Reds and Rosés: Spring Wines from Provence
By Gordon Gilbert
When we mention the names Saint-Tropez, Monaco and Cannes, images of the French Riviera rush to mind, complete with mega yachts and film festival superstars. With all that extravagance, it’s hard to imagine the merit a simple bottle of wine could hold. But thankfully, there’s plenty of value to be found between Marseilles and Nice in the region of Provence, a locality flush with diverse and affordable wines that are as perfect for the warm climate of the Mediterranean as they are for the desert we call home.
A Rosé by Any Other Name…
Rosé is king in Provence, accounting for over 75% of its total wine production. While many tend to associate the salmon colored wines of Provence with the flood of white zinfandel on the market, nothing could be further from the truth. These wines are predominantly dry, crisp and cool, the perfect accompaniment to a nice lunch on the stern of your yacht – or, more realistically, a casual spring meal with friends by the pool here in Las Vegas. Generally served cool or chilled, rosés can be most refreshing on even the warmest of desert days.
Produced from red grapes, rosé is only kept in short contact with the grape skins, yielding a range of colors from pale pastel pink to Shirley Temple red. The wines are generally blended from Cinsault, Grenache Mouvedre and Syrah grapes, as well as more obscure local varietals, all of which benefit from the dry yet tempered maritime climate. With a wine of such uncompromising range, all things Mediterranean make for excellent food pairings, from tomato and mozzarella salads to feta cheese and olives or grilled lamb. Even without the addition of cuisine, rosés carry the most appeal as a refreshing respite from the afternoon heat.
For those who don’t own a yacht with its own zip code, here are three moderately priced rosés:
Domaine Rabiotte Aix en Provence Rosé 2010 ($12):
Clean notes of red berries, cherry and rose are heightened by this light-bodied wine. The tart dryness enhances salivation on the palate and makes for a perfect food wine or aperitif.
Domaine Ott Les Domaniers Provence Rosé 2010 ($20):
Peach and apricot stand tall in this medium bodied wine. Domaine Ott is known as one of the most recognized producers of rosé in Provence. Salad nicoise makes a perfect food pairing.
Domaine du Vieil Aven Tavel 2010 ($15):
From just outside of Provence, this Grenache based rosé from the southern Rhone is dry and medium bodied with strawberry and raspberry notes that dominate with a cutting minerality. Outstanding with light seafood pastas.
Red, Red Wine
To speak solely of rosé in Provence would do an injustice to the beautiful reds of this region. Dark, thick skinned grapes do best in the warm Mediterranean sun and can lead to wines of incredible complexity. Chateau Simone, Chateau Pradeaux and Domaine Tempier are three such superstars. Wines produced from these grapes command higher premiums but are certainly worth the price of admission with plums, cassis, hints of spice and herbs at the forefront. Serving these reds while cool but not very cold aids in suppressing the tannic nature of the grape varietals for a smoother taste. Any type of grilled meat usually makes for a harmonious food pairing, so you have an excuse to get back to the barbecue before the sweltering summer months kick in.
Two standout reds for those who require a little more color than pale pink include:
Fontanyl Cotes de Provence 2009 (Red; $13):
Deep, dark hearted fruit with elements of pepper and tarragon. Medium in weight on the palate with tannins that are perfect for engaging the succulent flavor of grilled meat.
Domaine Tempier Bandol 2009 (Red; $35)
An age worthy wine, full bodied yet restrained, made predominately from Mouvedre grapes with Grenache, Cinsault and a touch of Carignan. Powerful spices and cassis dominate.
Whether your tastes run to red or rosé, the wines of Provence are sure to provide a relaxing libation to help you feel refreshed before the summer sun returns. Pair a glass with some tasty barbecue, enjoy a sip at the pool or just share a bottle with friends for a smooth spring delight.
