Fine and Fair Weather Wines
By Gabriel Garcia
With chillier days behind us once again, the most colorful and vibrant time of year has arrived, warming our bodies and minds with the many simple pleasures of the season. Sun kissed blood oranges, Meyer lemons, key limes and grapefruits come to mind, along with garden grown basil, cilantro, rosemary and sage. And best of all, with these fresh ingredients come endless possibilities for lively cuisine and fine wines that pay homage to the bounty of spring.
Herb sesame scallops served with orange and fennel salad are a welcome nod to sand and surf, particularly when preceded by Santi Nello Prosecco Valdobbiadene ($15.00/btl.). Grown primarily in the eastern part of Italy’s Veneto region, Prosecco is a white wine grape that is made into a slightly sparkling (frizzante) or fully sparkling (spumante) wine. A delicate bouquet of golden delicious apples and Acacia flowers nuanced with flavors of apricot and citrus make it a perfect starter for a memorable meal. Moving on from the bubbly, Mendoza Station Torrontés 2009 ($7.00/btl.) is an ideal match for this fresh seafood dish. A favorite in Argentina, this crisp, aromatic white hits the nose and palate with the essence of flowers and subtle spices. For a wine with a little more body and structure that’s not quite a red wine, Rosé is a perfect accommodation. Rosé wines are very popular in the south of France around the spring and summer seasons for their refreshing qualities. Lively and fragrant, Domaine Fontanyl Rosé de Provence 2009 ($13.00/btl.) is a beautiful Rosé from Provence replete with inviting aromas of ripe berries and purple flowers. Flavors of ripe strawberry and wild cherry are showcased in a complex manner that retains the character of the fruit, but in a dry, straight-forward style.
Agave grilled chicken with citrus mint salsa beckons something light but flavorful, simple yet complex. With this delightful dish, do pair the Kim Krawford Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2010 ($18.00/btl.) from Marlborough, New Zealand, where many would argue that the best Sauvignon Blanc is made in the world. A delight for all the senses, aromas of lime zest, grapefruit, mint, lemon grass and jalapeño are backed with flavors of tart pineapple and gooseberries with a slight mineral finish. Thinking outside the box, or bottle as it were, the Mer Soleil Chardonnay Silver 2009 ($25.00/btl.) from Santa Lucia Highlands in the central coast of California is another excellent option. What’s unique about this Chardonnay is that it does not see any oak in the wine making process. Rather, the wine is fermented in cement tanks, allowing for the fullest expression of the grape without oak influence. Aromas of honeydew melon, green apple and steely minerals enchant while its medium body and rich texture reflect impeccable balance.
When the occasion calls for innovative home-cooking, roasted Peking duck with mandarin pancakes and plum sauce calls for Pinot Noir. A classic pairing with incarnations of duck, Tarras Estate Pinot Noir 2009 ($32.00/btl.) delivers silky tannins and notes of berry, cherry, and raspberry fruit. Roasted rack of lamb with tomato and black olive tapenade and rosemary scented polenta is captivating alone, but when paired with Cave de Tain St. Joseph 2006 ($25.00/btl.) it nears perfection. Juicy is an adept description of this Syrah, with black cherry and cassis notes layered with hints of black forest cake, briar and sweet tobacco. This wine originates from the Northern Rhone Valley of France where Syrah is king.
Why it is that in warmer weather our spirits seem to soar a little higher we may never know, but the feeling is undeniably invigorating. In this time of year and all others, enjoy the wine and food, live well and be happy.
Gabriel Garcia is a certified Sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers and works at Stripsteak by Michael Mina at Mandalay Bay. He can be reached at ovationman@hotmail.com
Out n About
Out n About
Ken Henderson
By Callie Thomas
Think back and try to remember–who was your first role model? Was it the current singing sensation? A superstar athlete? Or perhaps it was someone closer to home like an influential teacher or even a big brother? Resident Ken Henderson is best described as the grown-up role model for the community. In fact, not only is he CEO of one of the most well-known modeling agencies in the city, through his on-going support of the Junior Diabetes Research Foundation as well as other organizations that help those in need, he is truly someone to look up to.
