Making a Difference – Station Casinos
Many elementary schools depend on volunteers and outside assistance to help improve the quality of education in the classroom and provide needed resources to teachers and students. Thanks to a community initiative known as Smart Start, Station Casinos has been doing its part to make education a priority and improve the learning environment for local students.
On October 5th, the executive team at Boulder Station presented the students of Laura Dearing Elementary School with seventy-five backpacks loaded with supplies, along with a monetary donation of $3,000. The gifts were made possible through the generous contributions of Boulder Station’s benevolent team members, who have been working with Laura Dearing Elementary as their partner school in the Smart Start program. This initiative has helped Station Casinos assist eleven high need elementary schools throughout the valley get the help they need to enhance the quality of education and has raised over $2.4 million for Las Vegas area schools.
Education is one of the most important resources we provide to our children to help prepare them for a better future, but without much needed supplies and resources, many will lack the basics they need to achieve. Thanks to Station Casinos and their Smart Start initiative, local schools will be able to continue offering the best education possible to the youth of tomorrow.
For more information on Smart Start, contact your local Station Casinos property.
Making a Difference – Massage Envy
The crippling effects of arthritis are felt by millions of adults and hundreds of thousands of children each year. Massage Envy and the Arthritis Foundation share a common understanding of both the disease’s drastic consequences and the potential for massage therapy to help alleviate its symptoms. Through their second annual Healing Hands for Arthritis event, Massage Envy helped to further the Arthritis Foundation’s mission to prevent, control and cure the affliction.
During the one day event, Massage Envy donated ten dollars from every massage and facial to the Arthritis Foundation, raising more than $12,000 at their twelve clinics in Las Vegas and nearly $680,000 nationwide. Murad, Massage Envy Spa’s exclusive skin care partner, also donated ten percent of all sales from their products sold at Massage Envy Spa Locations to the Arthritis Foundation. In addition, Massage Envy serves as a national sponsor of the foundation’s annual Arthritis Walk, where Massage Envy owners from around the country share information about the benefits of massage therapy and help support the Arthritis Foundation’s cause.
“The support we received from our local community for Healing Hands for Arthritis was incredible,” said Steve Cook, Massage Envy’s regional developer for Arizona and Las Vegas. By joining together, Massage Envy and the Arthritis Foundation have each done a huge part to help provide relief and improve the lives of all those suffering from this debilitating burden.
For more information on the Arthritis Foundation, visit www.arthritis.org.
Neon Lights, Festive Nights – Christmas in the Desert
By Mike Sweeney
When most people think of this time of year, Las Vegas probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind. Our miles of outlying desert and neon canyons of mega resorts don’t exactly define the holiday spirit. But if you look beneath the surface during this festive time of year, our community comes alive with new energy and a seasonal excitement that rivals the North Pole.
Holiday Escapes
Part of the fun of spending the holidays in Las Vegas is discovering the local traditions that can transport you out of the desert and into another world. None of these extravaganzas are more spectacular than Winter in Venice, held at the Venetian and Palazzo now through January 6th. This magical showcase carries you far from the arid sandscape of Southern Nevada and into a new world steeped in rich folklore and old world Italian splendor. Holiday displays and 3-D light shows share space with roving entertainers such as stilt walkers, jugglers, magicians, puppeteers and more. Enjoy a whimsical nightly parade filled with colorful characters hailing from traditional Italian tales and stories, then skate to your heart’s content at the outdoor ice rink located above the Venetian’s Grand Canal, offering spectacular views of the resort’s hallmark gondolas. Visit www.venetian.com or www.palazzo.com for more information.
For a journey sure to transport you into the land of holiday enchantment, board the Santa Train at the Nevada State Railroad Museum in Boulder City. During the second, third and fourth weekends in December, you can join a festive railway for a 45-minute ride that includes a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. It’s like Southern Nevada’s own personal Polar Express. While you wait to board, have the little ones send off their letters to St. Nick at Santa’s Mailbox, then take a ride on the NSRM 503 train to visit the “bone yard” of unrestored equipment or witness demonstration runs from the 1875 Eureka steam locomotive. Whether you’re a railroad enthusiast or just looking for a fun holiday ride, this should get your season started on the right track. Visit www.nevadasouthern.com for tickets and information.
