In the Know

It can be a long way to the top, if you wanna be a star. Top Model and Talent (9480 S. Eastern, #233) is here to get you ready for lights, camera, action. A development center for both experienced and aspiring actors, models, dancers, singers and other talents of all ages, TMT offers services that no one else does. Nationally and internationally recognized, TMT is your liaison to industry professionals, connecting clients with agents, casting directors, photo editors, music producers, and more in the United States, Europe and Asia. Their team of experts, all veterans of the entertainment industry, help clients create an image, train for runway shows, TV commercials, sitcoms, soaps, commercial and fashion print. Moreover, TMT strives to teach clients positive self-image and confidence in their everyday lives. Call 877-2227 and audition today!

For the health conscious eater, the vegan, the organic or holistic practitioner, the elixir of life may very well exist at Elixir Café & Lounge (9550 S. Eastern Ave., #180). A unique destination for healthy eats and treats, Elixir offers a medley of options made from organic ingredients and products from local farmers as much as possible. The menu is simple, yet with an international flare, featuring three soup options daily as well as salads, sandwiches, hamburgers and some vegan selections. Feel good about organic desserts, such as cakes, flan, fresh fruit smoothies and frozen yogurt. Relax and rejoice with bulk herbs for sale, custom blended teas, detox tea, boba drinks, coffee, espresso and organic sodas. Live entertainment in the evenings and on weekends make Elixir an overall rejuvenating experience. Call 565-CAFÉ (2233) for info.

Oya Eco Couture (2240 Village Walk Dr.), located in the District at Green Valley Ranch, was born from owner Cheryl Samlaska’s belief that you can make a difference in the world without sacrificing style or quality. Bringing eco consciousness to greater heights of chic, Samlaska’s boutique offers clothing for women and children made from sustainable materials such as bamboo, hemp and organic cotton. The vibrant colors, softness of material and easy care maintenance of Cheryl’s clothing is sure to appeal to shoppers of all styles, while the jewelry and accessories are unusual pieces that make a statement–necklaces made out of coke bottles, bracelets and earrings created from reclaimed metal, and a purse made from soda can tabs to name a few. Stop by to see what else is unique and eco chic. Call 228-3261 for more info. C

Go ahead! Serve yourself. And make it something creamy ‘n sweet, like frozen yogurt from Josie’s Self-Serve Frozen Yogurt, located in the District at Green Valley Ranch. You know the drill, pick your flavor, load it up with toppings and enjoy, but know that Josie’s is serving up something a little different. Josie’s stands out from other frozen yogurt shops for its use of pure crystalline fructose rather than high fructose corn syrup. They’ve also ditched the stabilizers and emulsifiers to create a more natural, great tasting dessert. Now that that’s out of the way, you can focus on flavor–over 100 rotating variations of rich chocolate, zesty fruits, nostalgic vanilla and oh so many tasty combinations. Any way you like it, it’s dessert, all grown up. Visit www.josiesselfservefrozenyogurt.com to learn more.

After 29 years of “making people beautiful”, it seems only fitting that Kathryn Schnell now owns and operates her own salon in Vegas. At Le Rouge (2200 W. Horizon Ridge, Ste. B), Kathryn continues honing her craft from past experience, which includes having owned a salon in California and being a National Platform Artist and Corporate Trainer for Paul Mitchell. Now with a staff of 53 hair dressers and nail technicians at Le Rouge, she puts every bit of her expertise into her neighborhood, boutique salon, making sure the staff gets monthly training and stays on top of current trends in today’s society. In addition to cut and color services priced depending upon the stylist’s experience, Le Rouge also offers special event hair parties, bridal party packages, Powerdose and deep conditioning treatments. Call 367-7300 for more info.

Over the chocolate mountains and through the cinnamon woods, to Cupcake Lane Bakery (8975 W. Eastern, Ste. B) we go! A cupcake lover’s dream, Cupcake Lane Bakery offers cupcakes, mini cupcakes, cupcake cakes and everything cupcake, all made from fine ingredients like sweet cream butter, pure vanilla, Guittard and Callebaut chocolate, fresh fruits and fine liqueurs. Beautifully designed, made and decorated by hand to perfectly match your event, their presentation is simple, yet eye catching because the flavors speak for themselves. Cinnamon cake with brown sugar, streusel topping and icing drizzle; southern red velvet with cream cheese frosting; espresso cake with caramel latte buttercream and caramel drizzle; German chocolate…they all say YES without saying a word! Follow the road to Cupcake Lane Bakery, or call 946-0403 for info.