The native Las Vegan has been the CEO of the BEST Agency, a full service model, production, event and entertainment company for the past 13 years. You could say he represents the best of both worlds. The BEST Agency is a mix of glamour and talent with a heavy dose of charitable spirit. “I am proud to say that our stellar reputation for creating entertainment concepts and events in Vegas has also enabled us to work with and contribute to many major charitable organizations,” says Henderson. “Our spectacular team all have the same giving attitude.”
Ken Henderson sits on the board of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) as the Vice President of Events and newly appointed President-elect. The focus of the group is to find a cure for diabetes and its complications by supporting research. JDRF helps to move research from the laboratory to the patient’s bedside, which translates medical advances into longer, healthier lives for those with diabetes. The local Nevada chapter provides educational information and support for newly diagnosed individuals and their families. “I am passionate about JDRF for many reasons,” he said. “First and foremost, it’s about kids…also our dedicated board and the fact that over 80% of JDRF’s expenditures directly support research and research education.”
Each spring, Henderson chairs the annual Hope Gala in Las Vegas. At the black-tie event, a local member of the community is honored for their consistent dedication and commitment in the search for a cure. The fundraiser includes an exclusive live and silent auction. “I have the honor every year to work with children and young adults who have this terrible disease,” Ken said. “They never cease to amaze me with their strength and confidence while enduring the disease, as well as their dedication and optimism that a cure will be found soon.” Henderson produces a very special video that features young diabetics and their stories. “The video serves as a key component to our event and there is nothing I do all year that is more fulfilling.”
Ken Henderson hopes to be a role model for his own daughter, 18 year old Paige. “I look at her every day and am grateful for her health,” he said. This desire is also the reason Henderson devotes time to other organizations and events, including one called Holiday Magic, which he created along with another neighbor, Tom Carroll, to showcase the many organizations that help others in the community. “In 2004 we created a 13-day event which was held on the grounds of the JW Marriott to create a platform for a charity each night to share their information and purpose in the community,” says Henderson. The event supported such organizations as Homeless Babies, Nevada Childhood Cancer, Candelighters for Children’s Cancer, St. Jude Ranch for Children, UMC, Ronald McDonald House, Child Haven and more.
Ken’s successes in life may be attributed to his passion for his work, his integrity and his desire to help others. “I believe it is our obligation as a human being. Raising money for charities is essential but there are so many other ways to help…your time, resources and connections are all very important. You don’t have to be wealthy to make a difference.”
Dr. Matthew Brooks
By Callie Thomas
“If we could talk to the animals, learn their languages, think of all the things we could discuss; if we could walk with the animals, talk with the animals, grunt and squeak and squawk with the animals, and they could squeak and squawk and speak and talk to us.”
– Rex Harrison as Dr. Dolittle
As animal lovers, there are many times when we wish we could read our pet’s minds. Sometimes it seems we can–although it is more likely just knowing our beloved animal’s distinct expressions or feeling their playful nudge at precisely the right time that gives us hope that we truly can communicate with our furry family members. A little boy in Tampa, Florida was convinced that he had that gift. That child eventually grew up, became a veterinarian, moved to Las Vegas and, in the process, has helped a great many of our four-legged friends throughout the community.
“I used to think I could speak with the animals when I was little,” says 89135 resident Dr. Matthew Brooks. “After I figured out that it was impossible, I decided that I wanted to help them in any way I could.” Brooks began his career working for a zoo veterinarian and then a small animal veterinarian in Tampa. “One of the greatest personal rewards is to help my clients understand and treat the illness of their animal family members,” he said.
After earning his veterinary degree at Colorado State University in 2004, he moved to Las Vegas. Since then he has continued to grow his practice in addition to acquiring Benjamin, a Golden Retriever, Mason, an English Labrador, and Walter, a Burmese cat. This year he also married his “best friend” Ashley who will soon become a veterinarian at Sun City Animal Hospital.
