Tradition Finds Las Vegas – East Coast Eats

By Aly Wagonseller

I’m a West Coast girl, born and raised right here in Las Vegas.  Food, and what it means to us, is different on this side of the country.  Vegas foodie history is…to say the least…not overwhelmingly rich in tradition, running the gamut from oversized shrimp cocktail at the Four Queens to all-you-can eat buffets or 2.99 steak dinners at Binion’s Horseshoe.  Good deals, late night dining, but nothing we can truly call our own.  Even now, with all the world famous chefs and excellent dining to be found here, if you pick up and hit the road, chances are you wouldn’t give your favorite hamburger or sushi roll a second glance in the rear view mirror, let alone dream, fantasize or downright brag about it.  That’s where East Coasters have one up on us, with East Coast Eats, located at 50 Valle Verde Dr., giving New Englanders more to boast about than baseball, hockey or football championships.

There’s nothing fancy or particularly charming about ECE. There’s no beer or wine, you order at the counter and the décor is average strip mall chic meshed with a testosterone sensibility; a sprinkling of New England sports paraphernalia, a few flat screens tuned to ESPN, and a flat top griddle rendering its magic.  Still, just because the place doesn’t feel like a dank, old school joint from the neighborhood, it has no bearing on the authenticity of the food. I say this not because I’m an expert on fried clams with bellies (huh?), steak bomb sandwiches and something they call a “three way,” because I’m not.  But I do have an ear for a Massachusetts accent, and that, along with the majority of the clientele nervously speculating about the chances of Boston garnering a wildcard seat in the MLB playoffs, was enough proof for me. This is MA transplant heaven, and the word about food from “home” is getting out.

The menu is pretty classic and quite large, offering modestly priced burgers, wings, pizza (with and without red sauce), pasta, salads and, of course, sandwiches.  Surprisingly, they also offer pricier (in the $20-25 range) specials Wednesday through Sunday that include fresh seafood flown in directly from Ipswich, MA.  We tried the Fishahmen’s Plattah, a combination of fried haddock, shrimp, clams and scallops.  I’ve never dreamed of battering and frying a scallop likened to fish and chips, but I have to admit it was pretty good stuff. Sweet, juicy, perfectly cooked and not in the slightest bit greasy, you could tell this was made in-house, not only because of the freshness and texture, but also because, unlike battered frozen fish, the coating didn’t completely adhere.  A bit messy and somewhat of a cooking faux pa? Perhaps, but that didn’t stop me from eating every morsel, picking up the latent pieces of  tasty batter and wiping the cup of deliciously creamy homemade tartar sauce clean. 

Their claim to Bostonian fame is a Roast Beef Sandwich (served “two way” or “three way” depending on the toppings), and a huge steak sandwich known as a Steak Bomb. Both sandwiches are a serious bargain, priced from $4.29 to $7.99. The roast beef is the real deal, nothing pressed and overly salty here, served juicy and pink.  We went with the three way as suggested by the staff, receiving a sandwich dripping with mayo, a slice of white American cheese, and a mesquite style barbecue sauce that added nice acidity and kick to the sandwich.  Still, as good as this roast beef sandwich was, the Steak Bomb was something I’ll go back for again and again, especially during playoff season.  Amazing quality beef here, no gristle or fat, just melt-in-your mouth tender meat.  It’s fried up on the grill with fresh mushrooms, bell peppers and sweet onion, then topped with more of that American cheese which melts into a kind of sauce that binds the ingredients together. The soft and airy hoagie style roll it’s served on is what sends this sandwich over the top, soaking in all the juices and flavors while holding this monster of goodness together. It’s better than any Philly Steak sandwich I’ve ever tasted, which I’m sure is why the Massachusetts owners shudder if you call it such.  

East Coast Eats is open for both lunch and dinner, and they also cater–something to keep in mind for the upcoming season. With sandwiches like these, I’m happy to be a part of some serious East Coast tradition, even if it’s only for one meal.    For more info, call them at 834-4444.

