A Different Kind of Bubbly – Pairing Beer with Food

By Aly Wagonseller

Wine and champagne have long been an integral part of the dining experience; diverse varietals lending complexity, dimension and the necessary balance to take ordinary cuisine to extraordinary places.  But wine isn’t the only libation fit for the table, especially with a growing number of craft beer artisans producing tasty lagers, IPAs, pilsners and stouts eons more refined than a pop top can of Bud in a koozie.  That’s right! Suds are suddenly she-she, with foodie connoisseurs trading their stems for frosty mugs and taking food and beer pairing to an entirely new level of sophistication.    

Much like wine, you should always drink what you like, foregoing passé, hard fast rules in favor of personal enjoyment.  Still, with variations on body, bitterness, hop intensity and fruitiness, some beers are simply better suited for certain flavor profiles.  In general, light ales and lagers are a nice accompaniment to salads, light appetizers, fish and other seafood. For more filling foods such as pizza, pork dishes and anything fried, IPAs and pilsners are wonderful choices. Additionally, this style of beer is exceptional for pairing with spicy fare, as it provides a cooling kick to balance all that torches the tongue. Amber and lighter brown ales are great middle of the road beers and add a wonderful dimension to a variety of cuisine from roast chicken to prime rib, barbecued steak to creamy pasta. And finally, the full-bodied stout and porter beers. Famously served with heavy English pub food like Steak and Kidney pie, these darker beers are obviously suitable for meatier dishes, smoky barbecue ribs and brisket, and thick stews. But don’t discount these hearty suds as the dessert tray is passed. With notably distinct chocolate and coffee undertones, stouts are simply fabulous with brownies, ice cream and other rich confections.

Summer is the perfect time to test your palate with a variety of specialty beers, many of which can be found at specialty stores including Khoury’s Fine Wine, World Market and Trader Joes. Whether you enjoy a light chicken, rice and mango lettuce wrap or a hearty steak sandwich with roasted corn mayonnaise, you’re certain to find a hoppy mug of ice cold beer that perfectly complements any meal.

African Red Devil Chicken

Serves 4

Chocolaty Stout Dessert Floats

Makes enough syrup for 16 floats

Syrup:

1 cup sugar                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   1 (12 oz) serving chocolate stout (recommend Rogue or Young’s Double Chocolate Stouts)

Float:

1 (12 oz) serving chocolate stout                                                                                                                                                                                                       2 large scoops ice cream (Toffee or Coffee works well)

In a small, heavy saucepan, stir together syrup ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until thick, about 5-7 minutes.  Cool. 

For each float, drizzle 1 Tbsp. syrup into a tall glass or mug.  Add stout and top with ice cream.  Serve with toffee style cookies if desired.  

Skirt Steak Sandwiches with Corn Mayonnaise  

Precious Cargo – On the Road with Biggles and Buddy

By Lindsay Minor

A lot of thought goes into planning a summer vacation: where to go, what to pack, which tours to book. Having pets just adds a whole new set of questions, the first being to bring or not to bring the family mutt. Airline regulations and requirements add time and, for some, frustration, to the trip. Those traveling by car will have to make extra stops and clear a spot in the backseat. Then you must consider your itinerary. Your fun-loving Chihuahua might love long strolls in the country, but he may not be so excited about, or even welcome at, a Broadway review. On the other hand, taking your pet along on suitable family trips can be a fun way to enrich your journey and even strengthen your bond. And with more and more destinations adopting pet-friendly policies, it’s relatively easy to bring Biggles and Buddy along for the ride of their lives. As with most endeavors, preparedness is your ticket to jet-set pet paradise.

Preparing for Take-Off

First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure your pet is healthy and up to speed on vaccinations, so a chat with your vet about your pet’s medical history and pertinent information for safe travel is the best starting point. As your travels may take you to an area that hosts creatures very different from those in your own yard, Dr. Sumit Sabharwal, DVM at Seven Hills Pet Hospital suggests, “Ask about the risk of heartworm disease, ticks and fleas in the area you”re traveling. Most pets here are not on preventative medications for these diseases.” Additionally, if you are traveling by plane, you’ll likely need to acquire current health and rabies certificates dated no more than ten days prior to your departure. No matter how you travel, carry a copy of your pet’s medical history in case of an emergency.

