Oui! Bernard’s Bistro on Sunset

Ever since the sad demise of Bon Jour Bistro several years back, there’s been the distinct void of casual French cuisine in our neighborhood.   A place where the simplest of open faced sandwiches or a classic steak frites consistently make the palate swoon, while the artistic sensibilities of a classically trained chef from Versailles manifests his indelible mark on everything from the  menu offerings to the kind of personalized and attentive service you’d expect in a 5 star. Thankfully, French is back and Bernard’s Bistro, located at 2021 Sunset Road at Valle Verde, is an exceptional example of a restaurant that appeals to both young and old alike.

By Aly Wagonseller

Unlike its sister restaurant that calls beautiful Lake Las Vegas home, this second location resides in what originally started as a Boston Market semi-fast food joint.  The drive through sign has been awkwardly retrofitted as a “Bernard’s this way-esque” entrance sign and the building itself still roars blah on the outside, despite attempts to spruce things up with an outdoor “patio.” It’s nothing a coat of paint and a few strategically placed planters and trees wouldn’t fix, and the only reason I mention this is you might have second thoughts when driving past. Judging this book by its cover would be a grievous error if incredible food is what you’re after.   Indoors you’ll find a comfortable space with white linen tablecloths and a lot (and I mean a lot) of wall décor. It lends a themey feel to the space that, while somewhat kitschy, is inviting nonetheless. Live entertainment various nights of the week reflects a laid back, Sinatra sensibility that has a certain charm for those that like the genre and enjoy old school entertainment.

Not entirely French (the restaurant bills itself as California European Cuisine), the food is thoughtful, exceedingly fresh and varied. Classic offerings include crepes, quiche and the like along with sandwiches, salads, burgers, flat breads, pasta dishes and a wide array of ethnically diverse entrees. We started with the Escargot Belle Epoque.  I LOVE escargot, but in most cases it’s the garlic butter and bread that does the talking.  Not so with Le Chef Bernard’s version where melt-in-your-mouth snails are paired with fresh tomato, mushroom and bacon and served in an herb sauce more likened to a tasty beurre blanc than the heavy, traditional butter option.  It’s fresh, inspired and seriously hall of fame worthy. Next up was the Roasted Farm Beets and Herbed Goat Cheese salad – a must order made with delicate cheese that didn’t overpower the expertly roasted beets, accompanied with toasted pecans, papaya and greens lightly dressed with a balsamic reduction that perfectly balanced the main ingredients.  How can something so simple be so good? But of course…it’s a French chef’s secret.

Entrees were tough to decide upon considering the offerings come from around the globe, but in keeping with the Parisian persuasion we decided on Three Petit Mignon with Three Different Sauces, and a Pistachio Salmon in Lavender Wine Sauce. A very respectable dish, the Mignon was fork tender and expertly cooked to a perfect medium rare, no easy feat considering how thin the meat is sliced, and while the sauces were velvety and nicely executed, they seemed one note to me, the demi glace-like base exhibiting a dominant flavor that made it hard to distinguish between the three.  The Salmon dish, on the other hand, was sheer perfection. Artfully plated (a true vision to behold complete with crescent shaped puff pastry adornment), the fish was again perfectly prepared and accompanied by a lavender sauce that was as delicate as it was flavorful.  Pistachios added an earthiness while pesto capped mashed potatoes lent visual interest as well as a tasty bite that didn’t adversely dominate. Bravo!       

We finished our meal with a chef’s special of Cappuccino Chocolate Mousse Cake that was absolutely sublime, and a greeting (French accent included) and kiss on the hand by owner/chef Bernard Tordjman that was as sweet as anything on the dessert menu.  Having a French restaurant close to home is again a welcomed reality, and the amazing food and service at Bernard’s Bistro on Sunset couldn’t be a better option.  For information, call them at 558-3366.

