Tuesday, February 7, 2017
If you never had the top of your head blown off by heavily storied Brazilian metal monsters Sepultura then you’ve never had the top of your properly blown off.
(Sepultura were the loudest band on earth, we swear it—laid waste to both Slayer and Metallica back in the day).
Now, Sepultura originals, irreplaceable singer/guitarist Max Cavalera and his brother, drummer Iggor (AKA Iggor Skullcrusher!), are out touring the big clubs playing that band’s seminal Roots album, start to finish.
That ’96 release was, um, a skullcrushing, shouldn’t-work-but-does mix of heady acoustic world music, sociopolitical scream-outs and gnarly down-tuned deathmetal. To this day there’s never been an album quite like it. Get your cranium crushed on Friday, Feb. 10 at the Rock, 136 N. Park Ave. With Immolation, Full of Hell, Apostles of Ale, Evasion, Guerilla Tactics at 5 p.m.
Tickets are $24-$27, or you can enter to win below.
Fill out my online form.
Monday, February 6, 2017
The theme of this year’s Valentine’s Day is to be intoxicated by both love and fine wine, and some of Tucson’s best establishments have laid out Valentine’s Day menus that will make you want to daydream about more than just that special someone.
Woops! Bakeshop
This small shop in Main Gate Square transports you into an adorable bakery in France, and if you need any more convincing than that, its treats are even better. Help your sweetheart satisfy his or her sweet tooth with a rainbow assortment of macarons, freshly baked croissants, Belgian waffles and other pastries, while being surrounded by a crisp, white interior and fresh flowers.
The shop will also be debuting its new Dream Cone this Valentine’s Day, which is an espresso drink served in a chocolate-covered waffle cone or mug. Can you say, “best buzz ever?” You can also pre-order limited edition gift boxes of their macarons starting at $20 with any flavors you desire, although Woops! recommends chocolate, raspberry, rose, red velvet, strawberry and strawberry milkshake as their most romantic flavors.
Hotel Congress
Cocktails: The “My Little Peach” drink is made with Stoli peach, fresh lemon juice, Simple Syrup, house-made compote, sparkling float and a blackberry garnish for $9.
Appetizers: Start off the feast with your choice of a mushroom flatbread with roasted wild mushrooms, Arizona pecans, baby greens and more for $9 or a vegetarian onion soup for $7.
Entrees: The main show of the entrees include a 14-ounce grilled New York strip served family style with Brussels sprouts, duchess potatoes and Oscar sauce with jumbo lump crab for $39 or venison osso bucco braised in Riesling with brown butter and sweet potato risotto, pomegranate, squash blossom and pan sauce for $25.
Dessert: Indulge in red velvet crème brulee for two with Nutella biscotti, chai whip and fresh berries for $12.
The fixed cost for the meal is $55 per person not including drinks, tax or tip.
Cocktails:
Raspberry and Roses: Enjoy a drink of muddled raspberry, Tito’s vodka, elderflower, prosecco and rose petals for $10.
Apple Blackberry Smash: Sip on apple vanilla bourbon, muddled blackberry, clover honey and fresh lemon for $12.
Appetizers: Satisfy the munchies from your drinks with one of the following tasty options: roasted sweet potato soup, black truffle and artichoke lasagnette, beef carpaccio, leafy Italian salad, prosciutto bruschetta or arancini.
Entrees: Load up on either grilled branzino, diver scallops, Bolognese, rosemary chicken, burrata tortelloni or red wine-glazed short rib.
Dessert: The sweetest part of the menu includes your choice of salted caramel budino, a dark chocolate tart or tiramisu.
Cocktails: Get your buzz on with nine different tasty drinks, such as sangria or a black and blue mojito. Prices range from $7- $11 a glass. There’s also a variety of wine, beer and champagne on deck.
Appetizers: Start to curb you and your sweetie’s hunger with clam chowder, cold-smoked salmon, farmer’s market salad, pan-fried edamame dumplings, crisp calamari or spinach salad.
Entrees: Dine on either Chef Kevin Handt’s market fish, steelhead salmon, wood-grilled New York steak, bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin, butternut squash agnolotti, Spanish paella or pan-roasted chicken.
Dessert: Choose from a key lime tart, cinnamon doughnuts, chocolate decadence or New York cheesecake.
Spend your Valentine’s Day in Little Italy with this gourmet pizza joint. You can order from the regular winter menu or choose one of Chef Tyler’s Valentine’s specials. You can also pregame or wash down (or both) your delicious food with one of six holiday cocktails for $9 each. The list includes: the Champagne Cocktail, 2 Heartbeats 1 Fire, a Hopeless Romantic, an Airmail, a Kir Royale and an Unrequited Love.
Curb your seafood cravings this Valentine’s Day from 5-11 p.m. at Kingfisher with an expansive spread of an oyster bar, first courses and main entrees. The first courses include your choice of New England clam chowder, charred eggplant, seasonal Mesclun greens, Caesar salad, spinach and Bibb lettuce salad, fattoush with chopped greens, blue crab “Louis” salad, fried calamari, baked oysters Rockefeller or steamed black mussels with Sriracha hot sauce. Dinner courses include pan-seared Arctic Char, macadamia-nut-crusted Hawaiian fish with fried sweet potatoes, grilled sea scallops with Forbidden Rice pilaf, roasted pork tenderloin with potatoes, grilled sea bass, pan-seared and carved duck breast, grilled Scottish salmon with artichoke-swiss chard-parmesan risotto, Bluefin Bouillbaisse or a grilled New York Steak with potatoes.
The main courses include the choices of grilled pork tenderloin with mushroom Marsala, grilled salmon in an Asian setting, Yucatan-plantain-encrusted chicken, steak tampiquena or winter vegetables with creamy polenta, mushroom brood and basil pesto. For dessert, take your pick between a passion panna cotta with almond cookies and pink grapefruit supremes or Ibarra flourless chocolate cake with Kahlua ice cream, chipotle honey and spiced peanut brittle. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available in the menu.
Woops! Bakeshop
This small shop in Main Gate Square transports you into an adorable bakery in France, and if you need any more convincing than that, its treats are even better. Help your sweetheart satisfy his or her sweet tooth with a rainbow assortment of macarons, freshly baked croissants, Belgian waffles and other pastries, while being surrounded by a crisp, white interior and fresh flowers. The shop will also be debuting its new Dream Cone this Valentine’s Day, which is an espresso drink served in a chocolate-covered waffle cone or mug. Can you say, “best buzz ever?” You can also pre-order limited edition gift boxes of their macarons starting at $20 with any flavors you desire, although Woops! recommends chocolate, raspberry, rose, red velvet, strawberry and strawberry milkshake as their most romantic flavors.