A Bargain for the Carnivore – Brazilian Grill

By Aly Wagonseller

The concept of a traditional Brazilian Steakhouse, also known as a churrascaria, is a straightforward one. Here, tasty cuts of filet mignon, turkey blanketed in bacon, various types of sausage, leg of lamb, pork loin, chicken thighs, top sirloin, tri tip…the list goes on and on…are carved off their roasting spit right at the table, then served in endless quantities to happy go lucky diners willing to throw heart health and calorie consumption to the proverbial wind, at least for one succulent, meatfest of an evening.  Sure, they may offer vegetarian entrees and side dishes. Of course they’ll have a fish dish or two. But if meat is your meal made in heaven, the churrascaria is paradise here on earth.

Located at 9460 So. Eastern, Brazilian Grill, formerly Steele’s Restaurant, is the newest churrascaria to open in the neighborhood, offering comfy décor and lively atmosphere that’s perfect for a night out with friends or family. The thoughtfully upscale dark wood and earthy color palette of the previous establishment remains, yet the new owners have added South American flair via colorful, Leroy Neiman-esque paintings depicting Carmen Miranda period dancehall girls and carnival scenes you’d expect to see in Rio de Janeiro.  In another shrewd move, the restaurant offers perhaps the best deal in town for this carnivorous feast of Brazilian persuasion, charging just $29.95 for 12 varieties of all-you-can eat meat, soup or salad, several side dishes and Brazilian cheese bread. Ala carte selections that include a vegetarian spread, a fabulous Chilean sea bass in a roasted red pepper sauce and other meat and fish selections, as well as cocktails de Brazil and several affordable wines and beers round out the menu. While not the most authentic Brazilian food I’ve ever eaten, it’s still quite tasty for the price.

Unlike most Brazilian steakhouses, Brazilian Grill doesn’t send you to a gargantuan salad bar filled with tempting morsels designed to fill you up before the meat arrives.  In fact, they don’t even have a salad bar.  You do get a small salad of your choice or soup of the day, mine being a creamy carrot and ginger version that, while certainly not traditional, was truly outstanding. Customary cheese bread was different than most as well; the buttons of dough were stuffed with melted Parmesan cheese in the center, as opposed to grated cheese dispersed throughout the entire little biscuit.  No matter. They were equally addictive. Still, like most traditional churrascarias, a number of side dishes and garnishes were placed at the table prior to the arrival of the meat. Some, like jasmine rice, black beans, outstanding fried bananas, garlic mashed potatoes and the time honored condiment farofa, were quite predictable, while others–carrots layered in a tart, passion fruit sauce, and a diddy they called beef casserole that suspiciously resembled beef stroganoff–were an unusual, yet tasty departure from the norm.

The meat, of course, is what you should be saving your appetite for. It is, after all, the main draw here.  As is traditional, most was of excellent quality (with the exception of the sausage, which seemed underdone and somewhat bland), seasoned simply with sea salt, skewered on a spit and slowly roasted over an open flame. This allowed for a somewhat crunchy and caramelized crust, with varying degrees of doneness throughout each piece.  We simply told our carver (also known as a gaucho) how rare we wanted our slices to be, and it was cut to our liking. They didn’t skimp on portion sizes either. The gaucho circled the restaurant in a timely fashion, changed varieties of meat with each passing and offered a little or a lot, depending on when we said “when”–certainly a license for gluttonous behavior.

The Brazilian Grill has an area suitable for larger groups and presents live Brazilian guitar music on Friday and Saturday after 6:30 p.m.  Priced right and close to home, it’s a meat lover’s dream.   For reservations, call them at 888-6888.

Nature’s Amusement Park – Kernville, California

By Aly Wagonseller

Amusement parks are synonymous with summer fun. Death defying roller coasters, thrilling water rides and a barrage of glitzy attractions, all designed with a single goal in mind–to satisfy the adrenaline junky that lurks within us all. But contrary to popular belief, Disney, Six Flags and Universal Studios are not the only places where you can scream to the extreme. There’s a thrill ride designed by our very own Mother Nature, and you’ll find it in Kernville, California.

Wet and Wild

Located just four and a half hours from Las Vegas near Bakersfield, Kernville is home to the Kern River, a 155 mile long waterway of roaring rapids offering arguably the best white water river rafting experience closest to home. Warm temperatures (usually well above the century mark in July and August) and chilly run-off water from the Sierra Nevada Mountains create great rafting conditions through mid August. Blessed with a variety of extremes, from mellow Class II rapids for docile down time and turbo squirt gun ambushes to jaw clenching Class V rapids that’ll satisfy the near death cravings of the most intense outdoor enthusiast, Kern river is a great summer weekend alternative.   