Tip from the Sommelier
The question of what temperature to serve wine has been largely debated. For those of us who keep their whites in a refrigerator and reds at room temperature, it’s good to follow the “half hour rule” to find that optimum. Remove whites and rosé from the fridge 30 to 40 minutes prior to serving, and put those reds into the fridge 30 to 40 minutes prior to serving. Bottoms up
Trading Spaces – Moving and Your Pet
By Aly Wagonseller
The ink on the dotted line of your new home contract or apartment lease has barely had time to dry when panic starts to settle in. Thoughts of packing up worldly belongings, registering kids in different schools and finding that perfect sectional for a new family room create a whirlwind of emotion, stress being at the top of the meltdown list. During all this frenetic activity, someone furry watches and wonders what all the fuss is about. A part of the family who, much like a small child, needs special consideration when moving from their beloved comfort zone to a new and often scary place. It’s your adorable yet nosey kitty or pup, and failing to prepare them for settling into strange new digs may not only leave them a nervous wreck, but might wreak havoc on your new surroundings as well.
The Trouble with Cats and Dogs
Even the most agreeable animal can become a veritable horse of a different color when hastily rustled from their den. Sensitive pets will pick up on the stress we humans experience during the moving process, which can lead to jumpy and needy behavior that escalates as moving day draws closer. Couple this with the sudden removal of familiar furnishings that are part of your pet’s territory, and full blown animal anxiety can ensue. Incessant barking or meowing, destruction of property, lack of appetite, hiding, lethargy, licking, tail biting and forgone potty training habits are among the many symptoms displayed by pets that have trouble adjusting to a big move. Some may even exhibit a flight response and try to run away from the problem, and your pet is definitely one belonging you don’t want to get lost in the transition. Not only are these behaviors destructive to your four legged pal, family and personal property, but they can put a damper on becoming BFFs with your new neighbors or landlord.
Prepare to Make Your Move
How you handle the days leading up to and including “V” (Vacate) Day can make all the difference in your pet’s state of mind. If possible, pack a little at a time in a calm demeanor while in your pet’s presence. It may sound silly, but talking to your animal can be soothing and therapeutic to you both, so try speaking to your furry pal about the lush new backyard or dog park located near your new abode.
Be vigilant about keeping your normal routines. Disruptions to feeding, walking and playtime habits can compound the stress of impending change. Schedule your time to ensure that most everything is packed a day or two prior to the move. This can help prevent chaotic distractions that may endanger your pet, while also creating a smoother transition. Other tips to consider prior to your move include:
- If your pet is not crate trained or used to doggy or kitty daycare, designate a quiet room in your existing home as a pet refuge. Fill the room with their bed, toys and food dishes, and allow them to get used to the room for a few days prior to the move. On moving day, post a Do Not Enter sign on the door and keep it locked if possible. This will keep your animal safe and secure, prevent injury from moving furniture and avoid overstimulation from too many strangers.
- Print up tags with your pet’s name, new address and phone number before the move and attach the new tags prior to your arrival. Consider having your pet microchipped for extra security.
- If you’re a dog owner and simply relocating to a different neighborhood in the same city, take your dog for a walk in the new neighborhood several times before moving day. He’ll meet new puppy friends and garner some familiar smells that should help ease the transition.
- If moving out of state, research laws associated with pet ownership beforehand. Some states may require a veterinary evaluation or shot record to avoid quarantine upon entry. Hawaii is known for being particularly stringent in regard to pet entrance laws.
Most importantly, be sure to give your animal as much TLC as possible during this stressful time. Explain your pet’s plight to children who are old enough to understand, and encourage them to give Fido or Tabby an extra scratch behind the ears as a reminder of their love.
Home Sweet Home
Once you’ve arrived safely at your new dwelling, designate a secure retreat for your pet while you get situated, filling the space with their favorite belongings. New furniture might be exciting for us humans, but dogs and cats need familiarity. Toys and blankets with the scent of your old home are comforting to your furry friends, so try to refrain from suddenly redecorating with color coordinated beds and bowls.
As you settle in, quickly reinstitute a daily routine for feeding, walking and playing. Being in an unfamiliar place may cause some confusion over designated potty areas, so be sure to nip bad habits in the bud by immediately cleaning up any accidents. Have a heart and refrain from harsh punishment until your little guy or gal knows the lay of the land, which typically takes a few days. Pet proof any areas that may be dangerous to unsuspecting curious types (especially if your pet is new to a pool), and inspect gate locks and fencing to see if any possible escape routes need repair or barricading.
