A Little Taste of Sunshine – The Vibrant Flavors of Orange

By Aly Wagonseller

Ever since Christopher Columbus brought the first oranges to North America in 1493, Americans have forged an ongoing love affair with this bright and flavorful fruit.  In fact, the orange finishes only behind chocolate and good old fashion vanilla as America’s favorite flavor, and with good reason.  Fresh tasting and not overly sweet, the essence of orange brings out the best in a variety of foods, livening up fish, beef and pork dishes, as well as creating a delicious base for drinks, desserts and even side dish recipes. And, although this little globe of goodness is as succulent as it is versatile, there’s more beneath the peel than just good taste.

From a nutritional standpoint, oranges are quite the super fruit.  Numerous United States and World Health Organization studies have shown that by adding more citrus to our diets, as little as one orange per day, we can dramatically reduce the onset of several forms of cancer, significantly lower cholesterol levels and diminish the risk of having a stroke by up to 19%. Other positive effects include reduced risk or progression of arthritis, asthma and Alzheimer”s and Parkinson’s diseases, just to name a few. As an added plus, the antioxidant properties of citrus fruits even reduce the propensity for wrinkles! It’s a body beautiful fruit both inside and out!

With all the proven health benefits this fruit has to offer, adding oranges to your diet should be a no brainer.  We’ve provided some “thinking out of the glass” ways to get your orange on throughout the day.  Whether you add them to a beautiful parfait of yogurt for breakfast, serve them in a delicious salsa with chicken later in the day or spruce up salad and a side dish at dinner, enjoying a little taste of sunshine has never been so easy.

Crunchy Coconut Shrimp with Orange Ginger Sauce

Serves 4

•  1 1/2 cups orange juice, divided
• 1 Tbsp. and 1 tsp.  chopped cilantro, divided
• 2 Tbsp. mayonnaise
• 1 1/2 tsp.  grated ginger, divided
• 1 tsp.  fresh lime juice
• 1/2  tsp.  ground cumin
• 1/4  tsp.  ground red pepper
• Salt and pepper
• 1 cup uncooked couscous
• 1 1/2 cups and 1 Tbsp. chicken broth, divided
• 1/3 cup chopped green onions
• 2 Tbsp. sliced almonds, toasted
• 1 Tbsp. unsalted butter   
• 20 jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 3/4 pound)
• 1 large egg white, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
• ¼ cup shredded coconut
• Canola oil
• 2 cups trimmed watercress

 Orange Ginger Sauce – Bring 1 cup orange juice to a boil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat; cook until reduced to 1/4 cup. Remove from heat; cool completely. Stir in 1 Tbsp. cilantro, mayo, 1 tsp. ginger, lime juice, cumin, red pepper and salt and pepper to taste.  Set aside.  

In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, toast couscous for three minutes, stirring constantly. Add 1 1/2 cups broth, 1/2 cup orange juice and 1/2 tsp. salt; bring to a boil. Remove from heat; cover and let stand 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork; add onions, almonds and butter, stirring until butter melts. Keep warm. 

Combine shrimp and egg white in a large bowl, tossing to coat. Mix together panko, coconut, 1 tsp. cilantro, 1/2 tsp. ginger and black pepper in a large zip-top plastic bag. Add shrimp to the bag, seal and shake to coat. Press breading around shrimp if necessary.  In a nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook approx. 2 minutes per side, or until shrimp is done.

Place 3/4 cup couscous on each of 4 plates; top each with 1/2 cup watercress and 5 shrimp. Drizzle with 1 1/2 Tbsp. sauce.

Orange, Blueberry and Vanilla Cardamom Yogurt Parfaits  

Serves 4

•  1/2 tsp. grated orange rind
• ¼ tsp. cardamom
• 1 (16 oz) container vanilla, Greek-style yogurt
• 2 cups fresh blueberries
• 2 cups orange sections (about 2 large)
• 1/2 cup granola

Combine first 3 ingredients in a small bowl, stirring until blended.  Spoon 1/4 cup blueberries into each of 4 tall glasses. Spoon about 2 1/2 Tbsp. yogurt mixture over blueberries in each glass. Sprinkle with 1 Tbsp. granola.  Add 1/4 cup orange to each serving. Repeat layers with remaining blueberries, yogurt mixture, granola and orange. Top with additional yogurt and granola if desired.

 Agave Grilled Chicken with Citrus Mint Salsa    

 Serves 4 

• 2 large oranges
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup chopped Italian parsley
• 2 green onions, finely sliced
• 3 Tbsp. mint, chopped
• 2 Tbsp. capers, rinsed, drained and coarsely chopped
• 2 Tbsp. orange zest
• 1 tsp. lemon zest
• 1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
•  4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2-3 Tbsp. amber agave nectar (found at Trader Joe’s)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Citrus Mint Salsa -Peel and trim the ends from each orange. Separate the segments by cutting along the membranes between each segment with a paring knife. Place in a medium bowl. Add the olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, green onion, mint, capers, orange zest, lemon zest and red pepper flakes. Toss lightly and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the grilling rack with vegetable oil. Brush the chicken on both sides with the agave nectar and season with salt and pepper to taste.  Grill chicken until done.   Spoon salsa over chicken.  