Bacteria that Does a Body Good – The Pros of Probiotics

By Mattie Barringer

You’ve probably heard by now that probiotics are all the rage when it comes to optimal digestive health, but just what are these miracle do-gooders, anyway? More commonly known as live or active cultures, they are microorganisms similar to “friendly” bacteria found naturally in the G.I. tract. In a balanced system, friendly bacteria help the body digest food, absorb essential nutrients and support a healthy immune system. They also compete for food and shelter with other residents of your gut, i.e. pathogenic bacteria, yeast, fungi and viruses that, in larger numbers, can cause digestive upset. Unfortunately, factors such as antibiotic treatment, stress, poor diet and simple aging can disturb that delicate balance by destroying friendly bacteria, which in turn allows for the bad guys to wreak havoc on your system.  

While there is no definitive proof that supplementing your intake of probiotics is necessary, an increasing number of studies show promising results in the treatment of various G.I. disorders from gas, diarrhea and constipation to Candida overgrowth, Crohn’s disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and ulcerative colitis.

As the positive evidence mounts, so too does the variety of supplements and probiotic-rich foods on the market. Finding the right supplement for you is a matter of research, trial and error. Consult with your doctor before trying anything; they might have a recommendation for your specific situation. Supplementing with food is simply a matter of taste. Probiotics are in abundance in some yogurts and other fermented foods like miso, sauerkraut, kimchi, buttermilk and tempeh, but for those looking for a more novel, less pungent way to consume them, the health food market is evolving to meet demand. Next time you’re at the health food store, keep an eye out for the buzzwords “probiotics”, “live cultures” and “active cultures”. You may find something that you love as much as your belly bugs do.

*Note that while probiotic consumption is considered safe for most, supplementation can be dangerous for people with weakened immune systems and serious illnesses. Talk to your doctor before making any dietary changes or taking supplements.

Synergy Kombucha Tea: A tangy, effervescent “elixir” brewed in palate pleasing flavors like Gingerberry, Mystic Mango and Strawberry Serenity.   

Evolve Kefir Smoothies: A smooth and creamy drinkable yogurt with 12 live and active cultures.

GoodBelly Probiotic Juice Drink: Dairy and soy-free juice containing billions of live and active probiotic cultures. Crisp, fruity, refreshing.

Vive Probiotic Digestive Wellness Cereal by Kashi: Fiber and probiotic rich cereal mix of crunchy graham twigs, lightly toasted flakes and vanilla-dipped rice crisps. 

Attune Probiotic Bars: Small, but satisfying, each bar is just 90 calories of pure chocolate bliss.

More than Just a Bunch of Roses…Pasadena, California

By Patricia Guth

Mention Pasadena and most people think about roses, as in the annual Tournament of Roses Parade.  But take a look around this vibrant city of about 150,000 residents, also known as “The Crown of the Valley”, and it’s clear to see that Pasadena is much more than just a location for a famous New Year’s Day event.

Often overlooked for that much larger and glitzier city to the northeast–Los Angeles–pretty Pasadena is one of the most scientific and cultural towns in the Golden State. Home to the famous Jet Propulsion Laboratory, a top-notch culinary arts school, a world-class art museum, several performing arts organizations, excellent restaurants, and quaint tree-lined streets where shopping is still a pleasant experience, it’s a true gem of Southern California.

Everything’s Coming Up Roses

While “The City of Roses” title belongs to Portland, Oregon, there’s no disputing that Pasadena is best known as the long-time home of the Tournament of Roses Parade, a New Year’s Day gala that is undoubtedly the most beautiful parade in the world. First staged in 1890 as a way to promote the area, the parade now attracts approximately 700,000 visitors per year, many of whom sleep on noisy Colorado Blvd. on the eve of the parade in order to score a good spot along its route. Hundreds of others order tickets nearly a year in advance to guarantee themselves a place in the much-coveted grandstand seats.

