A Step Above – Alex Blutman

Palo Verde High School
Class of 2013

Palo Verde High School senior Alex Blutman loves a good debate. It’s no surprise, then, that he’s earned many awards of distinction and risen to prominence at the national level in speech and debate. Alex owes his success to setting goals, a firm resolve and a strong sense of personal responsibility. All those same qualities translate into success on the baseball field as well for this team captain and standout athlete. Still, his casual smile and winning personality let you know he doesn’t sweat the small stuff, and that’s just one of many reasons Alex Blutman rises to – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.8

Sports/Activities/Community Service

• Las Vegas Baseball Academy, 2007-12
• Varsity Baseball, 2011-Present; Captain, 2012
• JV Baseball, 2009-11; Captain, 2010-11
• JV Cross Country, 2010-12
• Forensics, 2009-Present; President, 2012-Present; 1^st VP, 2011-12
• Public Forum Debate Captain, 2011-Present
• National Honor Society, 2010-Present
• Diabetes Walk & Autism Walk Fundraisers, 2011
• Hometown Holidays, 2010-11
• Food Package Preparation, 2010-11
• The Nature Conservancy Fundraiser, 2008

Awards

• AP Scholar with Distinction 2012
• National Merit Semifinalist, 2012
• ACT Perfect Score, 2012
• Anthem Essay Contest Finalist, 2011
• Nevada All-State Academic Team (Baseball), 2011-12
• Scholar Athlete, 2011-12
• Varsity Debate Letter, 2009
• County Semi-Finalist, Public Forum Debate, 2010-11
• State Semi-Finalist, Public Forum Debate, 2010
• District Finalist, Public Forum Debate, 2011
• National Tournament Competitor, Public Forum Debate, 2012

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “During my freshman year, I set a goal to qualify for the national debate tournament. Last year, my debate partner and I defeated the district’s top Public Forum Debate team to advance to the national tournament. It was our effort, skill, resolve and friendship that I believe carried us through.”

Alex Looks Up To: “There are two qualities in Tim Tebow that I highly admire and respect. The first is his work ethic. Whatever he lacks in talent, he makes up for in heart, determination and effort. Second, I admire the way he adheres to his own personal standards and responsibilities. No matter how much he is criticized, I respect him for the way he upholds his own morality.”

Part of the Solution: “Young adults today lack a sense of accountability. This deficiency in character has an immeasurable impact that goes beyond basic irresponsibility. I hope I can make a difference among my age group, guiding, advising and helping kids make intelligent, contemplated and careful choices in their lives.”

A Step Above – Miranda Lopez

Palo Verde High School
Class of 2013

From cheerleading to student council and beyond, the indomitable spirit that Palo Verde High School senior Miranda Lopez shows for school (and for life) not only inspires others but unites them in camaraderie. Outgoing, engaging and always there to help those in need, Miranda sets out to make a difference in everything she does, whether it’s at Palo Verde or in the community with local charities. While she treasures her independence, she knows that we can accomplish great things together, and she’s happy to lead the way. For that, Miranda Lopez stands – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.8

Sports/Activities

• Cheerleading, 2009-12
• Serenade Choir, 2009-Present
• Camp Broadway, 2012
• Pep Club, 2010-Present
• Interact, 2011-Present
• Junior Class Representative, 2011-12
• Senior Class President, 2012

Awards/Community Service

• All-American Cheerleader, 2011
• Most Dedicated (Cheerleading), 2011
• Most Studious (Cheerleading), 2012
• Student of the Month, 2012
• Junior of the Year (Choir), 2012
• AP Scholar, 2012
• Positively Kids, 2009-12
• Lupus Walk, 2009-12
• Three Square Food Bank, 2011
• Ronald McDonald House, 2011
• Willow Creek, 2009-12
• J.T. McWilliams, 2012

Goals & Aspirations: “For the remainder of my senior year, I would like to help raise school spirit and improve school unity. After graduating high school, I plan to graduate from a four year university and set out to inspire others and make a difference.”

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of writing and performing an original oratory for the Martin Luther King Jr. Oratorical Competition. After winning first place in my class, school, and then the state, I realized that performing motivational speeches was something I was meant to do.”

Miranda is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Being just barely four feet, eleven inches, I have had to endure taunting and teasing for as long as I can remember. After deciding to embrace my height, I have realized that being tiny has given me the ability to play certain characters, wear extremely high heels, and prove that good things come in small packages.”

Improving Student Life: “In order to improve the conditions at my school, I would make it required that students are exposed to the harmful outcomes of bullying. There is nothing that bothers me more than seeing a student upset because of what another student has said or done.”

A Step Above – Kallyse Duddlesten

The Meadows School
Class of 2013

Aut viam inveniam aut faciam. The Meadows School senior Kallyse Duddlesten could tell you that’s Latin for, “I’ll either find a way or make one,” a philosophy that definitely defines this motivated young woman’s life. While quite adept at language arts and other academics, Kallyse takes a strong leadership role outside the classroom in everything from student council to service with the National Charity League. Warm, soft spoken, and fiercely independent, her strong moral ethics guide her on a daily quest toward personal growth and success, and that sets Kallyse Duddlesten – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.71