Herb and Sesame Scallops with Orange and Fennel Salad

Serves 4

• 1 navel orange, supreme
• 1 medium head fennel, thinly sliced, including fronds
• 1/2 lemon, zested and juiced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 Tbsp. finely chopped parsley
• 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh thyme, 6 sprigs
• 6 Tbsp. toasted sesame seeds
• 1 Tbsp. lemon zest
• 12 sea scallops, patted dry

Orange and Fennel Salad – Place the orange supremes and sliced fennel bulb (no fronds) into a bowl. Zest and juice the lemon over the orange and fennel. Season to taste with salt and pepper and drizzle with 2 Tbsp. olive oil. Toss gently and place onto serving plates.

Combine parsley, thyme, sesame seeds, lemon zest and remaining chopped fennel fronds. Season scallops with salt and pepper. Roll the sides of the scallops in herb mix. Coat a cast iron skillet or a nonstick pan with olive oil. Place scallops in hot skillet and sear about 2 minutes per side until the scallops are opaque and firm. Serve atop orange salad.

In the Know

Are you looking for the five-star training experience that will take your athletic life to the next level?  Look no further than Strength Center Las Vegas (1450 W. Horizon Ridge Pkwy., Ste. A-504), the new fitness gym that offers posh and cutting edge services to tomorrow’s star athletes.  Founded by Adam Gentz, renowned strength and conditioning coach with a clientele that includes Donny Osmond, this luxurious gym boasts amenities such as Technogym equipment (considered by many to be the Ferraris of fitness apparatus), a full staff of experienced and educated trainers, complimentary tea and coffee, a state of the art sound system and much more!  So, treat yourself or the young athlete in your life to one of the most elite fitness centers around.  For more info, call 808-4512 or visit www.strengthcenterlv.com.

Ever find yourself wondering where the flavorful worlds of Paris and Texas collide?  Well, maybe not.  But after trying Chick & Benny’s (1659 W. Warm Springs Rd., #100) the peculiar combination might make a bit more sense.  Characterized by golden chicken tenders and fresh, warm beignets–light, puff pastries dusted with powdered sugar and served New Orleans style–this family owned and operated eatery is a unique and tasty treat!  The staff aims to provide friendly service every time, whether you’re stopping in for sweet and tender moments or taking them to go via the drive-thru window. To top it off, free Wi-Fi inside provides connectivity when you need it.  So come “chick” it out! For more info and questions about catering and fundraising, call 434-5024 or visit www.chickandbennys.com.  

The wide world of performing arts awaits you…and now, it’s just around the corner at Astudia Dance World (270 E. Horizon Dr., #103).  Yes, there’s no better day than today to teach those limbs to flail in style or to fashion those fingers to scale musical mountains.  Care for a dance? Courses from Jane Maurer, award-winning choreographer and former member of the Olympia Ballet Company, are available in styles from hip-hop to ballet, jazz to tap.  Or maybe you’d like to play us a tune?  Try music instruction courses in piano or guitar from William Blair, a graduate of Hollywood’s Musicians Institute.  All in all, it’s about discovering the joys of music, dance and theatre, so no matter your age or skill level, give it a try!  For more info, visit www.astudiadance.com or call 451-8054.

The top priority of any pharmacy is to provide patrons with the medications they need in as timely a manner as possible.  It’s one that, more often than not, is fulfilled with no problem.  Where Wellcare Pharmacy (80 N. Pecos) surpasses this expectation is through their dedication to impeccable, personalized service.  Yes, at this pharmacy, a genuine effort is made by the staff to develop a lasting relationship with patients; a relationship that, more than anything else, will improve the longevity of lives.  Additionally, Wellcare is the only pharmacy that provides free delivery anywhere in Las Vegas.  They will even pick up your prescription from your home, fill it, and return it within the same day!  Plus, they guarantee to beat the prices of their competitors. To find out more about this unique pharmacy, call 576-9540 or visit www.mywellcarepharmacy.com.  

When Angela and Brian Edgeworth developed their acclaimed line of Pediped children’s shoes in 2004, they were attempting to provide a solution for a question that many parents had been asking for years: What type of shoe is best for my child’s developing feet?  And while they discovered that barefoot is best, hours of research brought them to the next best thing. Now with their Henderson location, this full line of shoes is just a stroll away at Pediped (1191 Center Point Dr.).  Choose from three different lines: “Originals” for children 0 to 24 months; the “Grip N Go” for 9 months to 3 years; and the “Flex” for ages 1 to 6. For more info, call 352-2579 or visit www.pediped.com.  The grand opening is May 7^th, so swing by for discounts and family fun!

No doubt, discovering personal wellness is an order tall enough to last a lifetime.  But what if you could work towards that goal while being instructed in self-defense, meditation and more?  At Hisardut Center for Israeli Martial Arts (10880 S. Eastern Ave., #103), you can. Founded in a philosophy of living based on respect, discipline and self-knowledge, Hisardut is more than just a system of punches, kicks and blocks. Students of this Israeli Martial Art not only learn a modern and effective approach to self-defense, they will learn in a way that does not glorify violence. Rather, it encourages a deep sense of self-confidence and awareness that can be applied to a number of life situations. Courses are available for children and adults. For class schedules and more info, visit www.hisardutlasvegas.com or call 530-3755.

Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything

By Steven D. Levitt & Stephen J. Dubner

As reviewed by Macy Walsh

What exactly is a “rogue economist”? One who has stopped taking calls from his CIA handler or wears a disguise when he sneaks into the library to crunch numbers?  The rogue, in this case, is Steven D. Levitt, whose chosen field is behavioral economics, which attempts to combine the pure-logic tools of classical economics with an understanding of the emotional impulses of human behavior.  He is also a chaired professor of economics at the University of Chicago and the most recent winner of the American Economics Association’s John Bates Clark Medal, awarded biennially to the top economist under the age of 40.  He is regarded by his peers as one of the most creative thinkers in his field, gifted at drawing connections between seemingly unrelated forces.  Doesn’t sound very “rogue” to me.

If there is a theme to Freakonomics, it’s the re-thinking of conventional wisdom, which, it turns out, may not be as wise as we think.  Among the many questions the book explores are such things as:  What do school teachers and sumo wrestlers have in common?  How is the Ku Klux Klan like a group of real-estate agents?  What do online daters lie about?  What makes a perfect parent?  What were your parents telling the world when they gave you your name?  And the one for which he is best known: Where have all the criminals gone?

Levitt’s conclusion, which managed to offend nearly everyone, is that abortion curbs crime.  What he claims, specifically, is that the sharp drop in the United States’ crime rate during the 1990s–commonly attributed to factors like better policing, stiffer gun laws and an aging population–was in fact largely due to the Roe v. Wade decision two decades earlier.  The logic was simple: unwanted children are more likely to grow up to become criminals; legalized abortion leads to less unwantedness; therefore, abortion leads to less crime.  Conservatives were outraged that abortion was seemingly being promoted as a solution to crime.  Liberals detected a whiff of racist eugenics. Besides, what business did this callow economist have trespassing on the territory of the criminologist?  Economics is supposed to be about price elasticities and interest rates and diminishing marginal utilities, not abortion and crime.  That’s what makes it so useful to undergraduates fighting insomnia.

Levitt has strayed far from the musty halls of the dismal science in search of interesting problems.  How do parents of different races and classes choose names for their children?  What sort of contestants on the TV show “The Weakest Link” are most likely to be discriminated against by their fellow contestants?  If crack dealers make so much money, why do they live with their mothers?  Such everyday riddles are fair game for the economist, he contends, because their solution involves understanding how people react to incentives. The trivia alone is worth the cover price.  Did you know that Ku Klux Klan members affixed a “kl” to many words, and thus, two Klansmen would hold a “klonversation” in a local “klavern”, or that their secret handshake was “a left-handed, limp-wristed fish wiggle”?  Levitt uses the rise and fall of the K.K.K. to illustrate the power of hoarded information.  He finds a parallel in the world of real estate where brokers employ code words in advertisements to let potential buyers know that a property can be bought for less than its asking price.

What if Levitt is all wrong in Freakonomics?  What if he analyzed the data incorrectly or the data was incomplete or corrupted in any way?  Why should any reader trust his theories or analyses?  If there is a unifying theme to this book, it’s to not take everything you read or are told at face value.  Question the conventional wisdom. Ask whether someone has an incentive to lie or cheat about something. Examine any data and draw your own conclusions.  What Levitt and Dubner have done is give us a new way to look at our world.  As each story gleaned from the data unfolds, you’ll find yourself surprised, laughing and reading passages aloud to someone else.  It’s like a treasure hunt, with little secrets unearthed that were there in plain sight most of the time.  The authors have created a book that is both entertaining and educational.  But the last thing you should do is take my word for it.  Get a copy and find out for yourself.  I’m off to get the sequel, Super Freakonomics.

It’s All in the Details – Blue Fin Sushi & Roll

By Aly Wagonseller

I miss the tradition of old school sushi.  Fresh fish, artfully and artistically prepared by artisans as serious about serving the very best seafood money can buy as they are about perfecting the knife skills to give it due justice.  There’s simply a reverence about good sushi; a respect that’s all too often lost when establishments jump on the All-You-Can-Eat, porno roll  bandwagon.  Herein lies the beauty of Blue Fin Sushi & Roll restaurant located at 3980 E. Sunset, Suite 102. Yes…they have AYCE sushi, I mean who doesn’t these days?  And sure, there are a few rolls the names of which may make you blush.  But make no mistake; Blue Fin is not your average sushi joint.  Not by a long shot.

Deceptively small, the restaurant has a mere ten to twelve tables and nine stools at the sushi bar, with pleasant decor, especially when the lights are dimmed at dusk.  What they may be lacking in size (and that’s not necessarily a negative) is more than made up for by the quality and artful presentation of the cuisine.  It’s quite evident that owner/Sushi Chef Jin Chang has classic skills and takes great pride in what he serves to his customers. He simply would never put out sushi or rolls that suffer from what I call the sloppy toppy:  fish that’s incorrectly cut too thick and plopped atop rice that’s not appropriately sticky, resulting in more sushi landing on your lap than in your mouth.   It happens in more restaurants than not, and it’s a result of untrained staff and a lack of sushi soul.

