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Out and About: Out ‘N About October 2013
October 2013
Tricks and Treats – Tips for Throwing a Killer Halloween Party
Halloween is that one holiday when it’s ok to go a little nutty, a little scary and be someone (or something) totally different than the every day “you.” That being said, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to get your costume kicks in the comfort of your own home. This year, why not consider throwing a Halloween party? We know to some it might sound a little freaky, but with the right touches, some creative flare and a bit of planning your bash could go down in Halloween history. We put together some tricks and treats to help you organize a Hallows Eve to remember:
- The verdict is in – throwing a Halloween party on the night of Halloween may not be the best idea. Try to shoot for the weekend before and get your invites out as soon as possible to avoid competing parties. (Trick: No time for paper invites? Electronic invites are a great alternative and can help the time-strapped party planner easily manage RSVPs! We think www.evite.com has awesome templates.)
- Pick a theme. From décor to music to food having a theme can make the creative juices flow and help get a party organized. Some of our favorites: Pumpkin Carving Party for the kids, Deadly Disco for a spookier vibe or Vampires and Zombies for the pop culture fanatics. (Trick: Throw in some friendly competition for a little more engagement. Check out www.spookmaster.com for ideas.)
- Now for the treats (our favorite part!), and the grosser the better. There are a slew of ideas for disgusting, revolting and downright scary appetizers that will go perfectly with your wicked bash. Your closest party store should have brain molds and ghost cookie cutters to your heart’s delight, but think outside the box! If all else fails, Pinterest (www.pinterest.com) is a great muse .(Trick: Pretty much any dip can go inside a hollowed pumpkin that you decorate for the occasion.)
Our biggest trick for a rockin’ Halloween party is inviting the right people. Get some friends together that love to have a good time, and all of your efforts are sure to be a hit!
Josh Stevens Celebration Day
In his thirteen years of life, and now in his remembrance as a child taken far too soon in a tragic accident in 2008, Josh Stevens has spread more genuine kindness than most will in their lives. The popular seventh grader, known for his random acts of kindness and laughter would most certainly be proud of the Josh Stevens Foundation started by his family to honor his unique heart, generosity and spirit. Now, five years later the foundation has encouraged kind acts in over 12,000 children, and surely countless more adults, throughout the country and the world with its “Kind Card” campaign and other initiatives to recognize and support genuine kindness in others.
October 13 marks a special celebration of Josh at Crazy Pita in Henderson. Josh’s favorite pita, the “Kefta” will be sold with proceeds benefitting the Josh Stevens Foundation. The annual event has garnered incredible local support and will continue to grow in Josh’s memory. As Josh’s father and creator of the foundation, Drew Stevens says, “Kindness is contagious.” The goodness that has come out of a horrible event is only a testament to this, as our community once again comes together to help our neighbors and a cause greater than our own. Visit www.joshstevensfoundation.org for more information.
El Dictador
- 1 ½ oz. Atlantico Platino Rum
- ¾ oz. Dolin Dry Vermouth
- ¾ oz. Cocchi Americano
- 1 Barspoon Bols Orange Curacao
- ½ Barspoon Bols Pomegranate
Glass: Cocktail Coupe
Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass and stir with ice to chill. Strain the mixture into a chilled 6oz Nick & Nora coupe.
Recipe courtesy of Mixologist Series at RX Boiler Room
Did You Know?
Nevada was admitted into the Union on October 31, 1864, making that day “Nevada Day” every year in the Silver State; however, within the last 20 years the holiday was changed to the last Friday of the month (although heavily debated). This year is a special one in Nevada Day history, as it is the 75th Anniversary of Carson City’s Annual Nevada Day Parade!
The Must Do List
Editor’s Picks
October 5-6
Art in the Park
Boulder City’s Art in the Park draws a crowd that is well over five times the 17,000 population in the charming town just beyond Hoover Dam, and with over 300 extraordinarily talented artists selling original work over the two day festival, we can see why there’s such excitement. In other words, the event is on to something really special. Spanning three parks: Wilbur, Bicentennial and Escalante, the art collector’s dream festival will be just as interesting and fun for the creative “newbie” who’s looking for inspiration. The free festival is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days and will also feature live music, food, activities for kids, raffles and demonstrations. Benefitting Boulder City Hospital, it’s worth the quick trip. Visit www.artinthepark.org for more information.
October 5, 12 & 19
Shakespeare in the Park
A staple in our community, Shakespeare in the Park returns this October with one of the Bard of Avon’s earliest and shortest plays, The Comedy of Errors, about two sets of twins who were accidently separated at birth. Hilarity and mayhem ensue. Sure to bring a little culture, and lots of belly laughs, this is the perfect opportunity to get the family together for something a little out of the ordinary. Complimentary shows start at 7 p.m. on Saturday, October 5 at River Mountain Park; October 12 at Discovery Park and shore side at Lake Las Vegas on October 19. Visit www.hendersonlive.com or call 267-2171 for more information.
October 18-19
Fall Beer Festival
Dust off your lederhosen and have a serious pep talk with your taste buds before embarking on this craft beer adventure. The fourth annual Fall Beer Festival at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino is sure to deliver a great time for the cicerones (that’s beer sommelier) and just plain beer lovers looking to try something new. The two-day festival will start off with an American Craft Beer Tasting. 125 beers, chef-inspired appetizers, live music…all good things. That lederhosen you’ve been holding on to will come in handy on day two at the Oktoberfest Pool Party (free admission). Visit www.goldennugget.com/lasvegas or call (866) 946-5336 for more information.