Brooks’ passion for helping animals led him to co-found and chair an organization called the Funny Bones Foundation. While this caring vet does have a sense of humor, the group’s mission is to provide financial support to abandoned animals in need of advanced medical and surgical care that are being attended to by nonprofit rescue organizations in Clark County. Funds are generated through comedy events and fundraising. “I began to understand the emotional and financial burden among all the wonderful people that devote their time and resources to rescuing abandoned pets,” said Brooks. The idea originally came about while Matthew competed in a triathlon to raise money. “There were many animals that needed extensive medical care, and the rescue organizations had to make difficult decisions to determine if the costs were justified. It was an ideal time for Brooks and his close friends and clients Sammy and Suzanne Shore to get together and create Funny Bones.
This past January, Funny Bones held its annual Comedy Jam event which was emceed by Sammy Shore and co-hosted by Bobby Slatton. Comedians and funny friends Vinnie Favorito, George Wallace, Pauly Shore, Dennis Blair, Geechy Guy, James P. Connolly and Doug Starks had the audience rolling in the aisles. “Even in this economy, people are still willing to help one another and donate to wonderful causes that work so hard to help those in need. I am inspired by these people every day.”
Dr. Brooks and his team at Town Center Animal Hospital work closely with other nonprofit animal rescue organizations by providing discounted surgical and medical services. They also assist two-legged creatures by supporting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation annually. “I absolutely love what I do,” says Brooks. “I am excited to come to work each day knowing that I get to help these animals that I love and owners that love them.”
Shannon Bilbray-Axelrod
By Callie Thomas
“You must be the change you wish to see in the world.”
-Mahatma Gandhi
It’s all about family, or so they say. But in the case of resident Shannon Bilbray-Axelrod, it all runs in the family. The third generation Las Vegan has strong ties to not only her family but to the city where she grew up. She’s the daughter of former Congressman Jim Bilbray and shares her family’s enthusiasm about the community and the residents that make it so special. “My dad was born in 1938. There were just 5,000 people in the Vegas Valley back then. While I moved around a bit, I always knew I would settle down here,” says Bilbray-Axelrod. “My family had a very strong sense of Vegas pride and I find myself attracted to opportunities that highlight how great this city is as well as the people who live in it.”
Shannon is wife to husband Danny, who works for Clark County Parks and Recreation, and a mom to their daughter Molly Ann, who turned four on Valentine’s Day. While her devotion to her own family takes top priority, her passion for giving back to the community comes in a close second. “My career has always been focused on the community,” she said. “I serve on a few boards,” Bilbray-Axelrod says modestly. In fact, she is the Nominating Chair for the Nevada chapter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and a board Vice President for Family to Family Connection West, and Co-Chair of Las Vegas Prom Closet. She also lends a hand in fundraising for Clinics in Schools, which was founded by her brother-in-law Noah. Each of the organizations she supports has had a personal affect on Shannon.
The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation is focused on finding a cure for diabetes and its complications by supporting research. “I lost my brother Kevin to Juvenile Diabetes when I was nine years old,” she said. “He was only 14 months when he was diagnosed. So many kids are forced to grow up way too fast because of this disease and a cure is so close.” Shannon is continually in awe of the board members she has worked with who are adept at thinking outside of the box to engage the people of Las Vegas. “It always seems that the busiest people are the ones who never say no when asked for help,” she noted.
Family to Family West offers a variety of free groups and services for parents and children up to 4 years old. It is an integral resource for new parents. Family to Family offers a new baby center, library, car seat safety as well as hospital visitation and classes. “I got involved with Family to Family after the birth of our daughter,” she said. “It is such a wonderful organization that helps so many families on a shoe-string budget.” While recent budget cuts completely slashed the funding for this organization, it still managed to have the most successful Touch-a-Truck event in its seven year history. The fundraiser gives kids an opportunity to get behind the wheel and rub elbows with their hometown heroes.