Up, Up and Away

Airline policies vary greatly in their willingness and ability to accommodate pets. Most airlines only allow a limited number of pets on board per flight, and certain types of breeds are prohibited from flying altogether. Snub-nosed breeds like Bulldogs or Persian cats are not always permitted due to their hindered respiratory systems, and some aggressive breeds are not permitted as a safety precaution. For these reasons and more, it’s absolutely essential to call in advance of booking flights to inquire about specific pet policies, including security procedures, crate and carrier regulations, breed restrictions and plane changes.

Security

According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), “You will need to present the animal to the security officers at the checkpoint. You may walk your animal through the metal detector with you. If this is not possible, your animal will have to undergo a secondary screening, including a visual and physical inspection.” Not to worry, the TSA never places pets through the x-ray machine, but you will be asked to remove them from their carrier so they can be scanned. In order to avoid delays and mishaps, arrive early, carry less (you don’t need to deal with shoelaces, carrier, pet and camera bag all at the same time), and bring a leash and a treat for good behavior.

Carriers, Crates and Kennels

Ultimately, most pets are turned away at the gate for improper carrier fit. Requirements vary, but usually include waterproof flooring, good ventilation and secure clasps. Many of the airlines have an eight to nine inch height requirement for cabin carriers, but all of them insist that your pet be able to stand, turn around and lie down in the carrier. A soft-sided carrier is required for carry-on, as it can mold more easily when you place it under the seat in front of you.

Pets traveling in the cargo area of a plane require a hard-sided kennel, and your pet will be checked along with your baggage. You’ll be glad to know that the pet area is separate from the baggage area, pressurized, well lit, temperature controlled and loaded only by airline employees specially trained to handle pets. 

Plane Changes & Layovers

Airline rules also change depending on the type of aircraft and the airport. Puddle jumpers, for example, may not allow pets on board at all or have a cargo area suitable for animals. Just as well, some airlines won’t allow extended layovers for travelers with pets. The USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) also has requirements for animal transport regarding temperatures and time. Some airports have heated and air-conditioned tarmac vehicles while others don’t. Better to ask and be safe than not and be sorry.  

Driving Miss Kitty

Auto travel with your pet can be fun for you both, so long as you take a few good measures. Try to stop every two to three hours for short walks, water and nature calls. Just be sure to keep your friend leashed for safety. On long trips, feed your pet when you stop but only give him about 1/3 of what he normally eats, leaving plenty of time before returning to the road. Most likely, your buddy will sleep while you’re driving, but here’s a checklist to consider when traveling by car:

• Never leave your pal unattended in a car, ever.
• Secure your pet firmly in a harness, carrier or pet seat, never in your lap.
• Make sure he can see out the window and has water available.
• Place him where you can reach him for reassurance and comfort.
• Add a loved blanket or pet bed so he feels more at home.
• For cats, be sure to place a travel litter tray on the car floor.

Much like booking a flight, if you plan on renting a vehicle, ask about pet policies before hand to avoid any unwanted fees or penalties. Most rental car companies allow pets as long as the vehicle is returned in clean condition, although some are a bit stricter about pet dander and such.

Bunking with Buster

The good news is, pet-friendly lodging is fairly easy to come by. The bad news is, it usually comes with a nominal deposit, but if you follow the rules, you should have no problems. Upon check-in, ask for areas to walk your pet and also for any areas where he is prohibited. Allow your furry friend to explore his temporary digs, including your room and the surrounding area. Show him where he can find his bed, water and food. Don’t forget to bring a kennel! Even pet-friendly hotels require your pet be crated if left alone in your room. Finally, think about throwing the housekeeping staff a little something up front; it’s always nice to let them know you appreciate the extra effort.

Vacationing with your best pal can be fun for everyone, and websites like www.tripswithpets.com and www.petswelcome.com make planning a cinch. Each offers an easy way to search for pet-friendly hotels, activities, restaurants and the like by city, state and even route. So, next time you begin planning a trip, think about bringing along your four-legged friends. You’ll probably find you both enjoy the time together.