What Chef Chang does deliver is near perfection.  Case in point: thinly sliced tuna belly, delicately adorned with razor thin grapes that have been macerated in balsamic vinegar and oil.  It truly looked like a painting on the plate, with the flavors of the buttery tuna laced with the sweet, yet savory fruit solidifying this dish as a thing of beauty.  Fresh Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeño and Spicy Ponzu Sauce was equally stunning; the melt-in-your-mouth tender fish serving as a testament to the freshness and expertise in the way it was sliced. A vivid Ahi Poki Salad made for a complex combination of color and textures, the bright green crunch of seaweed and vegetables presenting the perfect base for the sesame marinated tuna.  I would have liked a bit more of the tuna in the ratio of things, but I’ve been known to be greedy when it comes to tuna poki.

Picture perfect cuisine certainly didn’t stop with the appetizers, with the rolls and cooked options at Blue Fin presenting both striking appearance and flavorful prowess.  A variety of creative rolls are offered, with deep fried and baked versions, as well as a number of shrimp tempura selections.  Being a bit of a traditionalist, I stuck to something void of cream cheese and anything cooked, settling on the Red Dragon Roll. And, while it may not have been the hautest of choices, it proved to be simple perfection. Delicately chopped tuna and jalapeño provided a spicy pop of flavor to the mellow, rice wine scented sticky rice, the roll finished with a crown of impossibly thin tuna that held it all together. Curls of shaved jalapeño added a visual elegance and freshness to the roll–a tiny detail that speaks volumes to just how good this place really is. Caramelized Sea Scallop and Garden Vegetables would be a great choice for the sushi phobe, although I will say the scallops were not remotely caramelized.  Still, they were cooked nicely, served with crunchy broccoli, bell pepper and baby corn in a sweet and spicy sauce with ginger and chilies.  Japanese comfort food done well.

Blue Fin Sushi & Roll may be small, but this place has heart.  It’s old school meets modern, and it’s some of the best sushi in town. For information or takeout orders, call them at 898-0090.

Happy Campers – Busting the Boredom Bug

By Lindsay Minor

Spring has sprung and summer’s just around the corner. While tons of video game time and lazy hours in front of the boob tube may sound awesome to kids at first, most parents will inevitably hear the sad cries of “I’m boooored!” sooner or later. Camps can be a great way to keep kids engaged and happy during summer months, and it’s great for their health, too. According to Dr. Monica Lounsbery, Professor and Director of the Physical Activity Policy Research Program at the University of Nevada Las Vegas, “Organized programs like summer camp help to provide the 60 minutes of moderate to rigorous exercise kids needs each day.” They also offer children the chance to be around positive role models, make friends, learn new skills, gain independence, build an appreciation for the great outdoors and make memories that last a lifetime. Squash that boredom bug before it bites! Research the right camp for your child and register today!

Outside and Outta Sight

Outdoorsy types, thrill-seekers and even their shy counter-parts will have a blast at one of Camp Lee Canyon’s six-day youth resident camps. Located in the Spring Mountain Range just 45 minutes from Las Vegas, cool air, rustic cabins and natural beauty set the scene for good, clean fun. Challenging and exciting, On the Edge Camp for teens features daring activities such as the High Ropes Challenge Course, a one-night campout, hiking, crafts, sports, mountain biking and a Thursday night dance with a live DJ. Children ages 8 to 12 can experience Omni Camp, where they’ll learn about the unique beauty and eco-system of the surrounding woodlands through workshops, arts, sciences and experiential outdoor education. Campers stay in group cabins supervised by trained counselors in a ratio of 8:1. Camps cost $400, inclusive of catered meals, snacks, class supplies and a camp t-shirt. Call 455-1905 for more information.

Cool Schools

For a day camp closer to home, Summit Ridge Day Camp at Henderson International School features a world of possibilities in sports, arts and crafts, water activities, games, computer use and even movie-making fun. Kids ages 4 to 11 will enjoy more than 20 activities during their camp experience. One unique aspect of Summit Ridge Day Camp is that parents are invited to help design their child’s experience. If you want to keep academics alive during the summer break, Summit Ridge can help. Camp begins June 13 and ends August 5. For more info, visit www.hendersonschool.com or call 818-2149.

During the normal school year, Coral Academy of Science is a charter school on a mission to provide a challenging educational environment for students which will promote academic and social success during and beyond their high school years. With that same commitment to molding well-rounded individuals, their summer camp, held at the Sandy Ridge Campus, offers a number of educational activities in science, math, reading and English, along with fun arts and crafts and field trips to local attractions and museums. Competitive types and any kid just looking to have some fun can also match skills with new friends in chess, table tennis, basketball, soccer and volleyball. These full day camps are appropriate for ages 5-17 and will take place from June 13-July 29. Additional details are forthcoming, so keep an eye on www.coralacademylv.org for updates or call 776-8800 for details.