Sports/Activities/Community Service

• Varsity Bowling, 2010-12; JV Bowling, 2009
• Cum Laude Society, 2012
• Latin Honor Society, 2009-Present
• National Honor Society, 2011-Present
• Honor Code Committee, 2013
• Young Conservatives Club, 2010
• Food for Friends Club (Founder), 2011
• National Junior Classical League, 2007-Present
• Environmental Conservation Club, 2010
• Sober Grads (Founding Secretary), 2012
• National Charity League (Las Vegas Chapter), 2007-Present
• Junior Class VP, 2012; Sophomore Class VP, 2011

Awards

• Cum Laude Society, 2012-Present
• Coach’s Award (Bowling), 2011
• Honors Academic Awards, 2010-11
• Student of the Year, 2008
• National Spanish Exam, 1^st Place, Nevada Chapter, 2012
• All State Choir, 2008-09
• National Latin Exam, Cum Laude, 2012; Summa Cum Laude, 2011
• Classical Literacy Exam, Silver Award, 2011
• Pearson Scholarship, National Jr. Classical League Convention, 2011-12

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “My biggest obstacle that I have overcome would be the shyness that hindered my potential as a leader. Throughout my high school career, I’ve come out of my shell and built confidence, which has allowed me to become a leader of multiple clubs, both inside and out of school.”

Kallyse is Stronger and Wiser Because: “In my freshman year of high school, I was an extremely isolated person. However, the Junior Classical League truly changed my outlook. I gained so much more confidence. Without the JCL, I would never have devoted myself to so many other things that have also changed my life. I have learned that when some kind of hardship or isolation threatens to overcome me, I cannot just shut life out.”

Part of the Solution: “Many young adults face the pressure to act immorally or recklessly, simply because popular young adult society tells them it is acceptable. I intend to encourage people, through my own ability to stay above the influence, to not give in to the social or cultural mainstream, but to determine for themselves what is right or wrong.”

A Step Above – Ben Schlichting

Bishop Gorman High School
Class of 2013

Winston Churchill once said that the price of greatness is responsibility. Bishop Gorman High School senior Ben Schlichting proves that adage true as someone who takes the lead in all his endeavors while keeping his eye on the promise of tomorrow. Driven by a passion for law and politics, this articulate and gregarious young man excels at making connections and breaking down barriers, talents that will serve him well in his aspirations to public office. He doesn’t just have a dream for the future; he has a plan to make it better, and that helps place Ben Schlichting – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.06

Sports/Activities

• Varsity Golf, 2009-Present
• Varsity Quiz, 2009-Present; Captain, 2012
• Mock Trial, 2012
• Academic Society, 2009-11
• Mu Alpha Theta, 2011-Present
• National Honor Society, 2011-Present; President, 2012
• MicroBank, President and Co-Founder, 2010-Present

Awards/Community Service

• MVP Award (Golf), 2010
• Coach’s Award (Golf), 2011-12
• Student of the Year, Biology Honors & Scholar English, 2010
• Student of the Year, New Testament Studies, 2011
• Student of the Year, AP U.S. History, 2012
• Nevada All-State Academic Team, 2010 & 2012
• St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 2009-12
• L.I.G.H.T. Retreat, 2010 & 2012
• First Tee of Southern Nevada, 2009-12

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “The accomplishment I am most proud of is the creation of the Bishop Gorman MicroBank. We worked so hard to make this dream a reality. Hours of planning paid off when we were able to give our first loan to help someone. We have been able to help end poverty in a small way, but even a small deed can have very big consequences.”

Ben Looks Up To: “To me, my heroes are both my mom and dad. Lately our family has gone through quite a few struggles, but their love for each other, and me, has kept our family together. I am very proud to call myself their son, and the lesson they have taught me is to just keep fighting no matter how hard life can get. I will take this and use it for the rest of my life.”

Part of the Solution: “A key issue facing young adults is recognition and classification. Many adults like to pin young adults as reckless and disrespectful. This is sadly a common misperception. To solve this problem, I would aid in explaining to adults that we are fully capable of accomplishing large tasks and are a respectful and abiding group of citizens. The young and the old have to come together in order to become a more unified country.”

A Dash of Flavor – Spicing Up Your Wine Selection

By Gordon Gilbert

The Dutch are known for many things: beautiful tulip fields, windmills, fine art. But it’s their nearly three century long presence in southeast Asia and the famed Dutch East India Company that earned them credit for creating a new age of culinary delights. The exotic spices the Dutch brought home expanded the menus and palates of Europe and the new world. Fortunately, we don’t have to create our own shipping company to secure the treasures found in our spice racks.

From cloves and cinnamon to nutmeg and tellicherry, a vast array of flavors and sensations now grace our kitchens. Some spices provide huge blasts of intensity while others have long, lingering bouts of enjoyment, all of them offering a range of great enhancements to our daily menus. With such an extraordinary spectrum of tastes and sensations, it would impossible to limit ourselves to a single wine pairing. Rather, the more difficult task lies in finding a wine that enhances our chosen spice rather than detracts from it, resulting in a true complementary tasting experience.

Cinnamon

On the whole, cinnamon can be difficult to pair with, but Gewürztraminer is the best option here as well as with other heat driven spices such as cayenne or green curry powder. The name Gewürztraminer literally translates as “spiced” Traminer (a family of white grapes), so Albrecht Gewürztraminer Reserve (Alsace, France; $20) is a great place to start. The wine has an intense tropical feel with lychee dominating. Light floral notes give way to a wonderful coating texture and a sweetness that helps offset the more striking qualities of the cinnamon.

