Browsing articles from "August, 2013"

Fab Fall Finds

Aug 29, 2013   //   by Meghan Pescio   //   The Boutique  //  No Comments

Safe Grilling for Better Health

Aug 28, 2013   //   by wagona   //   Feeling Fit  //  No Comments

 By Aly Wagonseller

Throwing a tasty ribeye or rack of ribs onto the backyard barbecue is simply an American institution; especially when local weather is conducive to outdoor cooking nearly 365 days a year. But grilling your meaty meal could be causing more harm to your health than you think. We’re not talking heart disease or high cholesterol here, although they can become a factor if fatty meats are consumed on a daily basis. Rather, this is all about the Big C – Cancer, and the risks are real with every bite you take.

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When the combination of protein, intense heat and smoke occurs, substances within meat, chicken and fish form carcinogenic compounds called heterocyclic amines. These compounds, known as HCAs, can actually damage our DNA, allowing for cancer development to start and progress. Most often, these cancers manifest in the colon and stomach, but research suggests that HCAs travel within our systems, causing cancer in other areas of the body, including the breast and prostate regions. Some research even suggests that those who consume large amounts of barbecued red meat such as beef, pork and lamb can double their risk of developing the disease, a meaty fact worth noting. So what can a barbie lover do to reduce the risks and still enjoy a healthy meal off the grill? Hope is in the cooking.

What’s Hot, What’s Not

“Many people enjoy grilling during the summer; however, overcooking meats can actually produce cancer-causing compounds,” says Executive Chef Frank Caputo of Cancer Treatment Centers of America® at Western Regional Medical Center. “We want to share healthy cooking practices for everyone to enjoy.”  Caputo, a graduate of the Culinary Institute and a former entrepreneur in the restaurant industry, suggests first seasoning lean meats that include sirloin, flank, tenderloin, veal, poultry and fish with herbs and spices that not only flavor foods but introduce phytochemicals that actually prevent damage of healthy cells. Spices and herbs including cumin, cinnamon and turmeric, as well as cilantro, dill, rosemary and basil are great choices. Incorporating them into marinades along with vitamin C rich citrus juices is a great way to both flavor and tenderize meats. Once you move to the grill, Caputo suggests cooking over low heat, preventing flare-ups at all costs, and avoiding the urge to overcook or burn meats. “Safe temperatures for cooked meats range from 145 degrees for seafood and fish, 160 degrees for ground beef and pork and 170-180 degrees for poultry,” he adds. Other tips to reduce risk include:

  • Choose low-fat foods, trim excess fat  and incorporate vegetables or kabobs to reduce the chance of HCA formation since fat heated to high temperatures and drip off that creates smoke are major culprits.
  • Precook foods in the oven or microwave, finishing on the grill. Research suggests this can reduce HCA formation by 90%.
  • Marinate proteins in olive oil and lemon juice-based mixtures. Research shows this reduces the formation of cancer-causing compounds by up to 99% during cooking, while adding flavor and helping to keep foods moist.
  • Flip frequently. This may prevent that yummy, caramelized crust we all know and love, but it keeps meat from overheating.

Protecting your family from cancer while enjoying outdoor grilling doesn’t have to be a summer buzzkill. By keeping the flames and smoke at bay and employing a few easy techniques for both cooking and shopping, you’ll be safe, sound, full… and happy!

Up the Pacific Coast – The Wines of Washington State

Aug 28, 2013   //   by wagona   //   The Wine Cellar  //  No Comments

By Gordon Gilbert

California may be the undisputed king of wine production in the United States, but another serious contender has emerged thanks to its climatic conditions, huge swaths of land and ample sunlight throughout the growing season. Washington State ranks second in wine production in the U.S. and has managed to yield a wide array of grapes that don’t sacrifice quality for value.