And not to be overlooked, Las Vegas Day School is offering the Ultimate Summer Camp 2011 for the ultimate summer adventure. A place where kids are encouraged to just be kids, “laugh”, “be silly” and “act your age” are some of the instructions at this summer long camp open to children in first to eighth grade. What’s more, each week-long camp will have a festive theme like Mardi Gras, Fiesta, Luau or Carnival. Campers will be treated to exciting rounds of air hockey, basketball, painting, swimming, watching movies and more for nine hours per day, including a break for a catered lunch and fun desserts! Eight sessions are offered beginning June 20^th and running through August 12^th. Call 362-1180 or visit www.lvds.com for info and let the wackiness ensue!

The Budding Performer

Dancers prepare to get in the zone at Dance Zone. Each week-long camp revolves around dance, but exciting themes offer a little something for everyone. There’s no limit to the fun kids can imagine during Imaginarium week June 13-17; they’ll be honing their dance skills and creative sides through crafts, writing, skits and more. During Out of This World week June 20-24, kids will have cosmic fun in outer space with activities focused on space, planets and the solar system. Super sleuths will have to follow the clues to discover the mystery during Mystery Quest July 11-15; dancers will learn just how awesomely Royalty Rocks July 18-22; sporty fun will abound during Sportacular August 1-5; and the whole journey ends on a high note in Adventureland August 8-12. For rates and more info, call 897-5690 or visit www.thedancezone.com.

Finally, be sure to check out your local Parks and Recreation departments of Henderson and Las Vegas for even more fun in locations across the valley. Most offer affordable weekly programs in a variety of activities. Ultimately it doesn’t matter if your child spends the summer making art, dancing, learning the laws of science or just smashing the ping pong record; a young body and mind in motion is a happy one. 

More Fun for Everyone

When it comes to summer camps for kids of all ages, Las Vegas doesn’t disappoint. Here are just a few more camps for your consideration.

Drama Kids International of Las Vegas: The perfect stage for your little star, Drama Kids allows campers to shine through theater games, skits, creative movement, mini scripts and more. Ages 5-11. Visit www.dramakids.com/nv1 or call 870-4354 for info.

Camp Zone at Merryhill Elementary: Sports fans, nature explorers, artists, aspiring actors and more will love all this camp has to offer, including outdoor hikes, performances, field trips and surprise speakers. Ages 5-14. Visit http://summerlin.merryhillschool.com or call Nicole Hanson at 242-8838 for details.

Mad Science: Kids age 4-12 will learn about science, including biology, space, robotics, botany, flight and more through hands-on activities and experiments. For details, visit www.madscience.org/lasvegas or call 257-6231.

Anthem Country Club Camp: Open to Anthem Country Club members and their guests, this full and half day camp includes swimming, basketball, tennis, golf, arts and crafts, drama/acting, mad scientist and nutrition. Contact Ray Flis at rflis@anthemcc.com or 614-5035.

Las Vegas Riding Academy: For the child interested in all things horses, the academy offers lessons in roping, riding, animal care and crafts. Ages 6-17. Visit www.lv-ra.com for details.

Leadership Camp: The seven-day camp held at Camp Lee Canyon will consist of speakers, workshops and curriculum to educate and empower young adults. Ages 11-17. Visit www.icanlv.org for more info, financial aid applications and registration.

Home on the Range – Grand Canyon Ranch

By Lisha Ross

With few exceptions, it’s difficult for most of us city slickers to fathom living in a time when the American West was wild, vastly uncharted and sparsely populated territory. A rugged wrinkle in time when cowboys drove cattle across the dusty plains; Mormon converts packed up their wagons and headed west in search of the new Zion; outlaws were a menace and the equalizer of man was the Colt .45. Gone but not forgotten, the days of gunfighters and wranglers have been forever immortalized in movies, museums and kitschy ghost towns, but few Wild West experiences are quite as tangible and sublime as those found just 105 miles away at the Historic Grand Canyon Ranch. Far away from the bright lights, traffic and rigors of city life, this quiet retreat awaits with unexpected pleasures around every hitchin’ post and stable.

A Capsule of History

Nestled at the foot of Spirit Mountain, between the west end of the Grand Canyon and the Music Mountains of Arizona, the 165 sq. mi. guest ranch is an anachronism with a history as intriguing as its picturesque surroundings. Ownership of the ranch, originally known as Diamond Bar, passed through the hands of many a wrangler since its beginnings in the early 1800s, including Wellington Starkey and legendary gunfighter Tap Duncan.  Workers on the ranch lovingly spin tall tales of the Hole in the Wall Gang, mysterious ghost dances of the Hualapai Indians, wayward gold miners and travelers who used the nearby spring as a resting place and watering hole.

Today, the Grand Canyon Ranch is owner Nigel Turner’s tribute to the spirit of the Old West–a working cattle ranch that he and his ranch hands maintain with endearing reverence to the people, lifestyles and wilderness of a bygone era. Home to Corriente cattle, a herd of American bison, gentle riding horses and a handful of workers, this isolated patch of land is an inspiring getaway for those seeking solitude, adventure and a slower pace of life on the modern American frontier.