Hotel Congress
Cocktails: The “My Little Peach” drink is made with Stoli peach, fresh lemon juice, Simple Syrup, house-made compote, sparkling float and a blackberry garnish for $9. Appetizers: Start off the feast with your choice of a mushroom flatbread with roasted wild mushrooms, Arizona pecans, baby greens and more for $9 or a vegetarian onion soup for $7.
Entrees: The main show of the entrees include a 14-ounce grilled New York strip served family style with Brussels sprouts, duchess potatoes and Oscar sauce with jumbo lump crab for $39 or venison osso bucco braised in Riesling with brown butter and sweet potato risotto, pomegranate, squash blossom and pan sauce for $25.
Dessert: Indulge in red velvet crème brulee for two with Nutella biscotti, chai whip and fresh berries for $12.
North Italia
The fixed cost for the meal is $55 per person not including drinks, tax or tip. Cocktails:
Raspberry and Roses: Enjoy a drink of muddled raspberry, Tito’s vodka, elderflower, prosecco and rose petals for $10.
Apple Blackberry Smash: Sip on apple vanilla bourbon, muddled blackberry, clover honey and fresh lemon for $12.
Appetizers: Satisfy the munchies from your drinks with one of the following tasty options: roasted sweet potato soup, black truffle and artichoke lasagnette, beef carpaccio, leafy Italian salad, prosciutto bruschetta or arancini.
Entrees: Load up on either grilled branzino, diver scallops, Bolognese, rosemary chicken, burrata tortelloni or red wine-glazed short rib.
Dessert: The sweetest part of the menu includes your choice of salted caramel budino, a dark chocolate tart or tiramisu.
Wildflower American Cuisine
The fixed cost for the meal is $55 per person not including drinks, tax or tip.Cocktails: Get your buzz on with nine different tasty drinks, such as sangria or a black and blue mojito. Prices range from $7- $11 a glass. There’s also a variety of wine, beer and champagne on deck.
Appetizers: Start to curb you and your sweetie’s hunger with clam chowder, cold-smoked salmon, farmer’s market salad, pan-fried edamame dumplings, crisp calamari or spinach salad.
Entrees: Dine on either Chef Kevin Handt’s market fish, steelhead salmon, wood-grilled New York steak, bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin, butternut squash agnolotti, Spanish paella or pan-roasted chicken.
Dessert: Choose from a key lime tart, cinnamon doughnuts, chocolate decadence or New York cheesecake.
Reilly Craft Pizza & Drink
Spend your Valentine’s Day in Little Italy with this gourmet pizza joint. You can order from the regular winter menu or choose one of Chef Tyler’s Valentine’s specials. You can also pregame or wash down (or both) your delicious food with one of six holiday cocktails for $9 each. The list includes: the Champagne Cocktail, 2 Heartbeats 1 Fire, a Hopeless Romantic, an Airmail, a Kir Royale and an Unrequited Love.
Kingfisher Bar & Grill
Curb your seafood cravings this Valentine’s Day from 5-11 p.m. at Kingfisher with an expansive spread of an oyster bar, first courses and main entrees. The first courses include your choice of New England clam chowder, charred eggplant, seasonal Mesclun greens, Caesar salad, spinach and Bibb lettuce salad, fattoush with chopped greens, blue crab “Louis” salad, fried calamari, baked oysters Rockefeller or steamed black mussels with Sriracha hot sauce. Dinner courses include pan-seared Arctic Char, macadamia-nut-crusted Hawaiian fish with fried sweet potatoes, grilled sea scallops with Forbidden Rice pilaf, roasted pork tenderloin with potatoes, grilled sea bass, pan-seared and carved duck breast, grilled Scottish salmon with artichoke-swiss chard-parmesan risotto, Bluefin Bouillbaisse or a grilled New York Steak with potatoes. Downtown Kitchen
Feast for $55 per person for three courses or $75 for four courses. The first courses include your choice of a greens, watercress, apple and macadamia salad, sherried black bean soup, tartine of duck rillettes or relleno with mushroom and smoked poblano. The second course options include the choice of U of A roast king oyster mushrooms with creamy polenta and Madeira or Sicilian Lifeguard calamari.The main courses include the choices of grilled pork tenderloin with mushroom Marsala, grilled salmon in an Asian setting, Yucatan-plantain-encrusted chicken, steak tampiquena or winter vegetables with creamy polenta, mushroom brood and basil pesto. For dessert, take your pick between a passion panna cotta with almond cookies and pink grapefruit supremes or Ibarra flourless chocolate cake with Kahlua ice cream, chipotle honey and spiced peanut brittle. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available in the menu.
Ines (Sandra Huller), a terse, corporate type is busy trying to conduct international relations involving big dollars when her dad Winfried (Peter Simonischek) shows up with a goofy wig and fake teeth as Toni Erdmann, corporate coach.
He throws a wrench in the works with his prankster ways, and Ines must learn to lighten up or reject the dad. The results, while a little predictable (and long winded) are fairly interesting thanks mainly to Huller, who anchors the sometimes silly film with a true sense of realism.
Her performance is top notch, and makes the film worth seeing. She also spends a good chunk of the film’s final act—which takes a major turn for the satiric—naked, which is pretty daring.
Simonischek is fun in the dad role, although his antics are sometimes a little too outrageous to buy in what is basically a serious movie about father-daughter relationships and coping in a cold business world.
Director Maren Ade might choose to use a little more restraint with future films (this movie would work fine at two hours and didn’t need nearly three to tell it’s story). While I’m not convinced any daughter would allow her father to mess with her at work in this fashion and is anything near realistic, it is a movie where make believe things happen, and a nicely enjoyable one at that.
This is Germany’s current Oscar nominee for Best Foreign Language Film.
Friday, February 3, 2017
The Manchester band that set Britain afire with their self-titled 1989 debut followed a lineage from Joy Division and The Fall to Happy Mondays.
After the Roses? Oasis.
The Euro media set these young men up to take over the globe and set a new course for pop music. It never quite worked out that way, even with that Spike Island concert that further elevated them to superstar status. American radio ignored them. Because even with all the hype, the baggy clothes, the ecstasy, and the onslaught of awards and praise, one more bad contract wouldn’t allow them to put out that ever-important sophomore album to make it clear that they were the real deal.