Have Pets, Will Travel Tips

By air, land or sea, here are a few extra tips for a carefree vacay with the family dog or cat.

• Never sedate or tranquilize your pet when traveling. These medications can interfere with equilibrium and intestinal stability in cars and severely interfere with respiratory and cardiovascular systems when flying. Talk to your vet about natural solutions, such as Dog Appeasement Pheremone (DAP) sprays and collars.   
• Get your buddy accustomed to his crate before you embark. Start by taking shorter drives to fun places like the park.
• Take a quick snapshot of your pal in case you get separated. Also make sure your furry friend has a collar that features your cell phone number or, even better, have your pal micro-chipped.
• Try to have your pet groomed before you leave so he’ll be clean, comfortable and more likely to endear himself to those around you. 
• Lightly feed your animal a few hours before you leave and then take him for a hearty stroll before heading out.
• Bring along food, water, travel dishes, treats, a favorite toy and maybe even a new one to spice up the adventure.

Home Entertainment in the Third Dimension – The Thoughtful 3D TV Buyer

By Chad Felix

It’s hardly breaking news that entertainment has proudly gone where no man has gone before–into the third dimension. The founding premise of even today’s chic hardware has been around for nearly a hundred years, with the first 3D imaging for cinema patent acknowledged back in 1936.  The illusion comes from stereoscopic imaging, in which two images are presented simultaneously, each intended for either the left or right eye.  Special glasses fuse the images together, thus creating the effect of three-dimensional depth. While the basic workings of the technology are simple enough to grasp, deciding if a 3D television is right for you can be a bit more complex.     

In the Market

If you are already in the market for a high-end television, the 3D option is a worthy consideration.  In many cases, 3D sets cost only a few hundred dollars more than a comparable “2D” television, and if history has taught us anything about technology, this price gap will decrease in the near future. Where they tend to stray monetarily is in the realm of eyewear and appropriate programming.  

Cool Glasses

Anyone who’s been to a 3D movie lately probably noticed that 3D glasses have traveled far beyond the red and blue paper specs of our youth.  Yet, while there is technology capable of presenting three-dimensional images without eyewear, it will be some time before it is made available on our home sets. In the meantime, you’ll have to choose between active and passive TV sets, each requiring different types of glasses with several pros and cons to consider. 

More common to the home front is active 3D television, which makes use of battery powered glasses that generally cost between $50 and $200 dollars per pair.  Your TV will likely come with only one pair, so if you have a four-person family, you’ll need to consider finances accordingly.  These glasses are not generally universal; not only do active TVs require active glasses, most brands/makers of 3D sets require users to purchase their specific model of glasses.  Because of the exclusive relationship between these glasses and the television, active setups experience no decrease in color or image quality; however, the frame rate is halved and may appear sluggish to those with a particularly keen eye.  These models are available in many sizes from major manufacturers such as Samsung, Sony and Philips.

Passive 3D glasses more closely recall those cereal box prizes of yore, albeit more durable.  They are battery free and substantially cheaper at as low as $5 a pair.  Available in two types–polarized and anaglyph–they cause no frame rate concerns, but they do tend to compromise picture quality or restrict the positions from which you can adequately experience the 3D effect. For example, the 3D effect may not be as pronounced if you’re viewing from an angle. Comparatively, passive 3D sets are newer to the market and are currently offered by companies such as LG and Vizio.

Tip: 3D glasses are designed to be worn, as is necessary, over prescription glasses.  Additionally, prescription glasses from top brands like Samsung and Oakley are now entering the market.

What’s On in 3D

What’s on, you ask?  Well, everything, as 3D TVs aren’t only for three dimensional programming; they are fully functional “2D” televisions that offer both standard viewing and “converted to 3D” viewing.  In other words, you can still watch 2D shows in 3D, but this “converted” viewing is notably less impressive than true 3D entertainment.  For the full effect, avid 3D viewers will need to acquire a source from which to receive content. Most notable are Blu-Ray 3D DVDs and 3D television channels offered by Disc Network and Cox Communications. The market is far reaching, with channels that include the likes of ESPN, Discovery, Sony and IMAX, but you need not be a film or TV buff to get your money’s worth.  Even the Playstation 3 gaming console is getting in on the action with the release of several 3D games within the year. 