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Washington’s Cascade Mountains play a pivotal role in fostering the perfect climate for wine production with a rain shadow that shields their vineyards from the perpetual downpours of the Pacific Northwest. The rich soil and life giving irrigation of the Columbia River make this region a grape grower’s dream, while the high elevation brings additional summer sun that helps give the grapes extra time to ripen. Most of the mainstream varieties are found here with Italian and German varietals having made good headway in recent years. As more and more wineries pop up east of the Cascades, more nuance in terroir (the combination of location, soil and climate) is being discovered in the area, broadening the range of locales making a name for themselves.

The extra sun and absence of moisture in the rain shadow have proven ideal for Washington’s thick skinned red grapes, which in turn have produced robust red wines that have found great success among aficionados. Here are three amazing reds with great Pacific Northwest appeal:

Chateau St. Michelle Indian Wells; Columbia Valley ($14)

The perfect example of a great value Cabernet blend from an experienced winery that is known for benchmark quality. The blend is comprised of Cabernet, Syrah, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. Ripe and jammy in a new world style with deep, dark fruits that help hold the robust tannins in check. Strip steak accompanied by stuffed peppers makes for a perfect complement to this wine.

Kestrel Syrah; Yakima Valley ($20)

Crushingly good dark fruit flavors of blackberry, dark cherry and boysenberry syrup hang on the palate with this engaging Syrah. The fruitier aspects are subtly augmented with touches of spice, new oak and violas. This wine has the mass to tame roasted legs of lamb at any time of year.

Owen Roe Sinister Hand; Columbia Valley ($27)

This medium bodied blend of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre and Counoise mimics the wines of the Southern Rhone and serves as a great example of Washington’s offerings. The fruit is lush and black with plum at the forefront. Spices dominate the flavor profile with fresh cracked black pepper, anise, touches of cloves and cardamom. Pairs nicely with any grilled Mediterranean dish.

If your tastes swing more toward the white side of the fence, not to worry. Robust reds aren’t the only wines that have found a foothold in the Pacific Northwest scene. Cleanse your palate, give your glass a good rinse, then take advantage of this superb sampling of Washington whites.

Canoe Ridge Expedition Chardonnay; Horse Heaven Hills ($14)

For solid proof that Washington has a right to the silver medal for U.S. wine regions, look no further than this Chardonnay. Big and lush, this wine is geared to take on its big cousin to the south with tropical fruit, melon, vanilla, a creamy coating of butter and a hint of toffee. Grill up some chicken and serve it up on top of a nice Caesar salad for a dynamite food pairing.

Bridgman Riesling; Yakima Valley ($11)

Wine Spectator magazine bestowed a 92 point rating on this Riesling, cementing its place as one that true fans should not ignore. Bright and cheery in terms of acidity with an off-dry sweetness. Combinations of lime zest, tropical fruit and ripe peach fill every glass with sensational tastes and aromas. Grilled shrimp with chili flakes over a nice bed of greens might be in order here.

Wildhaven Pinot Gris; Columbia Valley ($10)

The humble Pinot Gris may be the most overlooked grape of the entire Pacific Northwest region. This medium bodied wine offers abundant sun drenched stone fruit with apricot and peach permeating a pleasant acidity. While it’s easy enough to enjoy on its own, it has an incredible range with multiple types of cuisine. Poultry, fish or other kinds of seafood should pair nicely.

While Napa may have the fanfare and Oregon carries its own big dose of notoriety, they certainly aren’t the only places on the Pacific Coast where you’ll find great wine. Washington has the perfect selection for any palate with a wide range of tastes to fit any wine lover’s bill.

Meet The Neighbor – Rob Jensen

Aug 28, 2013   //   by wagona   //   Meet Your Neighbor  //  No Comments

By Callie Thomas

Rob Jensen has high expectations. At least, that’s how the 89144 resident and seasoned luxury real estate exec speaks of himself. It’s also why he has achieved many successes in his life, which include founding the Rob Jensen Company, a high end real estate group in which Jensen is also the President and Broker. His drive in the real estate market has even landed him on television once or twice on such hit shows as Bravo’s Million Dollar Listings, in which Jensen and one of his listings on the lake became part of the show. An episode of HGTV’s House Hunters also led viewers to Las Vegas and featured Jensen touring homes with a couple of eager buyers. He’s also appeared on MSNBC and has provided written content to The Wall Street Journal among others. But to fully understand his passion for sales and natural leadership ability, we’ll have to roll back to Jensen’s childhood years.

