I've long been a fan of Tucson Weekly columnist Brian Smith's work, but it's been a real treat getting to know him over the last few years. He's had many lives—rock 'n' roll star, newspaper columnist, alt-weekly editor, drunk, drug addict and now sober family man, to name but a few—and it's forged him into one the most talented people I've had the pleasure of working with in this biz. Not to mention, one of the nicest.
I'm delighted to announce that his Tucson Salvage columns are being collected into a book. And not only that: With the help of his wonderful wife, Maggie, Brian has also put together the first of what's hopefully a series of movies about the people he's profiled in his work.
You can pick up a copy of the book, see the movie and catch Brian doing a reading (along with a few special guests) at The Loft Cinema on Saturday, Nov. 4. You'll find all the details—plus an interview with Brian, an article penned by Dan Stuart (of Green on Red fame, et al) about why Brian's work matters, and a look at the Tucson Salvage documentary by feature writer Jeff Gardner—all in our feature package.
In other news: Associate editor Danyelle Khmara looks at Tucson's most competitive statehouse race; arts writer Margaret Regan checks out the Tucson Museum of Art's celebration of African American art; staff writer Christopher Boan lets us know what to expect from the UA men's basketball team this season; Sam Fox talks about how his restaurant empire grew from his opening of Wildflower two decades ago; Mark C. Horn steals some time with Thievery Corporation ahead of the band's upcoming show at downtown's Rialto Theatre; movie critic Bob Grimm says First Man reaches rare heights; and there's plenty more going on this week, so you know the drill: Turn the page and sink in.
Next week: Best of Tucson™ is finally here!
— Jim Nintzel Executive Editor
Hear Nintz talk about what's happening in Tucson's entertainment scene Wednesday mornings at 9:30 a.m. during The Frank Show on KLPX, 96.1 FM.
