Tucson's culinary journey began thousands of years ago, when Native American tribes developed an agricultural base along the Santa Cruz River. In modern times, restaurants ranging from tiny taquerias to fine dining spaces all contributed to the local food culture. El Charro, serving Mexican cuisine since 1922, still attracts crowds from all over. Folks head straight to Pat's for a hot dog, Lucky Wishbone for some fried chicken or eegee's for a grinder and a cold, frosty drink. On any given night, the patio at El Corral is filled with diners anticipating their famous prime rib and tamale pie. Local food writer Rita Connelly brings to life the stories of beloved eateries that have endured for decades and continue to delight with incredible flavors.

From western roadhouses to fine dining, Tucson boasts an extraordinary lineup of diverse restaurants. Though some of its greatest no longer exist, their stories conjure the sights, smells and sounds of the city's history. Longtime locals still buzz about Gordo's famous chimichangas, an accidental dish originating in Tucson. The legendary Tack Room was a beacon of fine dining. Places like Café Terra Cotta and Fuego pioneered a new southwestern cuisine, serving regional dishes like prickly pear pork and stuffed poblanos. University of Arizona alumni miss old spots like the Varsity, while long-gone haunts like Gus & Andy's attracted a unique crowd of businessmen, movie stars and the occasional mobster. Join local food writer Rita Connelly as she serves up savory stories of good food and good company from the gone but never forgotten favorites of the Old Pueblo.

Syndicated columnist and beloved pediatrition, Marilyn Heins, MD, has fashioned a pathway through the transformative senior years of life after having entered the octogenarian years, herself. Gleaned from her experiences as she navigates the changes that come with aging, A Traveler's Guide to Geriatrica is augmented with inciteful yet playful illustrations by renowned political cartoonist, David Fitzsimmons. Marilyn takes on her role of tour guide through this new terrain with her typical poise and acumen, while offering a healthy dose of humor. Approaching the aging journey as a landscape in an unfamiliar country, Heins imagines us all to be immigrants in the land of Geriatrica. During the voyage, she visits somewhat familiar, yet not quite known stops along the way. The conceit affords discussions of topics such as: dangers and perils of the journey; preparations; scams to be attentive of; downsizing; housing need changes; the importance of simplifying; on being an octogenarian; frailing; health and safety; mental health; finances later in life; teaching children about Geriatrica; canines in Geriatrica - all shared with Marilyn's indelable dry wit and celebration of life lived well into one's latter years. In the end, Geriatrica is seen as a land that if fortunate to live long enough to visit, holds not only new challenges and perils, but rich finds and wondrous experiences that continue to enrich days well lived.

The ultimate guide to Tucson's food scene provides the inside scoop on the best places to find, enjoy, and celebrate local culinary offerings. Written for residents and visitors alike to find producers and purveyors of tasty local specialties, as well as a rich array of other, indispensable food-related information including: food festivals and culinary events; specialty food shops; farmers’ markets and farm stands; trendy restaurants and time-tested iconic landmarks; and recipes using local ingredients and traditions.

Ron Butler never dreamed Mexico would capture his heart and his soul. However after crisscrossing the country, he was seduced by its charms, rhythms and melodies. He goes off the beaten path in Acapulco and Cancun, and walks in the footsteps of movie stars who have been enamored of this land south-of-the-border. Informative and helpful, "Dancing Alone in Mexico" will help even seasoned travelers get the most out of their trips to Mexico.