Into the Wild – Up Close and Personal with Our Local Animal Kingdom

I wasn’t quite sure what I had gotten myself into when I turned around to see a 500 lb. male lion just inches behind me. Mind you, he was busy slurping up raw meat and didn’t seem at all interested in what I was doing there (oh, and did I mention the layer of industrial strength plexiglass between us?), but the sheer size and presence of such a powerful animal that close up is a bizarre mixture of unsettling and truly inspiring all at once. You might wonder how I got the opportunity to hobnob with the “King of the Jungle.” Honestly, it wasn’t that hard. I didn’t have to hop on a plane, or even flash my media badge for a behind the scenes peek. I drove 10 minutes on St. Rose and walked right in. It was one of the two places I traveled in our diverse city to experience close-up encounters with some pretty fascinating wild animals.

By Meghan Pescio

The Lion Habitat Ranch

When the Lion Exhibit at MGM Grand closed in early 2012 the lions’ owners, Keith and Beverly Evans, began to receive inquiries from visitors missing the excitement. They decided to retrofit and open the habitat they had run behind their home for 25 years so that the public could once again enjoy and appreciate the majesty of the creatures they cared for.

We’re glad they did. There’s no other way to describe this place besides downright cool.

Nearly 50 African lions and two newly adopted female ostriches reside at the habitat on 382 Bruner Dr. just east of the M Resort in Henderson. The 8.5 acre outdoor facility takes visitors in a circle to interact with the cats – sometimes lazily spread out in a shady spot and other times right up against the fences, seemingly within reach (although not quite) to onlookers. In addition to watching them interact, hearing a bone chilling roar and simply admiring that familiar, formidable strut, onlookers learn history and hear stories and fun facts from experienced handlers with a special, unmatched love and respect for the exotic beasts. If you’ve never seen a 5’4” woman walk up to five male adolescent lions and pet them like house cats…then you haven’t seen anything.

Truth is, to Keith, Beverly and the hired handlers, these animals are close to family. With decades of experience with large wild cats between them, it was clear during my visit that daily work consists of ensuring the safety, comfort and happiness of the animals as well as the safety of employees and visitors. After all, they’re dealing with lions and nobody’s forgotten that. The ultimate goal of the organization run by Evans, The Cat House Inc., is to raise awareness and funds to protect animals in the wild – which aren’t faring so well due to loss of habitat and human conflict in Africa. 

Entry into the sanctuary is $20 for adults with free entry for a child 13 years or younger with each adult. In addition to general visitors, the Lion Habitat Ranch also hosts special events from large corporate get-togethers to children’s birthday parties. Small dinners can be held in a section of the habitat that protrudes into one of the dens – the lions will be just as curious about you as you are about them. A completely unique experience exists in special programs such as Trainer for a Day during which you shadow a trainer for feeding, bathing and handling lions for 3-4 hours. At $800, it’s not cheap, but when you get to be up close and personal with the king of all beasts, it’s worth it.

For more information on hours of operation, facility rental and more visit www.thecathouse.us. 

Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary

The friendly staff at Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary joke that their facility, located at 8103 Racel St., is half way to Reno. For any bird lover or parent with young children the trip’s Return On Driving Investment is solid – it makes for a great half day adventure to interact closely with all sorts of animals from colorful macaws and toucans to a mule deer and two adorable pot bellied pigs.  

Established in 1970 by William Gilcrease, the facility is used mainly to care for pets, predominantly birds but also barnyard animals, which have been estranged from their owners either due to inability to provide care or to abuse. Bambi, a friendly mule deer you can pet and feed, greets visitors as they enter the eight acre grounds. Aviaries featuring small, colorful cockatiels and larger, more exotic looking Turacos take center stage while cockatoo, macaw and pheasant are housed separately. The cockatoo room is loud, and may be a bit off putting for the little ones, but if they enjoy seeing the birds up close visitors can trek between the cages to the back where a beautiful toucan calls home. A well-groomed nature trail brings guests to a small petting area with goats, burros and llama as well as miniature ponies, ostriches, emus, peacocks, tortoises and of course the pots. A small amphitheater welcomes field trips, events (such as the April 19 “Wings in Spring”) and more.

Most exciting for the sanctuary are future plans for redevelopment. After a devastating fire in 2010, staff is busy preparing to restore and improve the facilities to give animals even more comfort and space. The loving and knowledgeable attitude of the staff, as well as their emphasis on education, is refreshing after seeing animals that have already been through so much.