Bilbray-Axelrod also lends her magic touch to Las Vegas Prom Closet, an organization that makes dreams come true for young girls who want to go to prom but don’t have the money. They provide gently used dresses and accessories just like the perfect fairy godmother. “This past March we had our 9th Annual Prom Closet and we gave out more than 200 dresses to girls in need,” says Shannon.
Shannon Bilbray-Axelrod is a family member of our community and continues to invest her time and talents in making it the best it can be. “I encourage everyone to give back in whatever way is right for you. In turn, you’ll leave a positive mark on everything around you.”
Bob Ansara
By Callie Thomas
Have you ever noticed that there seems to be a direct correlation between families and sharing some of our most meaningful moments over food? For the past 31 years, families in the community have been sharing special meals and celebrations at Ricardo’s Mexican Restaurant and Catering. Resident Bob Ansara, co-owner and operator of the famous Las Vegas eatery, is proud to be a part of so many of Las Vegas’ cherished occasions. “We’re indebted to the community that has supported us for so many years,” says Ansara. “Restaurants have a way of weaving through families and generations. Ricardo’s has been fortunate to play a minor role in thousands of family celebrations, each of which ties us closer to the community.”
Ansara grew up in the restaurant business. His family has a long history of being food and beverage people, so it wasn’t unusual for Bob’s first jobs to be–where else–in restaurants. After completing school he welcomed the opportunity to move to Las Vegas. “It’s been a wonderful place to plant roots, get married and have a family,” Ansara said.
It was only natural to feel the need to give back to the city that has provided so much to Ansara’s life. As a result, Bob has served on the board of many associations, including the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce as a Trustee, the Nevada Restaurant Association and the National Restaurant Association as Director Emeritus and Valley High School Tour and Travel. In continued support of these organizations, as well as local charities, Ricardo’s has served as host to many influential events that ultimately change the lives of those in the community.
As host restaurant for Nevada Cancer Institute’s annual “Dine for the Cure” event, Ricardo’s provides the opportunity for residents to eat, drink and make a difference. In addition to showcasing some of the restaurant’s signature fare, 30% of all sales for the evening go to the institute so that it may continue to offer cutting-edge cancer treatment and research services to support the fight against the disease. “We are thrilled, especially in these times, to be able to support Nevada Cancer Institute and raise much needed funds for their state-of-the-art medical center that continues to provide hope to those battling cancer in our community,” said Ansara. The restaurant and its generous service team have also hosted other local events where proceeds help those in need within the community. One such event is a happy hour to benefit The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Las Vegas, where 50% of all proceeds have gone to the organization. Ricardo’s has also been the location of several signature Taco Eating Contests that have benefitted the Helen J. Stewart School that caters to special needs students.
Perhaps the most extraordinary show of support occurred at the restaurant’s 31st anniversary celebration, which culminated in breaking the world record for the largest margarita. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the number to beat was 7,039 U.S. gallons. Ricardo’s mixed their record-breaking drink with hibiscus-infused Rosangel tequila, which gave the margarita a pink hue; a perfect libation for honoring Susan G. Komen for the Cure, to which proceeds from the sale of the colossal margarita were donated. “We are grateful for the continued support from the Las Vegas community, so creating an anniversary celebration of more than 30 years into a fundraising event was a great way for us to say thank you,” he said.
Hard work, dedication and giving back to the community are an everyday part of Bob Ansara’s life. “It’s a way to keep our city strong and to help those who are helping others. Our efforts provide the less fortunate with critical assistance at a time when they may have run out of options. We are proud to create a warm and loving atmosphere for our community.”
Mantra Mystique – Calming the Monkey Mind
By Lisha Ross
You don’t need to be a Buddhist monk or master of Zen meditations to understand the Eastern philosophy of the “monkey mind”. Just take a minute to notice the way your brain jumps from one thought to another like a monkey leaping from tree to tree. Our minds are in constant motion, playing and re-playing a laundry list of to-dos, memories, “what if” scenarios and often negative associations that make it nearly impossible to slow down and enjoy the present. “What if I don’t finish my report on time?” “My husband does not appreciate me.” “What if I get fired?” “Where will I find the time to make dinner?” These are the kind of distracting thoughts that play in a perpetual loop in our overactive, multi-tasking minds. After a while, they not only begin to affect our mood, behavior and social interactions, the particularly anxious ones cue up the body’s psychosomatic responses to stress: muscle tension, sweaty palms, high blood pressure, adrenaline release and so on.