By Air or By Land

Easily accessible by car, Grand Canyon Ranch is a quick 2-hour drive through the scenic desert Southwest; an excellent and economical choice for a family road trip. However, if you want to enjoy the Grand Canyon from a perspective unlike any other, you may want to opt for one of HeliUSA’s return helicopter flights. At just 40 minutes in duration, these fully-narrated tours offer the fastest mode of travel and the most breathtaking scenery. On the way there, you’ll be treated to heavenly views of Hoover Dam, the bypass bridge and Lake Mead before dipping below the rim of the Grand Canyon to explore over 19 miles of its geological splendor. The return flight is even shorter, about 30 minutes, and caps the adventure with a flight over the Las Vegas Strip.   

The Lay of the Land

Helicopter passengers travel from the landing pad to the ranch by quarter horse-drawn wagon; drivers can park alongside the ranch. Fly or drive, all guests are greeted with warm Western hospitality and invited to leisurely explore the grounds. Rustic pine cabins, mock saloon and jail fronts, the main ranch house and a stone tack house built in the late 1800s line the perimeter of the guest encampment. Some merely add character and antiquity to the space, but those that have modern functionality have been renovated beautifully. Once the main living quarters of previous ranch owners, the ranch house now serves as check-in, gift shop and a meeting place for tours, socializing and dining. Remodeled and designed with a timeless grace, the earthen-colored pine walls are graced with photos of ranch life and various ranching props. In the dining area, whispers of white curtains drape the windows as natural light spills across the oversized wooden tables and chairs. 

Outside, horses frolic in a nearby pasture; a larger-than-life covered wagon sits forever parked in the center of it all; and a huddle of teepees mimic a Native American campsite. Real roaming cowboys go about their daily ranch chores, while others are costumed entertainers, always ready to engage guests in a number of fun activities. During the high season, which runs through the warm summer months, you may find yourself in the middle of a recreated shoot-out or a live action roping demo. Things slow down to a mosey in the low season of spring, when temperate days and chilly nights beckon locals with a more tranquil getaway. But even in these slower months, random activities abound. Marshall Dylan is happy to show you old weapons, dusters and glad rags in the “armory”, and Buckskin Dan, well, he’s always good for a song. Challenge your family to a game of horseshoes or just saunter along with a camera and an eye for photo opps.

Pokin’ Around

HeliUSA offers a number of daily, overnight and weekend packages that include round-trip helicopter flights, accommodations or campouts, live entertainment by the campfire nightly and two to three meals per day. Everything else is a la carte, from guided horseback or horse-drawn wagon rides and buffalo safaris to walking historic tours. Sunset rides are magical by either horse or wagon. The horseback ride traverses rugged, Joshua-tree lined paths, while the wagon heads up Diamond Bar Road along the old Mormon trail. Either way, the destination is the same–a champagne toast atop Buffalo Point, where guests can photograph buffalo in the wild as the sun’s last rays stretch across unparalleled vistas of Arizona, Nevada, California and Utah.

Home Cookin’

If there is but one tiny thorn in this wonderful Western adventure (and it may not even be noticeable to some), it’s that the food choices are limited. The main ranch house is the only restaurant within 20 or so miles, and the menu includes a small selection of Western-style fair at what some may consider above average prices. But alas, the food does not make or break this exciting destination. After a long, hard day on the range, all a tired cowboy or girl really needs is a wickedly tender rack of ribs or perfectly seasoned steak, a cold beer or a glass of wine, and that they do have.

Beddin’ Down

When it comes time to rest your weary bones, Grand Canyon Ranch has options for everybody from the dainty damsel to lovers of the great outdoors.

Warm & Cozy

Pine cabin accommodations are comfortable, cabin chic and authentic, save for realistic-looking faux, thermostat controlled cast iron stoves. Keeping all very quiet on the Western front, you won’t find televisions or radios in these rooms, so if you’re the plugged in type, you may want to lug along a laptop or portable DVD player. Otherwise, you’ll have to settle for being lulled to sleep by the soothing ambient sounds of the desert at night. Cabins vary in size from the intimate standard with a queen bed to the larger, two-story version with a queen bed downstairs and two single beds in the loft. All are equipped with heating and A/C, a charming cowboy bathtub or shower, and porches with cowboy chairs for Zen moments of peaceful reflection.

Starry Nights

For the young at heart looking for a novel approach to camping out, Grand Canyon Ranch offers nights under a blanket of stars in true, native fashion. Those teepees aren’t just for aesthetics; each one is a room unto itself with colorful rugs strewn about, one double or two single beds, a propane heater and a 12 volt lantern. As you might expect, they don’t have plumbing, but a clean, community restroom is just a few paces and a swing of batwing doors away. Teepee accommodations are available starting in mid April.

Few weekend getaways have the power to recharge and revitalize the soul quite like a spell at this contemporary Western retreat. Quick travel time, unrivaled scenery, impeccable service and a variety of activities make it a hit for a romantic rendezvous or a fun family outing. And perhaps the best thing about it is that you never really feel pressed for time. So leave the watches and cell phones at home, throw on your denim and journey to the wide open spaces of Grand Canyon Ranch. For package rates, additional info and reservations, visit www.grandcanyonranch.com or call (800) 359-8727.