A lot had changed by the time they won their case and signed to Geffen Records for a hefty million pounds, proving that, at the very least, the big boys had confidence, that they could grow their popularity in America and make the record so many believed they were capable of. At the end of ’94 they released that record. Called Second Coming, it featured the single “Love Spreads.” Tinged in hard rock the newer sound had the same clever rhythm section and Ian Brown's understated vocals, which, even in the beginning, felt like they took too many takes and a throat that rarely left one feeling inspired … The record proved again that John Squire was a great guitarist, especially in his neo-psychedelic, wah-wah pedal style. That was so clear on the Roses' first album. But this one felt forced … like trying to be Jimmy Page and a list of lesser white blues players who leave most listeners cold. You're a dime-a-dozen if you can't play four chords and make a listener tear up.
Now, two decades after their last release—with all the band’s crazy mythology, its broken members nearly forgotten—The Stone Roses put out two singles, the first dull and missing the mark, but the second, "Beautiful thing," hits it. It begins with the tried-and-true backwards guitar sliding into that cool, medium groove where the rhythm section always shined. And, sure, Ian's voice didn't become a British superstar voice, but it is unpretentious with a hook of a chorus while John Squire lets loose, and just in time, and with a less-is-more approach. If you were ever into the band or the “Madchester” scene, listen to this single. Had they come back with this on that sophomore slump, who knows what might have happened? There's a line in "Something's Burning," from first album—a wonderful piece of British rock ’n’ roll while Ian sang, “Don't count your chickens/’Cause they're never gonna hatch/You can't catch a monkey with shotgun and a sack.” And that says something about the business of pop music—it may have taken an awful long time to get it wrong, then right again, so turn it up and wish them well. Because second, even third chances come around so rarely.
After the Roses? Oasis.
The Euro media set these young men up to take over the globe and set a new course for pop music. It never quite worked out that way, even with that Spike Island concert that further elevated them to superstar status. American radio ignored them. Because even with all the hype, the baggy clothes, the ecstasy, and the onslaught of awards and praise, one more bad contract wouldn’t allow them to put out that ever-important sophomore album to make it clear that they were the real deal.
A lot had changed by the time they won their case and signed to Geffen Records for a hefty million pounds, proving that, at the very least, the big boys had confidence, that they could grow their popularity in America and make the record so many believed they were capable of. At the end of ’94 they released that record. Called Second Coming, it featured the single “Love Spreads.” Tinged in hard rock the newer sound had the same clever rhythm section and Ian Brown's understated vocals, which, even in the beginning, felt like they took too many takes and a throat that rarely left one feeling inspired … The record proved again that John Squire was a great guitarist, especially in his neo-psychedelic, wah-wah pedal style. That was so clear on the Roses' first album. But this one felt forced … like trying to be Jimmy Page and a list of lesser white blues players who leave most listeners cold. You're a dime-a-dozen if you can't play four chords and make a listener tear up.
Now, two decades after their last release—with all the band’s crazy mythology, its broken members nearly forgotten—The Stone Roses put out two singles, the first dull and missing the mark, but the second, "Beautiful thing," hits it. It begins with the tried-and-true backwards guitar sliding into that cool, medium groove where the rhythm section always shined. And, sure, Ian's voice didn't become a British superstar voice, but it is unpretentious with a hook of a chorus while John Squire lets loose, and just in time, and with a less-is-more approach. If you were ever into the band or the “Madchester” scene, listen to this single. Had they come back with this on that sophomore slump, who knows what might have happened? There's a line in "Something's Burning," from first album—a wonderful piece of British rock ’n’ roll while Ian sang, “Don't count your chickens/’Cause they're never gonna hatch/You can't catch a monkey with shotgun and a sack.” And that says something about the business of pop music—it may have taken an awful long time to get it wrong, then right again, so turn it up and wish them well. Because second, even third chances come around so rarely.
Tags: Billy Sedlmayr , Stone Roses , Ian Brown , John Squire
Paul Verhoeven, who never really recovered from the delicious calamity that was Showgirls (although Starship Troopers was pretty good), tries his hand again at a female empowerment movie (Yes, Showgirls was supposed to be a female empowerment movie) and he fails miserably.
Isabelle Huppert labors away as Michele, owner of a company that makes terrible videogames. As the film begins, we see her victimized in a graphic assault scene that Verhoeven revisits again and again throughout the film. Michele takes an unconventional approach to the event and, as the mystery of who the assailant is plays out, the movie goes off the rails with weirdness.
I guess Verhoeven is shooting for satire here, but what he winds up with is a ragged, less glossy rehash of eighties flicks like Jagged Edge. It’s a bad mystery movie that’s trying to be shocking and even funny, but it all feels desperate and trashy. Huppert is a great actress, and she does all she can with what she’s given. Verhoeven, on the other hand, has basically lost it. Actually, he lost it a long time ago. Maybe another director could’ve made the strange elements balance out, rather than having all feel exploitive and wasteful.
I hate movies that revel in their cleverness when they are totally not clever. I also hate that the movie tries to explain Michele’s behavior towards her assailant as a product of her violent past. Also, you’ll guess the killer long before the movie is half over. This is garbage.
Yes, I know it’s getting a lot of awards and nominations. It’s still garbage.
Thursday, February 2, 2017
Formerly a “Citizen of Portlandia,” comedian Kristine Levine brings 18 years’ experience as a comic to her new-to-Tucson show, Critical Comedy. Her unique format, an improbably entertaining combination workshop and mentoring session, was a hit in Portland for three years before she moved here last year. She now hosts what she calls an “episode” every Wednesday at 8 p.m. at Mint Cocktails.
The Jan. 25 series opener featured professionals rarely seen in Tucson’s many other open mics, no doubt a show of respect to their colleague but also likely because Levine’s keen comedy ear and spontaneous patter make the show as valuable as it is fun. “Tucson comics are just so kind and helpful and generous,” she says.
A veteran touring comic, most recently with Doug Stanhope, Levine also has guested at the Edinburgh Festival, among others, and appeared on several episodes of the series Portlandia, including the “Journaling Workshop” at the Woman and Woman First bookstore. Much of her comedy revolves around her eccentric mothering (she and her three kids have podcast their exploits) and ribald anecdotes from her years as a clerk in a porn store.
Each “episode” of critical comedy begins with seven to ten comics delivering material they’re working out.