For football aficionados, what comes after the parade is the biggest draw: the Rose Bowl–the oldest intercollegiate post-season game in the country. Affectionately known as “The Granddaddy of Them All”, the game is played at–where else?–The Rose Bowl, a 1921-built stadium that has a seating capacity of 87,400 and is currently awaiting a massive renovation project. Because the Tournament of Roses committee has a “Never on Sunday” policy, the 2012 game will be played on Monday, January 2. Tickets for both the parade and game are available online at www.tournamentofroses.com.

All About the Arts

As cultural-related destinations go, the Norton Simon Museum, a modern, tile-laden building with curved walls and a Frank Gehry-designed interior, is certainly Pasadena’s premiere arts attraction. This museum entices visitors with an immense collection of Asian, 14^th to 19^th century European and contemporary works of art, as well as stunning gardens that provide a calm and colorful place to stroll, no matter what the season.

Similarly, the Pacific Asia Museum offers a close look at pieces from its eclectic 15,000-item collection, which consists of a variety of art and ethnographic objects from Asia and the Pacific Islands, all spanning more than five centuries. Ideal for anyone with an interest in international art, the museum’s ceramics collection is especially notable, as are its exhibits of Chinese decorative arts and South Pacific tapa (bark cloth).

Looking to fill an hour or so? Head to the Pasadena Museum of History, established in 1924 to profile the rich heritage of the area. Housed in a lovely Beaux Arts-style mansion, this small but interesting museum tells its stories via a variety of changing exhibits. Take a moment to stroll through the mansion’s exquisite grounds and be sure to bring a camera. If you’ve got some extra time, book one of the museum’s historic walking tours of Old Pasadena.

Music and Theater

Art in Pasadena isn’t limited to the kind that hangs on a wall in a museum. Performing arts lovers have plenty to keep them busy as well. Many flock to concerts presented by the Pasadena Symphony and POPS, two fully-professional orchestras that joined forces in 2007 to present a wider variety of musical genres to the public. The POPS director? None other than Marvin Hamlisch, composer of A Chorus Line and winner of three Oscars, four Grammys and Emmys, and a Tony award. The Juilliard graduate has taken the orchestra to new levels, and concerts for both the POPS and Symphony are consistently sold out, so plan ahead if you’d like to attend a performance.

Those hoping to take in a play can head to the historic Pasadena Playhouse. Dubbed the State Theater of California, it’s the perfect place to enjoy both familiar and cutting-edge productions. The theater has been a common pre-Broadway venue for many of today’s newest musicals and consistently plays host to well-known show business personalities. The Mainstage presents large-scale productions, while the smaller Carrie Hamilton Theatre promotes small-scale productions, many by emerging young playwrights.

Architectural Finesse

In between all the galleries, museums, and performing arts venues, visitors will enjoy art of a different kind. Those who are fans of historic architecture will no doubt find themselves oohing and aahing over a number of stunning homes that give downtown Pasadena its unique look.

One such structure is The Gamble House, touted as one of the best examples of American Arts and Crafts architecture on the West Coast, open for docent-led tours every Thursday through Sunday. Another is The Wrigley Mansion, otherwise known as The Tournament House, an Italian Renaissance-style estate that once belonged to the chewing gum magnate but was left to the city in 1958. Today, visitors can explore this ornate home and all the Rose Parade memorabilia within on any Thursday between February and August.

A leisurely drive down ritzy Orange Grove Avenue provides a gander at a number of other distinguished mansions, including one owned by Adolphus Busch of Anheuser-Busch fame; the Bissell House, now a B & B, once owned by the daughter of vacuum mogul Melville Bissell; the estate of Civil War scientist and aeronaut Thaddeus Lowe and several others.

Also of architectural note is the residential area known as Bungalow Heaven, a quiet neighborhood of early 20^th century Craftsman homes that sits on the National Register of Historic Places. When it was built, Bungalow Heaven represented a drastic change from the ornate Victorian era design that preceded it.  