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Since an early age, he’s been fascinated with the “art of the deal,” whether it be selling gum or selling fireworks in high school, the latter of which was ultimately the reason he did not go on his eighth grade field trip. Jensen’s leadership abilities were also evident early on when he organized every kid in his neighborhood to help build the largest snow fort imaginable in his family’s front yard in Eugene, Oregon. So when he finally put his skills to the test in the real estate game, it’s no wonder that he would make many new friends and eventually lend his expertise to a variety of causes in the community. The list includes Smiles for Survivors, Boys Town, Three Square, Nevada Cancer Society and more. Rob Jensen discusses his successes, giving back to the community and why there’s magic in Las Vegas.

So how did you actually get into the real estate biz?

“A friend was getting into business and brought me along for some appointments and I could tell it would be a great fit. The rest is history. Real estate has also been a way to meet some great people in this town.”

You’ve also made it a point to “pay it forward.”

“For me, giving to the community is two-fold. First, I am very fortunate to live the life I live. I was given a lot of great opportunities growing up and have a great family and parents. There are a lot of people that are not so fortunate with having the right people in their life or lacking the finances or health to succeed and I’m in a great position to be able to help. Secondly, being a competitive person, there is sometimes a tendency to focus inward. Helping others and focusing outward is a good way to quit thinking about one’s self and puts everything into perspective. It’s a win-win!”

Can you tell us about any experiences you’ve had with the charitable organizations you support?

“I have been a supporter of Smiles for Survivors since they were founded. As the son of a dentist, you can always say that I was raised to give this organization my support. What they do is nothing short of amazing. They are the only organization in the United States that educate the public about the oral side effects of cancer treatment, and here in Las Vegas they have a network of dentists that perform restorative dental procedures pro bono to help needy breast cancer survivors. This year, it’s exciting because my company is their first-ever platinum sponsor of Blow Out Breast Cancer, which is on October 5th at Square Colour Salon + Spa. It is rewarding to see a much-needed organization grow over the years and I love supporting their mission.”

If you weren’t in your present career, what would you do?

“If I wasn’t in real estate, maybe I’d have a career with investing. It really fascinates me these days. As a kid I used to be big into magic and doing magic shows. There’s something special about creating a feeling of wonder in someone. I bet that’s why David Copperfield still works as much as he does. There’s always magic in Vegas.”

Any words of wisdom or advice you’d give others?

“I read this quote the other day and had to save it: ‘You have exactly one life in which to do everything you’ll ever do. Act accordingly.’ ”

 

Meet The Neighbor – Diane Fearon

Aug 28, 2013   //   by wagona   //   Meet Your Neighbor  //  No Comments

By Callie Thomas

There aren’t many times you can actually say something is a “sure thing,” but with 89135 resident Diane Fearon as the newest CEO of the Communities In Schools of Nevada (CISN), you can bank on her success.

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When the board appointed Fearon as CEO of the organization, they knew that her wealth of knowledge as a business executive would take CISN to new heights.  Her business acumen includes being the founding President and CEO of Bank of George, where she took the company from $21 million in capital to $108 million in assets during her tenure. She has also served as a director for the bank, chaired the bank’s Loan Committee, Community Reinvestment Act Committee as well as other executive and management groups.

From her career beginnings in 1988 as a Loan Adjustment Department Manager to becoming an Executive Vice President for Bank of Nevada before joining Bank of George, Fearon has also played a part in developing partnerships between the private and non-profit sector. She’s dedicated her time and expertise serving as Vice Chairman of Habitat for Humanity, board member with the American Diabetes Association and as a committee member with Shade Tree and Nevada Public Radio.  So, to Fearon, taking this next step with CISN was just another way to give back and making a tangible difference.