General admission ranges from free-$4 based on age.  For more information on hours, events, donation and volunteer opportunities and more visit www.gnslasvegas.org.

Emily Lim

Silverado High School
Class of 2014
G.P.A.: 4.8

It’s been a hot topic in education and the working world: Why are fewer women interested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) subjects than men? Well, that memo never reached the desk of Emily Lim of Silverado High School. The graduating senior, valedictorian candidate and avid runner doesn’t mess around when it comes to math and science. They are her passion and her future. What’s more, wildly driven and intensely focused, Emily has the “get it done” personality that makes her the star of any team. With this dynamite combo, we’re certain Emily will go on to do big things for our world, and that’s what makes her  – A Step Above.   

Sports/Clubs/Community Service

• Track & Field, 2011-2013; Varsity, 2012-2013
• Varsity Cross Country, 2012
• Key Club, 2010-Present; Secretary, 2011-2012; President, 2012-2013; Vice President, 2013-Present
• Mu Alpha Theta, 2011-Present; Secretary, 2012-2013; President, 2013-Present
• National Honor Society, 2011-Present
• Interact, 2012-Present; Treasurer, 2013-Present
• Sun Youth Participant, 2013
• Varsity Quiz, 2013
• Student Mentor, 2011-2012
• Silverado Blood Drive, 2011-2013; Coordinator, 2011-2012; Chair, 2012-2013
• Relay for Life, 2011-Present; Luminaria Chair, 2011-2012; Team Development Chair, 2012-2013; Co-Chair/Registration Chair, 2013-Present
• Enterprise Library Volunteer, 2011-2013
• Elementary School Carnivals, 2011-2013

Scholarships/Awards

• Scholar Athlete, 2010-2013
• Academic Letter Award, 2010-2013
• 1^st Place in Blood Drive Division, 2012 & 2013
• Most Valuable Mentor, 2012
• Silverado Student of the Month, 2010 

We love that you’re in to math and science (as writers that’s not really our forte): “In ten years, I see myself working as either a civil, mechanical, or aeronautical engineer. I’ve always had a passion for math and science, and I want to be able to integrate that passion into my life long career.”

You’re very proud of your involvement in the Silverado Blood Drive: “My biggest accomplishment is running Silverado’s blood drives with the blood drive committee. After much effort, we were able to get the most donated pints of blood in our division, taking home a $1500 scholarship, two years in a row.”

Family is an important part of your success:  “My mom is the reasoning behind my success. I am ambitious, because she has always offered support, rather than pressure. I also look up to my grandmother, because she overcame all the adversities in her life. After the Khmer Rouge, she came to the U.S. with her family, and started fresh without anything. Because of her work, effort, and dedication to her family, she created an environment for all her children to grow up and prosper.”

If you could be President of any organization, what would it be? “After working on the South Youth Relay for Life committee for the past three years, it has inspired me, and opened up a whole new perspective to my understanding of the world. I would be president, because I would want to work towards the goal of curing cancer, so others wouldn’t have to face the devastating effects of it.”

Favorite Quote to Live By: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” Wayne Gretzky

Gabrielle Smith

Coronado High School
Class of 2014
G.P.A.: 4.2

Hard work and a sense of humor will take you a long way. This is evident in the success enjoyed by Gabrielle Smith. With intense dedication, competitive spirit and a smile, the senior at Coronado High School is living her dream, and excelling in incredible ways. Unafraid to sacrifice for the things she loves, Gabby understands the power of focus and commitment. Her openness to learning, a playful outlook on life and pure talent will take her far, and places her – A Step Above.  

