Meet The Neighbor – Colleen P. Page

 By Callie Thomas

When’s the last time you spent “quality time” with your spouse, your children, brother, sister or friends? Was it somewhere between picking up dinner on the road, dropping the kids off to practice or coming home after ten hours of meetings and deadlines? This is probably why “quality time” has become so precious—and necessary. 89135 resident Colleen Page has figured out a way to spend important time with her family and still make a difference in the community. Does that make her a magician? Probably not, but she is pretty smart.

The stay at home mom of two has made a point to become involved with not one but two charity leagues that ensure one-on-one time with her son Christopher, age 16, and daughter Shannon, age 14. Meanwhile, local charities reap the rewards of much needed support from the mother-son and mother-daughter duos.

For the past two years, Page and her son have been involved with the Young Men’s Service League (YMSL), where mothers and sons volunteer and serve at various philanthropies in Vegas. She is currently the VP-Elect Philanthropy with the organization. Page is also involved with the National Charity League (NCL), where she and her daughter also assist a long list of local nonprofit organizations such as the Animal Foundation, for which Page serves as the NCL Liaison. Each of these alliances has had a huge impact on the quality of time and the immeasurable rewards attained by the Page family as part of these groups. Organizations that are served through the League and YMSL include Joy Prom, Opportunity Village, Shade Tree, Baby’s Bounty, Child Haven, CCSD, Three Square, Golden Retriever Rescue and many more.

Colleen Page gives us a glimpse into her everyday life, tells us why Las Vegas is so special and talks about instilling community awareness and service in her children.

What did you set out to accomplish by being a part of these organizations?

“I really believe giving back to the community should just be an extension of yourself every day. I’m proud of my family and having my children see and learn about things outside of their Summerlin community.”

What is the mission of the leagues?

“Both organizations are focused on serving and supporting those in need as well as fostering relationships between mothers and their children. At YMSL, each mother-son team is required to serve at least twenty hours of community service in support of approved philanthropies each year. The vision of the NCL group is to develop strong women leaders serving and impacting communities as a result of building strong mother-daughter relationships.”

You must have some profound experiences working with the charities.

“My son and I volunteered with YMSL for Joy Prom. This is a full scale prom for disabled children and adults. The event is put on entirely by volunteers. The boys are hosts and are paired with a disabled person. They do an amazing job making someone feel special and important for the night, and sometimes that is a hard thing to teach and learn. My son and I will always remember this special night.”

What is a typical Saturday like around your house?

“Taking the kids to their various activities, going to the movies at Red Rock, my husband making salmon from a Page family recipe I love, or eating out with friends.”

Why is Las Vegas so special to you?

“About twenty years ago, my husband and I went to Hawaii and then Las Vegas for our honeymoon. We were here and witnessed the implosion of the Dunes. It was amazing and I remember thinking what a great city this was… but I never thought we would be raising a family here. It has been a wonderful city.”

What does giving back mean to you?

“Most days, everyone is so busy running around with work, kids, sports, etc. that it’s hard to stop and remember the simple things in life. Being involved in these organizations helps me find balance, and I hope my children are learning from this entire experience.”

Meet The Neighbor – Katherine S. Foley

 By Callie Thomas

It’s been said that home is where the heart is but for resident Katherine Foley, it’s also about finding  the perfect home for Nevada house hunters. Falling into a career in real estate was as easy as breathing for the long time resident. Her passion for homes and home building started in high school, working for her father, who was the owner of Security Housing Corporation. During college, she sold real estate for his Northern Nevada Division of the company and also worked for the Northern Nevada Home Builders Association while attending and later graduating from the University of Nevada, Reno with a B.S. in Business Administration. She eventually became Executive Vice President for Christopher Homes, a position she held for more than twenty years, and currently still handles sales at their Boulder Ridge community at The Ridges in Summerlin.

Today, she is the President and Broker for The Foley Group, a real estate firm that works with both new and resale homes in the valley. While she enjoys helping others attain their very first or forever home, she also enjoys spending time in her own abode with husband Mark and their children Jack and Rogina, along with their two golden retrievers. Her two furry residents have been the catalyst for another passion—saving and protecting animals in need throughout the community.