Scaredy Cats
While dogs relate best to people and can adjust to wherever their owner resides, cats are creatures of people and property, a trait that warrants extra attention when moving. Besides creating a safe haven that includes his bed, food, litter box and scratching post, you’ll need to employ a few tricks to help your feline feel safe and secure while protecting your belongings from stressed out kitty tantrums.
- Confine your cat to one room for several days, allowing him to explore small areas in your home gradually over a period of two weeks. If he resists leaving his area, encourage exploration by leaving a trial of catnip for him to follow around. Be sure to clean up after he’s done.
- Pheromones that your feline deposits by rubbing her cheeks over various objects in her territory are very calming and can help her feel safe in a new environment. Before moving in, nab a sample of your cat’s pheromones by rubbing its cheek with a soft towel. Prior to the grand entrance, brush the towel against various areas in your new home including windowsills, furniture and walls to help create a familiar feel. Spray pheromones are also available for use.
- If you have an outdoor cat, moving away is a great time to make the transition indoors. If this isn’t an option, be sure to keep your cat confined to indoor areas for at least three weeks. Gradually explore the outdoors with her on a leash for several days, incrementally increasing the amount of time you venture out until you feel she’s confident in her new neighborhood.
Trading spaces may be an exciting time, but it can also be a very stressful time for both humans and pets. With a little planning, some patience and a few dog and pony tricks, your pet should quickly adjust to your new surroundings, leaving both of you happy, healthy and ready for a new adventure.
Out N About
Out N About
Rebekkah Bodoff
By Callie Thomas
It has been said that with faith, there are no questions; without it, there are no answers. That’s the message according to the Chofetz Chaim, a book on the Jewish laws of speech written by Rabbi Yisrael Meir Kagan. However, it seems that the questions have been answered for 89123 resident Rebekkah Bodoff, who has enough faith and confidence in her abilities to make a difference and lend her “voice” on behalf of those that cannot speak for themselves.
Currently completing her last year of law school, Bodoff has had the opportunity to extern for the Honorable Gloria J. Sturman while also serving as an Educational Surrogate Parent Advocate through the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada. Each day, Rebekkah finds an opportunity to share her faith, passion and commitment to fight for the rights of others in the community, ensuring that legal services are accessible to all and that children with disabilities are able to gain the appropriate special education they need to succeed in life.
As an Educational Surrogate Parent Advocate, Rebekkah and other staff members provide advice, training, advocacy and legal representation in the area of special education, which requires that a parent, relative or surrogate have the opportunity to be involved in the educational process of children with disabilities. Bodoff has a special affinity for helping children who are unable to help themselves, which stems from living through and understanding her own sister’s learning disability and the challenges involved in getting her the services she needed. She has chosen this work in honor of her sister and continues to support the cause with tenacity and love. Rebekkah took some time to share her experiences, her proudest accomplishments and the special bond she shares with children in need throughout the community.
Would you say that fighting for what you believe is a trait that runs in your family?
“If it weren’t for my parents’ commitment to fighting for my sister’s education, she never would have gotten the services she needed. It’s given me a huge incentive to help other students who may be convinced they are failing or not good enough to get the services they need to be successful in school, graduate and become a productive, responsible adult. Foster kids have it hard enough. They deserve to get what they’re constitutionally guaranteed: access to an education that will prepare them for the adult world.”
You seem to have a natural ability with children. We hear you are the “go to” babysitter for your friends.
“When one of my closest friends went into labor, I was asked to watch over her other four children for three days. I had been proud that I could actually do the bath and bedtime routine, but I learned that the true accomplishment was to get them up, dressed and ready for school. I was successful at getting three of the kids to school, but only two backpacks made it there!”
You’re passionate about our community. What does giving back mean to you?
“Communities aren’t stagnant; they’re organic wholes that need participation and engagement. Communities bond us and become integral parts of who we are—not just where we live.”
What do you treasure most about living in Las Vegas?
