All Entries in the "Destinations" Category

STOMPING GROUNDS: District tavern

STOMPING GROUNDS

Tavern breaks from the ordinary

BY JORGE ENCINAS

With an atmosphere of familiarity, even for the first-time visitor, the District Tavern is a welcome break from many of the swanky-style bars found in downtown Tucson.

The locally owned tavern reflects the flavor of its clientele with a collage of photos on the bar top, foreign posters and a vintage table-top Pac-Man arcade.

While many patrons are regulars, the bartenders always welcome people who walk in and quickly get to know them.

The tavern only accepts cash but you will find that it does not take very much to enjoy your evening.

You can buy $2 well drinks during the daily happy hour special from 2-8 p.m. A popular all-day every-day special offers a High-Life and a shot of whiskey for $3. Note: No Budweiser or Pabst is available.

District also features live bands. To find out who’s playing, just take a look at the front window where the fliers are posted. Some bands are from out of town but there’s a good chance you will find a local band playing on the small stage.

A featured DJ plays every Saturday night. In the absence of that or a band, an old-style jukebox has a limited but good selection of music you don’t typically find downtown.

Music isn’t all you find. There are also traditional games like pool and darts, and a variety of board games and dominoes can be checked out with the bartender. You’ll even find a Jenga set available.

For smokers, District provides a small shaded patio with chairs to relax and talk to your friends. However, it’s also the back way out of the bar so there is no drinking while smoking, with the exception of electronic cigarettes.

If you’re downtown looking for somewhere laid back to hang out and have a good time, the District Tavern is a one place worth checking out.

FYI

The District Tavern

Address: 260 E. Congress

Phone: 792-0081

Hours: Open daily, 2 p.m.-2 a.m.

Springs events abound in Tucson

Compiled by Nellie Silva

Arizona Renaissance Festival: Feb. 9-March 31

Larry Gaurano/Aztec Press 2012

The 25th incarnation of this medieval festival takes place right outside of Phoenix. The 30-acre amusement park has 12 stages, an arts/crafts fair and a jousting tournament. The festival runs every Saturday and Sunday from Feb. 9 through March 31, plus President’s Day on Feb. 18, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Parking is free. Tickets cost $20-22 for adults. From Tucson, take Highway 70 to Florence Junction. Go west 7 miles on Highway 60 to Festival Village.

Details: royalfaires.com/arizona.

Gem Show: Feb. 14-17

Celebrating its 59th Annual Tucson Gem and Mineral show it’s the largest gem and mineral show in the United States. It’ll be held at the Tucson Convention Center 260 South Church Avenue, Thursday through Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and on Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults, children 14 and under are free with a paying adult. Details: www.tgms.org

Rodeo: Feb. 16-17 and Feb. 21-24

The Rodeo is located at the rodeo arena on the corner of Irvington Road and 6th Avenue. The ticket prices range from $12 to $26 depending on the section of your choice. Ticket office hours are from 8a.m. to 5 p.m. located at 4823 S. 6th Ave.

Details: Tucsonrodeo.com, call 741-2233 or (800) 964-5662

La Fiesta de los Vaqueros (No PCC classes Feb 21-22 due to rodeo holiday) Rodeo Parade : Feb. 21

The 88th annual parade will start at 9 a.m. beginning on Park Avenue and Ajo Way, and proceed south on Park into Irvington Road. Ticketed grandstand seats on Irvington Road cost $7 for adults. Street spots along the parade route are free.

Details: Tucsonrodeoparade.com or 294- 1280

Southwest Indian Art Fair: Feb. 23-24

Arizona State Museum, 1013 E. University Blvd., presents the Southern Arizona Premier American Indian Art Show and Market with 200 native artists and their wares, live entertainment, food and more.

Details: call 626- 8381 or visit statemuseum.arizona.edu.

BEST BETS Donate time, goods this holiday season

Compiled by Miki Jennings

As winter approaches, many people in need miss out on traditional holiday experiences due to lack of funds.

Food and clothing bins become more common around campuses and other public spaces, and are a great way to help those in need.

Another way to help your community is through direct contact with an organization of your choice. The nonprofits listed below accept donated money and goods, and volunteered time.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tucson

At-risk youngsters between the ages of 6 and 18 have benefited from Big Brothers Big Sisters for almost 50 years.

The organization matches youth with mentors, and annually serves more than 450 Tucson youth.

Big Brothers Big Sisters offers sports and military-related programs, and a couples’ mentoring program to teach children the dynamics of healthy relationships.

The group also accepts gently used clothing and furniture donations to sell, with proceeds benefitting the program.

For more information, call 624-7039 or visit tucsonbigs.org.

Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona

The Community Food Bank has been fighting hunger since 1976, and depends on volunteers to keep the organization running smoothly.

Volunteers can help by sorting, packing and distributing food and by doing office, computer or maintenance work.

They can also work at one of the Food Bank’s farms, at the Caridad Community Kitchen or at the Gabrielle Giffords Family Assistance Center.

Interested persons can apply to be a one-time, short-term or recurring volunteer.

