11th Annual Make a Difference Day Food Drive
11th Annual Make a Difference Day Food Drive
For over a decade and counting, the Annual Food Drive benefiting the Las Vegas Chapter Salvation Army Food Bank has been a source of hope, inspiration and, of course, nutrition, for those less fortunate in the community. This year, the 11th annual event held at Smith’s Food and Drug, 2211 N. Rampart in Summerlin, was no exception.
Local philanthropist Mary Vail, OSG established the annual drive as part of Make a Difference Day, a nationwide charity event. Over the years, the food drive has collected well over 34,000 pounds of non-perishable food and personal hygiene items. A staggering 4,680 pounds of non-perishable food was collected this year alone! With guest appearances and donations from NBC-KVBC TV-3 News Anchor Maria Silva, Frankie Scinta of The Scintas, ABC-KTNV TV-13 News Anchor Casey Smith, KVVU Fox-5 News Anchors Dave Hall & Heidi Hayes, KVVU Fox-5 Meteorologist Ted Pretty and Author Joe Vassallo of Paragon Pools, the day was a memorable one garnering much support from the community.
Even better, the event encouraged families to work together and experience the joy of giving, as Vail noted, “Our celebrities, sponsors and volunteers brought their kids, and more shoppers encouraged their children to get involved by having them select the food items donated.” Is there a better way to spend “the largest day of volunteering?” We think not.
Faith Lutheran Jr/Sr High School
Faith Lutheran Jr/Sr High School has been crusading for a higher purpose for 31 years: to provide a quality and balanced education in a Christ-centered environment. Making this kind of education accessible to those who cannot afford it takes the help of many generous donors, and, as Executive Director Kevin Dunning says, “When a student is eager to learn and grow in their faith, cost should not deter their purpose.”
From this noble cause came the Scholarship Endowment Gala, an annual tradition for the past nine years. Since its inception, the gala has raised almost $1.6 million. With Pro Football Hall of Famer and NFL coach Mike Ditka in attendance, this year’s event on November 17, 2009 raised over $100,000. This endowment will help support over $75,000 in tuition assistance to families who would otherwise not be able to afford a private Christian education for their child at Faith Lutheran Jr/Sr High School.
“All scholarships at Faith Lutheran are need-based and have helped contribute to the school’s extraordinarily high graduation rate,” says Dunning. “Many of these students will continue on to receive additional scholarships to prestigious universities across the nation.”
The largest non-public school in Nevada, Faith Lutheran Jr/Sr High School, has a record enrollment of 1,320 students. To learn more about the school, visit www.faithlutheranlv.org.
Touchdown Tailgating…
Fan Food for Football Fun
The pigskin has arrived! It’s time to kick off a party that will have your friends and family cheering not only for the home team, but some good eats as well. Although we have few opportunities for traditional, parking lot celebrations, that doesn’t mean you can’t tailgate in your own backyard. It’s all about gathering your biggest fans for fun, food and a little pre-game cheer, regardless of where you set up camp.
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Whether you plan a get-together at Sam Boyd Stadium or keep your party closer to home, thinking out the details ahead of time will make for a relaxed event that even the host or hostess can enjoy. Mix and marinate meats in a single zip lock bag that won’t take up valuable space in the cooler or refrigerator. Save room in your ice chest by freezing water in recycled water bottles. They’ll keep items fresh and cold without the mess of melting ice that can make things soggy. Precook side dishes and appetizers, placing them in aluminum foil pouches that work perfectly for grill top reheating. Prepare chili or hot dips and keep them warm in the Crockpot. Consider purchasing a propane version like the one manufactured by Coleman and available at REI.com for around $80. It works just like a normal slow cooker, but without the need for electricity. Finally, round up all the comforts of home, including utensils, plates, paper towels, moist towelettes, trash bags, a radio or battery operated TV, decorative flags and decorations and more, packing them into a single, portable plastic bin. You’ll know you have everything you need, and it won’t take an army to transport it.
Click below to download and print the recipes:
Hula Sliders
Linebacker Crunch
Mac ‘n’ Cheese Poppers
MooOink Balls
Frothy, Sudsy and Full of Hops
Microbrews that Hit the Spot
By Lisha Ross
Ah yes, the festivities of football season are afoot and gaining momentum as Super Bowl XLIV draws near. I dared to ask, is there anything that goes better with an action-packed nail biter than a bottle of brew? After a few brew-ha-has around town with a friend, both of us self-proclaimed beer connoisseurs, I found the answer is yes. There is something better, and it’s a frosty mug that over-floweth with an accomplished brewmaster’s special. Golden and sudsy spoils from the city’s premium microbreweries, serving all-American eats and fresh-brewed beer to wash it down. Your first time around, I recommend investing in a sampler, then you can narrow the selection down to your all-star and order a tall one–always remembering to drink responsibly, of course.