Hermila Hailemariam Yifter

Silverado High School
Class of 2011

It’s always a special treat to meet someone with worldly concerns who also possesses the capacity to make some real changes.  With ambitions so large they span the globe, Silverado High School senior Hermila Yifter is one of those remarkable people.  No stranger to hard work in the wake of adversity, Hermila is rising to the challenge of changing our world for the better through education, community involvement and genuine concern for others.  For aspirations that see well beyond her own future, along with practical plans to bring her goals into harmonious fruition, Hermila Yifter is – A Step Above.  

G.P.A.: 4.8

Sports/Community Service/Clubs:

• Women’s Cross Country, 2009/10
• Guidance Program Mentor, 2010-11
• Mu Alpha Theta Tutor, 2007-09
• National Honor Society, 2010-11
• Spanish Club, 2010-11
• Summer Business Institute, 2010
• Catholic Charities Soup Kitchen Volunteer, 2011
• Lied Animal Shelter Volunteer, 2011
• Special Buddies and Pancreatic Run, 2010
• Whitney Ranch Elementary School Clothing Drive, 2010

Scholarships/Awards:

• Summer Business Institute Scholarship, 2010
• Collegeboard AP Scholar w/ Distinction, 2010
• UNLV African American Scholar, 2010/11
• Silverado Academic Letter Recipient, 2008-10
• Silverado Student of the Month, 2007/08
• Green Valley Rotary Student of the Month, 2011
• Channel Eight Nevada Pride, 2011
• Cross Country Varsity Letter, 2009-10
• Coach’s Award–Cross Country, 2010
• Scholar Athlete Award, 2009/10
• All State Academic Team, 2009/10
• Civic Engagement Participant Award
• Senatorial Certificate of Achievement for SBI, 2010

Goals & Aspirations: “I want to graduate high school as valedictorian and with honors.  I then want to go to a university and study International Relations/Political Science with a minor in Economics and a foreign language, preferably Arabic or Spanish.  I want to work in the Foreign Service or United Nations as a diplomat.  I also want to be a business owner.”

Hermila is Successful Because: “I am successful because I work hard and possess determination.  I set goals and envision myself achieving them.  One of the main reasons why I achieve my goals is because I have a passion and zeal for what I aim for.  I enjoy what I do, and everything I do has a higher purpose.” 
Hermila Looks Up To: “I look up to my parents, because they achieved so much and came from virtually nothing–no education and no money.  They went from living in section eight housing and receiving welfare to owning their own home.  They taught me that no adversity or challenge is too great and with hard work anyone can achieve anything.”

Cause for Concern: “I am very interested in helping women and children in third world countries that are deprived of an education due to cultural, societal, financial and familial issues.  I want to start a charitable organization where people can donate classic world literature and help build a foundation for libraries all over poverty ridden neighborhoods in the world.”

Amy Mettke

Coronado High School

Class of 2011

There’s something extra admirable about Coronado High School senior Amy Mettke. It may be due in part to her fantastic academic record. Or a tireless, go get ‘em attitude, even amidst never-ending to-do lists. But more than likely, it’s got much to do with her grateful demeanor. Ever mindful of the support she’s received and the examples of discipline that have been laid down for her to follow, she is resolutely thankful for the opportunities she’s been given. Her hard work and commitment to excellence stand in tribute to those who’ve helped her along the way, and for that, Amy Mettke is – A Step Above. 

G.P.A.: 4.63

Sports/Activities/Clubs:

• Cheer (Co-Captain; 2007-11
• Track, 2010-11
• Advanced Women’s Ensemble (Section Leader; 2007-08
• Madrigals (Section Leader; 2008-11
• Concert Choir (Section Leader; 2008-11
• SADD Club, 2009-10
• Best Buddies Club, 2009-11
• Animal Advocates Club, 2010-11

 Awards/Community Service:

• Scholar Athlete
• November Performing Arts Student of the Month, 2007
• Choral Excellence Award, 2008
• November Cheerleader of the Month, 2009
• 1^st Place–Southern Nevada”s 5th Annual Japanese Speech Contest, 2009
• Regional Qualification–Track
• Choral Excellence Award, 2010
• Most Improved Track & Field Athlete, 2010
• Volunteering Weekly at Japanese Saturday School
• Fundraising for No-Kill Animal Shelters

Goals & Aspirations: “My goal right now is to go to a college of my choice with enough scholarships as to not burden my parents. Wherever I end up going, I plan to give my all and take advantage of every opportunity given to me. I aspire to learn more and grow into the successful, noble person I strive to become.”

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I’m most proud of staying committed to everything I’m involved in and not giving up. Although I feel overwhelmed at times, trying to maintain good grades as well as carry out many of my other responsibilities, I love everything I do at school and would never give up the experiences I’ve had.”

Amy is Successful Because: “I think what makes me successful is my ‘not-good-enough’ attitude. I feel there is always something I can do to improve on something, and am never satisfied with myself. I strive to continuously grow and set new goals for myself.”