For more information, email volunteer@communityfoodbank.com or call 882-3292.

Wingspan

Wingspan is the center for Southern Arizona’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.

The organization offers goods and services to LGBT people in need, including peer support groups, anti-violence programs, crisis hotlines, youth and family programs and a free lending library and computer center.

Wingspan’s Homeless Youth Project provides support and crisis intervention, and essential items such as food, clothing and hygiene supplies to homeless and near-homeless youth.

Wingspan welcomes both volunteers and tax-deductible donations.

For more information, visit wingspan.org, email volunteer@wingspan.org or call 624-1779.

Five ways to spend Thanksgiving break

Compiled by Jennifer Coulter

If you can’t go home for your mother’s cooking or want to entertain family members visiting you, here are five fun activities to fill your Thanksgiving break:

Thanksgiving Cross Country Classic

Runners will also hurdle hay bales and water jumps during the Thanksgiving Cross Country Classic Nov. 22 at Reid Park, on Country Club Road immediately north of 22nd Street. Separate races will be held for men, women and children, beginning at 8 a.m. Prizes include turkeys and pumpkin pies. The races benefit Toys for Tots. Bring a new, unwrapped toy for the donation box. Call 326-9383 or visit azroadrunners.org for more details.

Tohono Chul Park celebration

Walk through gardens decorated with 750,000 lights during celebrations at Tohono Chul Park gardens, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte, on Nov. 23-24 and Nov. 30-Dec. 1 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Visitors can start their holiday shopping and enjoy live stage performances. An ornament sale and silent auction will be held. The garden bistro will be open for dinner each night. Tickets are $15, and $2 for children 12 and under. Call 742-6455 or visit tohonochulpark.org.

Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair

Buy original work from local artists at the Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair on Nov. 24-25 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Reid Park, west of DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center. You can also sample food from local vendors. Admission and parking is free. Call 791-4877 or visit tucsonaz.gov for more details.

Native American Heritage

Celebrate Native American culture with dancing and drumming performances, art and craft exhibits, children’s activities and traditional foods during the Native American Heritage Social & Indian Craft Market on Nov. 23-25 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Sheraton Tucson Hotel & Suites, 5151 E. Grant Road. Admission is free. Call 622-4900 or visit usaindianinfo.org for details.

Pima Air & Space Museum

Santa will arrive by helicopter Dec. 1 at the Pima Air & Space Museum, 6000 E. Valencia Road. The museum opens at 9 a.m., and  Santa will land at 10 a.m. Children can enjoy holiday arts and crafts. The Flight Grill will be open for breakfast. Admission is $15.50 for adults, $12.75 for seniors and military, $9 for ages 7-12. Kids 6 and under are free. For more information, call 574-0462 or visit pimaair.org.

BEST BETS: Mr. Head’s offers more than drinks

Compiled by Miki Jennings

Many college students spend a lot of free time in bars. It can be difficult to find a venue with the right atmosphere, crowd and events, especially if you don’t like doing the same thing every time you go out.

Mr. Head’s on Fourth Avenue hosts a range of events each week, making it easy to keep your outings interesting.

Cutthroat karaoke

Cutthroat karaoke on Mondays at 8 p.m. gives bar patrons an opportunity to have fun and impress others … until you’re up. A wrong note or obnoxious stage presence gets singers “gonged” off the stage in an instant. Cutthroat is a bit harsher than standard karaoke, and is not for the sensitive or inadequately inebriated.

Comedy night

For those who like to have something to laugh at while imbibing, Mr. Head’s offers comedy acts every Wednesday at 10 p.m. Take in the show along with a drink on the patio or in the newly renovated interior. It’s free to get in and there are plenty of drink specials once you’re inside.

DJ night

Check out DJ Bonus spinning it up on Thursday nights starting at 9. In addition to nicely priced drink specials, you can try the club’s newest cocktails while you enjoy the show. Dance, drink and enjoy the music late into the evening. No cover charge to get in, music until closing.

FYI

Mr. Head’s

Address: 513 N. Fourth Ave.

Phone: 792-2710

Hours: 1 p.m.-2 a.m. daily

TOP 10: Tucson fine dining spots

By LIAM McINERNEY

Whether you have a date or just want to appreciate the taste of fine cuisine, these restaurants will leave a lasting impression.

10. 47 Scott

With a great bar selection and delicious cocktails, happy hour is a must at this downtown restaurant. Address: 47 N. Scott Ave. Details: 47scott.com.

9. Maynards Market and Kitchen

Sophisticated cuisine, seasonal produce and innovative recipes lands Maynards at No. 9. My recommendation: Order the French fries and mussels as an appetizer. Address: 400 N. Toole Ave. Details: maynardsmarket.com.

8. Blue Fin Seafood Bistro

Hankering for seafood? Blue Fin will fulfill your craving with its oyster bar and array of fresh fish selections. Address: 7053 N. Oracle Road. Details: bluefintucson.com.

7. Ra

Signature sushi dishes and sake are a great way to start a Friday night. With more than 30 sushi options, Ra will leave you satisfied. Address: 2905 E. Skyline Drive #289. Details: rasushi.com/tucson.