Nutmeg

Riesling is a great wine to pair with focused and more heat driven spices such as nutmeg, and you’ll find a good choice in the Geil Rheinhessen Spätlese (Rheinhessen, Germany; $18). Spätlese refers to late picked grapes, which increase the sugar levels of the wine. The sweetness acts as a natural foil to the heat generated by a wide assortment of spices, including nutmeg. The laser focused acidity of Riesling replicates the ability of nutmeg to concentrate on a certain portion of the palate. Flavors of this wine consist of pear, key lime zest and just a hint of slate.

Cloves

Cloves have a rich, fragrant persistence. Even with the most aromatic of wines, the intense power of this spice tends to win out, so a heavier selection is the better choice. A stout, tannic, yet medium bodied Zinfandel makes for a great combination with Indian curry or Jamaican jerk chicken, both of which make use of cloves. Calcareous Twisted Sisters Zinfandel (Paso Robles, California; $20) offers wonderful stewed plums with blackcurrant and pepper notes. The spiciness is concentrated in the mid-palate and has a medium finish with a hint of sweetness.

Tellicherry Black Pepper

The powerful heat of the Indian tellicherry black pepper makes a great addition to many grilled meats and a range of stews. With that in mind, the Catena Malbec 2009 (Mendoza, Argentina; $16) creates a harmonious combination with peppercorn and has the tannins to break through anything we put on the grill. Rich black fruit, touches of violet, hints of clove and a whisper of pepper help to create an enduring finish to match the long, drawn out heat of the peppercorn.

Fresh Herbs

While spices are important, we cannot overlook the significance of fresh herbs used in conjunction with them. Sauvignon Blanc, with its undeniable grassiness, certainly fits the bill here. Whether we are working with lemongrass, verbena, basil or lemon thyme, the Groth Sauvignon Blanc (Napa Valley, California; $14) helps add to their fresh qualities with citric fruits and a crisp, aromatic zippiness. While clean and racy, there’s still a hint of creaminess.

The right herbs and spices can help add lots of zest and punch to any culinary offering, but by pairing these accoutrements with the right wine, we can create delectable delights bursting with amazing flavors. Just the sort of pairing you need to spice up your kitchen and your wine rack!

Fall Movie Preview

By Mike Sweeney

The Avengers have avenged. The Dark Knight has risen. The Expendables have… been expended. Summer movie season is now a distant memory. As we gear up for the holidays, your local cinemas will switch gears to more adult fare, turning from escapist action and popcorn munching thrills toward more epic adventure, serious drama and the race for Oscar gold.

Tough Guys

The man with the “particular set of skills” returns in Taken 2 (October 5), as former covert operative Brian Mills (Liam Neeson) takes on a cabal of Eastern Bloc bad guys out to avenge their fallen comrades from the first film. This time, it’s Brian’s wife (Famke Janssen) who’s been “taken,” triggering another adrenaline fueled rescue mission filled with outrageous stunts and deadly gunplay. Aptly named French filmmaker Olivier Megaton directs the explosive action.

Writer-director Quentin Tarantino branches out into yet another genre with Django Unchained (December 25), his tribute to the Italian “spaghetti westerns” of the 1960s. In this revisionist epic, a freed slave named Django (Jamie Foxx) teams up with a bounty hunter (Christoph Waltz) to rescue his wife from a ruthless plantation owner (Leonardo DiCaprio). Fueled by his signature dark humor and edgy ultra-violence, this is vintage Tarantino with a unique historical twist.

Tom Cruise returns to the two fisted style of action he does so well, taking on the title role in Jack Reacher (December 21), based on the best selling novel One Shot by Lee Child. The character represents a slightly darker turn for Cruise, who takes on the role of a drifter and former MP who finds himself entwined in the case of a sniper who’s got civilians in his sights. Robert Duvall, Rosamund Pike and noted German film director Werner Herzog co-star.

Spies and Soldiers

Ben Affleck returns to the director’s chair for the third time with Argo (October 12), the riveting true story of a recently declassified operation that took place during the Iranian hostage crisis of the 1970s. Affleck stars as Tony Mendez, a CIA officer posing as a Canadian film producer. Under the guise of scouting locations for a fake science fiction B-movie called Argo, Mendez and his team infiltrate the dangerous and volatile streets of Tehran to free American captives.

“Bond. James Bond.” Those immortal words will be spoken once more by Daniel Craig in Skyfall (November 9), the twenty-third entry in cinema’s most enduring franchise. Following a botched job in Istanbul and an attack on the MI6 agency, Bond faces off against the sinister Raoul Silva (Javier Bardem), a villain whose personal connection to both 007 and his superior M (Judi Dench) exposes dark secrets that threaten to destroy British Intelligence.

The death of Osama bin Laden made headlines around the globe last summer. Zero Dark Thirty (December 19) tells the dramatized story of the intelligence operatives and military personnel who waged a decade-long secret war that brought down the most feared terrorist of our time. Oscar winning director Kathryn Bigelow (The Hurt Locker) takes charge of yet another suspenseful thriller with a cast that includes Joel Edgerton, Jessica Chastain and Kyle Chandler.

Worlds of Wonder

Classic horror gets a family friendly spin in Frankenweenie (October 5), another triumph of stop motion animation from the eccentric mind of director Tim Burton. When his beloved dog passes away, young mad scientist Victor (Charlie Tahan) brings him back to life, only to find the loveable resurrected pooch turning his suburban world upside down. Shot in gorgeous black and white, this tribute to old time movie monsters scares up plenty of spooky fun for all ages.