Foley is on the Executive Board for the Nevada Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Nevada SPCA). The organization operates a no-kill animal sanctuary, promotes humane education and serves as an advocate for the companion animals in their care. There is no “time limit” for the animals in residence at the Nevada SPCA, and they are welcome until they find their forever new home. She supports the group by being involved in a number of initiatives to raise awareness and funding, including specialty-themed events. Katherine Foley talks about her efforts with the Nevada SPCA and her commitment to giving back to the community she loves.

What drew you to the Nevada SPCA?

“I have always been a dog lover and enjoy the unconditional love my two golden retrievers provide and they are a part of our family and very special to me. I’ve also met some amazing people by being involved with this organization, from the other board members, the Executive Director, the Honorary Board members, staff at the shelter and volunteers. They all genuinely care about animals and their well being.”

Tell us about some of the SPCA events you have helped to create and support.

“We put on some fabulous events such as our annual Animals in Wonderland Champagne & High Tea, which featured a red carpet/silent auction with local celebrities in attendance and live musical performances. Our most recent Funny Bones Comedy Show at the Orleans this past June was a giant success. An amazing line up of comedians assembled by the legendary Sammy Shore included Rich Little, Tony Orlando, Amazing Jonathan & Psychic Tanya, Zowie Bowie and so many more.”

Why is it important to you to give back to the community?

“This community has been very good to me and to my family. I believe if you give you will continue to receive and help the less fortunate.”

What accomplishments are you most proud to have achieved?

“Being a good mother to my children and watching them grow into young adults.”

What do you think makes you successful?

“Who I am, how I was raised, and who I share my life with makes all the difference. I am a very fortunate person but have also worked very hard to achieve my success. I think character, honesty and passion are equally important.”

Meet the Neighbor – Trey Louis Noran

By Callie Thomas

“Love isn’t an emotion or an instinct – it’s an art.” – Mae West

The American Film Institute listed Mae West fifteenth among the greatest female stars of all time. The actress, singer, playwright and screenwriter made a name for herself in vaudeville and became best known for her bawdy double entendres. While West may have had less than pure thoughts behind the quote above, it is certain that her godson, 89117 resident Trey Louis Noran, has taken the art of love for helping others to another level.

Noran may have followed his godmother’s footsteps in the entertainment industry by landing small acting and commercial parts, singing backup vocals and traveling between Las Vegas and Hollywood, but he also knew a thing or two about lending a hand to those in need.

Born Louis Anthony Olguin to parents Gloria and Louis Olguin in Denver, Colorado, he spent his first years in west Denver, an area known for despair. His widowed mother eventually placed him in a private boys school called Clayton College for Boys, and he later graduated from Rose Ministry. His passion for helping the homeless led to creating a nonprofit organization called His Love Street to provide those on the streets with food, clothing, shelter, education, career development and health care. Noran moved to the community last year when he saw that the needs were sadly twice as prevalent in Las Vegas. His Love Street – Nevada was born, and Noran has already amassed several events with local media and those in the entertainment field to help change things for the better here in Nevada.

Noran is not only raising funds to help the immediate needs of the local homeless population, but also to realize a dream of developing a homeless hotel in Nevada. He talks with us about those aspirations and his passion for making a difference.

What is the mission of His Love Street?

“I started the nonprofit organization to transform our inner city and the lives of those facing homelessness, poverty and hopelessness. I believe together, as a community, we can end chronic homelessness and reduce the number of people on the streets in Las Vegas.”

Meeting so many in need, you must have many memorable experiences.

“Seeing so many homeless people in Vegas and learning that they are living under the city in sewers has been difficult, but knowing we’ll be able to make a huge difference has made a significant impression on me.”

How are you currently raising funds to help?