Foodie Fun

Though it is often overlooked by the culinary world in favor of the more food-focused San Francisco, Pasadena locals are proud of their eateries and anxious to recommend the best to hungry visitors. As a matter of fact, with a branch of the prestigious California School of Culinary Arts situated in the downtown area, Pasadena is producing promising chefs left and right, many of whom remain in the area to work in local restaurants or open their own.

Throughout the city, which, incidentally, is the birthplace of Julia Child, visitors can find everything from California comfort food to a host of international cuisines to bakeries that’ll knock your socks off. Can’t get to all of them? Sign up for the city’s Melting Pot Food Tour (www.meltingpottours.com; (800) 979-3370), a 3.5-hour walking tour of Old Pasadena and its most exciting eateries, including a Mexican tortas café and an elegant chocolate shop that’s sure to titillate the taste buds of any chocolate lover.

Staying Over

Compared to neighboring Los Angeles, Pasadena is a less expensive, less crowded and more convenient place to stay, offering a wide variety of accommodations from budget to luxury. Options for familiar chains include Holiday Inn, Howard Johnson, Best Western, Courtyard by Marriott, Sheraton, Hilton, Westin, and most of the other well-known names in lodging. For something a bit more intimate, there are a few B & B establishments in the city, including The Bissell House and the Arroyo Vista Inn, both of which fill up quickly during peak tourist times.

So next time you’re headed to Southern California for a few days, take a break from the crowds and craziness of LA-LA Land and check out pretty Pasadena instead. With its eclectic offerings–from music and museums to shopping and dining–it’s a destination that will surely fit the bill for anyone who seeks that perfect vacation combination of culture, history, food and fun.

Nicole Pisarczyk

Liberty High School

Class of 2012

If Charlie’s Angels were a reality TV show for teens, Liberty High School Student Body President Nicole Pisarczyk might easily snag a lead role. A super mash-up of intelligence, pep, toughness and a warm smile, she’s just one of those rare individuals that seems to have it all. Not that it comes effortlessly. Everything that she’s accomplished so far is a result of her hard work and commitment, discipline and a never surrender mentality that’s all part of her winning charm. With all these qualities in her corner, she’s not just imagining possibilities; she’s going for them with gusto, and for that, Nicole Pisarczyk is – A Step Above.     

G.P.A.: 4.287

Sports:  

• Chun Kuk Do Martial Arts, 2001-09
• LHS Varsity Cheer Squad Co-Captain, 2010-11; Junior Varsity Squad Member, 2009-10; Freshman Squad Captain, 2008-09
• LHS Student Body President, 2011-Present; Student Body 2^nd Vice President, 2010-11; Sophomore Class Vice President, 2009-10; Freshman Class President, 2008-09
• St. Thomas More Life Teen Youth Group Member, 2008-Present; Leader, 2010-Present; Eucharistic Minister

Awards/Community Service:

• America’s Congressional Award Bronze Medal, 2010; Gold & Silver Certificates, 2009; Bronze Certificate, 2008     
• LHS Cheerleading Athletic Award, 2011; Captain’s Award, 2009
• Shade Tree Shelter, 2011-Present
• Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada Volunteer, 2011
• Boys & Girls’ Clubs of America Volunteer, 2010
• Silvestri Junior High School Volunteer Assistant Cheer Coach, 2008-10
• Lied Discovery Children’s Museum Volunteer, 2008-10
• L.I.G.H.T. Summer Work Camp Volunteer, 2008/10

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? “In 10 years, I see myself either starting my own law firm or working hard as an FBI Special Agent, having a family and living life to the fullest extent.”

Accomplishment Most Proud Of: “The accomplishment I am most proud of is earning my black belt in Chun Kuk Do. I worked extremely hard for 8 years to reach my goal. It is not just a belt; it shows that I can defend myself, but also represents my discipline, integrity, loyalty and respect.”