“For me, it’s the day-to-day of Las Vegas. It’s being with friends who make up the community. They’re the families that run the Yeshiva Day School and the Las Vegas Kollel. It’s being in their kitchens, babysitting their kids, seeing the students playing in the park Wednesday afternoons. This is my Las Vegas.”
If you weren’t in your present career path, what other job would you like to do?
“I’m destined to be an advocate. I think I would end up being an advocate anywhere, anyhow.”
Bruce Rowe
By Callie Thomas
If there were a single piece of advice or life inspiration that 89074 resident Bruce Rowe would pass along to others it would be to just “press on.” Simply put, success in life is not about talent, genius or education. “There is nothing more common than unsuccessful men with talent,” Rowe says. “The world is filled with unrewarded genius, and education does not provide guarantees, either.” Instead, persistence and determination are the essential ingredients that have led to a successful and fulfilling life for Rowe and for the countless others throughout the community that he has quietly supported with his unwavering efforts.
Rowe is a natural leader with charity toward others seemingly in his DNA. His leadership skills are continually put to the test in his position as Senior Vice President of Strategy & Customer Consulting for Bally Technologies. Rowe’s career in the gaming industry spans over 30 years, and he has created a successful body of work through the variety of positions he has held and the sixteen casinos he has helped to open. He also puts his skills to use in the community to assist others. Rowe, his father and grandfather were all in the Atlantic City Rotary Club, marking the first time three generations of local Rotarians had served the organization. He also grew up around scouting, with three generations of Rowe men having also served as Scout Leaders.
His passion and talent have been best put to work through his efforts as a Board Member of the Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation (NCCF). Rowe also served as Chairman of the Board of The Caring Place, whose mission is to provide services to those who struggle with cancer. We had an opportunity to talk about Rowe’s aspirations, his support of charity organizations and what he believes makes him successful.
What first attracted you to become involved in The Caring Place?
“My best friend in life died of cancer at a young age. At the time and where he was, there was not a support network to care for his family and children, who too were diseased by cancer in a different way. When I was asked to be a founding member of The Caring Place, there was a chance to make this journey, which all of us will face in some form, a bit more tolerable and understandable. I have seen this come to fruition and the effects it has on those we serve and also how fulfilled the people are who serve them.”
The Caring Place organization recently merged with NCCF. What brought about the union?
“There was such an obvious benefit to combining the services provided to the children by NCCF and those provided to adults by The Caring Place. There are no cost programs and services to support, educate and empower those who have or have had cancer, their family members, friends and caregivers.”
You’ve also been heavily involved in scouting. Growing up, you were a scout too?
“Yes, but when I was a scout, most boys came from a home with a mother and father. When I became a leader, more than half the boys had no father at home. As leaders, we had moved from augmenting what fathers taught at home to being surrogate for those who did not have that influence at home.”
Of your accomplishments, what makes you most proud?
“Three things come to mind: my family—my wife Sheral and our kids Christopher and Courtney (they live here in Vegas – yea!) and knowing that their values, faith and hearts will always guide them; seeing all the people I have had a chance to work with and mentor achieve great things; and the personal values I have learned in church, scouts and from my parents that I live by every day.”
Jeff Silver
By Callie Thomas
Just as there are two sides to every coin, there are two sides to the story between organized crime and law enforcement. You can take a look at both sides for yourself in downtown Las Vegas at the new National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement, better known as the Mob Museum, where 89052 resident Jeff Silver currently holds the position of Treasurer on the Executive Committee. During the 1970s, Silver found himself smack in the middle of the mob wars being raged to disengage their ownership and influence in Vegas casinos. The 56 year Las Vegas resident became involved in the Mob Museum project at the urging of former Mayor Oscar Goodman and Ellen Knowlton because of his experiences and firsthand knowledge. Once a prosecutor in the Clark County District Attorney’s Office, Silver was appointed to the Nevada Gaming Control Board by former Governor Mike O’Callaghan, and at just twenty nine years of age, he was given the file on the gaming license application of Frank “Lefty” Rosenthal. Back then, Silver was part of the first steps taken to eradicate the Mafia from Vegas casinos, and he soon found his own life was on the line because of his efforts.