CISN currently supports nearly 25,000 students across 40 school sites in Southern Nevada and Northeastern Nevada, providing critical services such as medical and dental care, mental health counseling, food, clothing, tutoring, career exploration, academic development and other programs.  CISN also advocates for at-risk students at partner schools. All of this adds up to decreasing the dropout rate and increasing graduation rates, which means a higher economic benefit to the community.  Diane Fearon talks about her new career with CISN, what motivates her and a look at the person behind the success.

Why did you choose to become a part of CISN?

“Reducing our high school dropout rate is critical to the future of Nevada and it’s easy to get discouraged by how far we need to go.  I’m encouraged by the talented and dedicated folks coming together to make progress.  It’s also extraordinary to represent an organization that does so much with modest means, and has the hard data measurements to back up our fantastic ROI.  For every $1 invested, we return $11.60 in economic benefit to our community.  The prior banker in me loves that!”

Any experiences so far you’d like to share about CISN?

“Since joining I’ve had the chance to meet and begin to work with a significant number of committed and capable volunteers at all levels who are making a positive difference in the educational outcomes for Nevada K-12 students.”

Why do you feel it is important to give back?

“I think there are generally two types of individuals in the world – those who multiply the potential of those around them, and those who diminish the potential of those around them.  I strive to always be a multiplier.”

Of your many career accomplishments what stands out?

“I would have to say being named the CEO of CISN positions me for tremendous professional and personal growth while enabling me to have a great deal of satisfaction in being involved in improving the future of Nevada’s students – who are our future.”

Speaking of personal growth, is there something you’d like to share that others might not know?

“I’m the proud mother of four; my adult step-children, Natasha and Alex with husband Mike Majewski and my two nine-year old cats, Scout and Rudy.”

Any favorite hobbies?

“I love to travel and have had the chance to visit some fascinating destinations such as the base camp at Mt. Everest in Tibet, China, Turkey, Greece, Spain, Costa Rica, Croatia, Italy, England and Portugal…and that’s just the beginning!”

Any words of wisdom you live by?

“Probably John F. Kennedy’s quote – ‘to those who much is given, much is expected.’”

 

Meet The Neighbor – Larry Davis

Aug 28, 2013   //   by wagona   //   Meet Your Neighbor  //  No Comments

By Callie Thomas

For many, the topic of death is not an easy one but 89128 resident Larry Davis has devoted the past 34 years to serving and honoring those who have died.  Davis is the General Manager of Palm Mortuary’s Downtown location.  As a young man he received a personal and spiritual calling to help families dealing with the loss of a loved one. Having had the opportunity to work at each of the Palm Mortuaries in the Vegas Valley, Davis has become very familiar with the people that make up the community he has called home since 1995. His devotion to supporting others has led him to create a monument dedicated to the civil rights movement in Las Vegas called the Garden of Dreams.  As part of the program, a scholarship is offered with the Public Education Foundation to help local students obtain their educational goals and to encourage them to pursue their careers in Las Vegas while contributing to the city. Founding a new program and developing a monument is not easy, but Davis knows a thing or two about hard work.

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Upon graduation from high school he began his career at a family-owned mortuary in Southern California where he learned to respect the industry.  After attending mortuary science college, he spent the next 15 years working for Pierce Brothers Mortuaries in Southern California which includes the location in Westwood Village where famous entertainers like Marilyn Monroe, Natalie Wood and Jim Backus are laid to rest. He took a leap of faith by leaving his family and friends to move to Las Vegas, and has since become entrenched within the community, lending his support to a number of organizations including Nathan Adelson Hospice, United States Veterans Initiative and Keep Memory Alive. Davis talks about his prized accomplishment, and living to the fullest in Las Vegas.

What was your inspiration in creating the Garden of Dreams?

“I think it stems from an innate desire to help others.  That drive was really fundamental in coming up with the idea for the Garden of Dreams.  I wanted to create a space that invites people to reflect on our journey toward equality for all.”

Tell us about the monument and scholarship fund.