“I ask them to bring in jokes that they're trying to get ready for shows,” she says. These are bits that the punchline isn't landing like you need it to, or you need some tags for it or it’s too long. You need to take some teeth out and make it funny. After you do your bit, I'm going to lead discussion, and we're going to ask questions or we're going to give you comic advice. That is always needed and I find the experience is valuable for everyone.
“Basically (the audience) can come and watch how comics discuss comedy, and how jokes are born, but the big picture, really, is to foster mentorship in comedy,” Levine says. Critical Comedy is free at 8 p.m., Wednesdays, at Mint Cocktails, 3540 E. Grant Road.
PLUS: Comedy Train Wreck!
Good luck on Wednesday, Feb. 8, comedy lovers! Levine’s Critical Comedy is at 8, but Female Storytellers starts at 7:30 p.m. at The Flycatcher, 340 E. 6th St., and Michael Paul Kohn is featured at Brew Ha Ha, an irregularly scheduled monthly comedy show at Borderlands Brewery, 119 E. Toole Ave. But don't count on heading to Mr. Heads afterward. After four years, the venerable pro Pauly Casillas hosted his last 10:30 p.m. open mic there on Feb. 1.
Your Weekly guide to keeping busy in the Old Pueblo.
Pick of the Week: The Gem Show
International Gem and Jewelry Show Tucson: It's that time of the year again: White tents are popping up all over town and Tucson's tourism season is in full swing. The best treasure hunt ever takes place right here in Tucson with more than 40 gem and mineral shows across the city. Pick one (or 20) shows to stop in at, admire the jewelry, beads and foils and shop for some of the most beautiful rocks you'll ever see! Visit Tucson has the details on the locations, times and any entrance fees for the various shows.
Cinema
Lesbian Looks presents Southwest of Salem: Relive the tumultuous times when four young Latina lesbians became entangled in a modern-day witch-hunt in San Antonia, Texas through this eye-opening documentary. 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2. The Loft Cinema, 3233 E. Speedway Blvd. Free.
The Incredibly Strange Creatures Who Stopped Living and Became Mixed-Up Zombies: Enjoy this monstrously entertaining musical of this 1960s cult classic, complete with all the catchy song-and-dance numbers you could ever want. The Loft Cinema will be showing this as part of Mondo Musicals Month. 8 p.m. Monday, Feb. 6. 3233 E. Speedway Blvd. $3 general admission or $2 for members.
Seed: The Untold Story: Watch the Tucson premiere of the breakthrough documentary depicting the people behind the political and agricultural aspects of the food industry throughout the world. Stay after the movie too for a Q & A with Belle Starr and Bill McDorman of the Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance. 2-5:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 5. The Loft Cinema, 3233 E. Speedway Blvd. $8 or $6 for Loft members.
1 Year Anniversary at Casa Film Bar: Knock back one or two limited, aged bottled beers while watching classics like Edge of Tomorrow and Groundhog Day. If the munchies hit you, you can grab a hot dog from a You Sly Dog's food truck from 5-9 p.m. too. 5-11 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2. 2905 E. Speedway Blvd. Beer, wine and coffee prices vary.
First Friday Shorts: If you haven't been yet, it's time. On the first Friday of each month at Red Meat’s Max Cannon (yes, that cartoonist you love to send us letters about) hosts the biggest, baddest short film contest in town. Bring your short film (before the show starts, plz) and they’ll play the first 15. Every film plays for at least 3 minutes, but after that the audience can call for respite. Or just don't bring your own art and just come to judge other people's. Whatever suits your fancy. Just remember: The monthly grand prize is $200, and the yearly grand prize is $1,000—that's a lot cash you could be spending at the Gem Show. 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3. The Loft Cinema, 3233 E. Speedway Blvd. $6.
Community
Civil Rights and Immigration Law Under the Trump Administration: The tides are changing with our new president – and fast. Have concerns about new policies? Want to be more educated on Trump's decisions so far? Come listen and participate in this open forum with four lawyers who are experts in these topics at the Muslim Community Center of Tucson. 10 a.m.-noon. Saturday, Feb. 4. 5100 N. Kevy Pl. Free.
Savor Food and Wine Festival: Are you a foodie? Just want an excuse to eat amazing food and get a casual buzz? Go to this event; the ticket price includes drinks and menu samplings from over 75 local wineries, breweries and restaurants. The menu offerings are catered to highlight the diversity of Southwest food. Bonus: you'll be surrounded by the grounds of a beautiful garden. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4. Tucson Botanical Gardens, 2150 N. Alvernon Way. $65 per person.
Wine and Garden: Succulent Terrarium Garden: Be surrounded by beauties of the desert while learning how to plant and grow succulents and other garden varieties. With a glass of wine in your hand too, how much more relaxation could you ask for? 1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8. Green Things, 3384 E. River Rd. $5.
Ballet Tucson Winter Concert 'Love Songs and Other Dances': Treat your valentine to this concert featuring big band swing tunes, romantic duets, and famous opera numbers. 2/3: 7:30 p.m., 2/4: 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., 2/5: 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3- Sunday, Feb. 5. Stevie Eller Dance Studio, 1737 E. University Blvd. General Admission: $45, Seniors/Military/Students: $40.
Frida's Roots: Frida Kahlo as Subject and Object in Contemporary Art: Edward J. Sullivan, an art history professor from New York University, will be giving a lecture at the Pima Community College district office on the influences of popular culture in the iconic Frida Kahlo's work. 6-7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3. 4905 E. Broadway Blvd. Free.
2017 Arizona Chinese New Year Festival: Ring in the Year of the Rooster while watching performances from over 200 Chinese folk singers, dancers, instrumentalists and martial artists. 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4. Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Blvd. Price TBD.
Flame Off: Come watch 18 of the world’s hottest glass artists battle it out in this 16th annual glassblowing contest. Glass makers will participate in one of two 90-minute competitions to create glass art that sticks to this year’s theme: “The Textures and Sparkle of Tucson’s Gem Show.” See anything that strikes your fancy? You can bid on pieces during the competition, at the Sonoran Glass Art Show tent or Flame Off’s Facebook page starting Saturday, Feb. 4. Each finished product will be auctioned off with proceeds benefiting the Sonoran Glass School. Also be sure to browse through The Sonoran Glass Art Show showcase during the event. Peruvian fare, bratwursts and burritos among the options for purchase from several food trucks. Those 21+ can also buy wine and local craft beers. VIP tickets include a VIP lanyard, preferred seating, two drink tickets and access to Sonoran Glass School’s VIP lounge. Order tickets at www.sonoranglass.org/flameofftickets or at the door. 7 p.m.- 11 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3. 633 W. 18th St. General admission: $20, VIP: $50.