6. Flemings Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar

If you’re in the mood for steak, Flemings offers top-of-the-line cuts that melt in your mouth. Be sure to order plenty of sides to company your main dish. Vegetarians, stay away! Address: 6360 N. Campbell Ave. Details: flemingssteakhouse.com.

5. North Modern Italian Cuisine

This Italian restaurant offers a country atmosphere accompanied by the latest culinary trends in high quality food. Address: 2995 E. Skyline Drive.

4. Anthony’s in the Catalinas

Name your meat of choice and Anthony’s will have it. Dishes ranging from roasted duck to veal marsala make Anthony’s a go-to restaurant choice. Address: 6440 N. Campbell Ave. Details: anthonyscatalinas.com.

3. Vivace Restaurant

Looking for exquisite Italian cuisine? Look no further. Vivace offers great service along with high quality food at a moderate price. Address: 4310 N. Campbell Ave. Details: vivacetucson.com.

2. Wildflower

With its seasonal menu changing and top-notch martinis, Wildflower offers progressive American cuisine in a chic atmosphere. Address: 7037 N. Oracle Road.

1. Café Poca Cosa

Café Poca Cosa deserves the No. 1 spot for the twice-daily menu change and innovative approach to Mexican food. Order the surprise plate for the ultimate tasting experience. Address: 110 E. Pennington St. Details: cafepocacosatucson.com.

Behind the scenes at ‘Nightfall’

By THOMAS F. JOHNSON

The dark magic of Old Tucson Studios’ Nightfall begins with actors in a dressing room applying garish clown makeup as they prepare for the park to open.

Most notable among them is Rob Jensen, who played a serial-killing, junkyard-owning clown named Pappy in last year’s special effects show.

Though he appeared to be killed off last year, Jensen said audience response was so positive that Old Tucson brought him back this year as the comedy show protagonist.

Nightfall’s streets seem oddly empty 10 minutes before opening, as the actors get into their places, techs direct what goes where and rear-projected scenes in windows flicker to life one by one.

When the clock strikes 6, crowds of visitors file in. After an introductory show of gunpowder-blanks and dueling evil-circus-stereotypes ends, the streets come alive with the sounds of chainless-chainsaws wielded by evil clowns.

Roaming creeps include a butler with a face wedged in the deep end of the uncanny valley, a fat vampire and an inexplicable killer bunny.

Some characters sit motionless as mannequins on the park’s many benches, moving whenever poor schmucks try to take pictures with them.

“Carnival Caverns” works well as one of the park’s more harrowing experiences, building a creepy atmosphere with garish colors, 3D visuals, creepy music and constantly blaring electronic horns.

Features such as a clown-monster head popping out above a pit of bodies and a horrifyingly ludicrous clown-spider succeed as creepy visuals.

Sadly, other walkthrough attractions aren’t too scary, though at least the lines were relatively short and fast moving.

“The Aftermath” and “Iron Door Mine” rely on jump-scares and lots of rubbery, obviously-fake animatronics rather than mood and mystery.

However, “The Aftermath” gets points for its creative post-nuclear/zombie apocalypse setting and the giant spider animatronic in “Iron Door Mine” is neat.

The comedy show, featuring Pappy testing inventions on asylum inmates, just did not work well.

There were numerous special effects failures, such as an oral enema in which viewers could clearly see the tube spraying green “puke.”

The humor was either juvenile or clumsily topical. The show also included a cringe-worthy gay stereotype that would likely make Dan Savage spontaneously combust with rage if he was in the audience.

Jensen, the show’s creator and main writer, said he let cast members add their input to the show.

The main special-effects show, “Death By Dawn,” was also written by Jensen with cast input, but it worked far better.

The plot involves two ghost hunters and a rich Texan stumbling across the ghost of an evil ringmaster who haunts the ruins of his old amusement park.

The show’s finale can be summarized as, “Everybody died! And then everything exploded! The end!” It was hokey, but the compelling kind of goofy that makes people watch B-movies.

Jacob Pattison’s ghoulish and physical performance as the Ringmaster provided a show highlight.

Pattison said that most of the costumes, animatronics and special effects for both the show and the rest of the park were designed in-house.

Propmaster Bryan Remaley, who worked in Hollywood for 10 years, handles mechanical aspects while propmaster Andrew Kinworthy handles the art design.

Remaley said about 80 percent of Nightfall’s props are made entirely in-house and another 10 percent are built mostly in-house but use off-the-shelf parts.

Construction of “The Aftermath” required heavy machinery to transport some parts, such as the wrecked freeway area.

Most Nightfall construction begins in June every year, though work on a barrel mutant started in April this year.

Ramaley said Old Tucson ropes off construction areas so visitors can’t sneak a peek. Secrecy has gotten easier, however, now that the park closes for the summer.

In addition to building sets, Ramaley and his crew handle maintenance. He estimates the electronic and pneumatic props get triggered at least 1,000 times a night, so they require lots of upkeep to keep from turning into piles of twisted steel and melting latex.