Sports/Music/Scholarships/Award

• Darling Tennis Center (DTC) Tennis Academy, 2012-2014
• USTA Intermountain Girls 18s National Team, 2011-2012
• Nevada State Tennis, 2010
• Nevada State Tennis Team Runner Up, 2010
• Nevada Individual State Tennis Women’s Champion, 2010
• National Federation of Music Clubs – Nevada, Piano, 2009-2014
• Full Ride Scholarship to USC for 5 years to play tennis
• LDS Young Women’s Medallion Recipient, 2014
• Intermountain Girl’s 18 and under Snowball Champion, 2014
• Intermountain Girl’s 18 and under Great Pumpkin Champion, 2013
• Coronado Athlete of the Month, 2011
• Bronze Girl’s USTA Clay Court Championships in Doubles, 2009, 2011 & 2013
• Silver Girl’s USTA National Hard Court Championships in Doubles, 2010 & 2012
• Bronze Girl’s USTA National Clay Court Championships in Singles, 2010

Clubs/Activities/Community Service

• Jill Gibson Piano Studio, 2009-2014
• Anthem Stake Youth Committee, 2013-2014
• Youth Camp Leader for Anthem State at Camp Kolob, 2013-2014
• Las Vegas Ski and Snowboard Resort All Mountain Ski Team, 2009-2010
• Nevada Hunter Certificate from Nevada Dept. of Wildlife
• Serving food to homeless at St. Timothy’s Church

Congrats on the scholarship! Looks like school and tennis are on the agenda for the next few years. “Academically I plan on ending the year with straight A’s.  This summer is my last summer of junior competitive tennis before college.  I hope to place in the top 10 in the country spring and summer nationals. 

At USC, I will work to win the NCAA women’s singles tennis title and help my team end in the top four teams in the country.  At least once I hope I can help USC obtain a national tennis title. I hope to maintain a high GPA and later enter a graduate program in either medicine, accounting or law.”

What’s your secret? “I tend to listen to leaders and coaches. My coaches say many students argue and they give up on them. Those same coaches give me just a little more coaching and help because I am happy to listen and try my hardest. I also like to compete and work at a quick pace.  My family has given me a lot of support and has sacrificed many family vacations, holidays, and rest days to keep up with tennis, piano, friends and church.”

You’ve given up a lot for the sport of tennis: “After my sophomore year my tennis ranking had slipped because my tennis peers all home school.  I decided to live on the east coast and train with a tennis competitor and her family the summer before and the fall semester of my junior year. Living with her and her family was hard. We pouted and drove each other crazy but we still played six hours of tennis a day and I did a lot of soul searching to find the strength to carry on.  I could not come home.  I had to do well at national and international tournaments.  The summer and fall was very successful I ended up in the finals at Waco Texas and placed in the top eight nationally.  Based on those results the following summer, USC gave me an offer.  I learned that once you set a goal you cannot turn back no matter what the pain.  Tennis matches are like that.”

Victoria Albanese

Las Vegas Academy
Class of 2014
G.P.A.: 4.2

It’s always something special to meet a hero in the making – someone living with intention to protect and serve others. Many times it takes growing up to realize that purpose in life, but in the case of Victoria Albanese of Las Vegas Academy, it happened a little sooner. For this graduating senior, the answer was clear and she has been living it through good times and bad to realize her goals. A shining example of follow through and diversity, Victoria excels in everything from sports, to music to the Civil Air Patrol with a smile and a resolve to succeed in the game called life. Her zest, thoughtfulness and bravery place her – A Step Above.  

Sports/Music/Scholarships/Awards 

• Desert Fury Cheer, 2013-Present
• Burkholder Jags Tumbling, 2011-2013
• H.U. Extreme Team Soccer, 2011-2013
• Green Valley High School Soccer, 2012
• City of Henderson Soccer, 2000-2011
• Orchestra, 2007-Present
• Piano, 2004-2009
• Gen. Jimmy Doolittle Award, 2014
• Charles Lindbergh Award, 2013
• Capt. Eddie Rickenbacker Award 2013
• Mary Feik Award, 2012
• C.A.P. Wright Brothers Award, 2012
• Jags Tumbling Outstanding Student Coach Award, 2012
• Green Valley High School Soccer Athletic Achievement Award Soccer, 2012
• Gen Hap Arnold Award, 2011
• SNSA Extreme Team Champions, 2011

Clubs/Community Service

• PowerPoint, 2010-Present
• AP Club Treasurer, 2013-Present
• National Junior Honor Society, 2007-2010
• Acolyte, 2007-2010
• Science Olympiad Club, 2008-2009
• Senior Master Sargent in the Civil Air Patrol, 2007-Present
• National Night Out, 2009-Present
• Shelves of Agape, 2010-Present
• Vacation Bible School Volunteer, 2010-Present

Where do you see yourself in the future: “Now that high school is almost over, I need to set new goals that I want to go out and accomplish. My current goals are to finish high school strong with straight A’s and achieve the Mitchell Award in CAP before I go to college. My goal for the future is to attend and graduate from University of Nevada, Reno with at least an A –B grade point average while working in the Air Force Reserve. In 10 years I see myself in the United States Air Force, helping wounded soldiers recuperate and recover.”

