In the Know

Veritas Combat Arts & Fitness Academy

In the Mecca of MMA, Veritas Combat Arts & Fitness Academy takes an innovative approach to self-defense and fitness training. Veritas divides the MMA disciplines into individual classes, allowing students from four years old to adult the freedom to train across any style. Put yourself to the test by studying multiple disciplines at the root level as taught by highly experienced instructors and a family oriented staff. You can even incorporate their “VeriFit” cross training and private training sessions into your workout or take advantage of their special programs for the community, ranging from basic life skills to close quarter combat training. “Open mat” and “drop-in” rates are available, including 50% discounts to all active first responders. Discover a new world of fitness and self discipline today at Veritas Combat Arts & Fitness Academy.

757-7373  /  980 American Pacific Dr., #107  /   www.martialartshenderson.com

Nine and a Half Months

Expectant mothers looking for quality maternity wear in Las Vegas have a great new place to turn with Nine and a Half Months, the only comprehensive retailer of all things maternity. Now open in Henderson, Nine and a Half Months will showcase the most popular and effective products on the market with designer clothing lines that are difficult to find in the Las Vegas area, including Ripe Maternity, Maternal America and Japanese Weekend. A wide range of other maternity products will also be available, such as personal skin care products, books and magazines, supplements, gift boxes and more. The store also plans to hold special events in the future that will include maternity focused speakers, wellness education and yoga classes. Discover a friendly and unique maternity shopping experience at Nine and a Half Months.

749-7174  /  10880 S. Eastern Ave.  /  www.nineandahalfmonths.com

Green Turtle Salon & Spa

When you’re looking for a salon that strives to exceed your expectations, spoil yourself for the day at Green Turtle Salon & Spa. Co-owner Kelly Marshall has been an aesthetician and permanent makeup artist for many years, so when she and her husband Todd purchased an existing salon and reshaped it into Green Turtle, they wanted to make sure it met Kelly’s personal standards for excellent customer satisfaction. Their services cover everything from hair, nail and skin care to waxing and massage for all your beauty care needs. With a clean salon, a professional yet fun staff and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s everything you could want in a salon experience. Emerge from your shell and let out your inner beauty at Green Turtle Salon & Spa.

435-5459  /  1590 W. Horizon Ridge Pkwy., #100  /  www.gtsalon.com

Bouari Clinic

Now that the new year has arrived, it’s time to tackle some of those pesky resolutions. If losing weight is your big goal for 2013, the experts at Bouari Clinic can help. With a plan that doesn’t obsess over counting calories and features a wide range of all natural supplements, they’ll strive to get you on a path toward wellness that doesn’t require surgery and puts the focus on nutrition. You can also discover many additional services to help you feel revitalized, from Hormone Replacement Therapy to help reduce the risks of age related disease to the Viora Reaction system, which uses radio frequency energy and vacuum therapy to get your skin looking its best. Lose weight, feel great and look brand new with help from Bouari Clinic.

312-1101  /  9555 S. Eastern Ave., #270  /  www.bouariclinic.com

Crumbles

Looking for something fresh and homemade for a special occasion or just a tasty weeknight dessert? Stop by Crumbles on Horizon Ridge and Carnegie, where they’re baking fresh every day, even on Sunday. Owner Moira Agardi hails from England and hopes to bring those delicious baked goods she remembers from back home to the Las Vegas community. Fresh fruit crumbles, Viennese fingers, Millionaire’s shortbread, Devonshire splits, bread pudding and so much more will fit the bill for your sweet tooth. In the mood for something more traditional? You’ll also find everyday comfort desserts such as cookies, brownies, mini cheesecake, pies and cakes. No matter what you’re craving, they’ll work hard to fill any request. New treats are coming out of the oven every day at Crumbles.

616-2786  /  2525 W. Horizon Ridge Pkwy.  /  www.crumbleslv.com

My Last Shoe

Don’t have time in your busy day to browse for that perfect pair of shoes? Let them come to you instead! My Last Shoe offers a custom boutique inside a twenty foot truck that can pay you a visit at your office on your lunch break or attend your special event. Specializing in interchangeable designs, My Last Shoe offers three product lines to choose from: women’s shoes with a selection of over 1,000 snap on, interchangeable tops; a unisex gym shoe with zip on tops; and a women’s boot you can wear over thirty different ways. The possibilities are endless! Give owner Angelique Daniels a call and arrange your personal fitting today with no obligation. Step into a whole new world of boutique shopping with the unique experience of My Last Shoe.