Part of the Solution: “Being involved in the Every 15 Minutes program made me realize that a huge problem facing teens today is driving while impaired. Awareness is a key defense against this issue; making sure my friends and family don’t get behind the wheel impaired is something I firmly enforce.”

Cause for Concern: “If I could be the president of any nonprofit organization, it would be one that helps the victims of child abuse. Kids who are abused don’t have a voice; a strong organization can speak for them, teach people about the signs of abuse, help victims overcome the damage, and put away the criminals that commit these crimes.”

Jenna Swaffer

Green Valley High School

Class of 2013

Work first, play later makes Green Valley High School junior Jenna Swaffer a bright and accomplished young lady. A four-year varsity volleyball champ and a dedicated team player, discipline, reliability and leadership are among her many amazing personal qualities. Yet, utilizing these strengths to train for and claim the big win is only part of her agenda. The remainder is about being a person of substance and compassion; someone that is willing to help others achieve their potential and treat all people with dignity and respect. Grateful for the opportunities she’s been blessed with, she’s gearing up to capitalize on each and every one of them, which elevates Jenna Swaffer to – A Step Above.

G.P.A.:  3.8

Sports/Awards/Community Service:

• Varsity Volleyball, 2009-Present
• Nevada Juniors Volleyball Club, 2007-10
• Complete Student Athlete Volleyball Club, 2011
• Sunrise Region Southeast Conference Second Team
• Southeast Sunrise Region Champions, 2009/10
• Las Vegas Invitational Tournament–3^rd Place Finish, 2010/11
• Division 4A State Championship Runner-Up, 2010
• GVHS Varsity Outstanding Offensive Player, 2010
• Nevada Preps Player to Watch, 2011
• Scholar Athlete, 2009/10
• Honor Roll, 2009-Present
• Varsity Letter, 2009-11
• Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Participant and Volunteer, 2010/11
• Habitat for Humanity, 2011

Goals & Aspirations: “My present goal is to help lead the Women’s Varsity Gator Volleyball Team to win a state championship, then graduate with an advanced honors diploma and hopefully get recruited to play volleyball in college. Eventually, I would like to study kinesiology in hopes of becoming a physical therapist.”

Jenna is Successful Because: “I think some of the best qualities I have are being trustworthy and dedicated. That is what makes me successful. Parents, teachers, friends and teammates can count on me to do what I need to do in order to get the job done. I believe work comes before play, and that’s how I stay on top.”

Jenna Looks Up To: “My mom continues to inspire me day after day. She is one of the strongest women I know; truly a brave person and a fighter. She has been fighting breast cancer since November of 2009, but giving up has never been an option for her. I hope I can grow up one day to be just half the woman she is. Love you mom!”

Cause for Concern: “If I could be the president of any nonprofit organization, it would be the cancer research institute, because there are so many people who suffer from cancer and are in need of help. It would also benefit me because I would be learning about how to help people who are fighting this disease, and how to prevent it as well.”

Malia Civetz

Las Vegas Academy of the Performing Arts

Class of 2012

It’s always showtime for Las Vegas Academy senior Malia Civetz. In fact, to sum up her performance resume here is an impossible feat. Her National Anthem roster alone can fill up a page or two, and so we sum her up as this: remarkably talented, gifted musically and tirelessly committed to her craft. When she’s not hitting the books to sharpen her academic edge, she’s delighting audiences with her outstanding vocal stylings. And if you ask her, it’s all in the name of bringing joy to others and making the world a better place. For all that and more, Malia Civetz is – A Step Above.  