Besides providing opportunities to let out a wail, rafting promotes team building skills and is a great way for families or groups to come together for a common goal.  Navigating the tougher rapids requires listening to your guide and paddling when instructed in an effort to “surf” the best waves and get the most splash for your buck.  It’s also a wonderful way to take in the beauty of nature, including giant herons that sun along the banks of the river and more than 200 species of birds.    

You Can Handle It

Much like a roller coaster ride, you’ll need to pick the adventure you can handle, i.e. one that won’t endanger your child or cause your own coronary event.  In Kernville, that’s a cinch, as there are several rafting outfitters ready to create the perfect trip for you and your family.  All excursions have at least one guide onboard that’s been professionally certified for safety and emergency situations (a requirement by law), and many are intimately familiar with the area, providing information on points of interest and coveted fishing spots.  Reservations are a must, and each outfitter will provide a list of gear, clothing and things you need (and don’t need) prior to your arrival.  

 Wetting Your Rafting Appetite

There are several trips for beginning rafters. Mountain & River Adventures (www.mtnriver.com; 800-861-6553) is a popular outfitter for river rafting, kayaking, hiking and bike excursions.  They offer a variety of trips perfect for the novice or faint at heart, including one or two hour, half, full and two day runs that include excellent food served at their riverside camp facility.   The “Double Blitz” is a great option for those wanting to experience river rafting but still have time for other activities.  You’ll get wet from head to toe on Class II and III rapids and learn valuable paddling skills that can be used on more difficult runs, all while keeping the anxiety level at a comfy minimum. The run takes about two and a half hours, does not include food, and costs $46 for kids under 12 and $54 for adults. Full day trips that include lunch start just under $200 pp; two day trips that plunge you into more challenging Class IV rapids on day two are priced around $400 pp.

 For the More Adventuresome

The Upper Kern is the tiger of the river, welcoming the more experienced or courageous rafter with mile after mile of Class IV and V rapids. Destined to send your adrenaline into overdrive, you’d be wise to expect an airborne body launch or two, with the river serving as a refreshingly chilly landing pool.  Most trips have age restrictions, and half, full and two day excursions are priced comparably to the Lower Kern trips, so it’s twice the rush for the same amount of cash.  For a list of additional rafting outfitters in Kernville, visit www.kernrivervalley.com.

When Not on the River

If you choose to do a little more than ride the rapids, Kernville has several other options to pass the time.  Excellent trout fishing can be had right along the river bed, and word has it that throwing in your line near the historic Powerhouse structure up river provides great odds for a Big Bertha catch of the day. Fly fishing is outstanding, with instruction, as well as guided tours in the Sequoia National Forest, being offered by Kern River Fly Fishing (www.kernriverflyfishing.com; 866-347-4876.)  Most local markets sell two day fishing licenses for about $20. 

Boating, jet skiing, wind surfing and sailing are available just up the road on Isabella Lake, with North Fork Marina (760-376-1812) or French Gulch Marina (760-379-8774) ready to take your rental reservation. Golfing, horseback riding and hiking are also possibilities, but don’t miss the Trail of 100 Giants in the majestic Giant Sequoia National Monument forest. The 45-minute mountain drive is worth the breathtaking views of the river, waterfalls and giant Sequoia trees.

When Day is Done

Accommodations in Kernville range from mom and pop motels and bed and breakfast establishments, to riverside campgrounds.  Beautifully manicured grounds with a walkway to the river, outdoor decks with comfy Adirondack chairs and a sparkling swimming pool set Whispering Pines Lodge Bed and Breakfast (www.kernvalley.com/inns; 760-376-3733) apart from the rest.  The rooms (some with small kitchenettes and all with refrigerators) are large and exceptionally clean, and most are close enough to hear the relaxing song of the trickling Kern at night. Breakfast–a variety of fruit, cereal and homemade baked goods as well as made to order eggs, pancakes, potatoes and meat–is included and served in a lovely little dining room with crocheted table cloths and country furnishings.

Amusement doesn’t have to come from the best new ride with Mickey ears to match. A trip to Kernville, CA is nature’s way to find a thrill.

Top Picks for Breakfast, Beers and a Burger

As is typical in most small towns, the main street diner is where it’s at, with Kernville’s best bet for homemade country grub being Cheryl’s Diner, located at 11030 Kernville Rd.   Whether you’re just passing through or among the many regulars that Cheryl’s obviously attracts, you’ll encounter a super friendly staff serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner specialties that include a chicken fried steak, egg, biscuits and gravy platter that’s  lip smackin’ tasty. 