271-3151  /  www.mylastshoe.com

The Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort

By Heather Turk

Winter in Las Vegas means you never have to worry about getting snowed in. But what can you do if you’re a ski enthusiast and want to hit the slopes? The answer may be closer than you think. Located roughly an hour from downtown Las Vegas in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, the Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort is the perfect place to escape after the busy holidays with over 240 inches of average snowfall per year and 250 acres of gorgeous mountain terrain.

Given its proximity to the city, ski and snowboard aficionados don’t have to worry about travel costs or giving up an entire weekend, as you can enjoy a leisurely day in the Spring Mountains and still be home in time for dinner. Best of all, thanks to the approval of a $35 million Master Development Plan by the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Service, you’ll find plenty of new lifts, trails and other features to create a fresh experience for even the most seasoned visitor.

Face Lift

Many of the resort’s recent cosmetic changes were implemented to coincide with the property’s fiftieth anniversary, bringing a fresh new look as a celebration of longevity. The most impressive development in visitors’ eyes are likely the sixteen new intermediate and advanced trails that have been introduced—two during the 2011/12 season and fourteen for the historic 2012/13 anniversary season—bringing the total number of trails at the resort to thirty. No matter what your level of skill, from beginner to advanced, you’ll find a run here to suit your needs and send you off on an exhilarating winter sports adventure. Single day lift tickets cost $50 for adults ($60 on weekends and holidays), with half day, multi-day and season pass pricing available as well.

The improvements aren’t exclusive to the ski runs themselves, either. One of the resort’s older chairlifts was recently demolished and replaced with a brand new, energy efficient Doppelmayr Eco-Drive quad chairlift to dramatically increase the uphill capacity to the resort’s learning area. The old chairlift had been transporting eager skiers to the Rabbit Peak trail for the past thirty years, so it seemed a natural area to make some renovations, not to mention some big expansions. The new Rabbit Peak quad lift, completed in mid-December, is not only realigned to allow for easier loading and unloading access to the beginner terrain, but will also serve as the main access from a new parking lot and base lodge being built over the next several years.

While you’re out having fun on the ski trails, you can rest easy knowing that your possessions are safe and sound, as the resort recently reallocated its locker space in the main lodge. Forty new lockers were added, and the old ones were all replaced. This makes a total of 140 lockers available to rent seasonally, with a new door that requires a keypad code for access to the locker room. All in all, the new set up offers security and convenience to any visitors worried about their valuables. After all, what fun is a ski trip that leaves your personal effects out in the cold?

With all the changes taking place, everything old is new again, but ski runs and chair lifts are just the beginning. The significant improvements made to the Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort are just the first stages of a major, long term transformation. According to president and general manager Kevin Stickelman, guests can expect to see something new every year for the next ten to twelve years, everything from additional trails to expanded parking, as the resort endeavors to attract more kids and families.

Mountain Munchies

Skiing has long been known for offering great exercise, and a trip down the slopes is sure to help you work up an appetite. For the first time ever, you don’t need to go all the way down the mountain for a quick bite to eat. You can satisfy those hunger pangs by slaloming on over to the new on-mountain grill  that opened in late December at the junction of the Bimbo and Flying Home ski runs. Open on weekends and holidays, the grill provides skiers and snowboarders alike with the perfect place to refuel, offering fresh made grilled items, soft drinks and even beer.

The Bighorn Grill, located on the upper floor of the resort’s main lodge, has also been “totally gutted,” featuring an entirely new kitchen and dining area. Whereas diners were previously given disposable utensils with their meals, the grill now features reusable china and glassware thanks to a new dishwasher on site. These changes help complement the grill’s new and healthier menu offerings, including fresh made pastas such as shrimp scampi and an assortment of hot and cold sandwiches, soups and pizzas. Popular dishes include the chef and chicken Caesar salads and tasty breakfast burritos. Every meal is a perfect fit for any aspiring king of the mountain.