A Bolder Dam Beer
This may be a trek for some, but Boulder Dam Brewing Co. (243-2739; www.boulderdambrewing.com) is well worth the extra mileage to grab a dam delicious beer. A family venture with exceptional brewing finesse, BDBC has a unique method of brewing. Rather than swimming through several different tanks before getting to keg, Boulder’s beer is fermented, brewed, chilled, conditioned and served direct from the tanks that line the wall behind the bar. To a layman, that means no additives, no preservatives and a fresher pour that is 100% au naturale.
Funky Powder Monkey Pilsner, Hell’s Hole Hefeweizen, Reclamation Amber, Black Canyon Stout and the crowd pleasing High Scaler I.P.A. are usually on tap. Along with these regular attractions is a seasonal sensation, like the wintery Blueberry Bach; a comfort beer, if you will. Mix up your selection with a specialty beverage like the Shandy (pilsner & lemonade), the tart and malty Irish Rattler (hard cider & stout) or the Golden Cream (pint of stout & scoop of vanilla ice cream). All these beers are complemented by a simple menu of greasy spoon apps and some lighter, home-style wraps and sandwiches.
You can catch four games at a time on their flatscreen TVs, but when the Cowboys take to the field, the Boulder Dam brewers show their true blue colors. On weekends, you can take your beer and brauts to the outdoor beer garden and jam out to live rock, blues, country, jazz and folk tunes. Love the beer, hate the drive? Take some home in a half-gallon growler.
Happy Hour: 3-5 p.m. daily. Beers are $1 off.
Sippin’ on Tenaya Creek
Tenaya Creek Brewery (362-7335; www.tenayacreekbrewery.com), off Cheyenne on Tenaya, is a simple, quintessential local’s place with refreshingly complex brews. Eat first! They recently stopped serving food to focus on what they do best: brewing Hefeweizen, Pilsner, Ringtail Ale, Nut Brown Ale and seasonals like Belgian White and Barley Wine, adding even more variety by featuring a guest tap. If you wanna see where the magic happens, stop by during the day for a personal tour of the brewing facility.
Regularly televised games might be playing on the big screen TV, but don’t expect a rowdy crowd of super fans donning any particular color. This is a low-key joint where you can listen to music and converse with the friendly bartender without much ado. If you get bored at the bar you can challenge your friends to a duel at three pool tables, arcade games and pinball machines. Get it to go in a 64 oz. growler, a full or 5 gallon keg.
Happy Hour: 4-7 p.m. and 10 p.m-2 a.m. daily. Buy a pitcher of any beer for $9 or a pint for $4.
A Taste of Chicago
Nearly 10 years of serving World Beer Cup-winning brews has earmarked this brewery, bar and non-smoking restaurant as a consistent crowd pleaser. With four towering tanks and a quick turn-over rate, Chicago Brewery churns out nine varieties at a time. This includes seven standards, from the light All Night to the nutty Old Town Brown to a biting Black Star stout, and two seasonal flavors. We clinked our glasses and nodded to Maibauch Lager and a soft and fruity Springfest brew with hints of orange peel and coriander. Heck, try them all for just $8.99. As seasonal brews change, favorites make comebacks. We’re looking forward to the legendary Hawaiian Honey, a stiff pour (12.8%) that’s earned some bragging rights as winner of the Great American Beer Festival.
If you need some grease to hold that buzz at bay, you just can’t go wrong with an uber cheesy, build-your-own Chicago-style deep dish pizza. They also serve up mean thin crust specialty pies, calzones and bar food galore. Bears fans unite! It’s always happy hour while the bears get their game on. Head to the 2nd floor to revel with the rabble rousers, where the couches will be set up stadium style for games.
Happy Hour: 5-7 p.m. daily. Select appetizers and 10” cheese pizzas for half price, as well as $7 pitchers.
Whether you’re in it for the team revelry or just for the love of beer, pass on the ho-hum selections and belly up to the bar for a one-of-a-kind microbrew. Your beer belly probably won’t thank you for it, but your flavor saver will, I promise.
Not Just for Take-Out
Archi’s Thai Bistro
By Aly Wagonseller
Aside from power lunching, I’ve traditionally associated Thai cuisine with take-out cartons and movie night. It could be that, for the most part, the décor at truly exceptional neighborhood Thai restaurants is rarely date night appropriate. Truthfully, a more likely explanation is my complete inability to stop eating this country’s wonderfully flavorful (and spicy) concoctions. An addiction that inevitably results in the dreaded button pop…not something I’d proudly like to display in public. Still, Archi’s Thai Bistro, located at 6345 So. Rainbow, has given me reason to rethink my traditional homeward bound Thai-fest, providing an attractive and comfy place to dine and a friendly staff that’s happy to wrap up the leftovers…even if they’re destined to be devoured on the car ride home.