Fantastic Festivities
Once you’ve journeyed back from faraway lands, take a moment to embrace the local scene at the annual holiday gala known as WinterFest. Held in downtown Henderson from December 13th – 15th, this magnificent display of cheer will transport you to a winter wonderland with a stunning display of festive magic. The fun kicks off with the Henderson Symphony Orchestra performing their annual “Sounds of the Season” concert to set the “tone” for the festival, followed the next day by the arrival of Santa for a Tree Lighting Ceremony that illuminates the desert night. Santa will visit with the kiddies in his Christmas cottage, taking orders for holiday gifts. Wrap things up with some last minute gift shopping on December 15th as craft vendors fill the Henderson Convention Center with their seasonal wares. It all adds up to a down home winter gathering filled with love, laughter and lights. Call 267-2171 or visit www.hendersonlive.com for more information.
A similar festive twinkle can be found in many other locations off the Strip, including the amazing Holiday Spectacular at the Springs Preserve, held this year on December 8th – 9th and 15th – 23rd. The desert comes alive with the glow of thousands of beautiful LED lights, all eco-friendly, as one would expect from the Preserve. From tasty treats to holiday arts and crafts to photos with Santa, this family event has enough spirit to light up your season brighter than the biggest casinos. Take a detour into the Springs Café for delicious dishes, desserts and seasonal beverages, then head outside to enjoy the live entertainment by high school madrigal singers and other local artists. You can even get a jump on the festival with the snowman building contest and create your own Frosty to be displayed along the garden Snowman Stroll. As the lights turn on, you and your family are sure to feel the glow in your hearts as these glittering festivities brighten up your desert night with the sights and sounds of a Vegas holiday happening. Call 822-7700 or visit www.springspreserve.org for tickets and information.
Visions of Sugar Plums
With the recent opening of The Smith Center for the Performing Arts, a touch of class and sophistication has been added to the Las Vegas cultural landscape. The stage comes to life this holiday season as the new home for the Nevada Ballet Theatre’s performance of The Nutcracker, with seven shows running from December 15th – 23rd. Set to Tchaikovsky’s elegant classical music score, this Las Vegas tradition immerses audiences in an extraordinary fantasy world filled with magic, romance, pageantry and an entire Land of Sweets ruled by the Sugar Plum Fairy. Artistic director and choreographer James Canfield joins with the creative forces of scenery and prop designer Patricia Ruel and costume designer Sandra Woodall for this imaginative showcase of a timeless favorite. It’s a refined holiday gem well worth unearthing from the desert sands this December. Call 982-7805 or visit www.thesmithcenter.com for tickets and information.
No matter where you hail from, the holidays are always a cause for joyous celebration. But don’t feel like you need to pack your bags and rush out of town because you’re thinking there’s no seasonal magic to be found in our desert home. From ballet to festivals to train rides with Santa, Las Vegas has all the holiday charm you need to make the upcoming season a memorable one.
In the Know
The Wood Connection
Holiday time is a great time to discover a new hobby, and you can find ready-to-complete wood crafts for holiday decorating, home décor and many other occasions at The Wood Connection. Items can be purchased and completed at home, or you can paint to your heart’s content in the relaxed atmosphere of the store, where paint, glue and paper can be used for a nominal “sitting fee.” For whatever accessories you need to get crafty, they also sell wire, paint, glitter, vinyl and much more. You’ll find a personal touch in all their service and instruction, along with space for birthday parties, team building groups, date nights and any other special occasions. Pick up on a fun and easy new hobby and put your creative side to work at The Wood Connection.
