 8:30pm.
How Much? $17.95/adults. $15.95/students, seniors, military. $7.95/children under 12.
More Info: http://www.thegaslighttheatre.com.

 September 5th

 What? Crosby, Stills & Nash
The music of David Crosby, Stephen Stills and Graham Nash is a cornerstone of rock & roll. This trio of legendary singer-songwriters has been actively collaborating since 1969, when they first harmonized in either Joni Mitchell’s living room or Mama Cass Elliot’s dining room, depending on which member you hear the story from.
Where? AVA amphitheater, 5655 West Valencia Rd
When?  8:00 p.m. Gates open 7:00 p.m.
How Much? $22 – $77
More Info: http://www.casinodelsol.com/events/crosby-stills-and-nash

What? Labor Day Jazz All-Star Celebration of Motown
The festivities will include tribute performances by an all-star jazz and R&B group, drink and dinner specials and a special resort price ($99) for guests staying overnight, followed by a Sunday brunch concert.
Where? Westin La Paloma Resort.
When? 7:30 PM.
How Much? $35 – $75.
More Info: www.azentertainmentandevents.com.

September 6^th – 9th

 What? JOGS Gem & Jewelry Show
A 4-day trade show of jewelry & gems from around the world with both wholesale & retail sales.Where? Tucson Expo Center, 3750 East Irvington Road.
When? September 6^th at 10 AM to September 9^th at 6 PM.
More Info: http://jogsshow.com

 Saturday Nights, September 8, 15, 22, & 29^th.

What? Band Concert
The Arizona Symphonic Winds, under the direction of László Veres, is Southern Arizona’s Premiere community concert band. Comprised of 65 volunteers, this musical organization presents concerts throughout the Tucson area and has been doing so for 20 years. Included in its repertoire are Broadway show tunes, orchestral transcriptions, movie themes, marches, and traditional band literature.

The Winds perform an average of sixteen concerts yearly including their outdoor series at Udall Park, a winter indoor series, and performances to the communities of SaddleBrooke and Oro Valley. The band frequently showcases both professional and amateur soloists, as well as talented young performers at its concerts, and continues the old American tradition of the free concert in the park for our community.Where? Udall Park; 7200 East Tanque Verde Road
When? 7 PM
How Much? FREE
More Info: http://www.azsymwinds.org

 Saturday September 8^th:

What? 2^nd Saturday Downtown Tucson
Downtown’s monthly family-friendly block party featuring live music, dance, & other performances.
Where: 125 E. Congress Street
When: 6 PM to 10:30 PM
How Much? FREE
More Info: http://www.2ndsaturdaysdowntown.com

What? The final Blue Grass concert of the summer season
Where? Crossroads at Silverbell Park; Marana
When? 6:15 PM: Desert Bluegrass Association Member Jam; 7 PM Superstition Ridge ensemble.
How Much? FREE
More Info: http://saaca.org/Marana_Backyard_Concerts.html

 Every Saturday In September

What? San Pedro River Walk from San Pedro House.
Join docents on a two-mile interpretive walk over easy terrain along the river every Saturday morning. The San Pedro River features some of the richest wildlife habitat in the United States. Wear appropriate attire for hiking and weather conditions. Bring at least one quart of water per person.

The San Pedro Riparian area is a stretch of some 40 miles (56,000 acres) along the San Pedro River, which flows north from near Cananea, Mexico to the Gila River. This riparian habitat is rare in the desert Southwest. It’s a place where plants and animals thrive because of the availability of water, either at or near the surface of the soil. The river can be spotted from far off because of the band of cottonwood trees that grow densely along its shores, drawing migrating birds and other wildlife.

The river has long had an attraction for man as well. Evidence of prehistoric hunters of 11,000 years ago has been found at Lehner Mammoth Site and Murray Springs Clovis Site.
Where? Sierra Vista – San Pedro House 9800 E. Highway 90.
When: Saturdays 8 AM to 12 Noon.
How Much? Donations are appreciated.
More Info: http://www.discoverseaz.com/Attractions/SPRNCA.html

 Saturdays & Sundays In September

 What? Concerts: Folk Songs & Ballads
Where? Arizona Folklore Preserve. South of Sierra Vista off Ramsey Canyon Road; 56  East Folklore Trail, Hereford, Arizona  85615.
When? Matinees start at 2 PM; doors open at 1 PM.
How Much? Adults: $15. Children 17 & under: $6.
More Info: http://arizonafolklore.com

Sunday September 9th

 What? Comedy Concert: Stand Up to Stop Violence
Get ready to go to a funny place you’ve never been before, where basketball heroes and talented comedians come together for charity. The Second Annual Stand Up to Stop Violence comedy fundraiser benefits the Emerge Center to Prevent Domestic Abuse and the Blair Charity Group.
Where? Fox Theater, Downtown Tucson
When? 7:00 pm
How Much? $15 – $100
More Info: FoxTheater.com