Ramaley willingly admitted to technical problems in the attractions, but said his crews work hard to constantly tweak and improve the exhibits.

Overall, Nightfall is a corny, yet endearing event that is as fundamentally Tucsonan as saguaros and an underfunded school system. Behind-the-scenes crews put lots of love into every animatronic skeleton and rubber murderclown face.

Self-respecting citizens owe themselves at least one visit.

FYI

Nightfall at Old Tucson Studios

When: Thursday-Sunday, through Oct. 28

Where: Old Tucson Studios, 201 S. Kinney Road

Admission: $25, with discounts available

Details: nightfallaz.com

Rob Jensen carefully applies his makeup to play the crude killer clown “Pappy” in Old Tucson Studio’s Nightfall comedy/horror show. Nightfall continues through Oct. 28. Photo by Thomas F. Johnson.

Cello, art combine for Nov. 8 recital

Music with art is the theme for a Pima Community College interdisciplinary faculty concert on Nov. 8 at 7 p.m. at the West Campus Center for the Arts Recital Hall.

Theodore Buchholz will perform cello selections including:

• “Suite 1” by J.S. Bach featuring the photography of Kate Breakey
• “Fantasy on Two Klee Studies” by Augusta Read Thomas
• “Gallery” by Robert Muczynski featuring the paintings of Charles E. Burchfield

“Visual art and music are manifestations of human expression beyond language,” Bucholz said in a news release. “This recital was conceived out of a desire to create a unique experience for the eyes and ears of the audience.”

Tickets cost $6, with discounts available. Box office hours are Tuesday through Friday, noon-5 p.m. and one hour before performances.

For more information, call 206-6986 or visit pima.edu/cfa.

-By Bruce Hardt

Music faculty member Theodore Buchholz with his cello. Photo courtesy of PCC Center for the Arts.

Best Bets: Halloween events

‘Halloween’ stabs back into Tucson theaters

Compiled by Bruce Hardt

The bogeyman is back this Halloween. Horror classic “Halloween” will play at select theaters across the country, including three theaters in Tucson on Oct. 25 and 30.

“Halloween” is the king of all slasher flicks — an atmospheric, bleak masterpiece that birthed many a horror cliché and has been parodied and endlessly watered down.

Seeing this 1978 gem on the big screen is an event worthy of the eponymous holiday, and on par with any cheap-scare haunted house.

The movie will be accompanied by a documentary short, “You Can’t Kill the Bogeyman: 35 Years of Halloween,” which details the film’s impact on culture and the horror genre.

“Halloween” will play at Century Park Place 20 and Tower Theaters at Arizona Pavilions on Oct. 25 and 30. The film will also play at the Harkins Tucson Spectrum 18 on Oct. 25 only.

For more information, including tickets, visit screenvision.com/cinema-events/Halloween.

HAUNTED HAPPENINGS

Compiled by Miki Jennings

Club Congress Halloween Party

Club Congress will host Halloweek at Congress on Saturday, Oct. 27, and the following Wednesday, which is Halloween night. The fun starts at 8 p.m. both nights.

On Oct. 27, patrons can check out Club Congress’ first-ever haunted house.

There will also be live music and costume contests, and $500 in cash prizes.

Bands will include Brainstorm, the Modeens, Voodoo Organist, RCougar and 80’s and Gentleman.

FYI

What: Club Congress Halloween Party

Where: Club Congress, 311 E. Congress St.

When: Oct. 27 and 31 at 8 p.m.

Cost: $5

Details: 622-8848

Haunted Ruins at Valley of the Moon

A park attraction and interactive theater wrapped into one, Valley of the Moon offers fun events in a whimsical space. During October, Valley of the Moon is hosting the Haunted Ruins Halloween Show, featuring Van Helsing attempting to save the world from the Dark Lord.

FYI

What: Haunted Ruins Halloween Show

Where: Valley of the Moon, 2544 E. Allen Road

When: Oct. 26-30, 6:30-9 p.m.

Cost: $8 general admission (ages 8-13, $5)

Details: 323-1331

Halloween Dress-up Pet Fair

Animal lovers can check out a Halloween-themed pet fair at Cat Mountain Station on Sunday, Oct. 28. The event will include pet adoptions, a petting zoo, a vendor expo and a costume contest for pets and owners.

FYI

What: Halloween Dress-up Pet Fair

Where: Cat Mountain Station, 2740 S. Kinney Road

When: Oct. 28, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Cost: Free

Details: 578-8795

‘The Exorcist’ at Fox Theatre

Get into the Halloween spirit watching scary movies at the historic Fox Theatre. On Oct. 30, the Fox will be show “The Exorcist,” one of America’s most iconic horror films.

FYI

What: “The Exorcist”

Where: Fox Theatre, 17 W. Congress St.

When: Oct. 30, 7:30 p.m.

Cost: $7 general, $5 military, student and senior discount

Details: 624-1515

Pride events fill October calendar

Compiled by Miki Jennings

While June is the official lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender pride month, the city of Tucson tends to hold more pride events in October.

The milder weather creates a more inviting environment for Tucson’s LGBTQ (the “Q” stands for “questioning”) community and allies.