Return to Middle Earth as another three-film saga begins with The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (December 14), director Peter Jackson’s latest adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic mythology. Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) teams up with Gandalf the Grey (Ian McKellen) and a company of twelve dwarves on a quest to reclaim a vast treasure. With dazzling special effects and scenic New Zealand vistas, the legend of the One Ring returns to the big screen.

You’ve never seen a movie quite like Cloud Atlas (October 26), and you probably never will. Based on David Mitchell’s sprawling novel, the film spans hundreds of years and chronicles everything from a Pacific voyage in the 1800s to an uprising against a totalitarian state in the distant future. Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Hugo Weaving and many others play multiple roles in interweaving storylines that shape an ambitious tale of fate, courage, love and humanity.

The Oscar Goes To…

Tolstoy’s classic gets another lavish cinematic production with Anna Karenina (November 16), which finds Keira Knightley playing the title role once portrayed by Vivien Leigh and Greta Garbo. Trapped in a loveless marriage, Russian socialite Anna embarks on an affair with the dashing Count Vronsky (Aaron Johnson), challenging social mores and the hypocrisy of high society. Joe Wright (Atonement) directs from a script by playwright Tom Stoppard.

The agony and triumph of the French Revolution comes to life in Les Misérables (December 25), a new adaptation of the Broadway musical. Hugh Jackman stars as convicted thief Jean Valjean, who violates his parole and spends the next two decades on the run from the relentless Inspector Javert (Russell Crowe). Anne Hathaway co-stars as Fantine, a factory worker and prostitute who places her illegitimate daughter Cosette (Amanda Seyfreid) in Valjean’s care.

No stranger to the Oscar spotlight, director Steven Spielberg digs back into history for Lincoln (November 9), a biopic chronicling the last several months of Honest Abe’s life. Based on Doris Kearns Goodwin’s Team of Rivals, the film chronicles Lincoln’s battles with his cabinet on the road to abolition and the end of the Civil War. Two-time Oscar winner Daniel Day-Lewis dons the stovepipe hat for what is sure to be a nuanced and human portrait of an American icon.

Power on the Plate – Spices that Boost the Body

By Aly Wagonseller

If you’ve ever sweated bullets after consuming throat scorching salsa or fire breathing dragon curry, you know there’s something about spicy food that just revs up the body. It’s long been determined that standby pepper varieties including cayenne, red flake and plain old freshly ground black work digestive magic while tingling the taste buds, but recent studies have shown that several other spices can shift your metabolism into high gear, reduce the body’s negative response to fatty foods that clog our arteries and minimize inflammation associated with ailments from Alzheimer’s to arthritis. A combination of just two tablespoons per day of the super food spices listed below can lower your blood fat levels by 30%, increase your metabolism up to 25%, and increase cancer fighting antioxidants in the blood stream by up to 13%.

Cinnamon – shown to increase your metabolism twentyfold with just a 1/4 to 1 teaspoon per day, it’s easily incorporated into foods from oatmeal to Moroccan chicken.

Cumin – used in a variety of international cuisines spanning the globe from India to Mexico, cumin has a thermogenic effect that raises the inner temperature in the body allowing you to burn more calories at a faster rate.

Ginger – a true super spice, this versatile addition to anything from tea to lentil soup contains an enzyme that aids in fat absorption and lowers high cholesterol and triglyceride levels, while raising the good cholesterol in your body. It also has thermogenic properties.

Turmeric – responsible for providing bright yellow color and a mildly bitter flavor to predominantly Asian cuisine, turmeric reduces inflammation, lowers cholesterol and can prevent blood clots that cause strokes.

Stocking your spice rack with a body boosting assortment of flavor is a cinch.  They’re readily available at most grocery stores, and you can mix and match quantities to suit your tastes.  Experiment with combinations of your own, premixing them and storing in airtight containers that allow for no-brainer additions to scrambled eggs, marinades, dips or grilled foods, or try one of our spicy concoctions sure to add kick to your dinner table.  It’s a delicious way to add spice and good health to your life!

Salmon in a Bengali Mustard Sauce

Serves 2-3

• 3/4 pound skinless salmon fillet cut into 2 inch wide pieces
  1/2 tsp. salt, divided
  1/2 tsp. ground turmeric, divided
  1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper, divided
  1 tbsp. ground mustard
  2 Tbsp. mustard oil (use extra virgin olive oil as a substitute)
  1/4 tsp. whole brown mustard seeds
  1/4 tsp. whole cumin seeds
  1/4 tsp. whole fennel seeds
  2 green or red bird’s eye chilies, slit slightly

Make rub for fish by combining ¼ tsp. each of salt, turmeric and cayenne pepper. Rub mixture evenly on fish pieces. Cover and set aside in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or up to 10 hours. Combine the mustard powder, remaining cayenne, turmeric, and salt in a small bowl. Add 1 tablespoon water and mix thoroughly. Add another 7 tablespoons water and mix. Set aside.

In a medium frying pan, heat mustard or olive oil over medium-high heat. Add mustard seeds and allow to pop (a few seconds). Add the cumin and fennel seeds. Stir once and quickly pour in the mustard paste mixture. Add chilies, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer. Place the fish pieces in the sauce in a single layer. Simmer gently for about 5 minutes, or until the fish is just cooked through, spooning the sauce over the fish all the time. Serve with basmati rice.

Recipe from Epicurious.