“Through my Love Corporation, we are marketing my trademark ‘Real Men Love 2 Cuddle’ T-shirts and opening a restaurant called Ice/Mex Takeout this winter, which combines Mexican food and twenty flavors of ice cream. All proceeds from sales of T-shirts and Ice/Mex will go to feeding the homeless and construction to build the multimillion dollar hotel. I’m also working on a giving back concert at the end of August at the Wolf Theatre featuring musical performances by newcomer Brett Mikels plus Luggnutt Keyz, Jennifer Knight and Supreme Reflections to raise money to open not only a hotel but also several outreach centers to give that helping hand to those that are seeking a second chance in life.”

What do you envision for the His Love Street Hotel?

“The hotel will include a clinic, commercial kitchen, private showers, a barber, laundry facilities, a library, dentist, counselors and a beautiful outdoor courtyard. We intend to employ our guests in several areas, such as our hotel tower, clinics, book store, clothing store, and our 700-seat state of the art Olguin’s Restaurant. We anticipate serving more than 10,000 people each year.”

That’s an enormous undertaking. How do you unwind after a busy day?

“With a glass of wine and the thought that I am very blessed.”

 “Is there anything besides being the godson of Mae West that others may not know about you?

“When I set my mind on anything, I don’t ever give up until I reach my goal.”

Freedom Friday

With the 4^th of July on the horizon, it’s important to think of our fighting men and women who help keep our country free. Unfortunately, when veterans of our armed forces return from overseas, they often have trouble finding ways to support themselves and their families. Local dentist Todd Newton has sought to give these struggling soldiers a hand up by putting together Freedom Friday, which provides comprehensive dental care to unemployed veterans thanks to an initiative enacted by Newton’s equal partners Warm Springs Dental and Anthem Village Dental.

Since its inception a year ago, Freedom Friday has treated and/or completely restored the neglected mouths of sixteen returned Clark County veterans, an emotional experience for both the veterans and the dental team at Freedom Friday. The program seeks to provide extraordinary care that these recipients would not normally receive from the VA system, free from the endless red tape that can put a frustrating hold on important services. Veterans have received everything from root canals to dentures to extractions, all of it pro bono thanks to the generous efforts of Todd Newton and his colleagues. In today’s economic times, the complimentary care has been a godsend and improved lives through bright and shining smiles.

To help achieve his goal, Newton reached out and got full commitments from twelve specialists and/or suppliers to help provide resources for his efforts, including Anthem Periodontics, Nevada Oral Facial Surgeons, Invisalign and more. He was also fortunate enough to make connections with local organizations America Helping Heroes and the Urban League of Las Vegas who helped Newton and his team connect with the veterans who so desperately needed their care.

Ever the optimist, Newton hopes to see the program catch on and grow into something larger so that unemployed veterans across the country can experience the same kind of care. Newton’s generous spirit and sense of compassion are certainly large enough to make a strong impression on people in every walk of life. With that kind of inspiration on display, it would not be surprising to see other generous souls stepping up to the plate and helping some of our more downtrodden veterans find the smiles they need to gain the confidence that leads to success.

If you know an unemployed Clark County veteran who is in need of dental care, please contact either Angela Alegna at America Helping Heroes (www.americahelpingheroes.org) or Karen Lewis at the Las Vegas Urban League (www.lasvegasurbanleague.org). Veterans must qualify through one of these organizations to participate in the program.

For more information on Freedom Friday, visit www.freedomfriday.org.

Fun with Food – Ohjah Japanese Steakhouse

By Aly Wagonseller

There’s really nothing over the top about the food served at a Japanese steakhouse. Abundant veggie, meat and fish combinations expertly seared on a hibachi grill, while healthy and clean in flavor, rarely warrant the James Beard Award for creativity. Still, sometimes it’s just plain fun to watch other people play with your food, especially when you have kids in tow or need a good cheering up from a hard day at the office. I mean seriously, if you can keep a straight face while flying fragments of shrimp are torpedoed into your mouth via a spatula wielding chef doubling as a variety show entertainer, you’re a better person than I. And if you can find a teppanyaki den that also serves more daring fare, including sushi and even Thai selections, you’ve got a winner the entire fam can agree upon.