More upscale than most neighborhood restaurants, Archi’s is a nice sized space that affords a calm, casual and somewhat private dining experience devoid of kitchen clatter or annoying traffic from the take-out crowd. With wood-style floors, a neutral, earth-toned color palette and antique armoires and cabinets, the atmosphere is anything but Asian influenced. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but merely surprising considering the authenticity of the Archi family’s cuisine. Zagat and Michelin rated, you’ll be hard pressed to find better Thai fare in the city.
This stuff is spicy, so it’s up to you to order the spice level of your liking, in this case from one to ten. This translates as follows: Do NOT order every dish on the top of your spice tolerance level, even if you’re competing for top-spice bragging rights over your dining companion. Not only will you miss out on the many subtle, yet complex flavors indicative of this cuisine, but you’ll inevitably pay later. That being said, the rating system at Archi’s was a bit inconsistent, making it tough to figure out just what the spice intensity was on any given dish we ordered. Pad Thai, ordered at a level 4, was relatively mild, while the Papaya Salad, ordered at a level two, was bordering on noxious. I’m not complaining, as the food was impeccable, I’m just suggesting that you ask your server for his expertise in the matter, considering some ingredients take on spice more aggressively than do others.
We started with the Moo Dadd Deaw (5.95), Tom Yum (6.95) and Papaya Salad (6.95). The Moo’s (a.k.a. Thai sticks) were yummy, caramelized meat morsels served with a tangy hot and sour sauce. The ample bowl of Tom Yum could have easily been a meal in itself. They certainly didn’t skimp on the tender chicken and fresh mushrooms in this tart and fiery broth-based soup–a true bargain on any menu. And the Papaya Salad? Let’s just say this was the first time I’ve had this crunchy, tangy and refreshing salad filled with green papaya matchsticks, crushed peanuts and crunchy green beans all bathed in a dry shrimp, spicy lime dressing. After getting over the confusion of not recognizing papaya that wasn’t orange (hey, I said it was the first time I’d tried this), this was one of my favorite dishes, although next time I’ll order it spice free, a great way to cleanse the palate between other, spiced-up selections.
Entrees include a number of curry, noodle, rice and Thai specialty items. We chose the Chicken Pad Thai (6.95), Spicy Basil Fried Rice with Shrimp (8.95), Panang Curry (6.95), and Pad Kapow (6.95). All entrees were served in rather ample, family style portions, with an impressive amount of meat and exceptionally fresh vegetables that still had their snap. Faves for me included the Panang Curry, a delicate, yet complex coconut milk-based version that whispered (not roared) an earthy spiciness; a humble Pad Kapow which transformed simple hamburger meat into a savory, sweet and spicy comfort food that paired very well with the nutty, sticky rice served alongside; and the Spicy Basil Rice, made with large, tender and perfectly cooked shrimp, and spiked with impossibly crisp veggies and fried, spicy basil leaves–so delish.
Eating Thai food in an actual restaurant has its drawbacks, considering you can’t eat ‘til you drop if you’re to avoid the “roll of shame” out the doorway. But Archi’s makes a good case to get off the couch and savor some truly fabulous Thai cuisine in an upscale, yet decidedly casual eatery in the neighborhood. I’ll just have to keep a fork in the car for the ride home.
Resplendent Rhône Style Reds
If in pursuit of wines that are amiable, possess complex aromas, and dance with every red meat and grilled dish in the room, run to the Rhône Valley and New World “Rhône Style Blends” department of your local wine emporium. Syrah reigns king in Northern Rhône, and Grenache holds court in the south, while “New World” cousins in California, Washington and Australia are emphasizing ripe fruit and toned down tannins to create a luscious, youthful drink. It’s easy to be keen on the French classics; a reverence to signature varietal flavors and a growing availability of drinkable great wine values are appreciated. Happily, “more modern” styles are also evolving, and the wines to covet are the ones from producers that reflect origin through pure flavors while conveying its connection to the soil.
On the subject of great wine values, consider Perrin Côtes-du-Rhône AOC Réserve ($10.00/btl.), a composition of Grenache plus equal parts Syrah and Mourvédre from the venerable Châteauneuf-du-Pape house of Château de Beaucastel. Juicy blackberry and cherry fruit are balanced with hints of herb and black pepper; overall, a smooth and nimble wine.
Another plum French selection is Féraud-Brunel Côtes-du-Rhône-Villages AOC ($15.00/btl.), a medium bodied blend of primarily Grenache and Syrah that exudes an exotic range of wild berries, black cherries and earthiness. Again, historic pedigree prevails with this joint venture between vignerons Laurence Féraud of Domaine de Pegau and André Brunel of Domaine les Cailloux. Enjoy now with slightly more robust country fare.