Narrowing Down the Selection

Right now, the Internet is your best resource for product reviews, customer testimonials and all other things 3D, so use it.  Check out sites like www.best-3dtvs.com for some hardware reviews and other resources. Get the low down on current and forthcoming products, and prepare to discuss any further questions with a retailer.  Heed reviews–there are plenty, both positive and negative–but most important of all is your own personal experience, so visit your local electronics store and see it all for yourself. Just don’t bring IMAX-sized expectations along! Part of the thrill of 3D in the theatres is the sheer size of the screen.  A home experience will be less immersive simply because your television is not fifty feet tall. 

Far from the days of comic books and pre-CGI productions, 3D imaging has grown up quite a bit, and regardless of one’s personal opinion of it, it seems like it’s here to stay.  For some, this is a game changer; others may still be lukewarm.  One thing is for certain: 3D will continue to enchant and dazzle us whether we’re on the town for a film’s world premiere or simply with family in the comfort of our own living room.

Pockets of Peace and Quiet – Backyard Niches

By Lisa Markowski

People are finding new appreciation in their own backyards, not just for enjoyment of the space itself, but for the time spent with each other. Soaring gas prices are keeping us home in favor of hitting the highway, and that’s not a bad thing. More together time means more talking, and a dose of imagination can transform the space outside your door into a peaceful, at-home retreat; a pocket within your backyard where you just want to stay for hours, talking and unwinding or just reflecting by yourself. It can all be done with less effort than you might expect, and at price points that fit any budget.

Working With What You Have

Smaller backyards are the norm around here, and that’s just fine; you want a niche, not a dance floor. Niches by definition are small. What defines the space is the atmosphere you create for it. Look around your yard for the ideal site. It might be obvious: a tucked-away nook just begging for a table and chairs, or an especially lovely (and quiet) corner of the garden. Or you might have to think outside the box to find it. Take some time to brainstorm, keeping solitude, natural beauty, and, for practical reasons, shade in mind.  Consider, too, what the main purpose of each niche is to be. If it’s dining, then you’ll need room for a table large enough to enjoy outdoor meals, with extra chairs for guests. For niches where intimate conversation will be the primary activity, focus on seating that allows people to face each other and elements that provide separation from the rest of the yard.

A Quiet Corner

To make a quiet corner into a conversation retreat for two to four, consider adding a quaint, cast iron bistro table, or arrange two benches at right angles to each other. Glider benches, cedar and wicker varieties topped with colorful outdoor pillows are great for visual appeal and comfort. Outdoor pillows made of fade-resistant, water-repellent fabric are available at Pottery Barn, Lowe’s, Overstock.com and other retailers at prices ranging from $10 to $90, depending on quality and size. Here, if shade is not already provided, you’ll want to create some using natural elements. This could be as simple as enclosing the area in trellis, climbing vines and a few thoughtfully chosen potted plants.

As much as those long, summer days can scorch us, it’s easy to forget about the shivers of winter nights. That’s when a quiet corner can come to life with the addition of a crackling fire. Metal fire pits and, even more so, chimineas fit the bill by providing warmth in the chilly season along with ambience and Southwestern charm the rest of the year. They’re relatively cheap and abundant at garden centers and department stores and work very well tucked into that once-forgotten corner.

Garden Paradise

A well-kept garden is an ideal spot for resting between weed pulling and tilling sessions. With foliage already in place, all one really needs is a carefully placed sandstone bench or maybe a couple of deep wicker chairs with a complementary accent table for ice cold lemonade. Creating a garden paradise from scratch requires some planning, but not necessarily a lot of work. Container gardens can add beauty to any conversation niche, especially if they’re grown in interesting planters and pottery. Use these generously to create a partial enclosure. Double or triple planter benches like those found at www.benches.com are excellent choices for combining container gardens and seating.