Ohjah Japanese Steakhouse, located at 8595 S. Decatur at Blue Diamond, or their newest location at 10144 W. Flamingo, is a definite “go to” for Japanese steakhouse fun and food in a surprisingly sophisticated yet casual atmosphere. Super clean (not an easy feat considering the controlled food fight that takes place on a daily basis), the décor is modern and warm, with dark finishes and granite grill side surrounds that stay cool despite what’s flaming on the flattop. A separate section for those interested in other menu items sans hibachi, as well as a dedicated sushi bar, makes this restaurant a great place for both family and date night outings. Service was outstanding as well, with quick seating and food service, despite being busy on what you might think would normally be a slow Tuesday night.

Hibachi selections aside, the menu is quite large, offering a wide range of meal options from katsu to yakisoba, sushi rolls to Thai curry. Curious about the sushi, we tried the White Tiger Roll, reasonably priced at 11.95. Comprised of aggressively spiced tuna, and I mean that in a good way, the heat was nicely tamed with crisp cucumber and buttery tuna belly overtop; a tasty option that definitely warrants another visit just for the sushi. Hibachi offerings were easier to navigate, with a required basic entrée (8.95) that included soup, salad, rice or noodles and vegetables. You can stop there or add a variety of mix and match meats and fish, from reasonably priced chicken (4.95), salmon or shrimp (5.95), and filet or New York steak (5.95-7.55) options, to a decadent lobster tail (15.95) or Kobe beef splurge priced at 48.95. Let the party begin.

Out came our chef in a whirl of twirling utensils, doing all the regular shtick, including tossing egg shells into his chef hat and creating flaming onion volcanoes as only a culinary magician can do. Scallops, steak and chicken were flipped to and fro (not at the same time, mind you; these guys are versed on cross contamination issues), with the addition of butter, fresh lemon juice and ginger or teriyaki sauce spicing things up a bit. While he toiled away, we finished our appetizers; a broth that, while tasty, was plagued by the addition of unappetizing crunchy noodles that became quite chewy as they took on the liquid in the bowl; and a cooling, iceberg lettuce salad with creamy miso ginger dressing that was quite nice. The main dish was, as expected, nothing over the top from a culinary standpoint, but very well executed for this style of cuisine. Beef was cooked as ordered, the teriyaki scallops exceedingly fresh and plentiful, and the chicken still possessing some juiciness to it. Rice and noodles were nicely caramelized, and the addition of butter and soy sauce provided ample flavor.

All in all, our meal at Ohjah was a very filling and tasty one. But more importantly, it was an entertaining one; a definite plus if you’re trying to amuse kids that have been home on summer break for one day too many. For reservations, call them at 868-9888, or 868-2888.

Best of the Zips – July

The results are in from our latest round of voting, and we are overwhelmed at the phenomenal response. Once again, thanks to everyone who participated. Here are this month’s top choices:

And the Winners Are…

BEST BURGER
In-N-Out Burger (various locations)
www.in-n-out.com

That oh-so-special sauce, a variety of secret menu options (such as “animal style”) and some of the tastiest shakes around were highlights for our readers. Voter tip: ask for the fries “well done.”

BEST MOVIE THEATER
Regal Cinemas Red Rock Stadium 16 & IMAX (11011 W. Charleston Blvd.)
www.regmovies.com

Voters gave a shout out to the comfy seats, attentive staff and top notch sound quality of this west side theater at the Red Rock Casino. The presence of an IMAX screen was also a plus.

BEST DENTIST
Dr. Sam Partovi at Desert Smiles (10175 W. Twain Ave., #120)
www.desertsmilesdental.com

Dr. Partovi and his courteous staff won rave reviews from our voters for their professionalism and comfort level, even from readers who are normally apprehensive about a trip to the dentist.

BEST GROOMER
Shaggy Chic (400 S. Rampart Blvd., #140 in Tivoli Village)
www.shaggychic.com

Readers thought this groomer was top dog for fabulous customer service, great prices and comfortable atmosphere, while also highlighting additional services such as the blueberry facial.