The question of the ages is, if throughout our lives we can learn how to control our bodies and, to some extent, our emotions, why can’t we keep our thoughts from bounding around like a hyperactive primate? What if there was one simple thing you could do each day to slow down that racing mind of yours? A simple word or phrase that could produce a sensation of tranquility you could carry with you everywhere. Well, Eastern philosophers and many Western neuroscientists believe there is such a thing. It’s called a mantram, or mantra, and if given a fighting chance to take root deep in your subconscious, it just might sedate the monkey in your own mind.
Mind Games
In its simplest sense, a mantra is a word or phrase that is repeated again and again to clear the mind of extraneous thoughts. Historically, they’ve been used for thousands of years to help propel travelers along the spiritual path to enlightenment. Yogis, Buddhists, Taoists, Hindus and other students of Eastern philosophical schools all ascribe to some version of the practice, but it’s not entirely foreign to Western culture. Though they aren’t called “mantras”, repetition of the name “Jesus” and the prayer “Hail Mary” have been used in Catholicism to a similar end. And yet, despite this common link between mantra and religious devotion, it is not a necessary connection. The benefits for the psyche are considered by many practitioners to be just as solid as those for the soul.
Physician and neuroscientist Daniel H. Lowenstein, M.D., in his foreword for Eknath Easwaran’s The Mantram Handbook, explains how repeating a mantra has subtle effects on brain function. He contends that by utilizing MRI, studies have shown that concentrating on a mantra activates areas of the brain that make it possible to maintain a single focus while tuning out distracting stimuli. “The mental repetition of a simple phrase,” he suggests, “can provide a guidewire to move your attention away from a troubling stream of thoughts.” It is in these moments of rest that your mind can stop dwelling on inconsequential, perceived problems and outcomes and put your immediate needs into perspective. Among the many purported long term domino effects of this mind break are decreased incidences of day to day depression (although deep depression should always be discussed with a qualified professional), increased focus and concentration, and the transformation of negative emotions such as anger, fear and nervousness into their positive counterparts.
Making it Your Own
Though there is some scientific evidence to support the many claims of mantra practitioners, it’s largely experiential; something you just have to try for yourself and discover the ways it can potentially brighten your world. When you’re ready to give it a shot, there are a few preliminary things to consider.
A Mantra for You
Selecting a mantra is not complicated, but it does require some inner reflection. The one you choose is yours and yours alone. In fact, in many Eastern traditions, practitioners are warned against telling theirs to others, lest it will lose its power of transformation. That being said, Easwaran, in The Mantram Handbook, advises those who are new to the practice to choose a mantra that comes from an established tradition. However, as most of these are steeped in spiritual allegory, one will have to identify their own purpose before making a selection.
If you are a person of faith who seeks to glean strength from a higher power, a holy name alone is said to be a simple, yet effective mantra. Those without religious roots who wish to cultivate a deeper sense of spirituality might want to select a very traditional mantra that has somewhat neutral connotations. Easwaran recommends use of the name “Rama”, one of the simplest, most powerful and popular mantras in India. Though there is an epic tale behind the name, Rama represents joy in a world of trial, something most of us could use more of. Still, those who are just looking for the basic mental health benefits can choose any word or phrase that appeals to them; a line of poetry, a quote from an admirable person, “peace” or “love to all” may be just the ticket.
Once you’ve decided on a mantra, it’s important to stick to that mantra and not change it. It takes time for a mantra to take effect. Changing it before it’s had time to settle in is like repeatedly re-potting a plant before it’s had time to take root; the plant will never grow to its full potential. Granted, you may want to play around with a few options before deciding on the one that feels right. That’s okay, but once you’ve practiced with one for several weeks, make it your own forever.