Red Lentil Soup

Serves 4

• 1 cup red lentils, washed and soaked for 1 hour, drained
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 large tomato, diced
• 1 green serrano chile, split and seeded
• 1-inch piece ginger, peeled and minced
• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 2 Tbsp. canola oil
• 1 tsp. cumin seeds
• 1/2 tsp. turmeric
• 1/2 tsp. paprika
• Kosher salt
• Honey, to taste
• Chopped cilantro leaves, for garnish

In medium saucepan, over medium heat, combine the drained lentils, onion, tomato, chile, ginger, garlic and enough water to cover. Bring to boil, then lower the heat and simmer until the lentils are tender, about 30 to 45 minutes. Whisk the cooked lentils to release some of their starch and break them down further.

In small saute pan, warm the canola oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and cook until they are sizzling and spluttering. Stir in the turmeric and paprika. Pour the seasoned oil into the lentils (be prepared for a big sizzle). Stir to combine, add salt to taste, and a small drizzle of honey. Ladle into soup bowls and garnish with cilantro.

Recipe from Aarti Sequeira, Food Network.

Moroccan Chicken with Polenta

Serves 4

•  2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
• 1 1/2 tsp. ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp. ground red pepper
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
• 1 pound skinned, boned chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tsp. olive oil
• 3/4 cup low-salt chicken broth
• 1/3 cup raisins
• 1 tsp. ground turmeric
• 1 (16-ounce) tube wild-mushroom polenta, cut crosswise into 12 slices
• Cooking spray
• 1/4 cup plain fat-free yogurt
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Combine the first 6 ingredients in a medium bowl; reserve 1 Tbsp. flour mixture. Add chicken to flour mixture in bowl; toss gently to coat. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Stir in broth, raisins, and turmeric; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer 8 minutes or until slightly thick.

Preheat broiler. Place polenta slices on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray and sprinkle with reserved 1 Tbsp. flour mixture. Spray tops lightly with cooking spray. Broil 8 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Serve chicken mixture over polenta; top with yogurt and sprinkle with almonds and cilantro.

Turkey Kefta with Sweet Onion and Raisin Sauce

Serves 4-5

• 4 cups sweet white onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper
• 1 (14-ounce) can chicken broth
• 1 3/4 tsp. salt, divided
• 1 1/2 tsp. Ras el Hanout, divided (recipe follows)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup dry breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 1/4 pounds ground turkey breast
• Olive oil
• 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
• Ras el Hanout (makes enough for several uses)
• 2 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
• 2 tsp. ground cumin
• 2 tsp. ground ginger
• 2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp. ground coriander
• 1 tsp. ground red pepper
• 1 tsp. ground allspice
• 1 tsp.saffron threads, crushed
• 1/2 tsp. ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground nutmeg

Make Ras el Hanout by combining all spices in a small bowl. Store in airtight container.

For kefta, combine first 4 ingredients along with ¾ tsp. salt and ½ tsp. of the Ras el Hanout in a Dutch oven; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes or until sauce thickens, stirring occasionally.

Combine remaining 1 tsp. salt, 1 tsp. Ras el Hanout, the chopped fresh parsley and the next 4 ingredients (through ground turkey breast) in a large bowl; shape mixture into 20 meatballs. Heat oil in a large skillet. Slighty brown meatballs, not cooking through, draining on a paper towel. Place browned meatballs on top of onion mixture; cover and cook for 20 minutes or until done. Serve over couscous if desired, sprinkled with slivered almonds.

Work Like a Dog – The Benefits of a Pet-Friendly Office

By Michelle Vessel

Work can be stressful, and dogs… well, dogs are awesome. Put the two together and you just might have the magic formula for adding a touch of much needed whimsy to the workday grind. We’re starting to see a gradual shift in office culture, where a new generation of tech startups, quaint bookstores and other small businesses are welcoming dogs and other pets into the fold. Rolling out the welcome mat for employees’ faithful companions could help inject some lighthearted fun into your workplace, but it’s important to first consider all the pros and cons.

Animal Advantages

The connection between canine companionship and stress relief can be traced back for decades. Since the mid-twentieth century, physicians have commonly advised patients suffering from hypertension, anxiety or other stress related conditions to consider pairing up with a furry companion as a new form of therapy. Dogs have also been used in prisons and hospitals to provide stress relief in high tension environments. But when it comes to dogs in the workplace, the positive impact may stretch beyond the psychological. Many employees who bring their dogs to the office notice a friendlier, more relaxed vibe that was missing before the policy was put in place while also indicating that morale seems to be higher in canine-friendly work settings.

A recent study published in the International Journal of Workplace Health Management examined the idea of dogs in the workplace and found that stress levels of those who brought their dogs to the office declined over the course of the day while those who left their animals at home or did not own pets suffered more work related anxiety. By the end of the day, stress levels in the latter groups were significantly higher than those whose pets accompanied them. What’s more, when those same dog owners left their pets at home, their stress levels skyrocketed. Stress causes our bodies to release endorphins, natural pain killers that can dull our critical thinking and diminish decision making and interpersonal skills. Studies have shown that employees with lower stress have greater productivity, lower margin of error and miss work less due to illness.

Pet-friendly office settings may also benefit employers by allowing devoted dog owners to feel less guilty about leaving their pets alone all day and reducing doggy day care costs. For customer service operations, dogs can help create a cozy, homespun vibe that helps boosts repeat business. Some employers even claim that instituting a dog-friendly policy lends them an edge when it comes to recruiting and retaining employees, as a top tier candidate who can’t bear the thought of leaving Fido home alone may be more likely to accept an offer from a pro-pooch employer.