Later in the day, when it’s time to take the adrenaline flow down a notch or two, there’s nothing more appealing than a brew and a burger at The Kern River Brewing Co., located at 13145 Sierra Hwy. Beers brewed on the premises range from the Class V Stout to the lighter Isabella Blond. Burgers are huge, juicy and delish (especially the Ortega Burger) and come with an ample helping of waffle fries to soak up all those suds.  You can even get jugs-o-brewski to go. It just doesn’t get better than that!

Kathleen Insigne

Liberty High School

Class of 2010

In many ways, Liberty High School senior Kathleen Insigne has the tools it takes to fly up and over any obstacle in her path. With a sturdy pole for vaulting, athleticism and stamina, she’s proven herself to be a track and field ace. But with intelligence, commitment, adaptability, and confidence, she’s also a high flying success in all that she endeavors. Compassionate, aware, and willing to stand up for her beliefs, she sets the achievement bar high for athletics and her peers, which makes Kathleen Insigne – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.158

Sports/Awards/Clubs/Community Service:

• Track & Field, 2006-10
• 2nd Place Freshman/Sophomore Championships–Track & Field, 2008
• Millennium Scholarship Recipient, 2010
• Classical Scholar, 2010
• School Record Holder–Pole Vault, 2008-10
• Junior Varsity Track & Field, 2006
• Regional Qualifier for Pole Vault, 2008-10
• Athletic Award–Varsity Women”s Track & Field, 2007-10
• State Qualifier–Pole Vault, 2010
• Most Improved Field Athlete, 2007-08
• Third Place in Sunrise-Regional Finals, 2010
• Scholar Athlete, 2009-10
• High Honors Diploma, 2010
• Perfect Attendance, 2007-10
• Gawad Kalinga Club Member, 2009-10
• Multi-Cultural Club Historian, 2009-10
• Gawad Kalinga Café Volunteer, 2009

Goals & Aspirations: “I plan to graduate Liberty High School with high honors and enroll in the nursing program at the University of Nevada Las Vegas.”

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of being the first pole vaulter in Liberty High School to qualify for state.  Being able to represent my school is an honor and it shows that all my hard work and dedication for the past four years have paid off.  To have the opportunity to go to state and come this far in my track season is an indescribable feeling.”

Kathleen on Peer Pressure: “I encountered a situation where my friends tried to influence me to compromise my own sense of style to fit into the typical mold of the contemporary teenage female.  In the end, I resisted the peer pressure to change myself just to fit in because I know who I am, and I realized that it was not worth it.  My own self respect is worth more than a secondhand opinion.”

Part of the Solution: “A key issue facing adults today is using their cell phones while driving.  It is not that urgent to pick up a text while you are driving because it will still be there when you reach your destination.  I will encourage teens to stay focused on the road and not drive inTEXTicated.”

Nicholas John Veslany

Coronado High School

Class of 2010

Music is more than just a great background distraction for Coronado High School senior Nick Veslany; it has a rhythm and a philosophy he sets his life to. Like notes that dance across a page of sheet music, Nick marches toward the future proudly, baton waving in sync with the beat, confident in his ability to lead his peers and move his listeners. He is vigilant in his stance to be an individual; to earn respect, rather than feel entitled to it; and to follow his passion wherever it may lead, and for these qualities, Nick Veslany is – A Step Above. 

G.P.A.:  4.73

Activities/Scholarships/Awards/Community Service: 

• Marching Band, 2006-10
• Wind Symphony, 2006-10
• First Chair, 2006-10
• Jazz Band, 2006-10
• Musical Pit, 2007-08/10
• Head Drum Major, 2008/09
• All-State Band, 2007/08; 1^st Chair, 2008
• All-State Orchestra, 2009; 1^st Chair
• All-State Jazz Band, 2010; Solo Chair
• U.S. Army All-American Marching Band Member, 2010
• Solo and Ensemble State Finalist, 2008/10
• UNLV Music Scholarship
• President’s Award for Academic Excellence, 2010
• Varsity Quiz
• St. Thomas Moore Church Volunteer
• Sandwich Making for Homeless
• Boulder City Church Rebuilding Project

Goals & Aspirations: “I aspire to become a great trombone player with well paying gigs here in Las Vegas or in Southern California.”