272-0303 / 9480 S. Eastern Ave., #185 / www.thewoodcolv.blogspot.com
Jazzercise Fitness Center
Trying to stick to that New Year’s resolution to be fit? You can either keep up with the drone of the elliptical or you can find a beat and dance yourself to fitness the fun way at Jazzercise Fitness Center, now open on Eastern near the 215. Jazzercise is a group fitness class bundling moves from hip hop, yoga, Pilates, jazz dance, kickboxing and resistance training into sixty minutes of calorie blasting excitement. Every class combines cardio moves to enhance endurance and burn mega calories, strength training to define muscles and firm up your core, and stretching to increase flexibility. All ages are welcome, the moves are simple, and you don’t need dance experience, just the motivation to get your body moving today at Jazzercise Fitness Center.
461-2855 / 9500 S. Eastern Ave., #130 / www.jazzercise.com
Kumon Math & Reading Center
Help your child achieve success in math and reading with an individualized lesson plan designed by Kumon Math & Reading Center. Kumon strives to help students from preschool to high school develop a love of learning, strong study skills and a new level of confidence, all based on ability as opposed to age and grade. From counting to calculus, from basic phonics to advanced reading, each exercise is designed to encourage self learning with students proceeding at their own comfortable pace, allowing them to comprehend the material fully before moving ahead. Students of all ages and abilities can build the skills necessary for a rich, rewarding educational experience and discover a path toward future success thanks to Kumon Math & Reading Center.
570-4242 / 467 E. Silverado Ranch Blvd., #145 / www.kumon.com
Rick Arroyo
If you feel like you have a good ear for music and would like to take the leap from avid listener to active performer, Rick Arroyo can help you find the sound you’re looking for. With over thirty years experience as a jazz musician, Rick is available for private music lessons in piano and percussion at his location or in your own home. This seasoned musician and composer has performed all over the world with such jazz notables as Johnny Polanco, Poncho Sanchez, Tito Puente Jr. and more. Dedicated to the craft and committed to bringing top notch instruction to young and old, Rick will strive to help you discover a new artistic experience. Find the right rhythm to express yourself through the wonder of music by making an appointment with Rick Arroyo.
278-1982
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
Revisit the spirit of the 1950s and bite into an all American treat at Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers. Stack your cooked-to-order steakburger in a single, double or triple and add Freddy’s shoestring fries complete with our famous seasoning. If you’re craving something with more “ballpark” style, grab a Chicago dog or smother your dog with mouth watering chili, shredded cheese and diced onions. When you’re ready for dessert, cool off with a cone, cup or specialty sundae of frozen custard, a gourmet ice cream treat – or indulge yourself with a scrumptious concrete, a super thick, blended custard creation that you can customize with everything from Oreos to toasted coconut. Fill your heart with nostalgia and your belly with the highest quality food made fresh after you order it at Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers.
434-3733 / 9809 S. Eastern Ave. / www.freddysusa.com
Lumber Liquidators
With over 350 varieties to choose from, Lumber Liquidators is one of the largest specialty retailers of hardwood flooring. Choose from solid and engineered hardwood, laminate, bamboo, vinyl wood plank and cork, all at reasonable prices. There’s no need to mess with a middleman, as Lumber Liquidators will negotiate directly with the mills and make sure all the big savings come right back to you. Need help picking out what you want? Their flooring experts will make sure you find the right look for your space while keeping your stress level to a minimum. Named among Forbes’ Best Small Companies in America and seen on popular TV shows such as Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Lumber Liquidators has the name recognition and the expertise to help lay the groundwork for your perfect flooring needs.
893-3338 / 27 S. Stephanie St., #150 / www.lumberliquidators.com
In the Know
The Wood Connection
Holiday time is a great time to discover a new hobby, and you can find ready-to-complete wood crafts for holiday decorating, home décor and many other occasions at The Wood Connection. Items can be purchased and completed at home, or you can paint to your heart’s content in the relaxed atmosphere of the store, where paint, glue and paper can be used for a nominal “sitting fee.” For whatever accessories you need to get crafty, they also sell wire, paint, glitter, vinyl and much more. You’ll find a personal touch in all their service and instruction, along with space for birthday parties, team building groups, date nights and any other special occasions. Pick up on a fun and easy new hobby and put your creative side to work at The Wood Connection.