BEST JEWELER
Jeff White Custom Jewelry (410 S. Rampart Blvd., #160 in Tivoli Village)
www.jeffreywhite.com

Voters found Jeff White to be the true jewel of Las Vegas, citing a high degree of professionalism and knowledge. Prompt service and a friendly staff also made them a favorite.

BEST SALON
9037 Salon (9037 W. Sahara Ave.)
www.9037salon.com

Smart and savvy stylists, a down to earth vibe and big customer satisfaction were selling points for our voters, who found this the perfect neighborhood place for a cut, color and highlights.

Don’t Forget to Vote…

We want to thank all of you for helping us keep our Best of the Zips feature exciting and informative. But the fun doesn’t stop here! We’ve got great new categories for you to vote on.

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT
Whether it’s enchiladas, tamales, fajitas or something with a bit more kick, where do you book your reservation when you find yourself craving all the perfect flavors from south of the border?

BEST WORKOUT PLACE
Finding time to exercise isn’t always easy, but it’s easier when you’ve got company. Which place has the perfect set up for weights, aerobics and everything else to keep you in shape?

BEST AUTO REPAIR
From a quick oil change to buffing out some dents to major body work, we can’t trust our precious vehicles to just anybody. Who’s got the skills to get you fixed up and on the road?

BEST PIZZA
Great pizza isn’t just about the toppings; it’s about quality ingredients and culinary know how coming together to create the perfect pie. What’s your first stop for a little slice of perfection?

BEST DAY CARE
Busy schedules keep us on the go, and we can’t keep an eye on our kids 24/7. When friends and family aren’t available to help, where do you turn for the right kind of care for your little ones?

BEST PET STORE
From grooming products to doggie beds to the treats and snacks that keep your four legged friends coming back for more, what’s the best place to shop for pampering your loving pet?

A Step Above – Claire Holden

Palo Verde High School
Class of 2013

John Mayer once sang, “Who says I can’t be free from all of the things that I used to be?” That idea of a life filled with promise and possibility is something Palo Verde High School senior Claire Holden holds close to her heart. Driven by a passion for everything from music to endangered animals to community fellowship, Claire approaches every situation with a positive outlook, preparing herself for the road ahead with a strong work ethic and a natural aptitude for leadership. There’s no dream beyond her reach, and that places Claire Holden – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.45

Activities/Community Service

• JROTC, 2009-10
• Marching Band, 2009-Present; Concert Band, 2009-Present
• Jazz Band, 2009-Present; Jazz Combo, 2012-Present
• Percussion Ensemble, 2009-Present; Section Leader, 2012-Present
• Steel Drum Ensemble, 2009-Present; Taiko Ensemble, 2012-Present
• Wind Ensemble, 2011-Present
• Drum Line, 2011-Present
• Band Student Leadership, 2012-Present
• Church Mission Trip to La Mission, Mexico, 2005-Present
• Walk Over to The Heights of Summerlin Mental Rehabilitation Clinic, 2012
• Campus Clean Up, 2009-Present
• Hometown Holidays, 2010-Present
• Snow Day, 2010-Present

Awards

• JROTC Commander’s Award, 2010
• Presidential Service Medal (Silver), 2010
• Marching Section of the Year (Percussion), 2010
• Most Improved Concert Percussionist, 2010
• Outstanding Concert Percussionist, 2012
• Superior and Excellent Scores in Solo & Ensemble, 2010-13
• Superior Scores in Regional Solo & Ensemble, 2010-13
• Highest Scores in Nevada, All State Solo & Ensemble, 2011 & 2013

Goals & Aspirations: “I plan on attending UNLV, then going on to continue my education in veterinary school, hoping to one day have my own clinic. I hope to graduate from veterinary school with little to no debt and set up an outreach for endangered animals.”

Part of the Solution: “The biggest issue facing students today is the general lack of world knowledge and involvement in the community. A lot of people are just not aware of what is going on around the world and how it affects our lives and the future of our country. I believe that history and government class should spend a portion of class time reviewing current events and holding class discussions.”

Cause for Concern: “I would choose to be president of a charity that continues to support our veterans wounded in war. Most of my family are currently serving or veterans of the military, though I am lucky enough that none of them were injured during war. I would like to support our troops as much as I can.”