Repetition is Key
Using your mantra is easy. It does not require seated meditation, blocks of free time or any real effort. You don’t even need to say it out loud! Repeating it quietly in your mind is the preferred method, as it does not force you to wonder at the sound of your voice or your tone. Plus, you can do it whenever, wherever you like. Use it liberally and often. Repeat it when you’re standing in line at the grocery store, pumping gas or just before a meal. Saying it at night before bed, like a lullaby, is even more beneficial, as it is believed to continue working even as you sleep. Writing your mantra repeatedly in a notebook is another cathartic option, particularly if you’re agitated and having difficulty focusing. After a while, most practitioners say they don’t even have to think about repeating the mantra anymore; it just manifests when they need it, like a trusty and loyal friend.
As you foray into the wonderful world of mantra, keep in mind that it is not a miracle drug, and will not provide immediate relief to what ails you. Much like yoga, exercise, dieting and meditation, it’ll take time and practice before you begin to feel real results. With consistency, however, comes a greater sense of self awareness, inner peace and better control over thoughts that normally control you. But don’t take my word for it. Learn from the masters. Read Easwaran’s handbook and others, such as Mantras: Words of Power, by Swami Sivananda Radha and Healing Mantras, by Thomas Ashley-Farrand. And when you’re ready, as Easwaran suggests, “Try using the mantram in your daily life, and see what happens!”
Dunkin’ Donuts
America runs on Dunkin’. Susan G. Komen runs on the generosity of the community. In one lane, you’ve got America’s favorite stop for coffee and tasty baked goodies. In the other, you’ve got the global leader of the breast cancer movement. At the March 16th grand opening of Dunkin’ Donuts’ 14th Southern Nevada location, Dunkin’ lovers discovered what truly sweet things happen when the two run right into each other.
Starting with a 7:30 a.m. dash, Dunkin’ joined the race against breast cancer by selling special pink frosted donuts in honor of the upcoming Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, which will be held on May 7th. In addition to selling the heavenly pink pastries, the location also collected donations for the event, and representatives were on hand to register interested patrons.
“As we gear up to expand further in Southern Nevada, we are always pleased to show our commitment and support to local charitable endeavors,” said Bert Hayenga, Chief Executive Officer of First Cup, a local franchise group for Dunkin’ Donuts. “The Susan G. Komen foundation is an example of one such organization that has brought a lot of awareness and strength to our community members.” As if we needed another reason to indulge in some Dunkin’! Visit www.dunkindonuts.com and www.komensouthernnevada.org for more info.
Health Investment Partnership and Nevada Youth
Each day, more than 4,000 kids try their first cigarette; another 1,000 become addicted smokers. Health Investment Partnership (HIP), Teens Against Tobacco Use (T.A.T.U.) and other Nevada youth are working toward ending this sad trend in a most sensible way…by kicking butts!
Thousands of local teens and HIP members joined forces to honor Kick Butts Day, a nationwide initiative held March 23rd this year, in an effort to stop youth tobacco use. Omega Gents youth guidance organization created an informational booth at Western High School; Sierra Vista’s Key Club created a flash mob at their lunches highlighting the dangers of smoking; Casa de Luz, an inner city faith-based group, created fact cards and passed out information on smoking cessation; Students from Cheyenne, Rancho, Arbor View and SWCTA High Schools participated in the “Be a flower and not a butt” campaign; and Basic High School Key Club and Student Council developed and wore signs with tobacco statistics.
“The tobacco companies make smoking look cool in their ads, but that’s nothing but a lie,” said Sean Judd, a member of T.A.T.U. “There’s nothing cool about bad breath, a nasty cough and an early death.” These teens are our future, and we applaud their creative efforts to make it free from the devastating consequences of tobacco use. For more information, visit www.tobaccofreenv.org.