“The monument, which resembles a giant granite torch, is engraved with the words dignity, equality, justice and freedom.  It is a tribute to the equality movement and a symbol of Palm Mortuary’s commitment to educating young people who demonstrate the ideas of civil rights heroes.  A college scholarship will be awarded to one student each year, funded in part by the sale of pavers along the monument walk and burial cremation plots surrounding it.  There are 14 granite stars, representing the 14th Amendment.  We will hold an annual dedication to recognize a significant contributor to the civil rights movement locally or globally.”

You have to be proud of creating the Garden of Dreams.

“I am honored that the community has been so supportive.  When I drive downtown on Las Vegas Boulevard and see this permanent monument to civil rights that I had dreamed of and is now built, I feel incredibly proud.”

As part of the community, what would be your most memorable experience?

“Believe it or not, my most memorable experience was fairly recent.  We worked with Metro and the family of a fallen officer on his arrangements and just being able to help and honor a community hero with his loved ones is something that will always stay with me.”

What do you think makes you successful?

“For me, being successful isn’t about wealth or material things. It’s about being able to help people in their most difficult times.”

What is your favorite way to unwind after a long day?

“I enjoy going out to dinner with friends but mostly spending time at home with my husband Lee Cagley and taking our two dogs Maxwell and Bentley for a long evening walk around the lakes in Desert Shores.”

Meet The Neighbor – Fafie Moore

Aug 28, 2013   //   by wagona   //   Meet Your Neighbor  //  No Comments

By Callie Thomas

There’s no question that the Las Vegas real estate market has undergone a rollercoaster existence for several years now. Fafie (pronounced Foffee) Moore and her husband Jeff, residents and partners in Realty Executives of Nevada and Realty Executives Intermountain Region, continue to roll with the punches and have maintained a successful business. Their success has been the inspiration for supporting many local artistic programs and nonprofit causes.

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Moore began her career in real estate in 1981 after her job with the Arizona Department of Education was eliminated due to budget cuts. A friend suggested becoming a realtor. In her first year, she sold a house every two weeks, and that was during a time when interest rates were 18% and qualifying was difficult for potential home buyers. To this day, Moore considers the period “the best training possible.” She and her husband used their real estate savvy when determining their moving date to Las Vegas twenty-four years ago. It was on Thanksgiving Day, because they thought people would not be buying houses that day.

With the philosophy that everything thrives and grows when it is fed and nurtured, Moore has been passionate about supporting the community. The Moore Family is a benefactor of The Smith Center for the Performing Arts as well as the Las Vegas Philharmonic. She also supports the Goodie Two Shoes organization, which provides socks and shoes for children who cannot afford them. For many, these are the first new shoes they’ve ever owned. Moore also serves on the committee for the Kick Off Your Heels Luncheon (KOYH), which takes place annually during the Shriners Hospitals for Children Open. Fafie Moore talks about her passion for these causes and provides some secrets to her success.

Why has it been important for you to support the community?

“Las Vegas has been very good to us and we feel that it is our responsibility to return the favor by making our home community a better place.”

You’ve helped a number of organizations. Tell us why you gravitated toward Goodie Two Shoes.

“It’s such a simple thing to provide socks and shoes. If a child doesn’t have them, they don’t go to school, they don’t go outside to socialize and they miss out on so much. The joy of seeing a young person put on their first pair of new shoes is a very moving experience.”

There seems to be a trend going with the Kick Off Your Heels Luncheon.

“Actually, ladies attend the luncheon sans heels in support of Shriners Hospitals for Children. Susan T. Spencer will be our keynote speaker and the event will also feature a live auction. I am serving on the committee and this year’s event will be held on October 15th at TPC Summerlin.”

Any experiences through this event you’d like to share?

“The true joy of chairing the KOYH luncheon is to meet the child ambassadors that have been helped by the Shriners Hospitals for Children and to hear the gratitude in the voices of their parents for the gift of a solution for their child’s issue. Seeing a little girl in a party dress who was in critical condition just a year earlier is what it’s all about.”

You also support the arts in the community?

“I believe culture is critical to the future maturation of our community. Jeff and I love to support events at The Smith Center and tell people all the time that Las Vegas has this new treasure in the desert.”

How do you unplug after a busy day?

“I enjoy watching movies, sewing and making online photo books of our children and their families, including our six grandchildren.”