272-0303 / 9480 S. Eastern Ave., #185 / www.thewoodcolv.blogspot.com
Jazzercise Fitness Center
Trying to stick to that New Year’s resolution to be fit? You can either keep up with the drone of the elliptical or you can find a beat and dance yourself to fitness the fun way at Jazzercise Fitness Center, now open on Eastern near the 215. Jazzercise is a group fitness class bundling moves from hip hop, yoga, Pilates, jazz dance, kickboxing and resistance training into sixty minutes of calorie blasting excitement. Every class combines cardio moves to enhance endurance and burn mega calories, strength training to define muscles and firm up your core, and stretching to increase flexibility. All ages are welcome, the moves are simple, and you don’t need dance experience, just the motivation to get your body moving today at Jazzercise Fitness Center.
461-2855 / 9500 S. Eastern Ave., #130 / www.jazzercise.com
Las Vegas Distillery
Tradition is a way of life at Las Vegas Distillery, a small, family owned artisan distillery, the first of its kind in the history of Nevada. Their handcrafted spirits are milled, cooked and distilled in small batches, produced from “grain to bottle,” including vodka, gin, rum, whiskey, bourbon and specialty drinks such as “Rumskey.” Stop by for a visit and feel the steam heartbeat of their two beautiful pot stills, “The Las Vegas Copper Angels,” while you smell the fresh ambrosia of fermented mash and listen to the peaceful breaths of sleeping barrels. Barrel your own whiskey, rum and moonshine in the distillery, then buy it next door in the “Half Full” Distillery Gift Store. Think local and drink local today when you drop in for a spell at the Las Vegas Distillery.
629-7534 / 7330 Eastgate Rd., #100 / www.lasvegasdistillery.com
The Holiday House
Discover a unique, family owned and operated boutique at The Holiday House, originally located in San Francisco, now housed inside the Galleria Mall at Sunset and Stephanie in Henderson. Here you’ll find a fantastic array of Christmas products, artfully displayed in a casual home like setting that beckons you to meander and enjoy a visual feast of holiday treasures. Pick up an artificial tree, along with all the ornaments and décor you need to bring your home to life, then indulge yourself with some holiday confections, soaps and perfumes, fantastic florals or anything else you need to make the most of the season. For a dose of old fashioned service and an endless array of festive delights, make The Holiday House your new home sweet home.
331-0502 / 1300 W. Sunset Rd., #2713
Kumon Math & Reading Center
Help your child achieve success in math and reading with an individualized lesson plan designed by Kumon Math & Reading Center. Kumon strives to help students from preschool to high school develop a love of learning, strong study skills and a new level of confidence, all based on ability as opposed to age and grade. From counting to calculus, from basic phonics to advanced reading, each exercise is designed to encourage self learning with students proceeding at their own comfortable pace, allowing them to comprehend the material fully before moving ahead. Students of all ages and abilities can build the skills necessary for a rich, rewarding educational experience and discover a path toward future success thanks to Kumon Math & Reading Center.
570-4242 / 467 E. Silverado Ranch Blvd., #145 / www.kumon.com
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
Revisit the spirit of the 1950s and bite into an all American treat at Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers. Stack your cooked-to-order steakburger in a single, double or triple and add Freddy’s shoestring fries complete with our famous seasoning. If you’re craving something with more “ballpark” style, grab a Chicago dog or smother your dog with mouth watering chili, shredded cheese and diced onions. When you’re ready for dessert, cool off with a cone, cup or specialty sundae of frozen custard, a gourmet ice cream treat – or indulge yourself with a scrumptious concrete, a super thick, blended custard creation that you can customize with everything from Oreos to toasted coconut. Fill your heart with nostalgia and your belly with the highest quality food made fresh after you order it at Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers.
434-3733 / 9809 S. Eastern Ave. / www.freddysusa.com
In the Know
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
Revisit the spirit of the 1950s and bite into an all American treat at Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers. Stack your cooked-to-order steakburger in a single, double or triple and add Freddy’s shoestring fries complete with our famous seasoning. If you’re craving something with more “ballpark” style, grab a Chicago dog or smother your dog with mouth watering chili, shredded cheese and diced onions. When you’re ready for dessert, cool off with a cone, cup or specialty sundae of frozen custard, a gourmet ice cream treat – or indulge yourself with a scrumptious concrete, a super thick, blended custard creation that you can customize with everything from Oreos to toasted coconut. Fill your heart with nostalgia and your belly with the highest quality food made fresh after you order it at Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers.