While the resort typically closes its gates for the winter season around mid-April, it reopens during the warmer summer months for disc golf, scenic chairlift rides, a summer concert series and other seasonal activities. You may even be lucky enough to spot some indigenous wildlife. There’s always year round fun for the whole family, but for the best experience you can get, make the Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort your hallmark winter destination this season.

For more information, including additional tips for newcomers, visit www.skilasvegas.com.

Duck and Cover – The National Atomic Testing Museum

By Mike Sweeney

For good or bad, the development of the atomic bomb was a landmark moment in American history, one in which the state of Nevada played a key role. During the 1950s, mushroom clouds were visible for over 100 miles during above ground atomic explosions conducted at the Nevada Test Site. It’s fitting, then, that Las Vegas now plays home to the National Atomic Testing Museum, a travelogue through the legendary chronicles and ominous wonder of the nuclear age.

Ground Zero

Presented in association with the Smithsonian, the museum paints a vivid picture of life in the shadow of the bomb, from President Truman’s establishment of the Nevada Test Site in 1950 to the superpower arms race to the development of new technologies such as nuclear reactors. Foreboding photos of mushroom clouds, nostalgic literature, and casings from nuclear weapons bring the bygone days to life, along with artifacts such as Geiger counters and atomic age toys and games. Take time to hear the reflections of those who worked in the field and former employees of the Nevada Test Site, which helps place a human face on the historic undertaking. More stoic are the faces of the fully dressed mannequins on display, just like the ones meant to measure the bomb’s effects on humans. You can feel the power for yourself at the Ground Zero Theatre, where you’re in the viewer’s seat for a sensory experience that simulates a nuclear test.

An important part of the museum’s ambiance is creating a sense of historical perspective. A detailed timeline stretches throughout the halls, illustrating how significant events in nuclear testing lined up alongside milestones in politics, entertainment, and pop culture. Follow the history of testing as it begins above ground, moves beneath the surface, and then disappears altogether from the American landscape as new applications emerge. The Cold War expands before your eyes as fears over Soviet dominance give rise to nuclear proliferation, but as years pass, former enemies come together to sign test ban treaties. We also get a look at the Nevada Test Site’s role in the modern era, which includes the training of emergency response teams, a vital mission in a world where the threat of terrorism looms larger than Iron Curtain animosity.

This Land is Your Land

While the museum places its primary focus on the atomic age, there is much more to learn about the physical area that includes the Nevada Test Site. The “Stewards of the Land” galleries detail the unique geological history of the location and allow visitors to study the environmental impact of nuclear testing on natural elements such as faults, rock strata and aquifers. Other displays seek to educate guests on radioactive contamination and the effect it has on important factors such as water sources and waste management. Delve deeper into the land’s history with a captivating look at the area’s indigenous people, the Paiute and Shoshone, along with a study of the early settlers who made a living as miners and ranchers long before the sounds of man-made thunder.

Little Green Men

The museum hosts temporary exhibitions in the Harry Reid Exhibit Hall, where you’ll currently find “Area 51: Myth or Reality,” which provides an in-depth look at one of the more fascinating and controversial aspects of Nevada lore. After a televised “briefing” from a shady secret agent, you’ll proceed into the exhibit hall, full of atmosphere with its maze-like interior cloaked in dark fabrics and eerie glowing lights. The displays cover all aspects of the enigmatic “Dreamland” itself, along with everything from military flight history to far-reaching endeavors such as the Voyager probe to rumors of alien encounters like the Roswell crash and the infamous “alien autopsy” film. There’s even a section on local investigative reporter and UFO enthusiast George Knapp. Whether you choose to “believe” or not, it’s an entertaining mystery to investigate.

The marvel of the atomic age may be nothing but a phantom of the past, but the influence and significance of that period in history has stayed with us and still shapes our lives to this day. While the saga of Southern Nevada will always be dominated by memories of gangsters and gambling, the National Atomic Testing Museum reminds us that the Silver State helped shape the cultural landscape of modern America, creating an enduring legacy for future generations.

For more information on the National Atomic Testing Museum, visit www.nationalatomictestingmuseum.org.