 Saturday September 15th

What? Bisbee Blues Festival featuring Leon J, Sean Trackman, Bad News Blues, Eddie Turner, Diunna Greenleaf.
Where? Warren Ballpark
When? Gates open at Noon. Show starts around 1 PM
How Much? $20 in advance; $25 at gate
More Info: thebisbeebluesfestival.com to purchase advance tickets

 Saturday, September 22^nd

What? Oro Valley Classics Car and Truck Show
Antique automobiles, old-time rock ‘n roll, and all-American food.  Live music: with rockabilly from The Outlaw Rebels at 11 a.m. and rock and country from Good Question at 1 p.m. 
Where? Oro Valley Marketplace, on the southwest corner of Oracle Road and Tangerine Road. 
When? 10 AM to 3 PM.
How Much? FREE

 Thursday Through Sunday September 20th – 23rd

 What? 37^th Annual Tucson Greek Festival
Real Greek food, beer, & wine. Live music & folk dancing. Kids’ rides & much more.
Where? St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church: 1145 E. Ft. Lowell Road. Tucson.
When? Thursday: 5 PM – 10 PM. Friday: 5 PM – 11 PM. Saturday: 4 PM – 11 PM. Sunday: Noon – 6 PM
How Much? Daily Pass: Admission $3; Children Under 12 Free. 4-Day Pass: $5. Active Duty Military & Seniors: Free Saturday 4 PM – 6 PM. Free Parking & Shuttle Service.
More Info: www.TucsonGreekFestival.com.

 Friday September 21st

What? Oktoberfest in Sierra Vista
Beer garden, live music, oompah bands, dancing, carnival rides, food vendors, and crafts.
Why celebrate Oktoberfest in September? In October of 1810, Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig I (later King Ludwig I) married Princess Therese. That year, the festivities lasted five days. But five days wasn’t enough time to enjoy all the music, singing, eating and drinking. As the years went on, the festivities lasted longer and began earlier to take advantage of Germany’s nicer weather in September. So, the 16-day celebration takes place up to and including the first Sunday in October.
Where? Veterans’ Memorial Park
When? 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., Friday, Sept. 14; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 15.
How Much? FREE Admission
More Info: 520-417-6960, 520-458-7922.

 Thursday September 27^th – Sunday September 30^th

What?  4^th Annual Tucson Flamenco Festival. This four-day festival features an outdoor stage with guest artists from around the world, plus Spanish wine tasting, an outdoor bar, flamenco fashion show, and a late-night Spanish Fiesta atmosphere.
Where? Casa Vicente Restaurant: 375 S. Stone – Downtown Tucson.
When? Thursday PM though Sunday PM. Thursday, September 27th: 8 pm–10 pm. Doors open 8 PM; 8:30 PM – Moda Flamenca, a flamenco fashion show featuring a dozen designers and their flamenco and flamenco-inspired couture; 9:30 PM – Guitarras Flamencas y Guitarras Espanol, Misael Barraza, Chuscales, and others.
How Much? $15 – $200. Click here for tickets: http://www.tucsonflamencofestival.com/tickets/
More Info: http://www.downtowntucson.org/event/4th-annual-tucson-flamenco-festival.

 Friday September 28th

What? Nightfall at Old Tucson.
Old Tucson becomes a haunted ghost town, with hideous beasts and monsters, ghoulish stunts, and frightening shows.Where? Old Tucson: 201 S. Kinney Road, Tucson, AZ 85735
When? Thursday through Sundays in October from 6 PM to Closing. Preview weekend is September 28-30.
How Much? Unknown at time of post.
More Info: http://oldtucson.com. Phone: 520-908-4833.

 Friday September 28^th & Saturday the 29^th

What? Desert Museum 12^th Annual Plant Sale.
Go to the ASDM digital library for images and information on many of these plants. You are encouraged to bring your empty 1 gallon nursery pots to the sale. They will reuse them next year, saving earth’s resources, landfill space, and helping us keep costs down. The gallon size is the only one they currently need.
When? Friday, Members Only: 2:00 – 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Open to Public: 7:30 AM to 3 PM.
How Much: Regular Admission Price
More Info: http://www.desertmuseumdigitallibrary.org/public/index.php

What? Arizona’s Salsa Trail – SalsaFest
Arizona’s Salsa Trail celebrates the annual SalsaFest featuring the salsa challenge, Jalapeno eating competition, Chihuahua races, car show and hot air balloons. Arizona’s Sprinkled through the small Southern Arizona communities of Safford, Pima, Thatcher, Solomon, Clifton, Duncan, Willcox, and York are a dozen Mexican restaurants ready to serve up fine Mexican food.

The scenic Old West Highway connects the communities and businesses which are within a 40 mile radius of Safford – about and hour and a half east and slightly north of Tucson.