Lately, Syrah has surged in popularity among California growers, and in the hands of
thoughtful winemakers, fine examples are entering the market. Cline “Cashmere” California Red ($14.00/btl.), a silky combination of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvédre reveals big raspberry, cherry and chocolate notes with undertones of plum and black pepper. And, thanks to irrepressible winemaker Randall Graham, adventurous Rhône style wines have had a loyal following for years. Bonny Doon “Le Pousseur” Central Coast Syrah Blend ($22.00/btl.), Syrah with a splash of Grenache elicits poetry in a glass and is perfect with roasted meats, wild salmon and foraged mushrooms. Vibrant complexity of bramble berries, game and spice rounds out this unaffected expression of varietals and place. Qupé also produces exceptional wines in the $17.00-40.00 range.
For avid Rhône style wine lovers, consider boutique wines from Edmunds St. John (www.edmundsstjohn.com; $15.00-30.00/btl.) purchased via California merchants. Husband and wife team Steve Edmunds and Cornelia St. John have been devoted to creating first rate wines in California since 1985. Edmunds St. John “That Old Black Magic” California Red ($20.00/btl.) is handcrafted from three cuvées of Syrah and Grenache from vineyards in Mendocino and El Dorado Counties. This beauty resonates with berries, dried florals, pepper, sage and licorice on the nose and palate. Delight in this wine over an evening or several days; it is well worth the effort to track down these gems.
Embrace the character, complexity and richness of Rhône wines and welcome true interpretations of these remarkable varietals produced outside of France. May we all discover wines that are thrilling to smell and unforgettable to taste.
Mutt Matchmakers
Which Breed is Best (for You)?
By Ashlee Verba
If you’ve never owned a dog but have juggled the idea of buying or adopting, or have owned and just can’t seem to find the right fit, you probably know the difficulties inherent in figuring out which breed will best match your needs and way of life. Certain breeds have certain innate characteristics that fit a range of lifestyles–whether you’re a family of four with small children or an active couple who hike every weekend. To help you find your perfect canine counterpart, start your search by checking out personality profiles of the American Kennel Club’s top five breeds of 2009, and let the mutt matchmaking begin.
#5 – Beagle
Beagles are amicable, mid-sized dogs with a short, manageable coat. Because they are a social breed, they are perfect for children and actually do better with other pets. They are not notably intelligent, but their likeability can easily overshadow their lack of smarts. Innately adventurous, they’re in it for the long haul on your weekend hikes, and require a home with a backyard, not an apartment, for ample stretching and exercise. As hound dogs, beagles turn off their ears once something catches their nose’s attention, so leashes and sturdy backyard fences are a must. (Beagles would walk into traffic if their nose led them that way.) Beagles are stubborn (think chronic howling), become bored easily and lack the drive to please, which makes firm, consistent training necessary, but well worth your while.
#4 – Golden Retriever
Family dogs to the core, Golden Retrievers are a great choice for companionship and safety around small children, mainly for their intelligence, loyalty and mild temperament (if you can handle moderate shedding). Unlike Beagles, Golden Retrievers have a tremendous urge to please, making training easy and fun. Yet, even with all the training in the world, retrievers get bored when left alone for considerable amounts of time, and may find entertainment via your antique table legs.
Large, agile and somewhat adventurous, retrievers can naturally handle any terrain, and are especially fond of water. They can withstand long hikes, but don’t necessarily require an above-average amount of exercise, although, they still need to be walked and/or ran relatively often. Since retrievers are innately peaceful, they will not act aggressively toward strangers (intruders included), but will certainly play the role of watchdog by barking upon hearing strange noises near their territory.
#3 German Shepherd
One of the most consistent breeds on the American Kennel Club’s list, a well-bred German Shepherd is intelligent, confident, fearless, incredibly loyal, athletic and one of the best guard dogs. However, because they’re loyalty and protective nature are so strong, shepherds require a lot of socialization as soon as possible, especially with small children or animals. Fierce guard dog status aside, German Shepherds love affection from the owners they so devoutly protect and can get bored easily without it; meaning, if you’re the single gal-on-the-go looking for protection but can’t commit to providing adequate exercise or physical attention, German Shepherd is not the breed for you. German Shepherds have a thick coat that sheds a lot, and require an above-average amount of exercise, making a backyard and frequent walking an integral part of your dog’s overall health and happiness.
#2 Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, better known as yorkies, are the only small breed to make AKC’s top 5, probably because they are a great option for people with allergies due to minimal shedding. Yorkies tend to exhibit unique personalities and will usually find a way to be the center of your attention. It’s easy to baby this breed because of its small stature and urge to cuddle, but establishing some sense of independence is necessary to avoid separation anxiety. Naturally inquisitive, they love to scurry around scoping things out and generally reject being constricted by a leash. With consistency, however, they can be leash trained. Though they are fairly low maintenance regarding space, shedding and low exercise requirements, yorkies can be difficult to housetrain, making a doggy door or crate training highly recommended.