A Step Above – Kayla Herrera

Liberty High School
Class of 2013

Every journey in life begins by putting one foot in front of the other. Whether it’s running track and cross country or discovering new passions in life, Liberty High School senior Kayla Herrera has made her journey a memorable one thus far. Determined, sincere and filled with a strong sense of personal pride, she has represented her school and dedicated herself to self improvement through athletic competition and academic excellence. She sees great things in her future and won’t let any obstacle stand in her way, and that elevates Kayla Herrera to – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.774

Sports/Activities

• Cross Country, 2009-Present; Captain, 2010-Present
• JV Softball, 2009
• Varsity Track, 2012
• Varsity Flag Football, 2012-13
• Varsity Quiz, 2012-13
• SAVE Club, 2009
• Student Council, 2012-13; Senior Class VP, 2012-13
• Church Class President, 2009-12
• Youth Church Committee, 2012-13

Awards/Community Service

• Scholar Athlete, 2009
• Most Valuable Offensive Player (JV Softball), 2010
• Most Improved JV Player (JV Softball), 2010
• Athlete of the Month (Cross Country), 2010
• Most Valuable Runner (Cross Country), 2010-12
• Young Women in Excellence Medallion, 2010
• Bronze Medalist, National Classic Etymology Exam, 2011
• Regional Qualifier (Track), 2012
• Regional Qualifier (Cross Country), 2010-12; State Qualifier, 2012
• Three Square Food Drive, 2012
• Student Aide in Special Needs Class, 2012
• Volunteer at St. Timothy, 2009-12
• Volunteer at St. Jude, 2009

Kayla Looks Up To: “I look up to my parents because they both came to the United States facing every adversity possible and made a life out of nothing. They have always inspired me to be the best I can be at all times and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.”

Kayla is Stronger and Wiser Because: “When I strained my Achilles tendon, I couldn’t understand why. I had just qualified for regionals in track and everything else in my life was going so well. Overcoming this injury taught me how to have patience. The following cross country season, I ended up running in state. I learned that sometimes bad things happen now for greater things to come in the future.”

Cause for Concern: “I would be the president of the Special Olympics because those kids are some of the most amazing kids I have ever met, and they’ve taught me about myself and how happy I can be. I would love to help them be happy like they’ve helped me and just be around them to learn even more.”

A Step Above – Kayla Anderson

Green Valley High School
Class of 2014

Setting goals is an important part of life for anyone out to achieve success. Green Valley High School student Kayla Anderson isn’t just setting goals; she’s helping her team rack them up on the scoreboard as a superstar on the soccer field. Strong willed, forward thinking and always striving to embrace her full potential, Kayla approaches both sports and school work with a competitive drive that keeps her mindful of the present and invested in her future. The world moves fast at every turn, but it’s her keen ability to keep up and never lose sight of her dreams that places Kayla Anderson – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 3.9

Sports/Awards/Community Service

• Varsity Cross Country, 2010-12
• Varsity Track, 2010-13
• Varsity Soccer, 2010-13
• Varsity Flag Football, 2012-13
• Club Soccer, Premier Soccer Club 96, 2011-13
• Varsity Soccer Captain, 2012-13
• Coaches Award (Cross Country), 2011-12
• Offensive Player of the Year (Soccer), 2012
• State Champions (Soccer), 2010
• State Runner Up (Soccer), 2011-12
• Division Champions (Soccer), 2010-12
• Regional Champions (Soccer), 2010-12
• All State Qualifier (Cross Country), 2010-11
• All State Qualifier (Track), 2010-12
• Scholar Athlete, 2010-12
• Volunteer at Central Christian Church, 2011-12

Goals & Aspirations: “My long term goals in life are to attend a Division I college on a scholarship playing soccer where I will finish my degree as a nurse. I would love to be able to play on the women’s soccer team and play for a medal representing my country.”

Kayla is Successful Because: “I feel I’ve always become successful from practicing. I have a great work ethic and I understand what it is to sacrifice for what you love. I don’t give up and always try and be the best that I can be. I never forget to thank God for everything he’s given me.”

Kayla Looks Up To: “Someone that I look up to is my mom. She’s always there for me. She is a strong woman and she showed her strength while my dad was in Iraq. She’s never left my side. She’s there for my ups and downs. I can relate to her and I love her dearly!”