Another place to start is with a mature tree that serves as the focal point of your property. Finding suitable seating is quite easy; curved tree benches in wood and iron that wrap around the trunk of a tree (or even an oversized planter container) are abundant on www.nextag.com. Without an existing tree, you may want to plant now for shade in the future. Mesquite trees’ wide-spreading branches provide ample shade, but they do call for more real estate than other desert-loving options. Palo Verdes have a less-dense branch formation. Acacias and desert willows are also pretty choices for low-water trees.

Smaller, potted trees can even provide some shade, with the added advantage of portability. Something like a dwarf citrus tree will love spending most of the year outdoors, as long as you have a spot indoors for the winter. Use a plant stand with casters for moving potted trees more easily in and out of the house as well as into or out of direct sun as needed.

Kiss the Cook

Barbecuing and enjoying home-cooked meals al fresco is a great alternative to dining out. If the grill is set apart from the dining area, make it inviting so that people are drawn to it as the food is being prepared. Add a high-top table or a portable bar set. Target has several sets available that include a bar-style table and pairs of stools in bamboo, wood, resin, metal or wicker. If there’s room by the grill, a console table is a great place to keep some potted herbs to garnish dishes and beverages. What’s better than pinching off some fresh mint to dress up those mojitos?

For the dining table, some degree of enclosure can define the area, so try to plan it against an existing wall or similar structure, such as the side of the house or a row of hedge. Rather than setting up in the standard spot under the patio awning, setting it away from the house, maybe in a patch of green grass, leaves endless possibilities for sprucing it up. Patio screen panels, available from www.improvementscatalog.com, set off the space and can even become a vertical garden with the addition of some crawling plants.

Canopies with gauzy drapes or pergolas add visual appeal and texture, especially when they’re accessorized with strung lights or climbing plants. Plant desert-hardy vines that flower or bear fruit, such as climbing snapdragon or canyon grape, and train them up the pergola so they can eventually cover it with lush growth. Until then, you can attach shade cloth to the top of the structure, or even improvise with an all-weather tablecloth. More of those outdoor chair cushions and small pillows will keep your guests comfortable from appetizers to long after dessert.

Pool Time

The swimming pool is the main attraction in many Vegas backyards, and it provides an obvious hot-spot for conversation. Adirondack chairs and chaise loungers reign supreme on the deck, but it’s the shade elements that will set this area apart from the rest of the yard. Most patio furniture stores offer a vast selection of patio umbrellas, from simple, center-pole versions for less than $20 to cantilevered, canopy-style umbrellas for $1000 and up. Sail shades are another quick solution for anywhere from $35 to $150 either online (www.csnstores.com has a fantastic selection) or at outdoor-living stores. These triangular or square canvases come in many fade-resistant colors and can be installed permanently above a deck or patio or moved as needed. Just remember to check with your homeowner’s association rules before installing a permanent fixture.

Potted trees or shrubs on casters can play multiple roles here to define and beautify the conversation niche: roll them around the pool area to create shade where you want it, or line them up to form a beautiful, living wall that doubles as a privacy screen. That sort of intimate space will encourage and enhance conversation, whoever your companion may be.

It’s All About You

Your backyard conversation niche should not only be an extension of your home, but an expression of yourself. Do something unique to really set it apart from the rest of your surroundings. That could mean using a more daring color scheme or even a theme that you wouldn’t use indoors. (Can you say Tiki bar?) More conservative folks with strictly neutral indoor décor might base the niche’s design around a color that’s off-limits inside. Think lemon-yellow chair cushions, kiwi-green glazed pottery, and blazing orange flowers. Let your personality lead the way, and the spot will be undeniably you. And if you’re comfortable there, everyone else will naturally feel the same.

Out n About

Out n About

City National Bank, The Public Education Foundation and Clark County READS

It’s no secret that Clark County School District libraries are suffering from lack of funding. Driving home that point is the fact that up until recently, the average copyright date of Helen C. Cannon Junior High School’s nonfiction collection was 1989. That is, until City National Bank, the PEF and its Clark County READS initiative stepped in.

City National Bank, through its Reading is The Way Up literacy program, donated $10,000 to the Clark County READS Library Enhancement Program for this project. The PEF contributed $5000. Together, they provided the library with more than 700 new nonfiction books. “This is the second time City National Bank has enhanced a Clark County School District school library with new nonfiction books,” said Curtis Jones, director of Clark County READS. “City National Bank’s commitment to education is impacting the lives of thousands of students one book at a time.”