In addition to good food and friendly folks, tourists are beginning to discover the natural beauty and tucked away attractions that dot the map along the Salsa Trail®. There are over 4 million acres of National Forest and protected Wilderness lands, pristine high desert beauty, the lush Gila Valley, and towering pines on Mount Graham. Graham County is filled with so many things to do throughout its little communities, and has some of the most beautiful scenic terrain in the entire Southwest.
Where? Safford Town Square. 1111 Thatcher Blvd. (Hwy 70), Safford, AZ 85546
When? Starts Friday 5 PM on Main Street; Safford. Saturday, Hot Air Balloons take flight from the Fair Grounds at Day Break. Saturday AM Salsa Contests, live entertainment, etc. plus Car Show on Main Street.
How Much? Mostly FREE, except if you want to taste the Salsa, you have to buy chips ($4). Proceeds go to Lions Club charities.
More Info? http://www.salsatrail.com/salsafest. Phone: 928-428-2511

Sunrise Over Tucson: August 27, 2012; 5:45 AM.

This is what our eastern sky looked like a few minutes ago from our viewing deck. Just thought I should share.

On another note, Ms. Karen & I had Sunday brunch yesterday at Agustin Brasserie in the Mercado just west of Downtown Tucson on Congress Street. What a magnificent interior. The food and service was very good. I’ll do a complete review in a few days after some research.

After our excellent brunch, we headed east perhaps a half mile to the Tucson Museum of Art to see Scott Baxter’s stunningly beautiful B&W photographs of 100 Arizona ranchers. The history of Arizona ranching is written on these faces. If you take a docent-guided tour, you learn more about the stories behind the portraits. Highly recommended.

I think you should pay to see the Museum’s several current exhibits because the price of your admission helps support this important, and always delightful, museum. Nevertheless, I will mention that next Sunday, being the first Sunday of the month, admission is free. At least leave a donation. It’s only fair.

There are several other exhibits in addition to Mr. Baxter’s photos. One just blew me away. It’s a bronze bust of an Indian chief. It’s in the main exhibit area just as you enter. Exquisite!

And if you haven’t been to Cafe’ a la C’art recently, I recommend you do so. I had lunch there this past week with a dear friend, but also had a chance to talk with Judy, the owner in partnership with her son, Mark. She gave me the grand tour of their expanded space. They did a beautiful job of maintaining the integrity of this old building in the Historic District. The food was delicious as always , and the desserts are to die for. Perhaps the best pastries in Southern Arizona.

Speaking of the Historic District, which is adjacent to the Museum, consider taking the tour. The tour of the J Knox Corbett House is particularly interesting. To get the back story of this Snob Hollow mansion, click here to see our video. It’s at our SouthernArizonaGuide.com website along with videos that feature about a dozen other museums that are worth of your time and support, such as the Museum of Miniatures and the Franklin Automobile Museum. Main Menu > Museums.

Tucson Presidio Cannon Fire Marks City’s 237th Birthday

Last evening, Neighbor Roy & I attended the City’s 237th birthday celebration at the Presidio. The event was very well attended. Dignitaries spoke. Native Americans chanted prayers. Flags were raised. In short, a lot of pageantry as befits the Old Pueblo.

In this photograph you can see the gray smoke and orange sparks discharged from the old Spanish cannon. From my vantage point, I was showered with gunpowder & debris from the blast. But I had seen this demonstration before and knew to wear ear protection. In the confines of the old fort, the roar is deafening.

One of the most enjoyable things about publishing Southern Arizona Guide is I get to video some of the most interesting people and places in our region. Last year, I interviewed one of the Presidio’s Spanish soldiers in costume, in character. The time was 1776 and he was complaining that the Apaches didn’t fight fair. Click here to watch this little bit of our history.

I had the good fortune to do lunch at Pasco Kitchen & Lounge at Main Gate Square the other day. I won’t do a review here & now. It was just lunch, albeit a tasty one. And I had the good fortune to meet their bartender, Nick. I intend to return and have him practice his mixology on me next time.

Of course University Blvd. is totally torn up as workman lay track for the coming Modern Streetcar.

Clearly all the shops & restaurants along the route are suffering disproportionately compared to the rest of us who will ultimately benefit from this project. Out of simple fairness, I have determined to dine somewhere along the construction route at least once a week just to support the merchants.

That isn’t quite as altruistic as it may sound. If we don’t patronize them now, some, perhaps many, won’t be there when the project is completed. And that would leave us all the poorer.

Paul Hopman: Scratchboard Artist
On a completely different subject, Paul Hopman creates amazing animal portraits.  I just made a short video featuring his scratchboard art wherein he illustrates how his beautiful animal images are created. You can view this and 50 other original videos about some of the most interesting people and places in Southern Arizona by going to SouthernArizonaGuide.com. For Paul’s video, click here.