The Civil Air Patrol is an important part of who you are: “I am most proud of all my accomplishments in the Civil Air Patrol. When I joined the program I was less than willing to participate but as I grew up and became more mature I realized that I could learn so much from this organization. That is when I started to participate in more activities and rank up, and I am proud of how far I have come.”

Who do you look up to? “I look up to my parents because they have shown me that nothing is impossible if you chase your dreams. They both have continued to further their educations and expand their knowledge to show me that there is always more to learn and to never quit.”

If you could run any non-profit organization, what would it be: “I would like to be the president of a nonprofit organization such as Shape up America or Kids Fit Foundation, because I love to help and motivate others to get active and stay healthy. Also, with that obesity rates climbing, it is very important to get kids to learn healthy lifestyles while they are still young and full of energy.”

Favorite Quote to Live By: “Life is beautiful, not easy.” 

Mother’s Day Dates

We love our moms – so while we should be treating her EVERY day, let’s take extra special care to show her what she means to us on the day carved out just for her. If you haven’t started thinking about it yet, get on it. Here are some ideas that looked fun to us:

Spa Day
Get mom out to a fancy spa this year and lounge the day away. ESPA, which just recently launched at Vdara Hotel & Spa, 2600 W. Harmon Ave., is one of our picks for a truly luxurious all-day spa experience. Mom will love to be pampered with a variety of top of the line treatments like the “On the Rocks” massage, and maybe even glass of champagne to toast a job well done (yes, we’re talking about you).  Visit www.vdara.com for scheduling and locals discounts.

Let her show off her skills
Give mom a chance to show off her cooking chops at Border Grill Las Vegas in Mandalay Bay, 3950 S. Las Vegas Blvd. Guests can enroll in a two-hour demonstration cooking class before partaking in some Mother-worthy mimosas and a multi-course brunch. Visit www.bordergrill.com for more information or call (702) 632-7403 to RSVP today before spots fill up!

Tea and Crumpets?
If mom wants to feel elegant on her big day, try one of the tea events being held in her honor:

“Mom’s Rock” Mother’s Day Tea
Benefitting St. Jude’s Ranch, the event takes place at the JW Marriott Resort & Spa, 221 N. Rampart Blvd., and features a hat parade, balloon drawing, live music, mother-daughter diamond pendant drawing and more. Visit www.stjudesranch.org for more information. 

Safe Nest Mother’s Day Tea
Benefitting Safe Nest, the event takes place at the Four Seasons, 3960 Las Vegas Fwy., and features high tea and a fashion show along with a raffle, prizes and the announcement of the coveted Mother of Distinction award (you know your mom deserves it). Visit www.safenest.org for more information. 

Art Festival of Henderson
For the artsy mom, there’s no better tradition than this annual celebration of artisanship at the Henderson Events Plaza, 200 S. Water Street. A family-friendly outing with mom to check out contemporary artists, fine craft, fashion, home décor artisans and more will be the perfect way to free her creative juices and celebrate her passions. Also, it might not be a bad idea to peruse for some awesome pottery or photography for your Mother’s Day gift! The event will run May 10-11 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (4 p.m. on Sunday) and will include food and live music. Visit www.hendersonlive.com for more information.

Culture Clash – International Fun in Our Backyard

If you’re looking for a little diversity without the airline travel, April in Southern Nevada should be right up your alley! Festivals and parties celebrating cultures from all over the world are popping up right here at home.