Reed Karaim Book Reading: Listen to Reed Karaim read his book, The Winter in Anna, at Antigone Books. The book has been described as “haunting” and “emotionally-generous” as it follows the narrative of a young journalist as he begins to learn a coworker’s dark secrets. It sounds like one of those books that can bring goose bumps to your skin. You don’t want to miss it! 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3. 411 N. 4th Ave. Free.
Music
Ynot: What a bill! A roundup of some of the 520’s best, brightest rappers, and more, headed by battle-rap champ and budding clothing mogul Ynot. Known to his mom as Anthony Ardrey, this kid Ynot has that look in his eye when he spits that says there’s nothing else in the world that matters but that very moment—he forever hits from his gut and from his heart. His freestyles are crazily dead-on, especially when he drops in scathing anti-Trump screeds. He masterfully blends old-school underground battlers like Esham with fluid jazzy-speak of somebody like Madlib. But his fresh flow is refashioned for the young and the restless, and the pissed off. He’s toured the country, has pockets of followers on the coasts and flyover states, and he has gone lengths to help place the Old Pueblo on the national rap map, however unlikely that may seem to some folks. Real deal flash, man. With Cash Lansky, Marley B, Tommy Will, Jae Tilt, and EZ Goin. On Friday, Feb. 3 at 8 p.m. Club Congress, 311 E. Congress. $10. 21+.
Cash’d Out: Full discloser: We’ve never seen Cash’d Out. But a few of our trusted (um, non-stoner) pals have, and they tell us that this San Diego-based Johnny Cash tribute is as the close to “the real shit as you can get.” Yeah, that’s saying a lot considering that nearly every musical tribute act we’ve ever seen—from hairball Jovi tributes to straight-to-hell Clash homages—are but gushy sycophants taking idolatry to growth-stunting extremes. Besides, both The Clash and Johnny Cash are sacred, so why on God’s green earth fuck with them? Having said that, and understanding just how the Man in Black single-handedly altered the course of rock ’n’ roll, folk, country and even soul music, we here at TW HQ are looking forward to seeing Cash’d Out. We want to trip through Cash’s scrappy, speed-addled Sun Records run, dig his “Bitter Tears” era of Native America activism, be caressed by his barrel-rumble vocal tones on gospel zingers like “Peace In The Valley,” etc. In short, we want Trump out of our heads and can think of no better way this week than through a worthy replica of the troubled saint Cash. Saturday, Feb. 4 at 191 Toole. 8 p.m. $12-$15. 21+.
Zeppelin USA: Two big tribute acts hit major venues in the Moldy Pueblo this week, so let’s not underestimate the ticket-selling power of mixing musical theater with the backward gaze. And anyone old enough to remember old cocaine rock bars in Tucson back in the late-’70s and early ’80s will recall you couldn’t fling a pair of flared satin hip-huggers without hitting a goofy Zep cover band mangling “D’yer Mak’er.” A couple of us here at TW were in our early teens then so we sorta remember those days and that’s how we know how difficult it is to tackle Zep with any necessary subtly and grace. That’s what makes Zeppelin USA miraculous. They forego the posturing—Plant’s patented poodle shag/Christ pose and Page’s spine curvature/glam boots are nowhere to be seen—but absolutely nail the sonics, managing to capture some of the soul and feel of the real Zep. It’s uncanny (even if they do look more a Free tribute band). Close your eyes and the folky acoustics of “That’s The Way” will send you straight to Bron-Y-Aur, and the sex-riff chords of “Living Loving Maid” will get you right in the skirt. Page, Plant, Bonham and Jones haven’t sounded like this since ’79. Saturday, Feb. 4 at The Rialto Theatre, 318 E. Congress. 7 p.m. $24-$28. All ages.
Max & Iggor Cavalera Return To Roots: If you never had the top of your head blown off by heavily storied Brazilian metal monsters Sepultura then you’ve never had the top of your properly blown off. (Sepultura were the loudest band on earth, we swear it—laid waste to both Slayer and Metallica back in the day). Now, Sepultura originals, irreplaceable singer/guitarist Max Cavalera and his brother, drummer Iggor (AKA Iggor Skullcrusher!), are out touring the big clubs playing that band’s seminal Roots album, start to finish. That ’96 release was, um, a skullcrushing, shouldn’t-work-but-does mix of heady acoustic world music, sociopolitical scream-outs and gnarly down-tuned deathmetal. To this day there’s never been an album quite like it. Get your cranium crushed on Friday, Feb. 10 at the Rock, 136 N. Park Ave. With Immolation, Full of Hell, Apostles of Ale, Evasion, Guerilla Tactics. 5 p.m. $24-$27.
Drab Majesty: This guy called Deb DeMure, who is Drab Majesty, looks fetchingly like what would result if you crossed a young Alice Cooper with a Warhol Factory girl and dressed him/her in Marc Jacobs’ glam-goth line introduced into couture last fall. So, yeah, any observer would expect a certain self-seriousness about Drab’s brand of gray-day, synth-and-programmed-drums pop. But it’s much smarter and hookier and challenging than one might expect. Any fan of Peter Murphy or Cocteau Twins or even Joy Division would love Drab’s latest, the just-released The Demonstration—recorded by somber-sonic guru Josh Eustis (NIN, Telefon Tel Aviv)—it rises and falls on all the reference points used by great downer-poppers of yore, without sounding all retro. Sure, DeMure calls his comely din “tragic wave,” but we’d prefer to call it “cool metro,” to borrow a phrase from old David Jo. With I Am Drugs and Rough Night on Tuesday, Feb. 7 at The Flycatcher, 340 E. 6th St. 9 p.m. 21+. Free.
Authority Zero: Hard to believe this Arizona punk-pop-ska combo has been together for more than two decades, because that’s no mean feat. For one thing, it’s really hard for punk dudes to hang together that long—just having to, for example, smell the bass player’s feet wears on groups. But the band has killed it, almost quietly, both stateside and internationally, beginning in the early aughts. Their relationship with Atlantic Records yielded lots of fruit including our fave, 2004’s massive, diverse (by punk standards) and punchy Andiamo. The suckerpunch anthems and singsong metalist refrains just get under your skin. It’s the sound of angry suburbia, which never seems to tire, and their signature tune, “Revolution,” is perfectly relevant right now with that horrible creep in office. The band’s AZ following has remained steadfast too, because good songs can do that for bands. With Endless Pursuit, Desert Fish, and Mouse Powell on Thursday, Feb. 9 at the Rock, 136 N. Park Ave. $16-$18. 7 p.m. All ages.