What makes you successful?

“I love what I do and I do it for the right reason. Also, my parents taught me to never be a quitter or a liar. I have found that to be very sound advice. Many times, success follows your last failure.”

Expedia, Inc.

Aug 28, 2013   //   by wagona   //   Making a Difference  //  No Comments

When we think of the homeless problem in our valley, it can be easy to sometimes forget that many of them aren’t even adults. Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth (NPHY) has long been dedicated to providing assistance and resources to homeless teens in Southern Nevada, and thanks to a recent gift from Expedia, Inc., their selfless mission can continue to change lives.

Making a Difference-Expedia and NPHY

The generous $200,000 donation represents just a fraction of Expedia’s commitment to fighting homelessness with NPHY as the company dedicated its own time, resources and staff to help serve as champions of good will. Employees from Expedia’s local office volunteered with the nonprofit to put together survival packs and sack lunches for youth living on the streets. In addition, volunteers helped complete labor-intensive grounds work at the nonprofit’s William Fry Drop-In Center by stocking food and hygiene pantries, refinishing the center’s gazebo and setting up a streamlined processing center. Expedia also served as a co-presenting sponsor of NPHY’s fourth annual “Homeless Youth in the Alley” bowling tournament fundraiser in May.

“Expedia is a fabulous corporate partner who cares about helping our community,” said NPHY executive director Arash Ghafoori. “The company approached us last year asking how they could help. Barely a year later, they have already supported us and our clients in so many ways. We couldn’t ask for a more inspiring and helpful partner in the fight against youth homelessness.”

For more information on Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth, visit www.nphy.org.

Henry’s Place Foundation

Aug 28, 2013   //   by wagona   //   Making a Difference  //  No Comments

Metro Sergeant Henry Prendes was tragically killed in the line of duty while responding to a domestic violence call in 2006. Since then, Sergeant Prendes’ widow Dawn has helped honor her husband’s sacrifice and dedication to his job and community through Henry’s Place Foundation, which recently held its 7th Annual Henry Prendes Charity Golf Classic at SouthShore Golf Club.

Making a Difference Henry Prendes

All told, the event raised $16,000 for Henry’s Place, a camp facility for underprivileged local youth currently being developed in Cedar City, Utah. Highlights from the evening included a  cocktail walk sponsored by Southern Wine & Spirits, a zip line sponsored in part by the MonteLago Village Association and a benefit concert featuring live entertainment. The Foundation will also donate partial proceeds to the Injured Police Officers Fund on behalf of Officer David Vanbuskirk, who recently sacrificed his life in the line of duty. Officer Vanbuskirk was also honored at the event with the “Golf Balls from Heaven” fundraiser, where a Metro Search & Rescue helicopter dropped 1,000 pre-numbered, pre-sold golf balls over the green.

“Through the continuous support of our community, we are finally able to turn our dream into a reality when we break ground on the camp site in October,” said Dawn Prendes. “I am truly grateful for Sheriff Gillespie and Metro’s involvement, all the golfers who participated, the generous donations of so many local businesses and the media who help us promote our efforts.”

For more information on Henry’s Place Foundation, visit www.henrysplace.org.

 

Vegas Cycle Pub – A Pedal Powered Pub Crawl

Aug 28, 2013   //   by wagona   //   Livin' Local  //  No Comments

By Meghan Pescio

Ahh the pub crawl. Known by many names — beer crawl, gin walk, bar hopping or my personal favorite the Bohemian Death March, this European pastime leads groups of friends from pub to pub in search of a variety of ambience, drink specials, social experiences and, most importantly, a good time. Traditionally on foot (or hands and knees as the name implies) the pub crawl got its start in England where establishments were close enough together to walk.  As life moved west and local parlors further apart, the custom became mobile (think party limos or buses) and with the age of sustainability it has morphed yet again. Enter Cycle Pub in Las Vegas’ newest hot spot Fremont East District, and you get a whole new…well…spin on things.