While sometimes requiring a bit of socialization, Yorkshire Terriers can co-exist with other pets, even larger dogs. But, this breed prefers to be away from large, high-energy things that may cause a ruckus. Yorkies are obviously not guard dogs, but they do have the watchdog instinct of letting you know when company arrives.
#1 Labrador Retriever
Innately friendly, enthusiastic and good-natured, Labrador Retrievers make an exceptional dog for families. This breed is obedient, level-headed and sociable–albeit a bit more cautious with their companionship than other retriever breeds. Labradors are athletic dogs that require an above-average amount of exercise, which can include swimming since this breed loves water. They also love to chew. Making an abundance of toys and/or bones accessible will keep them from seeking out other things to inadvertently destroy. As young puppies, labs are incredibly bouncy and, while never intending to cause harm, have been known to knock down very small children. Labs tend to maintain this bounciness well into adulthood, so patience with their varying and usually high energy levels is a must. This breed has notable susceptibility to health risks, ranging from joint problems to cancer, so finding a reputable breeder that administers healthy pups is in your best interest.
More Popular Breeds
Still haven’t found the perfect pooch for you? Here are five more popular dog breeds you might want to bring into your family fold.
Boxer: This breed is notoriously active and playful, exhibiting a unique zestful and often funny personality requiring sufficient exercise. They tend to do well with children and families, have a short, manageable coat and are innately alert, making them great guard dogs.
Bulldogs: Most bulldogs are kind and likeable as well as stubborn and bold. They’re not innately aggressive, but they are naturally destructive. Training and assertiveness are essential, as bulldogs easily get the idea that they run things. Bulldogs do well with humans, even children, but may require socialization with other pets. Expect moderate shedding, a lot of snoring, drooling and doggy odors, but also a lot of affection and personality.
Shih Tzu: Less yappy and insistent than other small breeds, Shih Tzus are plum happy with little more than some love and attention. Playtime is all the exercise they need, making them a great option for seniors. Generally, they’re good with people and other pets, though they may require a little socialization initially. They can be difficult to housetrain and don’t shed much.
Miniature Schnauzer: A small breed that’s solid and sturdy, mini Schnauzers adapt well to most environments. They’re good with people and keenly aware, making them good watchdogs. Obedient and quick (training will yield a wonderful companion), lively and brave, a Miniature Schnauzer’s biggest coo is simply being a part of the family; try including him where you can. Minimal shedding is a great plus for those with allergies.
Pugs: Pugs are generally a submissive, easy-going and funny breed. They require little space and can only handle limited exercise because of their short nose (especially in warm weather). They are demanding of your attention, love affection, and tend to be great with children. They are, however, difficult to train, hyper, and very easy to overfeed because of their big, sad eyes. Shedding is notable for such a short coat.
With any dog you choose, make sure to research the source from which you’re adopting. Not only are there some unscrupulous puppy millers out there, but bad breeding may result in a hyper, unintelligent, skittish or otherwise undesirable version of a great breed.
The Main Ingredient
By Robert Wilson
From the Un-Comfort Zone
In 1907, during a major league baseball game, second base was stolen 13 times by the winning team. The catcher for the losing team, Branch Rickey, was unable to pick off even a single runner. That record stands to this day. It also spelled the end of Rickey’s career as a baseball player after just two short seasons. With nothing else to do, he went to college and law school.
Six years later, he returned to major league baseball. This time as a manager–and what a manager he turned out to be! He created the modern baseball farm system which enables major league teams to nurture and develop future stars through their minor league teams. He was the first to establish a permanent spring training facility in Florida. He changed the way statistical analysis is used in baseball by proving that on-base percentage is more important than batting average. Branch Rickey is best known, however, for breaking the color barrier by bringing African-American Jackie Robinson into the major leagues. It earned him a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Rickey offers this as his recipe for success: ‘Success is where preparation meets opportunity.’ A simple formula that reminds me of the old joke, “How do you get to Carnegie Hall?” The answer: “Practice. Practice. Practice.” Obviously, you can’t take advantage of an opportunity if you don’t have the skills. It’s a good recipe for success, but it doesn’t reveal the secret main ingredient.
A funny old song from Frank Sinatra gets us little closer to the answer. Do you remember these lyrics from High Hopes?
Just what makes that little old ant
Think he’ll move that rubber tree plant
Anyone knows an ant, can’t
Move a rubber tree plant!