Scheduled events include:

Multifaith Pride Service: “Love Wins”

Oct. 11

Grace St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, , 2331 E. Adams St., will host an LGBTQ-friendly religious service from 7-9 p.m. This year’s theme is “Love Wins.”

The Multifaith Pride Service is a collaboration between the church, the Wingspan Multifaith Working Group and the LGBT Jewish Inclusion Project.

Doors open at 6 p.m. A reception will follow the service.

For more information, call 577-8383, extension 218, or email lgbtinfo@jfsa.org.

Pride on Parade, Pride in the Desert

Oct. 13

Tucson’s 35th annual pride events Oct. 11-13 will feature all-local business venders and stage performers.

Standard admission is free, but VIP tent passes are available. A pass costs $25 for Saturday or $30 for the entire weekend.

The Oct. 13 Pride on Parade will start at 11 a.m. on Sixth Avenue at 18^th Street, and move north to Armory Park. This year’s theme is “Pride Links Us Together.”

Pride in the Desert festivities begin Oct. 13 at noon at Armory Park, 220 S. Fifth Ave.

Entertainment from 2-8 p.m. will include Flight School, Leila Lopez, Jaime J, Grite Leon, Janee Starr, Cirque Roots, Courtney Robbins and Black Cherry Burlesque.

A multifaith group commitment ceremony will be held in the Armory Park Senior Center at 6:30 p.m.

Other weekend events include a Queertopia pool party on Oct. 12 and an after-party at Hotel Congress on Oct. 13.

For details, visit tucsonpride.org/2012 or downtowntucson.org.

All-inclusive yoga with YOGA(y)

Fluxx Studios is hosting a new YOGA(y) yoga and meditation class on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. The instructors stress an all-inclusive attitude and welcoming space.

The studio, located at 414 E. Ninth St. near Fourth Avenue, is open to people of all backgrounds and sexual orientations looking for a safe and accepting yoga studio.

There is a suggested donation of $5 to $10, but no one will be turned away. The instructors welcome yoga newbies as well as yogis needing special accommodations.

Bring your water bottle and a yoga mat if you have one. A select number of mats are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information, visit facebook.com/yogayisokay.

Miki Jennings/Aztec Press 2010 photo

BEST BETS: Geeks flock to Congress Nintendo Party; beer and wine tasting

LIVE MUSIC

Compiled by Bruce Hardt

Sept. 15:

Nintendo Party featuring Minibosses at Club Congress, 311 E. Congress St. 9 p.m. $3. 21 and up. Details: hotelcongress.com/2012/08/20/nintendo-party-w-the-minibosses-special-guests.

Engage in some wholesome, affordable nerdiness at a Nintendo Party at Club Congress. In celebration of 1980s and ‘90s culture, this event will tickle your nostalgia with an eclectic assortment of activities.

Old-school video game aficionados can prove their go-kart, evil wizard-defeating abilities in a Nintendo-platform tournament.

Those unlearned in the skills of noob decimation will have the options of pizza decorating, vintage toy showcases, an ‘80s and ‘90s costume contest and an art exhibition.

Music lovers will also be treated to the music of Minibosses, a Chandler-based stoner metal band whose nerd-inspired music is appropriate for such an event.

Come out, geek out and, most importantly, have fun.

Sept. 22:

Suicidal Tendencies at The Rock, 136 N. Park Ave. 7 p.m. $25. All ages. Details: rocktucson.com/suicidal-tendencies.

Thrash and hardcore punk legends Suicidal Tendencies will grace Tucson with their presence, providing fans with possibly one of the best live heavy-music performances in southern Arizona this year.

Mike Muir is Suicidal Tendencies’ continuous maestro. Since forming the Venice Beach, Calif., band in 1981, Muir has worked with a pantheon of talented musicians to create a superior brand of thrash-infused hardcore.

Their sound is replete with ferocity, angst and potent commentary, augmented with breakneck speed and sweeping riffs.

Hillbilly Bo and Flying Donkey Punch will support the headliners.

For any professed fan of metal and general brutality, Suicidal Tendencies is a performance not to be missed.

BEER AND WINE TASTING

Compiled by Miki Jennings

Tastings are a great way to develop a more discerning palate and figure out what kinds of drinks you like. Check out tastings at these local businesses and try something new.

Borderlands

Beer tastings are held every Wednesday and Friday from 4-7 p.m. and Saturday from noon-4 p.m. Tastings extend to 7 p.m. during Second Saturdays celebrations.

Pints range from $4-$5.

Borderlands’ beers have a great taste. Names worthy of Arizona include Ol’ Loco (an India pale ale), Santa Rita (amber ale), La Morena (nutty brown ale) and Prickly Pear Wheat beer. My favorite is their Noche Dulce, a refreshing vanilla porter.

Food trucks are on-site Wednesdays and Fridays. Live music plays every Friday.

FYI:

Borderlands Brewing Company

Address: 119 E. Toole Ave.

Phone: 261-8773

Website: borderlandsbrewing.com

Beer tasting hours:

Wednesdays and Fridays: 4-7 p.m.