Cause for Concern: “If I were to be president of any nonprofit organization, it would be one that helped less fortunate children in need of a home and food. I hate seeing little kids go without. I could never imagine how life would be like that.”

A Step Above – Mathison Clore

Coronado High School
Class of 2013

With an eye toward studying economics and visions of law school in his future, Coronado High School senior Mathison Clore seems destined for a prestigious career. But ambitious dreams have not changed this outgoing and astute young man’s desire to stay grounded by helping those whose lives are more difficult than his own, including his sister. Friendship, trust and solidarity are all qualities he not only aspires to but also inspires in others with a strong enthusiasm for life and a desire to always do better. For all that and more, Mathison Clore rises to – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.8

Activities

• Coronado High School Wind Symphony, 2010-12
• Marching Band, 2009-13
• Treasurer and Music Librarian (Marching Band), 2011-13
• Forensics, 2009-13
• Policy Debate Captain (Forensics), 2010-13
• Mu Alpha Theta, 2009-13; Treasurer, 2011-12
• Varsity Quiz, 2011-13
• Science Bowl, 2011-13
• Spanish Club, 2011-13; Treasurer, 2012-13
• National Honor Society, 2011-13; Secretary, 2012-13

Awards/Community Service

• National Merit Semifinalist, 2011
• Most Valued Chemist, 2011
• Nevada Varsity Quiz State Champions, 2011
• AP Scholar with Distinction, 2011
• Leo Club, 2011-12
• Volunteer for Susan G. Komen Foundation, 2006-13
• Volunteer for March of Dimes, 2006-13 

Mathison Looks Up To: “My dad is definitely someone that I look up to. He works incredibly hard and utilizes his passion daily. For him, working is fun because he is able to do what he loves. I hope that I feel the same way in my future career.”

Mathison is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Living with my disabled sister has been an enormous and positive influence in my life. She has taught me to treat all people equally regardless of physical or mental differences. That has allowed me to be much more open to other people in my daily life.”

Part of the Solution: “I think that discrimination is always an important issue. Teens need to be aware that differences are not inferiorities and that stereotypes are not representative of everyone. If people realized that, I think there would be a lot less violence and malevolence towards others unlike ourselves.”

Cause for Concern: “I would be the president of Best Buddies. My sister was involved with the program and I have seen the tremendous impact that it can have. Best Buddies involves someone just being a friend to someone else. Even something that simple can be incredibly powerful.”

A Step Above – Malia Zinn

Coronado High School
Class of 2013

For many students, music is an essential part of any well rounded education, but for Coronado High School senior Malia Zinn, it’s a fundamental part of life in general. For this versatile and ambitious young woman, her world comes alive with artistic expression whenever she’s playing the French horn or mellophone. But music is far from the only thing Malia takes pride in accomplishing, extending her talent and strong work ethic into everything from academic clubs to volunteer work. Wherever her passions may lead her, she’s determined to succeed, and that’s what sets Malia Zinn – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.8

Sports/Activities

• Water Ballerinas Synchronized Swimming A Team, 2005-09
• Las Vegas Youth Orchestra Philharmonic, 2011-Present
• Cougar Pride Marching Band, 2009-Present
• CHS Wind Symphony, 2009-Present
• CHS French Horn Section Leader, 2011-Present
• CCSD Honor Band, 2011-13
• Desert Winds Wind Ensemble, 2011-12
• CHS Varsity Quiz, 2010-Present; Regional Champions, 2011-12
• CHS Key Club, 2010-11
• Girl Scouts, 2000-10

Awards/Community Service

• National Merit Semifinalist, 2012
• AP Scholar, 2012
• CCSD Solo and Ensemble Regional Qualifier, 2011-12
• Nevada All-State Orchestra, 2012; Nevada All-State Band, 2011
• Nevada Prize Exam Honorable Mention, 2012
• CHS Band, Best Concert Section, 2009-12; Best Marching Section, 2011-12
• CHS Band Letter, 2009-12; Varsity Quiz Letter, 2010-13
• Outstanding Brass Musician, 2010-11; Most Improved Musician, 2009-10
• CHS Honor Roll, 2009-Present
• Habitat for Humanity, 2012-Present
• Iron Man Triathlon Volunteer, 2012
• Paseo Verde Library Volunteer, 2009 & 2011

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I’m proud that I have done well in both music and academics. Being able to balance several activities that I am passionate about has been a useful skill. I feel thankful I don’t have to rely on one area of expertise to carry me through college.”