November 9
Inaugural Stroll ‘n Roll
Based on the rapidly growing Ciclovía Movement, the first ever Henderson Stroll ‘N Roll is an exciting addition to our local fall event buffet. Encouraging the community to get active and engage with one another on the streets by riding bikes, walking and roller skating, there’s only one big rule at the 3-mile long festival: no cars. Families who choose to partake in the motorless fun (free to the public) will have a number of options for activities throughout the day. Three areas including Paseo Verde Park and Discovery Park will serve as “entertainment zones” along the festival that stretches from Valle Verde Drive to the Henderson Multigenerational Center. Bikers and pedestrians can enjoy interactive demonstrations, free fitness classes, live music, children’s activities and food trucks. Visit www.bikehenderson.org or call 267-4000 for more information.
November 16
Sunset Park’d
If you haven’t gotten out to see the new and improved Sunset Park, this inaugural event would be a great chance to do it. A marriage of food trucks (over 30), classic cars, live music and activities for all ages, the free event is a definite on our list to check out. Enjoy the fall weather and colors in one of the most beautiful parks in our city, and get a taste of some fun and eclectic food trucks. While you’re at it, bring a volleyball for an old-fashioned game of bump, set, spike and make a day of it. Visit www.sunsetparkd.com for more information.
Halloween Haunts
It’s that time of the year again when spooky spots for all ages are popping up around town. There is a plethora of terrifying haunted houses around for an all-adults night out, but what about for the kids? We’ve got the bases covered. Check out one (or all) of these not-so-freaky fests and events to give the kids their fill this Halloween season.
Zombie Run
It’s obvious from what we’ve seen on TV that the live human is akin to a delicious French dip sandwich for the constantly starving and animalistic zombie. So when we see one coming after us, we’re gunna run. Due to elaborate costumes, this run could be a little frightening for the tiniest tots, so bring kids 12 or older. Hosted by community organization Generation Vegas on October 27th at Sunset Park Trails, Zombie Run will feature an after party with food and music that is sure to bring you back to life. Visit www.lasvegaszombierun.com for more information.
HallOVeen
The always-popular Magical Forest in Opportunity Village is taking on some new décor this year, with its first ever HallOVeen. Open every weekend in October, this is a kid-friendly spookfest featuring an “Enchanted Carousel,” monster parade and a pumpkin patch. Visit www.opportunityvillage.org for more information.
Town SCARY
If you’re neighborhood is a bit of a dud when it comes to passing out candy, or if the kids just can’t get enough, Town SCARY is calling your name. Don your costume and grab your pillowcases to trick-or-treat from store to store in Town Square on October 31st. Features include a haunted hayride, terrorizing game zone and more. Visit www.mytownsquarelasvegas.com for more information.
Haunted Harvest
Moms, dads and kids can trick or treat, play carnival games, pet animals at the petting zoo and even brave a haunted house at the Springs Preserve Haunted Harvest, weekends in October starting October 12. In addition to getting goodies, kids will also have an opportunity to give back through a candy donation station. In association with Operation Gratitude, all donated candy will go to troops serving overseas. Visit www.springspreserve.org for more information.
Adopt a Duck
We’ve heard of adopting a dog, but why not try adopting a duck or two this October? Don’t worry, you won’t have to dig a lake in your backyard – we’re talking about ducks of the rubber nature – and it’s for a good cause.
Positively Kids of Las Vegas brings its annual Lucky Duck Festival back to Town Square this year, with proceeds benefitting local children who are medically fragile or terminally ill and in need of comprehensive long term care. The 14th annual festival on October 12 offers food, games and entertainment along with the “Lucky Duck Pluck” from a sea of 10,000 rubber ducks bobbing in the Town Square pond. And, of course, cheer along your favorite duck in the annual Derby Duck® Race. Visit www.duckrace.com/lasvegas for more information.
Walking the Walk
If you’re going to exercise, why not make it count for more than just calories? With cooler weather right around the corner, there are some awesome charity walks and runs that will leave you feeling good in more ways than one.
Danny Gans Memorial Champions Run for Life – October 19
Benefitting the Childhood Cancer Foundation, this annual 5K run and 1-mile walk is inspiring and will leave you and your family feeling remarkable as you cross the finish line. Hosted by Donny Osmond, the race also includes the touching Champions Run for Life where you can cheer on children with life-threatening illnesses as they run, walk or wheel across the finish line for a special medal. Visit www.active.com to register or call 735-8434 for more information.
The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s – October 26
Alzheimer’s effects more than five million people in the United States, and many more families and loved ones who are caring for those living with the disease. The annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s raises money for The Alzheimer’s Association and brings the community together around a cause that has most certainly touched every person at some point in time. Starting at the Fashion Show Mall, the 2-mile run/walk asks for personal donations. Visit act.alz.org or call 248-2770 for more information.
FARE Walk – November 2
Raise awareness and join the fight against life threatening food allergies at this annual 1.5-mile walk starting from The District at Green Valley Ranch in Henderson. Thousands of locals gather each year for the walk that raises money for Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE), a non-profit organization dedicated to providing inclusion and safety to nearly 15 million Americans suffering from potentially life-threatening food allergies. Visit www.foodallergywalk.org for more information.
Looking for more runs? Check out websites like www.active.com or www.runningintheusa.com for comprehensive list!