April 5-6
Vegas Loves Brazil 2014
Rio All Suites Hotel & Casino, 3700 W. Flamingo Rd.
The largest Brazilian festival in Las Vegas is coming back and this time with a two day festival at the Rio Hotel parking lot. Tickets for the event are $8 for general admission and $13 for a two-day pass. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. each day.  Visit www.vegaslovesbrazil.com for more information.

April 12-13
10^th Annual Las Vegas Highland Games
Floyd Lamb Park, 9200 Tule Springs Rd.
Presented by the Las Vegas Celtic Society, this Scottish-themed event includes a unique mix of the sporting, the cultural and the social such as field and track events. Tickets start at $12.50 for general admission in advance.  Visit www.lasvegashighlandgames.com for more information. 

April 17-20
13^th Annual Pure Aloha Concerts & Festival
Rio All Suite Hotel & Casino, 3700 W. Flamingo Rd.
Celebrate the power of the islands with this celebration of Hawaiian culture featuring a carnival with midway rides, cultural performances, specialty food and retail vendors and concerts. General admission tickets start at $8. Call 604-9438 or visit www.vizzun.com for information.

April 26
5^th Annual Día del Niño
Springs Preserve, 333 S. Valley View Blvd.
Celebrate childhood as they do in Mexico with this annual event offering hours of fun for children of all ages, including clowns and magicians, dancing and singing, games, traditional food and drink and much more. Call 822-7700 or visit www.springspreserve.org for information. 

Desert Mermaids Synchronized Swimming

If you’re still reeling from the end of figure skating, bobsleighing and curling at the Sochi Olympics, at least find comfort in the fact that Rio 2016 is just around the corner and there are plenty of interesting sports featured in the summer games. One such sport happens to combine acrobatics, water and some serious hair gel: synchronized swimming. It’s a lesser known sport, but one with inspirational and highly trained athletes who train for hours a day for a chance to win gold. A local synchronized swimming group, The Desert Mermaids, are doing big things right here in Southern Nevada. 

The only group of its kind in Nevada, the Desert Mermaids are run by seven-time world champion, Linda Tannenbaum, and have been coached by an Olympic gold medalist. The teams are nationally ranked (one duet placed 1^st in the nation!) and only gaining notoriety among their synchronized counterparts in other states.

Those interested in synchronized swimming can attend a free lesson for novice swimmers the first Saturday of every month at the Desert Mermaids local Pavilion Center Pool, 101 N. Pavilion Center Drive. For more information visit www.nevadadesertmermaids.com. 

The Unicorn

The Unicorn

1.5 oz Ketel One Citron vodka
1 oz lemon juice
1 oz simple syrup
8 mint leaves
Ginger Beer 

Combine all ingredients, shake and strain over ice into a mason jar. Top off with ginger beer. 

Garnish: Lemon wedge 

Recipe Courtesy of Dan Marohnic as served at Park on Fremont

Spring Cleaning Hacks

It’s that dreaded time of the year…we lose an hour of sleep AND we are forced by tradition to do a mass cleaning of the house. The ritual innocently dubbed “spring cleaning” could be considered a giant pain, but there are ways to game the system, if you will. We call them “hacks” and we compiled a few to help you out. So turn on your cleaning jams, bust out your Swiffer and enjoy!

Hack #1: Fabric softening dryer sheets are versatile creatures.
They can be used while doing your laundry, of course, but did you know they could also be used to more easily scrub away mineral deposits in the shower or get rid of that hard water ring in the toilet? You can even use them to dust the baseboards!

Hack #2: Use vinegar to clean your microwave.
If you fear the food explosion buildup in your microwave, just put equal parts vinegar and water in a microwave safe container and nuke it for 5 minutes (longer if your kids LOVE Hot Pockets). Wait for a few minutes for the steam to subside and easily wipe away crusty food surplus.

Hack #3: Organize your refrigerator with a Lazy Susan.  If you’re irritated with clutter in the fridge, or that you have to move the mayo, butter AND ketchup to get to the salsa in the back, why not add a Lazy Susan to the mix? Put all the regulars on and watch as your food storage dilemmas become a thing of the past.

The hacks for spring cleaning are endless. Before you begin, check out some online forums for more time and sweat-saving ideas.