Malia Looks Up To: “I consider my section leader from my freshman year, Alicia, to be my role model. She represented everything I wanted to see in myself as a senior; she was an encouraging leader and impressive musician, yet still found time to balance band with academics and be a modest individual.”

Part of the Solution: “Teens are faced with so many tempting distractions in high school and college, including parties, drugs, and drinking. Ten years after graduating, none of these things will matter as we look back at our lives and careers. While these activities can be tempting, they have no payoff in the long term. I hope that other teens can be lucky enough to have role models their age, like I did, that can show the advantages of being productive with their time.”

A Party…Pigskin Style – Tips for a Super Bowl Sunday Funday

By Aly Wagonseller

 Football! Yeah! If you’re like many Americans obsessed with this bone crunching, sweat spewing game of brawn, you’ve anxiously awaited Super Bowl Sunday for months. Maybe your favorite team has made the cut, or perhaps they’ve vanished from the rankings in a tackling puff of grass stained smoke. Either way, why not plan a pigskin bash your friends will be talking about for many seasons to come?

What’s nice about a Super Bowl party, as opposed to a non-sporting event soirée, is that you’ve got built in entertainment and a theme to hang your helmet on. No need to do much to keep your guests amused; the opposing teams and commercials will do that for you. All you really need are a few creative ideas for decorating the home field, passing out some good eats and making the big event entertaining for football lovers and haters alike.

Stadium Style

Setting the mood for the main event can make even the most lackluster of championship games something to cheer about. Brittney Melnick, founder of local company B With a Twist Catering, has some ideas that encourage everyone to get into the game. “Create two opposing territories in your house by dividing your room into two distinct sides decorated in the colors of each of the two Super Bowl teams,” suggests Melnick. “Encourage guests who don’t have a rooting interest in the game to pick a side and root accordingly,” she adds. Decorating ideas might include balloons, team posters, crepe paper streamers and throw pillows or chair cushions made from color coordinating, inexpensive fabrics.

Brittney also offers some clever ways to make your buffet table the center of attention while keeping things simple yet festive. “Cover your serving table with astro turf and use white satin ribbon at field markers to set the stage for buffet style finger food stations,” she says. “A black-and-white-striped tablecloth is a more subtle way of invoking football. Maybe even wear a referee shirt yourself, complete with whistle!”

Goal Worthy Grub

While you want to have a man-worthy selection of great food for noshing, there’s no need to miss the game while cooking in the kitchen. Brittney recommends getting items ready ahead of time, setting them out and allowing guests to help themselves. “A great way to pull off a menu that allows both you and your guests to enjoy the day is by offering a meatball bar,” she suggests. “Make a variety of flavors that include beef, turkey, even a vegetarian ‘meatball’ with a variety of sauces. Round out the meal with great breads for sandwiching, as well as an array of toppings. Include different cheeses, fresh basil or caramelized onions, or add chutney for a new twist!”

If you’re feeling super spirited, Melnik suggests interjecting some friendly competition into the evening by hosting a chili throw down. “Super Bowl, with its lengthy half time show, is the perfect opportunity to hold a cook-off, and with several people each bringing an entry, it means less cooking for you as the host. At halftime, ask everyone to vote for their favorite chili. At the end, announce the winner and send them home with a prize basket of snacks.”

In between quarters and after the game, make sure there’s a variety of snacks available to keep people from overindulging in the alcohol department. Get creative by shaping dips, cookies and brownies into football related shapes, while having snack mix, popcorn and other easy to eat items spread throughout the room in decorative, team coordinating colored containers. If possible, do as the stadiums do and close down the bar for the fourth quarter, instead offering plenty of water and other hydrating drinks for the road.

A Game of Your Own 

Betting on your favorite team always makes things more interesting, and a Super Bowl party just wouldn’t be complete without Super Bowl squares available for purchase. Set the limit for your squares, taking into account the number of people who’ll be betting as well as the booty to be distributed at each juncture of the game. Make things simple by visiting www.docsports.com/current/super-bowl-squares.html for an easy to print grid and instructions on setting up the game if you’re unfamiliar with it.