434-3733 / 9809 S. Eastern Ave. / www.freddysusa.com
Bon Chef Café
For a delightful sit down meal with family or friends, pay a visit to Bon Chef Café. Mesquite wood fire grills help create unique, delicious flavors to satisfy any appetite. Breakfast time brings omelets with everything from spinach to Denver to meat lovers’, along with standards such as pancakes, waffles and French toast. When lunch or dinner rolls around, enjoy hearty pastas, juicy burgers and succulent grilled kebabs or upgrade to a more formal entrée like seafood paella or a marinated rotisserie chicken, all accompanied by a fine selection of wine and beer. You can even have them cater your holiday party or bring the kids along to enjoy their special play corner. Whatever you have in mind, Bon Chef Café has all the bases covered to provide a fun and memorable dining experience.
269-4700 / 10720 S. Eastern Ave., #100 / www.bonchefcafe.com
Johnny Cakes
Find something different than your everyday cake shop when you visit Johnny Cakes, where you’ll find quality, high end cakes at reasonable prices without skipping on the five star service. Started by three friends with a shared love of food, art and the 1950s pin up era, Johnny Cakes offers a classic “mom and pop” vibe that will make you feel like part of the family. Homemade recipes bring together dynamite cake flavors and a wide range of options in icings and fillings to create scintillating selections. Choose from traditional chocolate, vanilla, red velvet and more, filled with Bavarian chocolate, vanilla, or even cream cheese. Add some buttercream icing and fruit filling and you’ve got a succulent treat that’s sure to place Johnny Cakes at the top of your dessert list.
749-7033 / 2550 Anthem Village Dr., #190 / www.johnnycakeslv.com
The Holiday House
Discover a unique, family owned and operated boutique at The Holiday House, originally located in San Francisco, now housed inside the Galleria Mall at Sunset and Stephanie in Henderson. Here you’ll find a fantastic array of Christmas products, artfully displayed in a casual home like setting that beckons you to meander and enjoy a visual feast of holiday treasures. Pick up an artificial tree, along with all the ornaments and décor you need to bring your home to life, then indulge yourself with some holiday confections, soaps and perfumes, fantastic florals or anything else you need to make the most of the season. For a dose of old fashioned service and an endless array of festive delights, make The Holiday House your new home sweet home.
331-0502 / 1300 W. Sunset Rd., #2713
The Wood Connection
Holiday time is a great time to discover a new hobby, and you can find ready-to-complete wood crafts for holiday decorating, home décor and many other occasions at The Wood Connection. Items can be purchased and completed at home, or you can paint to your heart’s content in the relaxed atmosphere of the store, where paint, glue and paper can be used for a nominal “sitting fee.” For whatever accessories you need to get crafty, they also sell wire, paint, glitter, vinyl and much more. You’ll find a personal touch in all their service and instruction, along with space for birthday parties, team building groups, date nights and any other special occasions. Pick up on a fun and easy new hobby and put your creative side to work at The Wood Connection.
272-0303 / 9480 S. Eastern Ave., #185 / www.thewoodcolv.blogspot.com
Rick Arroyo
If you feel like you have a good ear for music and would like to take the leap from avid listener to active performer, Rick Arroyo can help you find the sound you’re looking for. With over thirty years experience as a jazz musician, Rick is available for private music lessons in piano and percussion at his location or in your own home. This seasoned musician and composer has performed all over the world with such jazz notables as Johnny Polanco, Poncho Sanchez, Tito Puente Jr. and more. Dedicated to the craft and committed to bringing top notch instruction to young and old, Rick will strive to help you discover a new artistic experience. Find the right rhythm to express yourself through the wonder of music by making an appointment with Rick Arroyo.