It’s been seventeen years since the highly acclaimed glamorization of the Vegas mob scene centered around Lefty Rosenthal was put on film in the movie Casino, but the memories of the mob man remain at the new museum, along with historical accounts of Al Capone, James “Whitey” Bulger, Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel, John Gotti and more. The telling twist of the museum is that it also includes the story of the law men that risked everything to bring these criminals to justice, including Eliot Ness, Joe Petrosino, Estes Kefauver and others. Jeff Silver talked with us about the public fascination with the mob, the museum, his own past in the gaming industry and how he supports the community today.
Working on the museum project must have brought up a lot of memories. What interested you most about being involved?
“I never thought organized crime should be romanticized or glorified, but the universal fascination of the mob is undeniable. Some of Las Vegas’ organized crime associates were also responsible and contributing members of society and blended into the community by getting involved in local causes. While what they did was distasteful, a few used their power and influence to build needed infrastructure for a growing community. It is the contrast of violence and volunteerism that make such a compelling story.”
So the museum tells the complete story with theater presentations, artifacts and interactive environments?
“The museum is a book that you can walk through. It is a story of a culture in our country that I think needs to be told.”
You’ve seen Henderson grow into a fabulous place to live. How has it changed since you were a kid?
‘In the 1960s, Henderson was separated from Las Vegas by ten miles of vacant desert. It was populated primarily by plant workers and their families and was strictly an industrial town with little other commerce. Now, Henderson is the second largest city in Nevada and in a recent poll was also rated as the second safest city in the country. Its parks and schools are the envy of the valley and it is truly a place to call home. I know I do.’
You also stay active in charitable organizations within the community.
“I’ve worked with the National Conference of Christians and Jews for religious and racial equality, VP of Explorer Scouts and the McCool Science Center Foundation. I was also the Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and Treasurer at the LVCVA.”
What are you most passionate about today?
“Seeing Las Vegas regain its mojo!”
Leslie Strasser Murdock
By Callie Thomas
While the spirit is willing, 89012 resident Leslie Strasser Murdock has to remind herself that she cannot always do it all, but she can still make a difference. This natural go-getter is enthusiastic about her work, family and making sure that the needs of foster children with disabilities are represented daily on everything from special education to other school related issues. Murdock has always been an active voice for her passions – teaching, children and making sure people are informed of their rights. She’s found a perfect fit for her enthusiasm with her role as a Special Education Advocate and Coordinator of the Educational Surrogate Parent Program with the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada.
Murdock has a great deal of expertise in this area, having worked as the Coordinator of the Kids’ Court School at UNLV and as a special education teacher in New York City and Seattle. She moved to Las Vegas to pursue her Juris Doctor in Law and a PhD in Educational Psychology to work in the field of Special Education and Child Advocacy Law at UNLV, which houses one of the only joint PhD/JD programs in the country. As an Advocate and Coordinator of the Educational Surrogate Parent Program, she helps train community members to become advocates for foster children with disabilities in local schools. As a wife and mother of daughters Ella and Lila, Murdock understands the hopes and dreams of other parents and wants to ensure that she lives her life as an example to her children. Murdock spoke with us about her work with child advocacy and other charitable organizations and about what being a part of the Las Vegas community has meant to this New York transplant.
What do you enjoy most about your work at the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada and the Educational Surrogate Parent Program?
“I’m lucky to work at the Center as the work we do that gives people access to justice they might not have otherwise. I get to use both my advocacy and teaching skills to ensure that foster children with disabilities have their special education needs met by their schools. I am so fortunate to support and work with more than 80 volunteers who dedicate a great deal of time to their advocacy children.”
What’s a day in the life like at the Center?
“I spend a lot of time attending school-based meetings for parents and with my volunteers advocating for their children. I think it takes a team based approach to working with the kids. Having the necessary educational and emotional support in their school and home lives can make all the difference in the world.”
Even with your busy schedule, you also find time to be involved in the Jewish Community Center.
“Yes, I am on the Board of Directors and excited that we now have a JCC location open right in this zip code. As a Jew, I want my children to grow up in the community and revel in the Jewish religion and culture like I did when I was growing up.”