Pet-Friendly Potential

According to a 2008 survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association, seventeen percent of U.S. businesses allow pets to come to the workplace at least occasionally, and anecdotal evidence suggests that the number has only continued to grow since then. The prospect may seem attractive, but it’s also important to examine whether or not your office is a good fit.

For a variety of reasons, some types of businesses or facilities are legally prohibited from opening their doors to pooches. Rules differ between jurisdictions, but businesses licensed as food service establishments, medical facilities or other types of offices where cleanliness is strictly governed for safety reasons may not be able to accommodate employee pets. In other cases, clauses in leases or insurance policies may put the kibosh on canine co-workers. Some employees may suffer from allergies or simply may not be comfortable around dogs, no matter how friendly. And while you may enjoy having your dog at work, animals may prove to be a counterproductive distraction if your job entails high traffic, formal conduct or strict deadlines.

If you’ve carefully parsed out the pros and cons and are ready to take the plunge, the next step in the process is developing a pet policy. Whether you’re a manager or business owner who’s considering making the change or an employee who’s campaigning for a pet-friendly office, having a set of clearly defined rules and expectations in place can help smooth the way for an easy, stress free transition. Some experts recommend starting out slowly by welcoming dogs into the office once a month, allowing employees to get used to the sight of an animal. This way, you can assess your pet policy’s applicability and keep an eye out for any unforeseen problems.

Most people will not be used to having an animal at work, so an effective pet policy should spell out every element of bringing animals into the office. Make sure you have all the bases covered so that your company’s policy is crystal clear. For example, are pets allowed to visit every day or only once a week? Will owners have to provide proof of a clean bill of health and current vaccinations? Who is responsible for walks, treats and cleaning up after accidents? What’s the procedure if a particular pooch starts to pose a distraction? Finally, and perhaps most importantly, who will shoulder the liability for damages or injuries caused by the dog? If you’re concerned or unclear about legal issues, it may be wise to consult with an attorney beforehand.

Workplace Petiquette

Once you decide to open your office to a four legged friend, do your part by adhering to a few common sense courtesies. First, make sure your pet has the right personality to join your workplace. High energy dogs, mischievous puppies, pets with behavioral problems or dogs that are not properly housetrained probably aren’t the best candidates. Before your pet’s first visit to the office, think through a typical day at home and consider everything your pup might need during the course of their visit. A few days before you bring them along for their first visit, it may be helpful to bring some supplies into the office ahead of time, including a leash (have an extra on hand), water and food bowls and supplies, treats, toys, and even a pet bed or crate.

No matter what type of personality your dog has, they will still need their exercise during the day, so pencil in a regular break time when you can set aside your work and take your pal for a nice walk. Owners of more adventurous dogs suggest using child safety gates to keep your pet’s movements contained in a particular area, at least during the first few weeks. Experts also recommend having a backup plan in place in case the experiment doesn’t go as smoothly as you would have liked, such as asking a spouse or friend to come pick up your pup if he or she becomes scared or experiences behavior problems. Most important, be sure that both you and your pet respect other workers’ space and privacy. You may think your dog is the greatest thing in the world, but other employees may be wary of animals or get sidetracked by their presence.

Even if it’s just for eight hours a day, we sometimes can’t bear to be separated from our beloved pets. Finding a place for them at the office seems like a good way to cure separation anxiety and help make your place of business more relaxed and stress free. But remember that it’s not for everyone, so do your research and consider all factors before you let your office go to the dogs.

Out N About

Halloween Haunts

The witching hour is almost upon us once again. As Halloween draws near, candy buckets will soon be full as the streets swarm with ghosts and goblins. If you’re looking for a good scare that’s still a lot of fun, we’ve put together a list of local haunts for you to visit – if you dare!

Trilogy of Terror

Freakling Bros. presents a trio of terrifying walk-through haunted attractions throughout October at the AMC Theatres Rainbow Promenade: Castle Vampyre, Circus of Horrors and the R-rated Gates of Hell. Visit www.freaklinghaunt.com for info.

Bonnie Screams

A chilling journey awaits as the famous Bonnie Springs Ranch transforms into a haunted ghost town from October 18^th – 31^st with train rides, haunted houses, magic shows, a scary maze and much more. Visit www.bonniescreams.com for info.

Haunted Harvest

Spooktacular family fun awaits at the Springs Preserve on the last three weekends in October with a haunted house, trick or treat stations, carnival games, haunted hayrides, live entertainment and more. Visit www.springspreserve.org for info.

Las Vegas Zombie Run

See if you can “survive” this 5K at Sunset Park on October 28^th as you put on a flag football style belt and attempt to evade the zombies trying to pull your flags. Proceeds benefit Generation Vegas. Visit www.lasvegaszombierun.com for info.

Town SCARY Halloween

Trick or treat through the streets of Town Square on Halloween night. Candy will be passed out by shops and restaurants with games and activities for all ages being held throughout the shopping center. Visit www.mytownsquarelasvegas.com for info.

Stroke of Luck

Ask any avid golfer about the chances of sinking a hole in one and you’re sure to be told it’s a near impossible feat. For two golfers to land holes in one on the same course on the same day, that’s an even more remarkable feat. And when those two golfers are husband and wife, well, it’s hard to count odds that go that high. But that’s exactly what happened at Anthem Country Club on August 25^th when husband and wife Jim and Fay Geddes each sank their own hole in one.