A Step Above – Lindsey Flangas

Faith Lutheran High School
Class of 2013

Faith Lutheran High School senior Lindsey Flangas has built her strength of character through hard work, strong values and a clear vision for her future. The University of Texas at Austin will welcome her with open arms this fall, where she plans to study mechanical engineering in hopes of forging new paths and bringing innovation to the forefront. The bonds of family play a key role in this volleyball superstar’s world, with years of supportive encouragement helping her to develop the poise, grace and will to succeed that she shows in everyday life. For always embracing her full potential no matter the obstacles, Lindsey Flangas stands – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.01

Sports/Activities/Community Service

• Freshmen Volleyball, 2009-10
• Varsity Volleyball, 2010-13
• Club Volleyball, 2009-12
• Lip Sync, 2012-13
• National Junior Honor Society, 2009-10
• National Honor Society, 2010-13
• Opportunity Village Kids, 2009-13
• Service Leadership Class, 2012-13
• Mark 10:14 Class, 2012-13

Awards

• Valedictorian, 2013
• Scholar Athlete, 2009-13
• Crusader Award (Volleyball), 2012-13
• 2^nd Team All State (Volleyball), 2012-13
• 1^st Team All Conference (Volleyball), 2012-13
• 1^st Team All Division (Volleyball), 2012-13
• Conference Champions (Volleyball), 2012-13
• Division Champions (Volleyball), 2012-13
• Freshmen Volleyball MVP, 2009-10

Lindsey is Successful Because: “I believe I am successful because I always give my best effort in whatever I set my mind to. It’s easy to rush through homework or only put in half effort at practices, but you won’t see any results that way. Putting in a little hard work can go a long way.”

Lindsey Looks Up To: “I look up to both my parents because they’ve worked hard to accomplish everything they have and have made sure I have the same values. I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it wasn’t for them always encouraging me.”

Lindsey is Stronger and Wiser Because: “My freshman year of volleyball, I did not make the team I was hoping to make. After that, I trained twice as hard, played club and was able to make the varsity team the following year. It helped me learn that if things don’t go your way you can either get mad and quit or take the actions to improve your circumstances.”

Part of the Solution: “I think an issue facing young adults today is a lack of identity. High school is a time where a lot of students are still trying to find their place and it’s easy to be persuaded to make the wrong choices. I think young adults should stick to their morals and key beliefs and not let others change who they are.”

A Step Above – Laura Brodkin

Bishop Gorman High School
Class of 2013

Knowledge is truth, and Bishop Gorman High School senior Laura Brodkin hopes to have a career and a future where she consistently seeks more of both. Eloquent, personable and passionate about what she believes in, Laura hopes to shape public policy and influence the political sphere on issues that matter the most to her. By staying engaged and informed on every level, she’s always working hard to be the best, a quality that she hopes to continue at the University of Michigan this fall. Her passion helps keep her motivated to create the change she would like to see in the world, and that’s what helps Laura Brodkin rise to – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 3.87

Activities

• Freshman Cheer, 2009-10; Junior Varsity Cheer, 2010-11
• BGHS Competition Cheer Team, 2010-11
• Sophomore Class President, 2010-11; Junior Class Treasurer, 2011-12
• Executive Board Senator, 2012-13
• Varsity Public Forum and Domestic Extemporaneous, 2012-13
• U.S. Senate Page, 2012-13
• We the People Unit Leader, 2012-13
• Mock Trial, 2012-13
• Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society, 2012-13
• National Honor Society, 2011-13
• Micro Bank, 2010-11

Awards/Community Service

• Nevada State Mock Trial Champions, 2012-13
• AP Scholar, 2012-13
• 1^st Place, Unit 6 We the People – District 3, Region 1, NV, 2012-13
• 1^st Place, Varsity Public Forum, 2011-13
• BGHS Academic Society, 2009-11
• Scholar Athlete Award, 2009-11
• St. Vincent Lied Dining Facility/Catholic Charities, 2011
• Three Square Food Bank, 2010-12
• Opportunity Village, 2010-12
• Habitat for Humanity, 2012

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of my mock trial team placing fourth at the national level. The team was a group of amazing students that really worked hard to be the best. It is the best any team from Nevada has ever done and I will always remember the fun I had with some great friends.”