278-1982
In the Know
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
Revisit the spirit of the 1950s and bite into an all American treat at Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers. Stack your cooked-to-order steakburger in a single, double or triple and add Freddy’s shoestring fries complete with our famous seasoning. If you’re craving something with more “ballpark” style, grab a Chicago dog or smother your dog with mouth watering chili, shredded cheese and diced onions. When you’re ready for dessert, cool off with a cone, cup or specialty sundae of frozen custard, a gourmet ice cream treat – or indulge yourself with a scrumptious concrete, a super thick, blended custard creation that you can customize with everything from Oreos to toasted coconut. Fill your heart with nostalgia and your belly with the highest quality food made fresh after you order it at Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers.
434-3733 / 9809 S. Eastern Ave. / www.freddysusa.com
Floor Covering Mills
Have you been thinking about sprucing up your home and giving it a new look for the holidays? Floor Covering Mills is here to help you turn those thoughts into reality without the burden of unnecessary worry or exorbitant expense. All your flooring needs are “covered” in one location, where you’ll find a large selection of wood, laminate, tile and carpeting. And as a factory direct mill, they’re able to pass advantageous discounts on to the customer with a knowledgeable staff that is committed to providing dedicated service. Call to arrange an in-home showing appointment today, or better yet, pay a visit to their beautiful showroom and let Floor Covering Mills help you turn your living space into a showplace that you can be proud of.
617-0777 / 1590 W. Horizon Ridge Pkwy., #170 / www.floorcoveringmills.com
Gimme Some Sugar
Sometimes all you need is a little extra sugar to make that dessert just right. Gimme Some Sugar is a boutique cake studio specializing in unique, original custom cakes for all occasions with couture designs inspired by the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas. These aren’t your mother’s Betty Crocker box cakes; these guys are breaking tradition with edgy shapes, whimsical detailing and over the top embellishments. Each creation is baked from scratch and designed specifically for each client, whether it’s a cake or another one of their unique specialty desserts such as Crunchy Munchy bars, Mallow Monsters, brownies, cake pops and much more. Make an appointment today and let Gimme Some Sugar put their special brand of sweetness into your next tasty treat.
882-2537 / 19 S. Stephanie St., #160 / www.gimmesomesugarlv.com
Bon Chef Café
For a delightful sit down meal with family or friends, pay a visit to Bon Chef Café. Mesquite wood fire grills help create unique, delicious flavors to satisfy any appetite. Breakfast time brings omelets with everything from spinach to Denver to meat lovers’, along with standards such as pancakes, waffles and French toast. When lunch or dinner rolls around, enjoy hearty pastas, juicy burgers and succulent grilled kebabs or upgrade to a more formal entrée like seafood paella or a marinated rotisserie chicken, all accompanied by a fine selection of wine and beer. You can even have them cater your holiday party or bring the kids along to enjoy their special play corner. Whatever you have in mind, Bon Chef Café has all the bases covered to provide a fun and memorable dining experience.
269-4700 / 10720 S. Eastern Ave., #100 / www.bonchefcafe.com
Las Vegas Distillery
Tradition is a way of life at Las Vegas Distillery, a small, family owned artisan distillery, the first of its kind in the history of Nevada. Their handcrafted spirits are milled, cooked and distilled in small batches, produced from “grain to bottle,” including vodka, gin, rum, whiskey, bourbon and specialty drinks such as “Rumskey.” Stop by for a visit and feel the steam heartbeat of their two beautiful pot stills, “The Las Vegas Copper Angels,” while you smell the fresh ambrosia of fermented mash and listen to the peaceful breaths of sleeping barrels. Barrel your own whiskey, rum and moonshine in the distillery, then buy it next door in the “Half Full” Distillery Gift Store. Think local and drink local today when you drop in for a spell at the Las Vegas Distillery.
629-7534 / 7330 Eastgate Rd., #100 / www.lasvegasdistillery.com
The Wood Connection
Holiday time is a great time to discover a new hobby, and you can find ready-to-complete wood crafts for holiday decorating, home décor and many other occasions at The Wood Connection. Items can be purchased and completed at home, or you can paint to your heart’s content in the relaxed atmosphere of the store, where paint, glue and paper can be used for a nominal “sitting fee.” For whatever accessories you need to get crafty, they also sell wire, paint, glitter, vinyl and much more. You’ll find a personal touch in all their service and instruction, along with space for birthday parties, team building groups, date nights and any other special occasions. Pick up on a fun and easy new hobby and put your creative side to work at The Wood Connection.