I love that song because a stanza later we learn the ant CAN: “Oops there goes another rubber tree plant.” Is having “high hopes” the secret ingredient? No, but it gets us closer to it. You see, the ant succeeds because he doesn’t know that he can fail. Think about some of the people you know who are successful. What is it that makes them big achievers? What traits do you associate with them? When I ask this question of my audiences, I frequently hear the following ingredients: courage, perseverance, enthusiasm, discipline, confidence, decisiveness, self-reliance, responsibility, focus, ambition and optimism. All of these are certainly traits of successful people, but which one is the overriding characteristic? Which one is the main ingredient?
None of the above!
That’s right–none! Yes, they are all important, but there is one ingredient that makes the cake, and that is simply your belief that you will succeed. It’s called self-efficacy. Your belief in your ability to achieve what you seek is the biggest part of actually getting there. The best part is that self-efficacy is a trait that can be acquired at any age.
We acquire a sense of self-efficacy in four ways. The first way is cumulative. With each success we achieve we add a new layer of confidence in ourselves. The second way is through observation. When we see someone similar to ourselves succeed, we realize that we can too. The third way is controlled by our attitude. A positive attitude enhances our belief in our abilities, whereas a negative one destroys it. The fourth way is from the encouragement of others who believe in our ability to succeed. This is where you, as an effective manager or parent, can help others to succeed. Tell them that you believe they can meet their goals and you will help them believe it too.
Robert Evans Wilson, Jr. is a motivational speaker and humorist. He works with companies that want to be more competitive and with people who want to think like innovators. For more information on Robert”s programs, please visit www.jumpstartyourmeeting.com.
Sneak Peek
The 2010 Spring Movie Preview
By Heather Turk
Springtime at the cineplex is usually so quiet moviegoers can hear baby birds chirping outside. Not this year, however, as Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland hits theaters March 5th.
Capturing the wonder of Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass, the film follows a 19-year-old Alice (Mia Wasikowska) as she returns to the whimsical world to end the Red Queen’s (Helena Bonham Carter) reign of terror. During her journey, Alice reunites with her childhood friends, the White Rabbit (Michael Sheen), the Caterpillar (Alan Rickman), the Cheshire Cat (Stephen Fry) and the Mad Hatter (Johnny Depp).
Presented in select theaters in Disney Digital 3D, Alice in Wonderland is easily one of the year’s most anticipated films. Burton’s unique directing style and Carroll’s beloved tales mesh perfectly, as trailers have shown, bringing the story to life in a way never before seen. Of course, Burton’s breathtaking vision aside, fans of Alice are simply mad over the casting–in a good way. Burton’s decision to cast Depp as the Mad Hatter is a matter of genius, and the Mad Hatter just might be the role Depp was born to play. Anxious to fall down the rabbit hole? Tickets will go fast during the film’s opening weekend, so don’t be late for this very important date!
More Coming Attractions
Alice in Wonderland isn’t the only spring release generating buzz this year. Here’s a look at some of the season’s other talked about films that should make the weeks leading up to May’s big summer blockbusters–Iron Man 2, Shrek Forever After and Sex and the City 2–bearable.
The Runaways (March 19): Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning (The Twilight Saga: New Moon) team up once again for this biopic based on the 1970s all-girl rock band of the same name. Stewart plays the iconic Joan Jett while Fanning plays The Runaways’ lead singer, Cherie Currie–and yes, the two do their own singing. While Fanning is one of Hollywood’s brightest young stars, audiences seem to have a love/hate relationship with Stewart. Casting her to play the “I Love Rock ’n Roll” star may seem a bit odd considering her fan base barely knows who Joan Jett is, but the move might just expose her music to a whole new demographic. Meanwhile, The Runaways might just prove once and for all that Stewart actually has a career ahead of her, as her performance has been getting rave reviews since the film premiered at Sundance. If all goes well, The Runaways might just have audiences singing, “I Love Kristen Stewart”!
How to Train Your Dragon (March 26): It seems like DreamWorks Animation can do no wrong these days. Based on the children’s book by Cressida Cowell, How to Train Your Dragon tells the story of Hiccup, a Viking teenager whose world is turned upside down when a dragon challenges him and his fellow Vikings to see the world from an entirely different point of view. With the final chapter of the Shrek franchise hitting theaters May 21, it doesn’t take a genius to see that DreamWorks is hoping this 3D adventure takes flight so they can adapt Cowell’s many sequels into blockbusters of their own. Sure to entice moviegoers of all ages with an all-star cast of vocal talents, including America Ferrera, Gerard Butler, Kristen Wiig, Craig Ferguson, Jonah Hill and Christopher Mintz-Plasse, How to Train Your Dragon shouldn’t have any problem heating things up at the box office.