Adventure on the Fringe – Spring Mountain Ranch
By Lisha Ross
With all the new fangled bars, restaurants, spas and shops in the city, we so often forget about, or just don’t make time for, the natural treasures that exist on the fringes of town. One such largely untapped gem is the Spring Mountain Ranch nestled in the Red Rock Conservation area. Super Summer Theatre fans have known about the ranch for years and stirred up quite an uproar when proposed state budget cuts threatened to close down the beloved outdoor theatre and ranch in 2010. The park managed to survive, but the question on everybody’s mind is still: for how long? If nothing else, the situation served up a reality check; it’s now more important than ever to show support for their public programs and take advantage of this pleasant oasis before it’s too late.
A Walk to Remember
Spring Mountain Ranch is only 15 miles west of town, but it might as well be a world away. Shadowed in late afternoon by the colorful cliffs of the Wilson Range and sitting high at about 3,800 feet, the temperature is 10-15 degrees cooler, the air a bit cleaner, the scenery spectacular and the quiet complete. Once a working ranch and luxurious retreat for previous owners like German actress Vera Krupp and millionaire Howard Hughes, its rich history is preserved wonderfully and shared with the public through guided and self-guided tours, historical re-enactments and family events.
On any given day, a stroll through the park should begin at the main house, where you’ll find information on the ranch and the surrounding area, as well as artifacts, old photographs and historical documents. Once you’ve learned the intriguing story of the ranch, particularly the eccentric life and death of Ms. Krupp, an exploration of Wilson Cemetery, Board & Batten Bunkhouse, Sandstone Cabin, Two-Hole Outhouse, Chinchilla Shed and several other buildings that dot the property is surely in order. Guided tours are offered daily at 12 p.m., 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. with an additional tour at 3 p.m. on weekends, but visitors may take a self-guided tour anytime the park is open.
Picnics, Productions and All That Jazz
The ranch, with its expansive grassy acreage surrounded by desert scrub, pinyon-juniper woodlands and shade-bearing trees is excellent picnicking property. Picnic areas are open from 8 a.m. to dusk and replete with tables, benches, restrooms and plenty of lawn for blankets, Frisbee and family fun. For a picnic experience you won’t soon forget, visit the ranch in the summer months, as Super Summer Theatre celebrates 36 years of providing the best seats under the stars and monthly productions on their outdoor stage. Annie opens the season June 8th, followed by The Drowsy Chaperone in July, Fiddler on the Roof in August and Five Guys Named Moe in September. Shows begin at 8 p.m. and run Wednesday through Saturday. Visit www.supersummertheatre.org for a complete schedule and ticketing information. Blankets or folding chairs, picnic dinners, snacks and beverages are all encouraged, but for a no-fuss trip, concessions are available for purchase as well as $1 chair rentals. Seating fills up quickly, so if you want a good spot, consider arriving as soon as the parking lot opens at 5 p.m.
Characters Welcome
While Super Summer Theatre may bring in the most characters, costumed role players breathe life into both Nevada history and the ranch all the year through via living history programs and other exciting events.
On May 1st, the ranch goes wild from noon to 4 p.m. as cowboys round up city slickers for a day of ranch activities the whole family can enjoy. Members of the Sandy Valley 4H Club will be giving demos throughout the day and cowboy style games will be open for all to participate. And what would a ranch day be without the lively sounds of a few acoustic instruments? Old Time Fiddlers will be spinning out their own brand of country fried tunes until 2 p.m.
Fourth of July comes a day early, Sunday, July 3rd, when the ranch celebrates our country’s independence Old World style…sort of. Get ready to be part of the action! Visitors will be invited to join historic characters and dress up in full uniform for a battle reenactment royale. You, thankfully, won’t hear any cannon blasts but water sponges will surely fly! Free refreshments will be available on a first come, first served basis. Stay tuned at www.parks.nv.gov/smr.htm to learn more about these events and upcoming programs in the fall, such as Pioneer Day in September.
A perfect, quaint retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, Spring Mountain Ranch is that place between here and there where you can slow down, relax and experience history in motion. Don’t worry if you forget where and when you are…you’ll return to the current decade soon enough feeling just a bit more renewed and invigorated, I promise.