Brittany suggests taking advantage of the often hilarious commercials played on game day by handing out “rating cards” numbered 1 through 5 to all the guests, then asking them to score each Super Bowl commercial as it airs. Tally up the points so you can announce at the end which commercial is the party favorite.

Finally, add a touch of football mania by offering a face painting station for both adults and kids. Going this extra mile encourages guests to take a stand on which team they’ll root for and also makes for colorful pictures to post on Facebook and Twitter accounts! Websites such as www.snazaroo.us/football.htm offer easy to use stencils that make it easy to paint your game face on.

You don’t have to be the most creative person in the world to host an exciting and successful Super Bowl party. With great ideas from B With a Twist Catering and a little preparation, your Super Bowl Sunday will most definitely be a funday!

Brittney Melnick and B With a Twist Catering specialize  in upscale comfort food including unique twists on macaroni & cheese, BBQ meatballs, red wine braised short ribs and mouthwatering homemade desserts. For catering info, call 553-7849 or visit www.bwithatwistcatering.com.

Out N About

Valentine’s Day Adventures

Sure, everybody loves to get candy, flowers and stuffed animals for Valentine’s Day, but sometimes it’s nice to try something a little different. There’s a whole big world out there for you and your significant other to explore with lots of unique things to see and experience together.

Flightlinez Zip Lines

Hook on and take a wild ride with your other half down the Fremont Street Experience or through Bootleg Canyon in Boulder City for spectacular views and an adrenaline rush like no other. Visit www.flightlinez.com for info.

The Museum Scene

From the development of the atomic bomb to the early days of the railroad to the history of the mob and beyond, Las Vegas has a rich heritage to explore and learn about with your loved one. Visit www.lasvegastourism.com for info.

Day Trips

Take the day off to spend with your favorite person and jaunt out to Pahrump for a wine tasting, shop for Valentine’s gifts at the outlet mall at Stateline or discover the beauty of Zion National Park in Utah. Mini-vacations are just a short drive away.

Bird Watching

There are many species of fine feathered friends to be found in the desert. Accompany your amour to The Desert National Wildlife Range at Corn Creek, Red Rock, Lake Mead, Mount Charleston and more. Visit www.birdandhike.com for info.

The Smith Center

Flashy shows on the Strip are nice, but why not treat your love to a more cultured performance with an energetic musical, elegant ballet or a rousing concert by the Las Vegas Philharmonic. Visit www.thesmithcenter.com for a schedule and more info.

Literary Locals

Former New York police officer and local resident Daniel O’Connor had an upbringing filled with challenges. When he was four years old, he lost his mother to cancer. His father succumbed to the disease two years later. O’Connor then went to live with his grandmother, who passed away when he was ten. Despite the tragedy in his life, he persevered and went on to become a highly decorated officer with the Suffolk County Police. He attributes a lot of his success to his love of reading, a passion which led him to another milestone: becoming a published author.

Hoping to inspire younger generations to rise above their difficulties in life, O’Connor has recently published a novel titled Sons of the Pope, co-written with Peter Randazzo. Set in Brooklyn and spanning several generations, the novel weaves a tale of love and hatred, devotion and betrayal, murder and miracles. It’s the kind of epic storytelling on a broad canvas that he’s always loved. With a lot of life experience to draw from, O’Connor’s writing is sure to capture imaginations across the globe. Visit www.primalscreaming.wordpress.com for more information.

Strawberry Margarita

1 oz. strawberry liqueur
2 oz. tequila
1 oz. lime juice
¼ oz. simple syrup

Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled, ice-filled glass.
Did You Know?

The origins of Valentine’s Day date back to the Roman Empire in 270 AD. Emperor Claudius II didn’t want men to marry during wartime because he believed single men made better soldiers, but Bishop Valentine went against his wishes and performed secret wedding ceremonies.