UA Presents: Bettye LaVette: Ever heard of Bettye LaVette? Not many have. The Grammy-nominated vocalist was part of the 1960s Detroit music scene but never quite achieved the stardom of her era’s fellow singers. Those actually familiar with LaVette have dubbed her “The Godmother of Soul. LaVette will put her powerful, unique voice on display when she takes the stage at the Fox Theatre. 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8. 17 W. Congress St. $15-$50.
Pick of the Week: The Gem Show
International Gem and Jewelry Show Tucson: It's that time of the year again: White tents are popping up all over town and Tucson's tourism season is in full swing. The best treasure hunt ever takes place right here in Tucson with more than 40 gem and mineral shows across the city. Pick one (or 20) shows to stop in at, admire the jewelry, beads and foils and shop for some of the most beautiful rocks you'll ever see! Visit Tucson has the details on the locations, times and any entrance fees for the various shows.
Cinema
Lesbian Looks presents Southwest of Salem: Relive the tumultuous times when four young Latina lesbians became entangled in a modern-day witch-hunt in San Antonia, Texas through this eye-opening documentary. 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2. The Loft Cinema, 3233 E. Speedway Blvd. Free.
The Incredibly Strange Creatures Who Stopped Living and Became Mixed-Up Zombies: Enjoy this monstrously entertaining musical of this 1960s cult classic, complete with all the catchy song-and-dance numbers you could ever want. The Loft Cinema will be showing this as part of Mondo Musicals Month. 8 p.m. Monday, Feb. 6. 3233 E. Speedway Blvd. $3 general admission or $2 for members.
Seed: The Untold Story: Watch the Tucson premiere of the breakthrough documentary depicting the people behind the political and agricultural aspects of the food industry throughout the world. Stay after the movie too for a Q & A with Belle Starr and Bill McDorman of the Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance. 2-5:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 5. The Loft Cinema, 3233 E. Speedway Blvd. $8 or $6 for Loft members.
1 Year Anniversary at Casa Film Bar: Knock back one or two limited, aged bottled beers while watching classics like Edge of Tomorrow and Groundhog Day. If the munchies hit you, you can grab a hot dog from a You Sly Dog's food truck from 5-9 p.m. too. 5-11 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2. 2905 E. Speedway Blvd. Beer, wine and coffee prices vary.
First Friday Shorts: If you haven't been yet, it's time. On the first Friday of each month at Red Meat’s Max Cannon (yes, that cartoonist you love to send us letters about) hosts the biggest, baddest short film contest in town. Bring your short film (before the show starts, plz) and they’ll play the first 15. Every film plays for at least 3 minutes, but after that the audience can call for respite. Or just don't bring your own art and just come to judge other people's. Whatever suits your fancy. Just remember: The monthly grand prize is $200, and the yearly grand prize is $1,000—that's a lot cash you could be spending at the Gem Show. 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3. The Loft Cinema, 3233 E. Speedway Blvd. $6.
Community
Civil Rights and Immigration Law Under the Trump Administration: The tides are changing with our new president – and fast. Have concerns about new policies? Want to be more educated on Trump's decisions so far? Come listen and participate in this open forum with four lawyers who are experts in these topics at the Muslim Community Center of Tucson. 10 a.m.-noon. Saturday, Feb. 4. 5100 N. Kevy Pl. Free.Savor Food and Wine Festival: Are you a foodie? Just want an excuse to eat amazing food and get a casual buzz? Go to this event; the ticket price includes drinks and menu samplings from over 75 local wineries, breweries and restaurants. The menu offerings are catered to highlight the diversity of Southwest food. Bonus: you'll be surrounded by the grounds of a beautiful garden. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4. Tucson Botanical Gardens, 2150 N. Alvernon Way. $65 per person.
Wine and Garden: Succulent Terrarium Garden: Be surrounded by beauties of the desert while learning how to plant and grow succulents and other garden varieties. With a glass of wine in your hand too, how much more relaxation could you ask for? 1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8. Green Things, 3384 E. River Rd. $5.
Arts and Culture
The Gift Of The Infinite: Workshop & Meditation with don Jose Ruiz: We could all use a little more self-love, which is exactly what don Jose Ruiz and don Miguel Ruiz, co-author and author of New York Times bestselling books, want to teach you in a workshop and meditation. Kiss those toxic relationships and bad habits goodbye! 7-9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4. 35 E. Toole Ave. $35 with early registration or $45 at the door.Ballet Tucson Winter Concert 'Love Songs and Other Dances': Treat your valentine to this concert featuring big band swing tunes, romantic duets, and famous opera numbers. 2/3: 7:30 p.m., 2/4: 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., 2/5: 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3- Sunday, Feb. 5. Stevie Eller Dance Studio, 1737 E. University Blvd. General Admission: $45, Seniors/Military/Students: $40.
Frida's Roots: Frida Kahlo as Subject and Object in Contemporary Art: Edward J. Sullivan, an art history professor from New York University, will be giving a lecture at the Pima Community College district office on the influences of popular culture in the iconic Frida Kahlo's work. 6-7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3. 4905 E. Broadway Blvd. Free.
2017 Arizona Chinese New Year Festival: Ring in the Year of the Rooster while watching performances from over 200 Chinese folk singers, dancers, instrumentalists and martial artists. 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4. Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Blvd. Price TBD.
Flame Off: Come watch 18 of the world’s hottest glass artists battle it out in this 16th annual glassblowing contest. Glass makers will participate in one of two 90-minute competitions to create glass art that sticks to this year’s theme: “The Textures and Sparkle of Tucson’s Gem Show.” See anything that strikes your fancy? You can bid on pieces during the competition, at the Sonoran Glass Art Show tent or Flame Off’s Facebook page starting Saturday, Feb. 4. Each finished product will be auctioned off with proceeds benefiting the Sonoran Glass School. Also be sure to browse through The Sonoran Glass Art Show showcase during the event. Peruvian fare, bratwursts and burritos among the options for purchase from several food trucks. Those 21+ can also buy wine and local craft beers. VIP tickets include a VIP lanyard, preferred seating, two drink tickets and access to Sonoran Glass School’s VIP lounge. Order tickets at www.sonoranglass.org/flameofftickets or at the door. 7 p.m.- 11 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3. 633 W. 18th St. General admission: $20, VIP: $50.