Jim’s hole in one happened on hole number four, with a four hybrid shot from an impressive 148 yards. He’s no stranger to holes in one as this was the fifth of his career. Fay, however, landed her first one ever on the fourteenth hole with an eight iron shot from 91 yards. It was truly an exciting day for the couple, a feat that will probably never be duplicated in their lifetimes but one they had the good fortune to share together. Maybe there are a few open spots on the PGA Tour!

Spooky Berry N’ Balsamic Martini

2 oz. Stoli vodka
½ oz. simple syrup
Dash of balsamic vinegar
4 strawberries, quartered

Muddle strawberries and simple syrup in Boston shaker. Add vodka, balsamic vinegar and ice. Shake vigorously for ten seconds. Fine strain into chilled martini glass and add half strawberry with green top for garnish.

Recipe courtesy of Republic Kitchen & Bar

Did You Know?

A whopping 90 million pounds of chocolate candy is sold during Halloween week, taking a strong lead compared to other holidays. Almost 65 million pounds is sold during the week leading up to Easter and only 48 million pounds during Valentine’s week.

The Must Do List

Editor’s Picks

October 5 – 7
19^th Annual Age of Chivalry Renaissance Festival
Huzzah! The Middle Ages come to life once again at Silver Bowl Park at this dazzling festival put on by Clark County Parks and Recreation. Experience the thrill of a fully realized medieval kingdom with knights, knaves, fine ladies, wenches and more in full costume. Dress up yourself and join the fun! Talented performers offer more than fifty shows a day, including jousting, historical re-enactments and displays of pageantry, while over 100 artisans showcase their talents as blacksmiths, woodworkers, armor craftsmen and more. And don’t miss out on the food! It’s not a ren faire without some fish and chips or a monstrous turkey leg. Step back in time for an authentic trip to days of yore! Call 455-8200 or visit www.lvrenfair.com for tickets and more information.

November 10 – 11
Aviation Nation
Off we go, into the wild blue yonder… Celebrate Veterans Day and the world of aviation with this incredible program of all things aeronautic at Nellis Air Force Base. The event will highlight the Air Force’s incredible accomplishments in air, space and cyberspace over the last seventy-one years with approximately 100 military and civilian aircraft on display. Festivities will feature several military air demonstration teams, including the U.S. Air Force Demonstration Squadron, also known as the Thunderbirds. Other military and civilian acts will perform as well to help pay tribute to the history of American aviation and salute the recent accomplishments of America’s military in operations around the globe. Bring the whole family and add a dose of patriotism to your holiday weekend. Visit www.nellis.af.mil/aviationnation for more information.

October 5 – 7
Cowboy BBQ of Henderson
Fire up the grill and get those steaks seasoned and marinated as the City of Henderson hosts the inaugural Cowboy BBQ. The intense cook off contest will feature the best professional pit masters and local amateurs grilling award winning barbeque delights in a sauce soaked battle to be crowned champion. Other happenings at the three day festival include a carnival, an all-you-can-eat VIP Rib Village and live entertainment from country music artists such as Jon Pardi, American Made, Lazy Brad Lewis and more. Call 267-2171 or visit www.hendersonlive.com for more information.

October 20
Las Vegas Philharmonic Opening Night Celebration
A key fixture on the local scene for more than a decade, the Las Vegas Philharmonic kicks off its new season with this grand opening gala at their new home, The Smith Center. Dynamic young artists Navah Perlman, Philippe Quint and Zuill Bailey join the Philharmonic in a thrilling rendition of Beethoven’s Triple Concerto. Future concerts include a performance of the original orchestral score to a live screening of Charlie Chaplin’s City Lights (11.3) and “An American Portrait” (11.17), which offers a rich cornucopia of classic American music. Visit www.thesmithcenter.com for tickets and more information.

October 25-28
Nevada Wild Fest
Get into the carnival spirit and share in some country style fun at the largest state fair showcase in the valley, held at the Rio All-Suites Hotel & Casino. Experience a thrill a minute with large format carnival rides and midway attractions, gourmet food trucks, a haunted maze, a DockDogs canine competition, live country music entertainment and much more. All net proceeds benefit the Lili Claire Foundation, a private medical center dedicated to helping special needs children and adults with any type of neurogenetic condition. Visit www.nevadawildfest.com for more information.

FOOD & DRINK

Raise Your Glass

Fall is a great time for being outside in southern Nevada, and nothing makes those cooler temperatures more agreeable than a nice cold brew or glass of wine in your hand. This season, you’ll find some fantastic beer and wine tastings offering potent potables for your enjoyment.

3^rd Annual Grapes & Hops Festival

Combine fine wines, unique beers, live music and great food from some of the city’s best restaurants for this “spirited” event at the Springs Preserve on October 6^th. Participating restaurants include Stripburger, Mon Ami Gabi, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and more. Proceeds benefit Par for The Cure, a nonprofit organization dedicated to breast cancer research. Call 822-7700 or visit www.springspreserve.org for tickets and more information.

Pahrump Valley Winery Grape Stomp

For a truly distinctive wine experience, head out to the Pahrump Valley Winery on October 6^th – 7^th for a grape crushing good time. Teams of two will have two minutes each to stomp their hearts out and see how much juice they can get from the fruit. If you’d rather just hang out and watch, you’ll find plenty of wine tasting, food, music and live entertainment. Visit www.pahrumpwinery.com for more information.