Laura is Stronger and Wiser Because: “My most important experiences have come from my failures rather than from my successes. Losing my student council election senior year taught me that you can’t win at everything. It also showed me that winning with grace is one thing, but losing with grace can be even more important.”

Part of the Solution: “A key issue that young adults face today is being severely underestimated by leaders and by the media. I think that many would be surprised how many truly engaged and informed young adults there are, especially on issues that matter to us. To solve this, my fellow classmates and I need to involve ourselves more deeply in social movements and community activism to make sure our demographic is properly represented.”

South of the Equator – Wines of Chile

By Gordon Gilbert

Sandwiched between the cool currents of the South Pacific and the Andes Mountains, the South American nation of Chile boasts an extraordinary range of climates. From arid desert to alpine south, these varied regions play an integral role in the eclectic range of wines produced here.

A Well Weathered Selection

Chilean wine is produced almost exclusively in an area clustered around the capital city of Santiago, which benefits from river valleys flush with snowmelt coming off the Andes. Vineyards that sit closer to the ocean benefit from the cooling effects of maritime air, producing both outstanding white wines and Pinot Noir. As you head inland, the production of red wine increases, particularly in varietals that you might associate with Napa Valley or Bordeaux.

With such ranges of climate in this slender nation, the wines have an equally broad variety. Here are six examples that will allow you to explore the full spectrum just in time for grilling season.

Anakena Enco; Sauvignon Blanc; San Antonio Valley ($12)

All the classic elements of Sauvignon Blanc can be found in this wine from the coastal valley vineyards. Clean citrus, fresh lemongrass and wet stone yield an incredible wine with a palate activating acidity. This makes an ideal companion for a summer salad or shellfish.

Montes Alpha; Chardonnay; Rapel Valley ($13)

The Montes name carries a lot of weight in the Chilean wine world. Brash and full bodied, its notes of vanilla and butterscotch round out ripe melon and tropical fruits. If you’re about to throw some Chilean sea bass on the grill, this Chilean Chardonnay makes a good pairing.

Veranda; Pinot Noir; Bio Bio Valley ($18)

While Pinot Noir is known for being a more delicate red, this one offers the pronounced red fruit elements and medium body more akin to its Californian cousins. Hints of earth and spice are hidden under the vibrant raspberry, strawberry and red cherry that dominate the palate. Pairs well with antipasto or cheese and makes for a fantastic aperitif before moving on to more robust reds.

Casa Lapostolle; Merlot; Colchagua Valley ($14)

Casa Lapostolle commands serious premiums for their top flight wines, but fortunately their entry level options don’t suffer from a drop in quality. This medium bodied Merlot has smooth tannins with touches of dried red fruit, blueberry, mocha, spice and leather. A perfect all around crowd pleaser that pairs well with Mediterranean inspired dishes.

Porta; Cabernet Gran Reserva; Ancongua Valley ($16)

Grilled red meat will demand a bold, full bodied wine with powerful enough tannins to break down all that perfectly prepared protein. This wine fits the bill will a full complement of stewed black fruit, spice, cigar box and a lingering aroma that’s reminiscent of a chocolate factory.

Montes Purple Angel; Carmenere; 2010 ($60)

For those who want something that’s not one of the usual suspects, this remarkable wine is a personal favorite that earned a 93/100 point rating from Wine Spectator. Full bodied with lush tannins, the wine is black fruit dominant as the name infers, but there are touches of coffee and hints of minerality. Complex flavors linger on the palate long enough to win over even the most picky wine drinker. Decant and enjoy with a grilled T-bone or share with good friends.

Whatever your favorite grape, whatever the intricacies of your palate, Chilean wines offer a full spectrum of choices for any aficionado. Best of all, you don’t have to travel south of the equator to enjoy them. Sample just a few and you’ll want to revisit the wines of Chile many times over.