272-0303 / 9480 S. Eastern Ave., #185 / www.thewoodcolv.blogspot.com
Good Karma – Great Pizza….Pizza Buddha
By Aly Wagonseller
Anyone that’s been in Las Vegas for more than a blink knows Mark DiMartino has been relevant in the local restaurant scene for decades. He grew up in Vegas, working in his parents’ iconic Italian restaurant DiMartino’s, and later developed several of his own successful concepts, including Grind Burger Bar and the now national chain Tilted Kilt Pub. His drive and affection for developing sexy and somewhat man-centric establishments is no secret, but there’s something different about his newest endeavor, Pizza Buddha, located at 2520 W. Horizon Ridge Pkwy at Carnegie. It seems that Mark may be mellowing as a boomer on the cusp, trading the frenetic edginess of his earlier endeavors for a more joyful, “make my belly happy” mantra that’s a telling tale of personal growth and, I suspect, a desire to stop and smell the marinara.
A quirky mix of Italian tastes wrapped in an Asian package, Pizza Buddha is more about attitude than fusion flavors. The menu relies on DeMartino’s Italian roots with pizza, appetizers and salads, adding Asian ingredients only in small doses or menu namesake. The vibe, on the other hand, is Buddha-lectic and casual. Funky particle board flooring, Asian wall hangings and chill quotes such as “Learn to Let It Go – That is the Key to Happiness” painted throughout evoke a friendly, “don’t take yourself so seriously” atmosphere designed to take you to your happy place. A small bar overlooks the open kitchen where Mark can be seen slinging pizza into brick ovens, and a few tables (the place is tiny-cozy) allow you to bask in all the good karma while enjoying some interesting yet not overcomplicated menu selections.
Like the restaurant’s stature, the menu is small but never lacking in variety; no over thinking things in this Buddha den – a nod to DiMartino’s minimalist vision. Fried Calamari (9.50) was tender yet crispy, tossed in a sweet but not overly spicy Thai sauce that coated the breading without making them soggy. Served atop a crunchy bok choy, carrot and green onion slaw with creamy dressing, it’s a must try. A ricotta and spinach appetizer called the PB Egg Roll (7.50) transforms mama’s stuffed shells into a hand held crunchfest ready for dipping in some of the best marinara sauce I’ve had in ages, but it was the Roasted Beet Salad (10.50) that had me om nom noming until the plate was licked clean. Wow, this is a winner; a thin slice of lightly breaded and fried eggplant served as a crunchy base to perfectly dressed and seasoned peppery rocket greens, a beautiful hunk of mozzarella and a touch of pesto. The sweet and earthy addition of roasted beets and acidic cherry tomatoes round out this taste I liken to culinary nirvana.
The aforementioned marinara served as a tasty base for crispy pizza, thicker rather than thin crusted, allowing you to build your own concoction or choose from a variety of house specialty versions aptly named after your favorite Buddha sayings. We rolled yin and yang familia, choosing the Mama and Papa Krakatoa pies (10-18.00 depending on size). Mama is an unusual hardboiled egg and roasted onion creation with flavors reminiscent of an egg salad, onion and tomato sandwich – hold the mayo and add a sprinkling of hot pepper flakes, please. It sounds weird, I know, but it’s an interesting slice worth trying. Papa was reminiscent of pizza ala Hawaiian, albeit with smoky pancetta, pineapple and red jalapeño peppers, a delish version if you like this flavor profile. For me, I’m already planning my return for the My Sitar Gently Weeps (crispy eggplant and roasted onion) and Buddha Sama (white pizza with shaved garlic and more of that fabulous rocket salad) versions; I’m confident they’ll make me fat and happy.