The Must Do List

Editor’s Picks

February 9
Good vs. Evil: An Evening with Anthony Bourdain & Eric Ripert
Master chefs and media superstars Anthony Bourdain (No Reservations) and Eric Ripert (Top Chef) have delighted television and literary audiences with their larger than life personalities and tales of restaurant life in the big city. Now you can see them up close and personal as the two good friends take the stage at the Pearl Concert Theater at Palms for a night of grand storytelling. Like magicians revealing their secrets, both chefs will give candid opinions about the place of food in our personal, community and global lives and offer provocative insights into the world of professional cooking. It’s sure to be a treat for any foodie who yearns to peek behind the culinary curtain. Call 942-7777 or visit www.palms.com for tickets and more information.

February 13
Harlem Globetrotters
Nobody puts on a dazzling show quite like the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters. The talented exhibition basketball team brings their impressive athletic skills and humorous antics back to Las Vegas for a show stopping performance at the Thomas & Mack Center. For more than 85 years, the Globetrotters have played over 20,000 games in 120 countries, delighting fans of all ages with a spirit of unbridled fun that can inspire laughter and enjoyment in just about anybody. You don’t have to be a die hard sports fan to have a great time at a Globetrotters event. Bring the whole family and spend some time courtside with one of the most unforgettable shows you’re ever likely to see. Call 284-7777 or visit www.orelansarena.com for tickets and information.

January 22-23
The Joffrey Ballet
Long considered one of the world’s premier ballet companies, The Joffrey Ballet has been entertaining audiences for decades, from the heart of Russia to the halls of the White House. The company continues its tradition of excellence by showcasing their singular talents at this live performance at The Smith Center, with unique pieces ranging from a rare classic to a modern masterpiece, and even a Jane Austen-inspired ballet. Music comes to life on stage with a dose of world class talent that should not be missed. Call 982-7805 or visit www.thesmithcenter.com for tickets and more information.

February 9
24^th Annual “Splendor in the Glass” Wine & Beer Tasting
Wet your whistle with some tasty libations as more than sixty wineries and breweries will offer their wares at this tasting event held at the Las Vegas Hotel, along with a live wine auction, silent auction and the musical sounds of the Las Vegas Academy Jazz Band. Chef Hubert Keller of Fleur de Lys and Burger Bar at Mandalay Bay will also be making a guest appearance. And you can enjoy yourself knowing that you’ll be helping a good cause as the event helps benefit programming and community outreach initiatives for Vegas PBS. Call 799-1010 or visit www.vegaspbs.org for more information.

February 16
Black History Month Festival
Enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of a rich cultural history as the Springs Preserve hosts this festival commemorating the contributions of African-Americans to Southern Nevada’s legacy and traditions. The family-friendly event includes live music and dance, a children’s film festival, a historic African-American photography exhibit and much more. Vendors will be on hand throughout the day, offering food and drink, art, clothing and much more, all reflecting the cultural spirit of the festival. Take in the fresh air and beautiful surroundings as you help celebrate an important part of Nevada’s diverse heritage. For more information, call 822-7700 or visit www.springspreserve.org.

Making a Difference – Black Rock Solar

Since 1990, The Shade Tree has been providing shelter and assistance to homeless and abused women, children and their pets. Local nonprofit Black Rock Solar is helping them continue their mission of protecting those in need by building a new solar array for the shelter, dedicated this past November. The array is designed to help offset The Shade Tree’s utility bill, lowering overhead and freeing up funds for essential community services.

Black Rock Solar conducted multiple rounds of fundraising for the renewable energy project and helped The Shade Tree secure a rebate from NV Energy’s RenewableGenerations program. The nonprofit built a new carport and installed solar panels on two separate buildings for the thirty-four kilowatt array, all at no cost to the shelter. Groupon Grassroots featured the project as one of its Earth Day fundraising campaigns, bringing in $2,500 to help complete the endeavor, while other individual donors contributed funds for paint and asphalt work. The Shade Tree has not been the only recipient of Black Rock’s generosity, either. The bighearted group has also built fifty photovoltaic arrays at low or no cost for schools, other nonprofits, Native American tribes and community groups throughout the state.

“Organizations like The Shade Tree add extraordinary value to their communities,” said Patrick McCully, Executive Director of Black Rock Solar. “We are honored to be able to help them continue their mission, and grateful to all those who contributed to making this project a reality.”

For more information on The Shade Tree, visit www.theshadetree.org.