Saturdays: noon-4 p.m. (noon-7 p.m. during Second Saturdays)

Cost: $4-$5 per pint.

Pastiche

Pastiche is a more upscale establishment on Campbell Avenue, just north of the University of Arizona. The restaurant offers wine tastings every Friday from 5-6:30 p.m. Cost is $5.05 per person.

FYI:

Pastiche

Address: 3025 N. Campbell Ave.

Phone: 325-3333

Website: pasticheme.com

Wine tasting hours: Fridays: 5-6:30 p.m.

Cost: $5.05

DESTINATIONS: Hat’s Games: a store for role-play

By THOMAS F. JOHNSON

Racks of books, glass cases filled with “Warhammer” miniatures and a barrel of dice greet customers who step inside Hat’s Games.

Insignia from “Magic the Gathering” and “Warhammer 40000” adorn walls of the store, which caters to tabletop role-playing, war, board and card games.

A custom “Warhammer” robot stands more than 2 feet tall, towering over miniatures that measure less than 5 inches.

The front counter contains a plethora of snacks for sale. Tables for playing games crowd a vast back room.

Patrons can expect to always find at least one or two people playing games of every kind. Dozens of gamers attend on the most packed nights.

Gamer David Spirack, who plays in a Generic Universal Role-Playing System every Tuesday, said he works across the street from Hat’s and decided to check it out.

“It was sort of an accident,” he said.

When he saw the wide, sprawling back room, he knew the store was the place for him.

Manager Dave Hat started the store by taking out a loan to buy the remnants of a long-gone business called “Things for Thinkers.” The salvaged items had been stored in an old train car.

Hat’s advice on how to get into gaming: “Check out the local community. If you like the community, then buy the starter.”

First you must find a gaming group to join.

“There are some groups who meet every day, and some that only meet once a month,” Hat said. “Depends on what suits you.”

The store dedicates lots of shelf space to “Pathfinder,” a spinoff/competitor to “Dungeons & Dragons.”

Hat suggested that interested gamers visit the store on days the Pathfinder Society meets.

The group’s next gathering will be May 20.

Tuesdays are usually the best night for getting a game going at Hat’s, Spirack said.

Searching for games online via the meetup.com website is another option.

Spirack has noticed a decline in gamer turnout over the last few months. He speculated it could be because of a temporary lull, or because several game masters were not able to continue their games.

Other top Hat’s sellers include role-playing games that are spinoffs of “Warhammer 40000,” such as “Dark Heresy,” “Deathwatch” and “Rogue Trader.”

The store does not carry the “World of Darkness” and “Dungeons & Dragons” games, Hat said, because of their move to online-exclusive content and because their parent companies don’t provide support for small game store owners like him.

Things might change with the advent of an upcoming fifth edition of “Dungeons & Dragons,” he added.

Hat, who doesn’t have time to game as often as he would like, said his favorites are sci-fi, board games, card games and historical games.

He said the weirdest thing that has happened in his store was when a ringtail cat lived on the roof. The critter snuck in at night and ate snacks.

In the future, Hat wants to expand by acquiring several other entertainment-oriented stores. A comic store currently occupies a separate section of his floor space.

However, games will remain his main focus.

Gamers gather on a Tuesday night to play a Generic Universal Role-Playing System, or GURPS, campaign. Photo by Thomas Johnson.

FOODIE FINDS: Coffee shops and study places

By MIKI JENNINGS

As the semester comes to a close, many of us spend long days and late nights writing essays and studying for finals.

Whether it be a loud roommate or distracting electronics, home might not be the best study place.

To keep from losing time to video games or hanging out with friends, many students go to designated study areas.

And what better commodity to have at your study space than coffee to keep you energized while you work?

Here’s a list of coffee shops around the different Pima campuses to check out for study purposes as well as the caffeine.

DESERT VISTA

CaffeNation

Address: 3191 E. Valencia Road Phone: 294-4995

Hours: Daily, 6 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Website: caffenation.com

If you don’t actually like the taste of coffee, you’re in luck.

CaffeNation offers a huge selection of specialty-flavored mochas that can come hot, iced or blended.

For less than $4, you can get a 16-ounce mocha in just about any flavor you can think of, including chocolate cherry, orange, peppermint, caramel, French silk and peanut butter.

Every menu item is moderately priced. A small hot chocolate costs less than $2. For under $3, you can get a muffin, scone or bagel with cream cheese.

DOWNTOWN CAMPUS

Epic Cafe

Address: 745 N. Fourth Ave.

Phone: 624-6844

Hours: Daily, 6 a.m.-midnight

Website: epic-cafe.com

Less than a mile from Downtown Campus, Epic is conveniently located on the north end of Fourth Avenue and offers a great menu of drip coffee, espresso and blended drinks.

I recommend the blended brownie mocha. For about $4.50, you get a big cup full of brownie-flavored coffee slush. Doesn’t sound amazing? Try it. Get it with whipped cream. Study. Be happy.

The Wi-Fi  can get slow during peak hours, so try to visit when it’s not too busy.