Reed Karaim Book Reading: Listen to Reed Karaim read his book, The Winter in Anna, at Antigone Books. The book has been described as “haunting” and “emotionally-generous” as it follows the narrative of a young journalist as he begins to learn a coworker’s dark secrets. It sounds like one of those books that can bring goose bumps to your skin. You don’t want to miss it! 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3. 411 N. 4th Ave. Free.
Music
Ynot: What a bill! A roundup of some of the 520’s best, brightest rappers, and more, headed by battle-rap champ and budding clothing mogul Ynot. Known to his mom as Anthony Ardrey, this kid Ynot has that look in his eye when he spits that says there’s nothing else in the world that matters but that very moment—he forever hits from his gut and from his heart. His freestyles are crazily dead-on, especially when he drops in scathing anti-Trump screeds. He masterfully blends old-school underground battlers like Esham with fluid jazzy-speak of somebody like Madlib. But his fresh flow is refashioned for the young and the restless, and the pissed off. He’s toured the country, has pockets of followers on the coasts and flyover states, and he has gone lengths to help place the Old Pueblo on the national rap map, however unlikely that may seem to some folks. Real deal flash, man. With Cash Lansky, Marley B, Tommy Will, Jae Tilt, and EZ Goin. On Friday, Feb. 3 at 8 p.m. Club Congress, 311 E. Congress. $10. 21+.Cash’d Out: Full discloser: We’ve never seen Cash’d Out. But a few of our trusted (um, non-stoner) pals have, and they tell us that this San Diego-based Johnny Cash tribute is as the close to “the real shit as you can get.” Yeah, that’s saying a lot considering that nearly every musical tribute act we’ve ever seen—from hairball Jovi tributes to straight-to-hell Clash homages—are but gushy sycophants taking idolatry to growth-stunting extremes. Besides, both The Clash and Johnny Cash are sacred, so why on God’s green earth fuck with them? Having said that, and understanding just how the Man in Black single-handedly altered the course of rock ’n’ roll, folk, country and even soul music, we here at TW HQ are looking forward to seeing Cash’d Out. We want to trip through Cash’s scrappy, speed-addled Sun Records run, dig his “Bitter Tears” era of Native America activism, be caressed by his barrel-rumble vocal tones on gospel zingers like “Peace In The Valley,” etc. In short, we want Trump out of our heads and can think of no better way this week than through a worthy replica of the troubled saint Cash. Saturday, Feb. 4 at 191 Toole. 8 p.m. $12-$15. 21+.
Zeppelin USA: Two big tribute acts hit major venues in the Moldy Pueblo this week, so let’s not underestimate the ticket-selling power of mixing musical theater with the backward gaze. And anyone old enough to remember old cocaine rock bars in Tucson back in the late-’70s and early ’80s will recall you couldn’t fling a pair of flared satin hip-huggers without hitting a goofy Zep cover band mangling “D’yer Mak’er.” A couple of us here at TW were in our early teens then so we sorta remember those days and that’s how we know how difficult it is to tackle Zep with any necessary subtly and grace. That’s what makes Zeppelin USA miraculous. They forego the posturing—Plant’s patented poodle shag/Christ pose and Page’s spine curvature/glam boots are nowhere to be seen—but absolutely nail the sonics, managing to capture some of the soul and feel of the real Zep. It’s uncanny (even if they do look more a Free tribute band). Close your eyes and the folky acoustics of “That’s The Way” will send you straight to Bron-Y-Aur, and the sex-riff chords of “Living Loving Maid” will get you right in the skirt. Page, Plant, Bonham and Jones haven’t sounded like this since ’79. Saturday, Feb. 4 at The Rialto Theatre, 318 E. Congress. 7 p.m. $24-$28. All ages.
Max & Iggor Cavalera Return To Roots: If you never had the top of your head blown off by heavily storied Brazilian metal monsters Sepultura then you’ve never had the top of your properly blown off. (Sepultura were the loudest band on earth, we swear it—laid waste to both Slayer and Metallica back in the day). Now, Sepultura originals, irreplaceable singer/guitarist Max Cavalera and his brother, drummer Iggor (AKA Iggor Skullcrusher!), are out touring the big clubs playing that band’s seminal Roots album, start to finish. That ’96 release was, um, a skullcrushing, shouldn’t-work-but-does mix of heady acoustic world music, sociopolitical scream-outs and gnarly down-tuned deathmetal. To this day there’s never been an album quite like it. Get your cranium crushed on Friday, Feb. 10 at the Rock, 136 N. Park Ave. With Immolation, Full of Hell, Apostles of Ale, Evasion, Guerilla Tactics. 5 p.m. $24-$27.
Drab Majesty: This guy called Deb DeMure, who is Drab Majesty, looks fetchingly like what would result if you crossed a young Alice Cooper with a Warhol Factory girl and dressed him/her in Marc Jacobs’ glam-goth line introduced into couture last fall. So, yeah, any observer would expect a certain self-seriousness about Drab’s brand of gray-day, synth-and-programmed-drums pop. But it’s much smarter and hookier and challenging than one might expect. Any fan of Peter Murphy or Cocteau Twins or even Joy Division would love Drab’s latest, the just-released The Demonstration—recorded by somber-sonic guru Josh Eustis (NIN, Telefon Tel Aviv)—it rises and falls on all the reference points used by great downer-poppers of yore, without sounding all retro. Sure, DeMure calls his comely din “tragic wave,” but we’d prefer to call it “cool metro,” to borrow a phrase from old David Jo. With I Am Drugs and Rough Night on Tuesday, Feb. 7 at The Flycatcher, 340 E. 6th St. 9 p.m. 21+. Free.
Authority Zero: Hard to believe this Arizona punk-pop-ska combo has been together for more than two decades, because that’s no mean feat. For one thing, it’s really hard for punk dudes to hang together that long—just having to, for example, smell the bass player’s feet wears on groups. But the band has killed it, almost quietly, both stateside and internationally, beginning in the early aughts. Their relationship with Atlantic Records yielded lots of fruit including our fave, 2004’s massive, diverse (by punk standards) and punchy Andiamo. The suckerpunch anthems and singsong metalist refrains just get under your skin. It’s the sound of angry suburbia, which never seems to tire, and their signature tune, “Revolution,” is perfectly relevant right now with that horrible creep in office. The band’s AZ following has remained steadfast too, because good songs can do that for bands. With Endless Pursuit, Desert Fish, and Mouse Powell on Thursday, Feb. 9 at the Rock, 136 N. Park Ave. $16-$18. 7 p.m. All ages.