Brew’s Best Beer Festival

The Village at Lake Las Vegas plays host to this beer tasting event on November 10^th, which features a wide range of tasty suds from local and regional breweries. Enjoy the scenic lakeside atmosphere as you stroll around and sample some top notch, refreshing beverages from all over southern Nevada. Proceeds benefit New Vista, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering the local disabled community. Visit www.brewsbestlv.com for tickets and info.

CHARITY

On the Right Foot

A large portion of destitute people across the valley aren’t able to get proper foot care or even a decent pair of shoes. That’s where Hearts to Soles is trying to help. Since 2004, the outreach program has provided free foot examinations and shoes to the needy across the United States. Local orthopedic foot surgeon Dr. Troy Watson has been getting into the act as well. Dr. Watson and his staff will offer free foot screenings to the less fortunate on November 16^th while also supplying them with free footwear at the Salvation Army.

Dr. Watson spends time every year fitting the homeless with proper shoes through the Hearts to Soles program. However, tough economic times have led to a decrease in the number of shoes available, so Dr. Watson is seeking donations of new and lightly used men’s shoes in sizes eight through thirteen. Donations can be dropped off at any of his three office locations: 2800 E. Desert Inn Road, 8402 W. Centennial Parkway, and 2930 W. Horizon Ridge Parkway. Give the gift of shoes this season and help the less privileged among us stand tall. Visit www.feetmd.com for more information.

HEALTH & FITNESS

Cardio for a Cause

Now that the weather has cooled off a bit, it’s a perfect time to catch up on your outdoor exercise while helping out a noble charity at the same time. On October 6^th, the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN) will be holding their fourth annual 1.5 mile charity walk at The District at Green Valley Ranch to help raise awareness and promote advocacy of life threatening food allergies and anaphylaxis. The event will feature a carnival, crafts, face painting, video games and more. Visit www.foodallergywalk.org for registration and more information.

You can also get your wheels in motion and join the Bike MS: Vegas Challenge on November 10^th – 11^th, starting at the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health. Participants can opt for one or two days of fantastic, challenging rides with routes that cover everywhere from the bustling Strip to the scenic environs of Red Rock Canyon and distances ranging from 30 to 150 miles. Proceeds will go directly toward research and services for those living with MS in hopes of finding a cure. Visit bikenvl.nationalmssociety.org for registration and more information.

Meet The Neighbor – Warren Whitney

By Callie Thomas

It takes courage to know what you want and to take the steps to make it happen. While Warren Whitney was in college, he knew what he didn’t want. The 89012 resident was interning at a local advertising agency while attending UNLV and discovered that he didn’t want an “office job” but rather an opportunity to be active outside of the office and serve the public. After testing to be in fire services, his career path was set in motion and he’s never regretted that decision. The native Las Vegan is currently a captain/paramedic with the Clark County Fire Department. Through determination, he worked his way up through the ranks, first as a firefighter, then firefighter/paramedic, engineer/paramedic and now captain/paramedic. Even today, Warren still runs EMS calls, which accounts for about 85% of their call volume, but that wasn’t enough.

Warren is also currently president of the Southern Nevada Firefighters Burn Foundation (SNFBF; www.theburnfoundation.org) which provides assistance to burn victims and their families as well as at-risk children that are identified by local fire agencies. They are there for those involved in catastrophic events and act as a resource to fire agencies and the community while also creating awareness of fire and life safety. The organization’s annual Toy Drive helps nearly 40 charities and government organizations, schools and churches each year. Last year, they reached over 17,500 kids. Under Whitney’s presidency, the SNFBF teamed up with MDA and raised over $120,000 by coordinating volunteers from the Clark County Fire Department. Warren Whitney shares his passion for serving the community, the SNFBF’s upcoming Karaoke Challenge and why he and his brethren of firefighters strive to make your life better every day.

What inspired you to become involved with the SNFBF?

“I appreciate and respect what they do. When I first approached past president Nino Galloway about becoming a member, all I knew was that they collected toys and handed them out to needy kids for Christmas and helped burn victims that had been treated at UMC Burn Center. But having been on numerous house fires and seeing how people’s lives were devastated, treating burn victims from these calls and seeing them in the hospital dealing with the agony they endured while going through their debridement, I felt I had to help.”

You must have a sense of pride knowing that you’re making a difference for the people of our community.

“It feels good to help out people who are less fortunate, especially the kids who are dealing with things that are beyond their control through SNFBF. As a firefighter and paramedic, it’s an extremely dynamic environment. You can train and train, but there’s always something that pops up and requires you to respond in a timely manner. Even on the EMS side of things, we run into situations that are sometimes mind-blowing. It can make you feel good just by helping.”

You’ve decided to bring back the Karaoke Challenge to benefit SNFBF this month?

“Yes. It will be at Ri Ra at Mandalay Place and each fire department puts teams together and is judged on performance, costume, most original concept and so on. The participants really take this seriously and it’s fun to watch. We use the event to kick off our annual Toy Drive and as it’s right around Halloween, the costumes are pretty interesting!”

You’re happy you chose to be a firefighter/paramedic?

“People don’t call the fire department because they are having a great day and want to say hi. In most cases, they call us because they are having the most traumatic day of their lives. Whether it’s being on call with the department or helping the Burn Foundation, our motto is “Our Family Helping Yours.” It’s great to see people smile when we affect their lives. That’s the best reward.”