G.P.A.:  4.7

Activities/Performances: 

• National Anthem for President Barack Obama’s Economic Speech at UNLV, 2010
• Performances at House of Blues Sunset Strip and Universal Studios CityWalk, 2009
• Showtime at the Apollo featured Star of Tomorrow–Apollo Theater, 2007
• LV Academy Theatre Productions: Hairspray–Tracy Turnblad; It’s a Wonderful Life–Radio Star; The Crucible–Martha Corey & Sarah Goode; West Side Story–Rosalia; The Wiz–Ensemble
• Las Vegas Academy Vocal Jazz, 2008-Present
• International Thespian Society Member
• LVA Performance Choir

Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:

• Barry Manilow’s 15 Minutes of FAME Winner, 2011
• USC Summer Musical Theater Conservatory Scholarship, 2011
• Gateway Arts Foundation Scholarship, 2010
• FAME Talent Show Winner, 2009
• Henderson’s Got Talent–1st Place, 2008
• Las Vegas Motor Speedway Children’s Charities, 2004-Present
• American Cancer Society Relay for Life, 2005-Present
• Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk, 2007-Present
• Positively Kids Town Square Event, 2007-Present
• Toys for Tots, 2009-Present
• Public Education Foundation’s Hero Award Event, 2010/11

Goals & Aspirations: “My goals at the moment are to receive the Advanced Honors Diploma and become a valedictorian.  After graduation, I wish to work toward a Bachelor’s Degree in vocal performance and musical theatre.  As far as the future, it has always been my dream to receive a Grammy and Tony award!”

 Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am extremely proud that I was selected to sing for President Obama, perform at the Apollo Theater and play Tracy in Hairspray, all while continuing to get straight A’s in all of my classes. I’ve been honored to share the stage with so many incredible performers and will soon sing in the Paris Showroom with Barry Manilow; I’m so excited!”

Malia is Successful Because: “To be successful as a student and singer/performer takes a lot of dedication.  I have in the past and will continue to put in the time and training in order to be respected as a musician and artist.  Hard work, perseverance and my amazing parents have gotten me to where I am today.” 

Melanie Chambers

Coronado High School                      

Class of 2012

The combination of showmanship, athleticism and intelligence is not easy to find in just one person, yet Coronado High School senior Melanie Chambers manages to embody them all. A multi-talented individual with an outstanding work ethic, her dreams may be big, but her commitment to making them a reality is bigger. Surely, there will be no shortcuts for this rising star; it’s evident that she’s willing to put in every ounce of effort to succeed in all she endeavors. That kind of dedication is almost as rare as her well-rounded assortment of talents and gifts, and together they make Melanie Chambers – A Step Above.

G.P.A.:  4.53

Sports/Activities/Clubs:  

• CHS Golf Team, 2008-Present; Captain, 2009-11
• Concert Choir, 2008-Present
• Madrigal Singers, 2010-Present
• Piano, 2002-Present
• Cast of CHS Spring Musical Seussical, 2009; The Pajama Game, 2010
• Drama Club, 2008-Present

Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:

• National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist
• Honor Roll, 2008-11
• Player of the Year–CHS Golf Team, 2008-10
• Athlete of the Month, 2008/10
• Scholar Athlete, 2008-10
• Soprano Section Leader–Concert Choir, 2010-Present
• Soprano Section Leader–Madrigal Singers, 2010-Present
• Student Director–CHS Choir Department, 2011-Present
• Maestro Award–Heritage Festival, 2011
• National Charity League, 2007-Present
• Special Olympics, 2007-Present
• First Tee of Southern Nevada, 2009-Present

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? “In 10 years, I hope to either be teaching chorus at the university level or travelling the world performing.”

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I”m so proud of the leadership positions I have achieved throughout my time in high school, including being section leader in choir and captain of the golf team.”

Part of the Solution: “Too much focus on other people”s opinions seems to be a major factor in the way young adults behave today. By being afraid of appearing ‘different,’ kids risk losing their sense of individuality and purpose. I do not let others influence or stifle my beliefs. I encourage my peers to branch out as well, and realize that it”s okay to be yourself.”

Cause for Concern: “I would love to be president of the VH1 Save the Music Foundation, because it recognizes the importance of the arts in students” lives. Save the Music is one of the few organizations fighting to keep music programs in schools, while almost everyone else is trying to cut them.”

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