UA Presents: Bettye LaVette: Ever heard of Bettye LaVette? Not many have. The Grammy-nominated vocalist was part of the 1960s Detroit music scene but never quite achieved the stardom of her era’s fellow singers. Those actually familiar with LaVette have dubbed her “The Godmother of Soul. LaVette will put her powerful, unique voice on display when she takes the stage at the Fox Theatre. 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8. 17 W. Congress St. $15-$50.
I recently came across an ABC News video by Eliza Murphy of a fifth grade English teacher in North Carolina who completes personalized handshakes with each of his students before they enter his classroom. The teacher, Barry White Jr., and his obvious connection to his students prompted me to consider how influential of a role teachers play in children's lives growing up, and how too many of them are under appreciated.
I've always thought it was a shame that teachers don't get paid as much as they're worth. Many of the teachers and professors I've had so far have been integral in shaping my character, myinterests and my education. They teach so much more than math, writing and science. They often have to take on the many roles of a mentor, counselor and personal cheerleader for their students.
The most significant conclusion I came to after seeing this video, however, is that I wish videos such as this one didn't have to be newsworthy. I wish all teachers cared as deeply for their students' futures as much as White clearly does. Most of all, I wish this country as a whole would start to appreciate teachers as much as they deserve. I give kudos to White and his dedication to his students, but the fact of the matter is that there are teachers all across the country who feel the same way about their classes, yet their efforts often go unrecognized. Students of all ages and all backgrounds need to be told and shown someone believes in them and wants them to succeed. After all, our future presidents, surgeon generals, district attorneys, farmers and yes, future teachers, are being molded every day.
Can we make thanking our teachers an everyday practice now?
I've always thought it was a shame that teachers don't get paid as much as they're worth. Many of the teachers and professors I've had so far have been integral in shaping my character, my
The most significant conclusion I came to after seeing this video, however, is that I wish videos such as this one didn't have to be newsworthy. I wish all teachers cared as deeply for their students' futures as much as White clearly does. Most of all, I wish this country as a whole would start to appreciate teachers as much as they deserve. I give kudos to White and his dedication to his students, but the fact of the matter is that there are teachers all across the country who feel the same way about their classes, yet their efforts often go unrecognized. Students of all ages and all backgrounds need to be told and shown someone believes in them and wants them to succeed. After all, our future presidents, surgeon generals, district attorneys, farmers and yes, future teachers, are being molded every day.
Can we make thanking our teachers an everyday practice now?
Tags: teacher , handshake , ABC News , North Carolina , Barry White Jr. , students , fifth grade , fun , Video
A community rally in support of refugee resettlement is happening this Saturday, Feb. 4, from 2 to 3 p.m. at El Presidio Park, 160 W. Alameda St.
City Council member Steve Kozachik and various faith leaders will speak at the event, in response to President Donald Trump’s executive order to ban entry of refugees and travelers from Muslim-majority countries.
“This is inter-faith—it is extra faith,” Kozachik said. “It is everybody in this community, irrespective of the labels that they wear, stepping up.”
Refugees from Syria and Iraq will also speak at the rally. It’s difficult for refugees to speak publicly right now out of fear they will be made to leave the country, Kozachik said.
“What’s important is that the entire community is standing alongside them in support,” he said. “It takes some guts for these folks to stand up there and tell their story.”
In another blow to refugees and their allies, Arizona lawmakers just unveiled a bill that if passed would make things much harder on refugees already here, who are receiving government assistance while settling into their new lives. SB 1468 would require state-funded charities and resettlement programs to cease all services to refugees, under threat of steep fines.
Kozachik is looking into the legality of such a bill. He would like to see policy makers at the federal and state level stand up to policies like these for being unconstitutional and running against the foundation the U.S. was created on.
“What I want to see in terms of public policy is very specific legislation that reaffirms the basis of our own country’s foundation, and we’ve lost that,” he said.
There was a rally on Tuesday, Jan. 30 in support of the refugee community. Tucson police estimated between 700 and 800 people gathered in front of the Federal Building in downtown Tucson. People brandished signs while the passing traffic honked in support.
“We can’t have rally fatigue,” Kozachik said. “We have to keep stepping up to the plate and say, ‘We’re not going away because this is unacceptable. It does not reflect the values that we’re founded on.’”
City Council member Steve Kozachik and various faith leaders will speak at the event, in response to President Donald Trump’s executive order to ban entry of refugees and travelers from Muslim-majority countries.
“This is inter-faith—it is extra faith,” Kozachik said. “It is everybody in this community, irrespective of the labels that they wear, stepping up.”
Refugees from Syria and Iraq will also speak at the rally. It’s difficult for refugees to speak publicly right now out of fear they will be made to leave the country, Kozachik said.
“What’s important is that the entire community is standing alongside them in support,” he said. “It takes some guts for these folks to stand up there and tell their story.”
In another blow to refugees and their allies, Arizona lawmakers just unveiled a bill that if passed would make things much harder on refugees already here, who are receiving government assistance while settling into their new lives. SB 1468 would require state-funded charities and resettlement programs to cease all services to refugees, under threat of steep fines.
Kozachik is looking into the legality of such a bill. He would like to see policy makers at the federal and state level stand up to policies like these for being unconstitutional and running against the foundation the U.S. was created on.
“What I want to see in terms of public policy is very specific legislation that reaffirms the basis of our own country’s foundation, and we’ve lost that,” he said.
There was a rally on Tuesday, Jan. 30 in support of the refugee community. Tucson police estimated between 700 and 800 people gathered in front of the Federal Building in downtown Tucson. People brandished signs while the passing traffic honked in support.
“We can’t have rally fatigue,” Kozachik said. “We have to keep stepping up to the plate and say, ‘We’re not going away because this is unacceptable. It does not reflect the values that we’re founded on.’”
Wednesday, February 1, 2017
When going to school or working full time (or both at the same time—why did I decide to do both?), time can go by painfully quickly. Like, how is it February all ready? What do you mean it's 75 degrees outside? How is The Girl on the Train out on DVD already—didn't it open in theaters just last week?
Skip the previews (and the line for popcorn), and curl up at home for maximum relaxation time. These are this week's Top 10 movies for you to enjoy from the comfort of your own home, courtesy of Casa Video:
The Accountant
Skip the previews (and the line for popcorn), and curl up at home for maximum relaxation time. These are this week's Top 10 movies for you to enjoy from the comfort of your own home, courtesy of Casa Video:
The Accountant