That they are. In addition to this recent donation to Cannon, they also established a “reading corner” at Jerome D. Mack Middle School and donated more than 500 brand new books, 300 comic books, furniture and $1000 for additional educational supplies. For more information, visit www.readingisthewayup.org.

Pediped Footwear

Over the last seven years, Henderson based children’s footwear company pediped® has become globally recognized as a company of integrity, innovation and style.  And let’s not forget generosity!  Since as early as 2005, the company has shown a remarkable philanthropic side, donating both money and their signature shoes to the likes of the Make-a-Wish Foundation and those in need in Haiti.  In 2011, they’re at it again, helping children take those important life-affirming steps.

In January of this year, pediped® launched their official charity extension called the pediped foundation™ with a mission to enhance the lives of children and provide financial support to like-minded charities. That goal saw early fruition in March with the donation of $240,000 in shoes to the Southern Nevada Urban League WIC program and Sunrise Children’s Foundation, and again on May 21 when they donated $5000 to the Children’s Heart Foundation.

“pediped has always been committed to supporting causes that help children,” said Angela Edgeworth, President of pediped footwear.  “We are thrilled to be able to support children in our own community through the pediped foundation with these donations.”  For more info about the pediped foundation™ and to get involved, visit www.pedipedfoundation.org. 

Luke Thomas

It’s a recurring question: “Can one person really change things?”  But the answer is simple…yes!   You’ll find proof in 15-year-old Luke Thomas who, with his sights set on obtaining Eagle Scout status, lent a major helping hand to the Paseo Verde Library.

When Luke caught wind that the library’s children’s section needed a makeover, he organized an inspiring solution.  First, he brought in about 25 friends to help re-organize an estimated 9,000 books in the section. For the second phase, Luke enlisted the help of his father Ralph Thomas, an artist, to create an inspiring mural that will no doubt excite the imaginations of the library’s littlest patrons for generations to come. “Having the mural on our wall really brightens the room and makes it more child friendly,” said Betsy Johnson, youth services department head. “It adds a wonderful dimension to our story room that we would not have been able to do ourselves.”

Prior to this project, Luke earned 21 merit badges, proving not only his devotion to the Scout spirit, but also his ability to plan, organize, lead and manage.  Now the proof is forever in the pudding, or in this case, the revamped children’s section of the Paseo Verde Library. Visit www.mypubliclibrary.com or call 492-6580 for more info.

Michaela Perry’s Silver Award

Whoever deemed silver second best must not have been familiar with the charitable endeavors of the Girl Scouts of Southern Nevada. The organization’s coveted Silver Award calls young scouts to harness their own leadership skills and test their dedication to the community.

Michaela Perry, a 12-year-old Girl Scout, stepped up to this challenge by organizing a water drive.  After collecting more than 15,000 bottles of water to give to the homeless, she arranged not only the water’s temporary storage, but also its eventual distribution by the Water for Life ministry of Community Lutheran Church.  Because of Michaela’s heart and hard work, countless people in need will find an oasis amidst Las Vegas’ intense summer heat. 

One of the greatest achievements for girls scouts grades six through eight, winning the Silver Award is no small task. It requires time and devotion, planning and action.  Scouts like Michaela who seek to earn the prestigious award are required to develop their own plan for the community and see it through, all the way to its dynamic conclusion. The result is nothing short of remarkable, and in our book, it’s as good as gold. To learn more about Girl Scouts of Southern Nevada and The Silver Award, visit www.girlscoutsnv.org.

The Feelin’ is Always Right…For Ladies’ Night

By Lisha Ross

It goes without saying: we love our husbands, boyfriends and children. But darned if we don’t need a break from them every now and then. Mom, I need this. Honey, I want that. It’s enough to drive any woman to the brink of insanity. Yet, sometimes all it takes to calm those frazzled nerves is an afternoon or evening out with your lady friends. Estrogen-based conversation over a chilled sake-tini or pampering spa treatment. Shopping therapy and a creative outlet. And if you can get a discount just for being female, that’s even better. Enter the ladies night special! A welcome staple in this touristy town, it is by no means a novel concept, but the trend seems to be growing. With restaurants, art studios, spas, even retailers jumping on the bandwagon, the time has never been more right for ladies night.