Babies (April 16): On paper, it sounds like a risky venture–a documentary that looks at a year in the life of four babies from around the world. However, if the final cut is half as entertaining as the trailer, Focus Features’ Babies could be one of those rare documentaries that’s a box office hit. The charming trailer shows four new babies–Bayarjargal from Mongolia, Ponijao from Namibia, Mari from Japan and Hattie from San Francisco–going about their lives as cameras follow their every move. Highlights include one of the babies sitting in a giant bowl of water while a goat sneaks up from behind to take a drink, and two babies fighting intently over something to play with. While Babies may speak more to moms than any other demographic, its irresistible trailer is sure to draw dads and many non-parents to the theater, too. Expect Babies-fever to be in full swing come Mother’s Day.
A Nightmare on Elm Street (April 30): First, Michael Myers got the reboot in 2007. Then Jason followed in 2009. Now, it’s Freddy Krueger’s turn, as arguably the most beloved ’80s horror icon gets re-imagined in Samuel Bayer’s A Nightmare on Elm Street. Watchmen’s Jackie Earle Haley dons the bladed glove this time around, and although he’s got Robert Englund’s support, the real question is, will fans be able to accept anyone but Englund as the sweatered one? It’s been reported that Haley’s Freddy Krueger won’t be cracking jokes nearly as often as Englund’s Krueger, as producer Brad Fuller wants to take the franchise back to its scary roots. It’s a bold move, considering one of the things that made Freddy a horror buff favorite was his personality! Curiosity alone should result in a Nightmare sequel or two, but only time will tell if audiences will ever acknowledge Haley as the real Freddy Krueger.
Appies with an Edge
Caña Latin Kitchen and Bar
By Aly Wagonseller
There’s something about sophisticated drinks and appetizers served in a vibrant setting that make dining out an experience rather than a hum drum meal. Granted, you might be missing out on gluttonous portion sizes, but the pleasure of nibbling on a wide variety of inspiring flavors while imbibing cutting edge cocktails made with the finest sugar cane based spirits and freshly squeezed juices is simply way more fun. That’s the idea behind Town Square’s newest hip spot, Caña Latin Kitchen and Bar.
Very much a place for the trendy set, Caña will surely attract the young and the beautiful with its dark and sexy interior, ambiguous restroom facilities and pulsating mix of Latin influenced music. But it’s so nicely done that those of us with Gen X and Boomer birth dates will also want in on the fun. The expansive, white onyx bar, indoor/outdoor dining areas and organic touches that include an interesting Kudzu vine ceiling treatment, as well as a psychedelic velvet wall treatment, are nearly as interesting as the food, a combination of creative ceviches, flatbreads and small plate cuisine known as Bocadillos. There’s no slouching in the drink department either, with selections that include the Nacional, an easy-to-down concoction made with smooth, vanilla influenced Kilo Kai rum, a complex Creole Shrubb orange liqueur, and freshly made pineapple and lime juices; the peppery Ultimate Caipirinha, dubbed as “the new mojito”; as well as Sugarcane Sangria, Hemingway’s Blackberry Thyme Margaritas, and imported beers and wine.
I’m a sucker for ceviche, a high quality fish dish that’s similar to sushi in taste but substantially different in texture due to the fish’s treatment with acidic ingredients, usually lime, which renders the fish opaque and firmer than its counterpart. Caña offers a wide range to choose from, including Salmon and Snapper (both $10), as well as a couple of faux renditions for the fish faint of heart. Out of the gate, Caña’s ceviche was not the norm, served in sashimi like slices, a departure from traditional chunky dice, and dressed with much more interesting ingredients than lime alone. Hamachi ($14) was the resounding fave, buttery fish accompanied by the lemony zing of yuzu sauce and an earthy soy “paint-on-the-plate”, then finished with fresh cilantro and a sprinkling of sesame seeds. Halibut ($12) was also tasty, served with chives and a drizzling of fresh coriander oil to liven, but not overpower, the mild fish.
While ceviche is certainly a Latin power dish, Caña also has some interesting items you wouldn’t typically consider South American. If not a bit of a stretch, it’s all in good fun, with playful renditions of Mac & Cheese ($8) made with habanero jack, Chorizo Corn Dogs ($10) accompanied by tangerine-habenero mustard, and a Meatball ($9) whose sauce suspiciously resembled that of the Swedish variety, circa 1960, but with a nice bite of pickled jalapeño to amp it up a notch. More substantial offerings, although still considered small plate, include guava glazed Short Ribs ($12), Lamb Chops with Chimichurri ($14) and the house favorite, Crispy Shrimp ($12). A few flatbread items round out the menu, with a rich, 3 Cheese Flatbread ($10)–made with tangy goat and white cheeses tempered by a layer of honey and agave nectar–a creative standout.