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Not Your Average Five Speed  

The newest trend in pub crawling? You guessed it – the bicycle. Originating in the heart of the burgeoning craft beer scene in Bend, Oregon, Cycle Pub (www.cyclepub.com) is the marriage of a highly unlikely pair: alcohol and exercise. Add that to the neon lights of downtown with Cycle Pub Vegas (www.cyclepubvegas.com) and things start to get a little crazy. Fun, that is.

This is not the bike you rode as a kid with gears, handle bars and the occasional basket for Toto. Think of it more as a bar patio on wheels, and you’ll get the picture. It is quite a spectacle with 14 seats (or saddles for the road biking enthusiast), six on each side opposite one another and a bench in the back for those staunch believers that cocktails and conditioning are better left separate. Groups from 6-14 people have two hour blocks to pedal their way from bar to bar in what is by far the most fun exercise routine I can think of. The adventure, starting at $192 for a base of six people and $32 for each additional rider, comes with a driver and second chaperone to get you and your friends, relatively unscathed, to three or four of the most popular local taverns off its Very Important Pub (www.cyclepubvegas.com/pubs) list.

Yes, that’s right, a driver. For the less cycling inclined, never fear. The Cycle Pub is not solely run on the energy of tipsy humans, but comes equipped with a power motor for inclines.  Beware, however, as your playful tour guides can increase the workload based on your good (or bad) behavior.

A Different Perspective

Even more interesting than the apparatus is the downtown experience to be had in this uncharted territory between walking and driving.

Cycle Pub Vegas begins and ends at Mob Bar (201 North 3rd Street), in the Fremont East District. Harkening back to the days of Frank “Lefty” Rosenthal and Bugsy Siegel, it’s the perfect starting point to bridge the city’s colorful past with the new and exciting developments of the Downtown Project. A minimalist will be perfectly content sipping on the traditional Old Fashioned cocktail with brandy soaked maraschino cherries crushed at the bottom. While it’s hard to picture Tony “The Ant” Spilotro on a bicycle, the ambience of Mob Bar will get you in the mood for the adventure ahead.

Now for the fun part – pick your saddle (hint: near the wheels gets you out of peddling) and get ready to take off onto the streets of Downtown Vegas. Known as an excellent spot for people watching, you’ll be surprised by the amount of downtown partiers who are actually snapping shots of you and your group as you glide by.  If you think ahead and load a playlist to your phone or other music device, the Cycle Pub is equipped with speakers. Pedal hard, admire the lights and nighttime personalities, and prepare to be the center of attention for the evening.

You can’t go wrong with any of the watering holes your Cycle Pub guide steers you toward. From back alley bars with DJs and teeter totters (you read right) to Atomic Bar, the self proclaimed “oldest freestanding bar in Las Vegas,” aptly named for its rooftop viewing parties of the atomic bomb testing in its early years. All are welcoming to your CyclePub crew, and your guides are more than happy to provide a history lesson should you be interested. Look into purchasing wrist bands from Cycle Pub to gain access to drink specials at each location.

If you make it to Gold Spike, be prepared for a throwback to your college years when frat parties reigned supreme. From a giant version of the beanbag toss game, Cornhole, to billiards, darts and cheap beer you’ll be hard pressed not to break out into a rendition of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing” in true college form.  Speaking of college, if you get hungry during the night many of the pubs provide food as well. Your guides can even call your order ahead to save time for the rest of your crawl.

Fine Print

Like any business, Cycle Pub is subject to city statutes, so heed cautions from your guides on the rules. No alcohol is allowed on the Cycle Pub, but you’ll surely be too busy gawking at the views and “Downtowners” (try Cycle Pub on a First Friday!) to notice.

At an average speed of 5 miles per hour, this moving party is far from dangerous, but be sure to check out the Cycle Pub Waiver and Damage/Late Return Policy on Cycle Pub’s website to know the risks before you ride.

If you’re looking for a unique group party, Cycle Pub offers a fun and safe way to experience the new Fremont East District with a little flare. Visit www.cyclepubvegas.com or call (702) 706-5084 for more information on booking an evening. Have a safe ride, and try to keep from literally crawling!

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