Like many of us, Mark DiMartino may be looking for peace, love and happiness in life. It’s nice that he’s sharing his newest brand of zen on a plate to spread the vibe. Pizza Buddha is open for both lunch and dinner. For information or take out, call them at 558-5039.
Better Safe Than Sorry…Fire Prevention During the Holidays
‘Tis the season for at-home entertaining. Food, friends, family, fun – and yes, even fires. Firefighters respond to calls of nearly 400,000 home fires each year, according to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA). Many fires occur in cold weather as more people bring warmth into their homes with things like traditional candles or holiday lighting. These fires result in more than 15,000 civilian deaths or injuries annually, so it’s a good idea to fire-proof this season with these tips that will help safeguard your family and home.
Go Flameless
Reduce your risk of fire by using flameless candles. Though they look and smell like real candles, they don’t pose the same risks. Scentsy Wickless Candles provide the light and ambiance of traditional candles without the smoke, soot or open flame. With more than 80 fragrances to choose from and 100 styles of warmers available, there’s a fit for every personality and home décor.
Avoid Outlet Overload
Don’t overload electrical outlets and extension cords with holiday lights or other electronics. Plug only one heat producing appliance into a receptacle outlet at a time, whether it’s an electric blanket, iron, toaster, coffee maker or anything else. Choosing battery powered options whenever available can help go a long way toward avoiding the risk of overload.
Cook With Care
Unattended cooking is the leading cause of U.S. home fire injuries, according to the NFPA. Don’t stray too far from the kitchen if you’re frying, grilling or broiling food. If you’re boiling, baking or roasting, be sure to check it regularly and use a timer to remind you when it’s finished. Plug microwave ovens and other cooking appliances directly into an outlet; never use an extension cord for a cooking appliance, as it can overload the circuit and cause a fire.
Be Prepared
Establish a fire-safe home by installing fire extinguishers and smoke alarms. Use a portable fire extinguisher to save lives and property by putting out or containing small fires, and always store extinguishers where they can be quickly accessed in areas with greater fire risk, such as in the kitchen or near the garage door. Smoke alarms should be installed in every room of the home, except for the kitchen, and should be tested once each month.
Set up a fire escape plan with the members of your household and practice it often. Always have two ways to exit each room, typically a door and a window. Practicing in a casual environment will help children feel confident in executing your plan during an emergency. Choose a landmark outside, such as the neighbor’s yard or the mailbox, as a meeting location for your family.
The holidays should be a fun and relaxing time for all. By following these fire safety tips, you can help ensure your memories of this winter season are full of friends and family, not flames.
Color Trending – Table Design for the Holidays
By Andrea Vollf
For many of us, the holiday season is one of the most important times of the year. Family and friends from near and far get together to celebrate the magic of the season, give thanks for all the blessings received throughout the year and welcome the upcoming year in a positive way. There is nothing like the feeling of being home during the holidays, and with that in mind, founder of VK Sustainable Concepts and registered interior designer Andrea Vollf shares some elegant tablescape ideas that embrace the latest fashion trends and color schemes, yet remain simple and tasteful enough for any home décor.
Recently elected the color of the year 2013 by Benjamin Moore and one of the top 10 colors for spring 2013 by Pantone, the yellow family will be a constant for the upcoming year. Yellow represents the sun, optimism and the energy people tend to be searching for in order to make things happen. With that in mind, why not integrate the color into our holiday décor? Vollf designs a balanced and inviting table that integrates the warmth of yellow with the coldness of blue. Deep blue chargers and satin napkins set the stage for an elegant and warm décor using vanilla candles, golden pine cones, recycled mesh trees and milky rocks, all grounded by a rich, warm, embroiled tablecloth.
Embracing Pantone’s color of the year for spring 2013, Monaco Blue, the designer creates an elegant tablescape with blues and whites. Resembling the tranquility of the ocean, blue helps to focus on the trend of bringing the outside in while fostering feelings to reconnect with our roots and practice an introspective attitude. She uses a large amount of recycled glass, upcycled silver mesh trees, a white linen tablecloth and pine cones from her backyard (to add some sparkle, Andrea applied glittery nail polish to the edges), along with blue candles, plate chargers and napkins.