EAST CAMPUS

Crave Coffee Bar

Address: 4530 E. Broadway Blvd.

Phone: 445-6665

Hours: Daily, 6 a.m.-11 p.m.

It’s a bit of a drive from East Campus, but unfortunately there’s not much of coffee selection nearby. There are plenty of Starbucks in the area, but Crave has an atmosphere only a local cafe can offer.

It offers a full menu of assorted hot and cold beverages, plus delicious pastries and desserts such as fresh-baked muffins, apple strudel and tiramisu.

NORTHWEST CAMPUS

Glass Onion Cafe

Address: 1990 W. River Road

Phone: 293-6050

Hours: Vary daily. See website.

Website: glassonioncafe.com

The Glass Onion Cafe might be the most unusual coffee shop in town. The place is fun, with a long drink menu offering coffee, hot chocolate and even milkshakes.

The food menu includes soup and salads, vegetarian and vegan options and Beatles-themed sandwiches like “Why Don’t We Do It in the Roast?”

The Glass Onion hosts music and open mic nights at week’s end, so keep that in mind if you’re hoping for a quiet spot.

The cafe opens at 7 a.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. on weekends. It closes between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. during the week.

WEST CAMPUS

Sparkroot

Address: 245 E. Congress St.

Phone: 272-8949

Hours: Monday-Saturday, 7 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, 8 a.m.-9 p.m.

Website: http://sparkroot.com

West Campus also lacks a decent selection of nearby businesses.

For something different, head a few miles east to downtown to Sparkroot, an artsy little space with unique decor and a tasty menu.

Sparkroot has drip coffee for about $3. Lattes and great hot chocolate cost about $4. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the specialty “Nola” coffee drink for $3. The menu also offers pressed panini sandwiches.

A cup of hot chocolate from artsy Sparkroot costs about $4. Photo by Miki Jennings.

G&L Import offers cornucopia of exotic items

By THOMAS F. JOHNSON

G&L Import is a truly unique shopping destination that every Tucsonan should explore.

Foreign brands line the shelves of this large Asian market. Oriental pottery, fans and incense appear at the front. Oddly-shaped fruits adorn the produce section. The deeper in you go, the more wondrously exotic the items get.

The produce section contains staples such as peas, tomatoes and carrots mixed in with oddities like bitter melons, fuzzy melons, lychees and longans. The latter two fruits are delicious, and a must-buy.

It gets more interesting from there.

Each item carried is distinctly skewed toward Asian cuisine, with one aisle dedicated to tea alone. Various dumplings fill an entire freezer.

The store carries so many exotic sauces that the lone Western brand, Hunts Barbecue, seemed wildly out of place.

Aisles are organized by type of staple, such as confections, starch, beans, sugar and Asian spices. They’re also organized by country of origin.

The market sells cookware, furniture and tacky Western knick knacks. More unusual trinkets include scrolls, ceramic stamps, small Buddha and Bhudai statues, cash swords for Chinese exorcisms and hell money (fake money meant to be burned so the departed can use it in the afterlife).

There’s a large, $2,000 stone statue that would not look out of place in some ancient temple.

The dessert aisle contains pineapple cake, egg crackers, cookie balls, apple pudding and mochi (rice flour dumplings with a sweet filling).

Vinegar bags that resemble Capri Sun drinks list flavors such as apple, grape, peach and plum. I didn’t try one, so cannot judge the taste.

The staff was courteous, even as I walked around the store scribbling notes on the giant bags of MSG for sale. Staffers seemed slightly bemused when I mentioned plans to write an article.

The store’s out-of-the-ordinary selection may leave some browsers asking, “What am I supposed to do with a giant jug of banana sauce?”

But G&L Import is perfect for anyone seeking ingredients for out-there recipes. You know, the ones that make us ask, “Where am I supposed to find a jar of hoisin sauce?”

FYI

G&L Import

Address: 4828 E. 22nd St.

Phone: 790-9016

PCC students Mike Lambert and Andrew Westhoven shop at G&L with Lambert's daughter, Mariah.

Spring Festivals

By VANESSA AVILA

It’s starting to get hot out, but that’s no excuse to skip these spring festivals.
They’re sure to keep you entertained and remind you that Tucson has more to offer than scorching weather.

Festival en el Barrio
April 7
Festival en el Barrio will feature Calexico, Grupo Fantasma and Megafaun on April 7 from 2-8 p.m.
There will be two stages as well as crafts and food. The festival will be held in the streets of El Presidio neighborhood near the Tucson Museum of Art, 166 W. Alameda St.
Tickets are available at the Rialto box office and Bookmans.
For more information, visit barriofestival.com.

Spring Fling
April 12-15
Associated Students of the University of Arizona’s Spring Fling is back again from April 12-15.
The carnival is the largest student-run carnival in the nation, providing more than 25 rides and games. At least 20 different food booths offer a wide variety ranging from corn dogs to crab puffs.
Spring Fling is organized and planned by student directors and UA student volunteers to bring fun and excitement to the Tucson community, while raising money for their clubs and organizations.
Admission is $5 each day, and free with CatCard or military ID. Parking is $5. Ride ticket prices vary.
The Spring Fling will be held at Rillito Downs, First Avenue at River Road. There will be a free UA shuttle for transportation.
Visit springfling.arizona.edu/Spring_Fling or call 621-5610 for more information. 