Accomplishments Most Proud Of:  “I am most proud of being a member of the 2010 U.S. Army All-American Marching Band, a member of the Nevada All-State Jazz Band, All-State Band, and All-State Orchestra.”

Nick is Stronger and Wiser Because: “As a Drum Major for two years, I was in charge of about 150 kids in the marching band and responsible for leading the band to success.  I learned that one must always try his hardest to earn the respect of others in a working role.”

Makayla DeBry

Coronado High School

Class of 2010

Sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest differences; that extra umph to power through the last five miles of a marathon, or the simple act of smiling at a stranger. This philosophy is no mystery to Coronado High School senior Makayla DeBry, who lets her genuine compassion for others and a positive attitude lead her to a path of service and high achievement. More than just an A student and all-star athlete, she’s also a leader, a uniquely open individual and a faithful friend, all of which make Makayla DeBry – A Step Above. 

G.P.A.:  4.8

Sports/Activities/Clubs:  

• Cross Country, 2006-07/09
• Track, 2007-10
• Pole Vault, 2010; Captain
• Bologinini Piano Competition, 2006
• Senior Class President, 2009-10
• Junior Class Representative, 2008-09
• Sophomore Class Vice President, 2007-08
• Between the Lines Literary Magazine
• Students for Soldiers
• National Honors Society
• Student Council

Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:

• AP Scholar, 2009
• Byrd Scholarship Recipient
• BYU Heritage Scholarship Recipient
• Pole Vaulting Sportsmanship Award, 2010
• XC Senior Award, 2009
• Scholar Athlete
• All-State Academic Team
• 2^nd Place in Age Group–Salt Lake City Marathon
• DeBry Family Free Eye Clinic Volunteer
• Medical Service Mission to Quito Ecuador Volunteer

Goals & Aspirations: “My biggest aspiration in life is to have a positive influence on everyone that I meet and to help change lives through service, love, and my own example. When I die, I want to know that I made a difference in someone’s life.” 

Makayla is Successful Because: “What makes me successful has everything to do with the people that have influenced my life and been an example to me. I would not be anywhere near where I am today without wonderful parents, teachers, church leaders and friends who have built me up and taught me how to succeed. I owe all of my success to God and the people that show me what it means to be a leader.”

Makayla is Stronger and Wiser Because: “As a child I had to move a lot, and though it was always hard to leave my home and friends behind, it taught me to be outgoing and friendly. Now I can walk into a room full of strangers and leave with a room full of friends.”

Sarah Carl

Coronado High School

Class of 2010

Coronado High School senior Sarah Carl is a determined young lady who maintains the belief that if you have a dream you should stop at nothing to make it a reality. Full of practical solutions for achievement, she makes no excuses to fail and isn’t afraid to take on daunting challenges in order to reach her highest potential. Beyond her goal-driven determination and strong will to succeed, there also lies a person with gratitude and a selfless desire to serve her family and country, and for that, Sarah Carl is – A Step Above.

 G.P.A.:  4.800 (Valedictorian Candidate)

Sports/Scholarships/Awards:

• Band, 2006-08
• Symphonic Band, 2006-07
• Wind Symphony, 2007-08
• Marching Band, 2006-07
• AP Scholar with Distinction Award, 2009
• Nevada Prize Examination Honorable Mention, 2009
• Presidential Scholarship, 2010
• Nevada Power Energy Scholarship, 2010
• CHS Academic Award of Excellence in Science, 2010
• Air Force Academy Appointment, 2010

Clubs/Community Service:    

• National Honor Society, 2008-10 
• Library Volunteer, 2008-10
• Green Valley and Paseo Verde Library Volunteer, 2008-10
• Teen Advisory Group Member–Paseo Verde Library, 2009-10
• Step Out to Fight Diabetes Walk, 2008
• Silverman Triathlon, 2008
• Burn Victims Event, 2008
• Forensic Tournament, 2009

Goals & Aspirations: “I would like to graduate high school with high honors and as one of the valedictorians.  I desire to pursue a degree in Chemical Engineering with Biomedical emphasis. I also might obtain a minor in nanotechnology.  With my degree, I would like to contribute by enhancing technology in the medical world.”

Sarah is Successful Because: “I am successful because of the support and encouragement from my family and friends, especially my mom.  Without my mom always there staying up late with me and cheering me up, I would not be the person I am today.”

Sarah is Stronger and Wiser Because: “When I applied for the Air Force Academy, I was technically behind other competitors because I should have started to prepare in my sophomore year.  However, with encouragement from my family, I trained and prepared.  This experience taught me that hard work does eventually pay off and that support from my family eases the burden of difficult tasks.”