Glamming it Up

If you and your girls have champagne wishes and caviar dreams, the boutique-style salon at Vdara is a fitting place to make them come true. Open and airy, with soft, organic lines, what makes a visit to this salon so special is the luminous ambiance and classic, upscale feel. Ladies can line up along the beauty bar for their treatments or gossip while indulging in a warm foot soak, all the while sipping champagne and nibbling light snacks.

Complementing a lengthy menu of individual services, their discounted “Glamour Packages” beg the question, “Who do you want to be today?” Will it be a Femme Beauty ($96), with sultry eye makeup and a salon blowout?  The IT Girl ($116 or $128), with full makeup, an evening updo or salon blowout? Or will you be the explosive Beauty Bombshell ($160), with full makeup, updo and pedi-perfect fingers and toes?  You decide. Looking better than ever, you’re sure to walk out feeling sassy and ready for whatever the evening brings. Call 590-2474 for appointments, or visit www.vdara.com to learn more.

Dinner, Drinks and Dames

Normally I advise steering clear of crowded parking structures and long walks through casinos just for dinner, but if there ever was a reason to brave these elements, an outing at Nove Italiano at the Palms is the one. Sheer decadence graces the space and the menu, from elegant Swarovski chandeliers to distinctive culinary creations by Executive Chef Geno Bernardo. On most days this kind of booty demands a painful swipe of the credit card, but if you’re a local female ready for gastronomic thrills on Tuesday night, Nove is offering an incredible deal: 50% off your entire bill, including food, wine by the glass and specialty beverages.

Playful cocktails like the Pimmp’s Cup, a frisky mix of Pimm’s liqueur, gin, cucumber, mint, strawberries and apple gastrique, all but induce ecstatic cheers, as does the wine selection. The antipasti alone are worth the trip, with creamy Burrata cheese and artichoke salad taking a top spot on my list of favorites. Crispy calamari over sliced banana peppers and savory, sea salt cured Crudo (an Italian version of sashimi) follow closely behind. It’s ever so easy to over-indulge in the house specialty Nove Spaghetti (lobster, shrimp, crab, scallop, calamari and basil) and other freshly-made pastas, seafood, steaks and chops. Do not resist a side of Death by Potatoes–mashed potatoes, mascarpone cheese, truffle oil and pancetta that’ll send you right to heaven–and do leave room for strawberry Carpaccio topped with crème fraiche gelato.   

Shop-a-holics and Artsy Types

Sometimes girl’s night is just about spending time together doing what you love. If that’s shopping, then you’re in luck. Patty’s Closet, all three locations, are joining in on the trend with their own answer to girl’s night out. Every Wednesday from 5-8 p.m., they’re offering ladies a 20% discount off of their entire purchase. Fashions found here are fun, flirty and youthful, but with a wide selection of clothing and accessories, they’ve got something for that hip fashionista in all of us. Visit www.Ilovepattyscloset.com for locations and info.

Have a crafty bunch looking for a low-key night of artistry? All Fired Up Paint-Your-Own Ceramic Studio invites you to have some painting fun with the gals on Thursday nights starting at 6 p.m. The unwritten rules are: no kids, no husbands, no boyfriends. On the other hand, you can bring food and beverages (alcoholic or otherwise) to enjoy while you “paint your art out.” To top it off, they offer a 15% off promotion (see website for details)…that and you don’t have to clean anything up when you’re done. Call 269-4444 to learn more.

There’s still more ladies’ night fun to be had, including Wednesday nights at Blue Martini (949-2583) in Town Square or Tacos & Tequila in Luxor (262-5225), and two-stepping country action at Stoney’s on Las Vegas Blvd. (435-2855) on Thursday nights. Whatever you do, wherever you go, keep it classy. Shake off the demands of the day, slap on some strappy heels, or heck, put on those comfy sweats and round up your friends for a girls-only adventure. You’ll be basking in the priceless glow of friendship and camaraderie for weeks to come, I promise.