Seven years ago, when you first came to Las Vegas, did you find it hard to acclimate to the Vegas life?
“As soon as I arrived, there were so many incredible local people that made it easy to get involved in the community. Moving from New York, where it is hard to get involved due to the sheer numbers of people and well established institutions, I was surprised how people were open to meeting others here.”
Tell us something you think others in the community would be surprised to know about you.
“Believe it or not, I have never seen a Godfather or Raiders of the Lost Ark movie. I just recently saw my first James Bond film. Apparently, I have lived a sheltered life!”
Chenin Orthodontics
The problem with old formal wear is that it rarely serves more than a single purpose. Prom dresses, bridesmaid dresses and other types of elegant clothing are often worn once and then left to hang in the closet to collect dust and take up space. Thanks to Chenin Orthodontics, those forgotten fancy duds are getting new life and giving others something to smile about.
Project Prom Dress, a charity drive spearheaded by Chenin Orthodontics, collected gently worn evening gowns, formal wear and accessories throughout the month of March. Along with help from the Clark County School District, Chenin donated the gowns and accessories to needy high school students throughout the Las Vegas area, giving many a chance to attend their prom or other formal occasion. The donations were made in conjunction with the Homeless Outreach Program for Education (HOPE), an initiative that provides critical support services for the ever growing number of homeless students in Southern Nevada. No stranger to giving back, Chenin has also participated in toy drives, candy buy back programs and many other charity services.
While Chenin Orthodontics may specialize in bringing brighter smiles to people’s faces through their dental practice, they’re also changing lives with their generous efforts in the community, making prom dreams come true for less fortunate young ladies across the valley.
Mac King’s Magical Literacy Tour
Entertaining crowds at Harrah’s is only a small part of what comedy magician Mac King enjoys doing. He’s also been finding time to help encourage kids to read with Mac King’s Magical Literacy Tour. As part of Nevada Reading Week 2012, Mac made a special visit to five local elementary schools, bringing his message to hundreds of children across the valley.
A longtime supporter of childhood literacy, King held assemblies at each school, where he read short stories to the students, performed tricks from his show and discussed the importance of reading. During his scheduled visits, he hand delivered books collected from book drives held throughout February of this year with the Las Vegas Wranglers hockey team, the Springs Preserve, Girl Scouts of Southern Nevada and the Public Education Foundation. Donations helped benefit Clark County READS, the literacy initiative of the Public Education Foundation. Since its inception in 2011, Mac’s program has collected more than 6,000 books for local elementary school students.
“I’d like to thank the community partners that helped make Mac King’s Magical Literacy Tour: Nevada Reading Week 2012 really special,” said King. “I greatly enjoyed sharing the love of reading with my new pals and the enthusiasm was priceless. I look forward to making new pals next year.”
For more information on Mac King’s Magical Literacy Tour, visit www.mackingshow.com.
Smiles for Survivors Foundation
Forty percent of all cancer patients suffer debilitating oral side effects as a result of chemotherapy and radiation treatments. With medical bills piling up, many can’t afford to pay for dental work. That’s what inspired Summerlin based dentist Dr. Olya Banchik to create Smiles for Survivors Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness of cancer’s impact on oral health and providing dental treatment to breast cancer patients and survivors.
Smiles for Survivors held the Smile in Style benefit on February 23rd at Neiman Marcus as a kickoff to the store’s annual Beauty Week. The evening included a cocktail hour with beauty clinics and makeovers, along with a Spring 2012 fashion trends presentation and raffle that included gifts donated by Laura Mercier, Bobbi Brown, Lancome and Yves Saint Laurent. More than 100 people attended, raising nearly $7,000 to support the nonprofit’s mission.
As Dr. Banchik continues her mission to improve the quality of life for women undergoing cancer treatment, she’s proud to have another strong partner at her side. “Neiman Marcus has been a tremendous ally in raising awareness of the potentially devastating oral impact of cancer treatments and in assisting local breast cancer patients and survivors,” says Banchik. “We are grateful to have a partner so committed to the well being of women in our community.”
For more information on Smiles for Survivors, visit www.smilesforsurvivors.org.