Arizona International Film Festival
April 13-29
More than 100 films representing 18 countries will be featured in Arizona’s longest running film festival, April 13-29.
The films will be featured at venues such as Reel Arts 6, The Screening Room, Crossroads Festival, Desert View Theatre and other theaters throughout Southern Arizona.
For a schedule of films and more information, visit filmfestivalarizona.com or call 882-0204.

Chalk Art Festival
April 14-15
Southern Arizona Arts and cultural Alliance will present a kaleidoscope of colors at Park Place Mall.
Professional and amateur artists, students, children and attendees will all participate in the festival to collaborate on colorful works of art.
The Chalk Art Festival will also feature a kid zone, where children ages 3-12 will be able to create their own chalk art.
The event will take place at Park Place Mall, 5870 E. Broadway Blvd. For more information call 797-3959 or visit saaca.org.

Best Bets

LIVE MUSIC

April 17:

St. Vincent with tUnE-yArDs at Rialto Theatre, 311 E. Congress St. Doors open 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. $19 in advance/$22 day of show, all ages. Details: rialtotheatre.com

OK, kids. Grab your v-necks and cut-off shorts and make your way to the Rialto Theatre on Tuesday, April 17, for St. Vincent with tUnE-yArDs.

If you spend half as much time as I do paddling through the latest indie “hits” on YouTube, you’ve probably come across these acts.

Annie Erin Clark is an American singer-songwriter who previously played with the Polyphonic Spree and Sufjan Stevens before kickstarting St. Vincent.

Honestly, Clark has a beautiful voice but nothing far from what you hear from Beach House’s Victoria Legrand or even the indie-chic collective Warpaint.

Don’t get it twisted – the music is still a refreshingly pop-infused, dance party, hell of a time.

Opening for Clark is the only interesting thing to come out of New England lately – the tUnE-yArDs.

Prepare for live drum track loops and an eloquent blend of guitar, xylophone and upbeat vocals.

Annie Erin Clark of St. Vincent

ALBUM
Mars Volta – “Noctourniquet”
Released: March 27

Mars Volta recently announced its return to Indio, Calif., only to grace Coachella’s stage as their previous act, “At The Drive-In.” Volta has dropped its sixth studio album, “Noctourniquet,” since deeming ATDI a musical difference amongst members.

Omar Rodriguez-Lopez (guitar, production) and Cedric Bixler-Zavala (vocals, lyrics) are for the most part, the creative force behind the sound. Most would label Volta as simply progressive, psychedelic or experimental rock.

“Noctourniquet” is an experiment of the experiment, if that makes any sense. For as long as I have been a fan, Mars Volta has stitched together 12-minute acid-based montages, usually riddled half the time with incomprehensible instrumentals.

This album is far from the usual fast-paced, youthfully weird stuff.

If you’re a newbie looking for copycats of “De-loused in the Comatorium” or “Bedlam in Goliath,” stay far from “Noctourniquet.” It’s a much more evolved, toned-down sound. That is, compared to when Thomas Pridgen was drumming.

Overall, I believe it to be an average album – not worth spending $15 on. Wait for someone to sell it back at ZIA, or burn mine.

-Compiled By Kyle R. Wasson

BOOKS IN THE THEATER
Over the years, plenty of storybooks have inspired cinematic works. Some great, some cheesy, some that are worth going back and reading (or rereading) the book before catching it in the theater. So get your library cards ready and check out these titles!

The Lorax:
(Out: now)
This childhood classic written by Dr. Seuss illustrated the effects of deforestation in a colorful and kid-friendly way, 41 years ago. Readers got to watch the struggle between the mustachioed, earth-conscious Lorax and the faceless, money-driven Once-ler. As the Lorax tries to convince the Once-ler to stop tearing down truffula trees to sell his thneeds (a fluffy tree by-product of Seuss’ imagination), the air gets smoggy, water gets polluted and nature overall suffers. Now the story’s back and on the big screen and hopefully it’s not as depressing as the last sentence made it sound.

The Hunger Games:
(Out: now)
“The Hunger Games,” written by Suzanne Collins, is about a post-apocalyptic world that holds annual fights-to-the-death between children and young adults from neighboring districts. Twenty-four 12-18-year olds enter a forest where they use their wits and whatever supplies they can find to survive the three-day battle that ensues. Suspenseful, compelling and visually pleasing, the film is worth checking out.

Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter:
(Out: June 22)
If the title isn’t enough to draw you in, I’m not sure what will get your attention. Originally written by Seth Grahame-Smith, the story chronicles the life of an early Abraham Lincoln. Prior to his presidency, Lincoln was kicking undead ass and taking names more than a century before Buffy came into the picture. At the very least, the storyline has novelty value and puts an original spin on the uninspired vampire genre that we’ve seen so much of lately.

-Compiled by Miki Jennings