Amy Looks Up To: “I look up to my mom because of her determination and persistence. The past couple of years, she’s been running the Las Vegas Marathon and is now training for a triathlon. My goal is to one day run a marathon and do a triathlon alongside my mother.”

Gregory Odell

Coronado High School
Class of 2011

It’s a combination of unfaltering faith, focus and drive that propels future leaders to the top.  Add light-hearted humor and a desire to serve the community to this mix and you wind up with someone like Coronado High School senior Gregory Odell.  Academically sound and always willing to try new things, the aspiring public servant and well-rounded student is poised to set an example for everyone he meets.  And through his hard work and dedication, his plans for the future are already in motion.  So whether he’s at the wrestling mat today or on the political podium tomorrow, it’s apparent that Gregory Odell is – A Step Above.  

G.P.A.: 4.1

Sports/Clubs/Activites:

• Track & Field, 2007-09
• Junior Wrestling, 2004/06
• JV Wrestling, 2008-09
• Varsity Wrestling, 2009-10
• Madrigals, 2010-11
• Orchestra, 2005-Present
• Violin, 1999-Present
• Boy Scouts of America, 2001-Present

Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:

• Scholar Athlete, 2010
• Orchestra Vice President, 2010-Present
• Wrestling Team Captain, 2010
• Letter in Wrestling, 2010
• Letter in Orchestra, 2010
• Eagle Scout, 2010

Goals & Aspirations: “For now, my goals are to graduate with honors and go on to attend BYU Provo.  There, I hope to get three semesters in before serving a two year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.  I then plan to complete a double major in communications and political science.  After, I hope to go straight into politics or analytical journalism.”

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of the new things I”ve tried in school this year.  I decided to diversify my senior year and do things I didn”t necessarily expect to.  In the time since, I”ve become orchestra vice president, been accepted into the Coronado madrigals choir, and gotten call backs for a musical audition.”
Gregory is Stronger and Wiser Because: “The biggest obstacles in my life are disorganization and lack of motivation.  When I was younger, I would frequently forget assignments, or simply ignore them because it was something I didn”t feel like doing.  Both of these combined caused me to receive a few poor grades.  I have been able to learn from these past errors, recover my grades, and accomplish much more in a timely manner.”

Part of the Solution: “I believe that the worst epidemic of today”s young adults is apathy.  This age group doesn”t care about many things that should be very important to them.  Education is now a means to a social life, and political involvement is something that doesn”t accomplish much in the eyes of most.  I hope to be able to get young people more active and interested in the issues by making them more understandable.”

Casey Almeido

Coronado High School

Class of 2011

It has been said that “running is the greatest metaphor for life because you get out of it what you put into it.” If that’s the case, then Coronado High School senior Casey Almeido’s efforts should be paying out big–and they are. Devoting equal parts of her time to academia, athletics and charity, she’s already a model teammate, a star student and an inspiration to her peers.  Moreover, her very presence is a constant reminder that the future is just a day away, and with passion and hard work, it can be great.  For all that and more, Casey Almeido is – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.52

Sports/Clubs/Community Service:

• Varsity Cross Country, 2007-10; Captain, 2010; Historian, 2009
• Track & Field, 2008-Present
• Jr. Varsity Soccer, 2007-08
• National Honor Society, 2009-Present
• Environmental Club, 2009-Present
• National Charity League, 2005-11; Corresponding Secretary, 2010-11
• Make-a-Wish Run Participant, 2009-11
• PB&J-a-Thon Participant, 2009/10
• Henderson Allied Community Advocates Volunteer, 2005-10
• Kids to Kids Literacy Program Volunteer, 2005-10
• Boys & Girls Club of Henderson Volunteer, 2009
• Del Mar Gardens of Green Valley Nursing Home Volunteer, 2005-08

Scholarships/Awards:

• President’s Tuition Scholarship–Northern Arizona University
• Arizona Excellence Award–University of Arizona
• Director’s Award–University of Massachusetts
• Arthur Schulte Scholarship–University of Portland
• Coaches Award–Cross Country, 2010; Jr. Varsity Soccer, 2007/08
• Four-Year Varsity Athlete, 2010
• Region Champions–Cross Country, 2007-10; State Qualifiers, 2007-10
• Cross Country Individual Honors–All-Division, 2007/09; All-Region, 2007
• Scholar Athlete, 2008/09
• NIAA All-State Academic Team, 2010

Goals & Aspirations: “My goals are to graduate high school with a high honors diploma and attend a four-year university to pursue a Bachelor’s of Science Nursing degree.  Future goals include becoming a Nurse Practitioner and utilizing my skills to give back to people in third-world countries that lack access to proper medical care.”

Casey is Successful Because: “I am successful because I am an extremely dedicated, motivated, and hard-working person, and I never let myself give up, no matter how difficult the task.”

Casey is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Sophomore year of Cross Country, I suffered a stress fracture in my hip.  The day of the region meet, I had to pull myself out of the race to give my team a better chance of taking home the title.  I learned to sacrifice my needs for the betterment of the team, and it taught me how to be a better teammate and a stronger leader.”