Throughout the meal the service was exceptional. Our waiter was well versed in the flavors and ingredients of each dish we inquired about, and frankly that’s a good thing since you may not know what to expect from a huancaina, aji amarillo or chicharron sauce. What you can expect, though, is dining and drinking that’s fun and sophisticated, full of fresh and well executed food and libations, along with a good dose of “beautiful people” watching. It’s experience dining at its best. Caña is located at 6599 Las Vegas Blvd. in Town Square. For info, call 722-6060.
From Trash to Treasure
Make Space, Reduce Waste
By Ashlee Verba
If it takes an aluminum can between 200 and 500 years to disintegrate, imagine how long it takes a box full of old Sega Dreamcast games. In a world full of evolving trends and technological advancements, it”s easy to throw out the old as you bring in the new, but the environmental impact is not-so-easy to overcome. Before you can that gently used video game console to make way for the newest version, remember that when you throw things out with the trash, they ultimately sit in landfills which emit air pollution, pollute water sources and affect soil fertility. But there’s no need to stress! We’ve uncovered a few alternative solutions that will not only save you money and create space, but reduce waste and maybe even earn you a couple extra bucks.
The Barter System
It may sound like an antiquated tradition, but bartering is making a comeback, and Swaptree.com is right there to bring the trend into the 21st century. With thousands of items that people “have” and “want,” Swaptree matches you with other members to trade everything from books and movies to video games and music. To keep it fair, Swaptree will only match things that are comparable in price, and users must register a few items before being matched. It’s a great way to get rid of your son’s old Nintendo games or the Backstreet Boys CDs your daughter couldn’t live without–but now might as well be coasters.
Freecycle.org is another great option. Their mission is to keep perfectly good items out of landfills by helping you gift them to other freecyclers in your area–all for free and at your convenience. With no strings attached, you simply post an ad for items you’d like to give away, as well as for those you want. Freecycle is the perfect option for bigger things, like old furniture, because there”s no shipping involved–just person-to-person arrangements. Go to www.freecycle.org, type in your city and register for a free account to stop wasting and start posting.
If you want to skip the cyber middle man, have your own swap party. Choose what you want your theme to be (clothes or children’s toys, for example) and have your guests bring a certain amount of gently-used items to exchange. It is also wise to give a price range so everyone knows what to bring and expect to receive. This not only allows you to get together with friends, but to receive (somewhat) new things without leaving your home or spending a dime.
Too Many Toys
If you have children, you know what it’s like to sponsor the trends they fixate on. You also know it’s inevitable that they will eventually stop obsessing over G.I. Joe and Hannah Montana and move on to other things. So what’s Mom to do with all of Barbie’s clothes, accessories and cars? Children’s Orchard is a mom’s best friend. Located at 7035 W. Ann Rd. and 7501 W. Lake Mead Blvd. in Summerlin, Children’s Orchard is a store that buys and sells gently-used children’s toys, allowing you to finally get rid of the Barbie jeep you’ve been tripping over for months. Other such stores in Las Vegas include Kid to Kid (www.kidtokid.com) at 8450 W. Sahara Ave., and As They Grow (www.astheygrowlv.com), located at 2590 S. Decatur Blvd.
For Clothes That Clutter
We all have ‘em–the clothes we never wear but don’t necessarily want to just give away. (C’mon, those jeans cost 50 bucks!) Some of these clothes are perfect for places like Plato’s Closet (www.platoscloset.com), located at 5165 S. Fort Apache. Plato’s Closet’s sole mission is to trade your gently-used, name brand clothes for other almost-new clothes and accessories you actually want. The store runs a pretty tight ship; they’ll reject anything with a small stain or hole, but for clothes in good condition, they do compensate fairly in cash, store credit or an even exchange. The small catch is that they aim to sell trends, meaning clothes that have been in retail stores within the last year and a half, so that scrunchee from the 80s may just have to go in the “donate” box. But, if you have something you feel is retail-worthy, give it a try. You could walk away with some extra cash.
If Plato”s doesn”t want your vintage jacket, Buffalo Exchange might. Located at 4110 S. Maryland Pkwy., Buffalo Exchange doesn”t necessarily aim for the latest trends, just quality used clothes that are presentable enough to be resold. They also offer cash compensation. Who doesn”t love that?
Donating the Rest
After sifting through and trading the things you could, it really is best to simply donate the rest. Toys for Tots, Goodwill and The Red Cross are great avenues for this. To find locations near you, visit www.toysfortots.org (click “Toy Drop-Offs”), www.goodwill.com, or www.redcross.org.
With all these convenient options available, there really is no excuse for dumping that pile of old clothes and toys in the trash. Take the recycle, freecycle, swapping plunge! You’ll not only help yourself by creating space and eliminating clutter, you’ll help the environment too. More importantly, you can contribute to a “cycle” of kindness that allows others who may not normally be able to enjoy luxury items, clothing and necessities at affordable prices (if not for free).
