| << Back |  |
Out and About: Out N About
Valentine’s Day Adventures
Sure, everybody loves to get candy, flowers and stuffed animals for Valentine’s Day, but sometimes it’s nice to try something a little different. There’s a whole big world out there for you and your significant other to explore with lots of unique things to see and experience together.
Flightlinez Zip Lines
Hook on and take a wild ride with your other half down the Fremont Street Experience or through Bootleg Canyon in Boulder City for spectacular views and an adrenaline rush like no other. Visit www.flightlinez.com for info.
The Museum Scene
From the development of the atomic bomb to the early days of the railroad to the history of the mob and beyond, Las Vegas has a rich heritage to explore and learn about with your loved one. Visit www.lasvegastourism.com for info.
Day Trips
Take the day off to spend with your favorite person and jaunt out to Pahrump for a wine tasting, shop for Valentine’s gifts at the outlet mall at Stateline or discover the beauty of Zion National Park in Utah. Mini-vacations are just a short drive away.
Bird Watching
There are many species of fine feathered friends to be found in the desert. Accompany your amour to The Desert National Wildlife Range at Corn Creek, Red Rock, Lake Mead, Mount Charleston and more. Visit www.birdandhike.com for info.
The Smith Center
Flashy shows on the Strip are nice, but why not treat your love to a more cultured performance with an energetic musical, elegant ballet or a rousing concert by the Las Vegas Philharmonic. Visit www.thesmithcenter.com for a schedule and more info.
Literary Locals
Former New York police officer and local resident Daniel O’Connor had an upbringing filled with challenges. When he was four years old, he lost his mother to cancer. His father succumbed to the disease two years later. O’Connor then went to live with his grandmother, who passed away when he was ten. Despite the tragedy in his life, he persevered and went on to become a highly decorated officer with the Suffolk County Police. He attributes a lot of his success to his love of reading, a passion which led him to another milestone: becoming a published author.
Hoping to inspire younger generations to rise above their difficulties in life, O’Connor has recently published a novel titled Sons of the Pope, co-written with Peter Randazzo. Set in Brooklyn and spanning several generations, the novel weaves a tale of love and hatred, devotion and betrayal, murder and miracles. It’s the kind of epic storytelling on a broad canvas that he’s always loved. With a lot of life experience to draw from, O’Connor’s writing is sure to capture imaginations across the globe. Visit www.primalscreaming.wordpress.com for more information.
Strawberry Margarita
1 oz. strawberry liqueur
2 oz. tequila
1 oz. lime juice
¼ oz. simple syrup
Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled, ice-filled glass.
Did You Know?
The origins of Valentine’s Day date back to the Roman Empire in 270 AD. Emperor Claudius II didn’t want men to marry during wartime because he believed single men made better soldiers, but Bishop Valentine went against his wishes and performed secret wedding ceremonies.
The Must Do List
Editor’s Picks
February 9
Good vs. Evil: An Evening with Anthony Bourdain & Eric Ripert
Master chefs and media superstars Anthony Bourdain (No Reservations) and Eric Ripert (Top Chef) have delighted television and literary audiences with their larger than life personalities and tales of restaurant life in the big city. Now you can see them up close and personal as the two good friends take the stage at the Pearl Concert Theater at Palms for a night of grand storytelling. Like magicians revealing their secrets, both chefs will give candid opinions about the place of food in our personal, community and global lives and offer provocative insights into the world of professional cooking. It’s sure to be a treat for any foodie who yearns to peek behind the culinary curtain. Call 942-7777 or visit www.palms.com for tickets and more information.
February 13
Harlem Globetrotters
Nobody puts on a dazzling show quite like the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters. The talented exhibition basketball team brings their impressive athletic skills and humorous antics back to Las Vegas for a show stopping performance at the Thomas & Mack Center. For more than 85 years, the Globetrotters have played over 20,000 games in 120 countries, delighting fans of all ages with a spirit of unbridled fun that can inspire laughter and enjoyment in just about anybody. You don’t have to be a die hard sports fan to have a great time at a Globetrotters event. Bring the whole family and spend some time courtside with one of the most unforgettable shows you’re ever likely to see. Call 284-7777 or visit www.orelansarena.com for tickets and information.
January 22-23
The Joffrey Ballet
Long considered one of the world’s premier ballet companies, The Joffrey Ballet has been entertaining audiences for decades, from the heart of Russia to the halls of the White House. The company continues its tradition of excellence by showcasing their singular talents at this live performance at The Smith Center, with unique pieces ranging from a rare classic to a modern masterpiece, and even a Jane Austen-inspired ballet. Music comes to life on stage with a dose of world class talent that should not be missed. Call 982-7805 or visit www.thesmithcenter.com for tickets and more information.
February 9
24th Annual “Splendor in the Glass” Wine & Beer Tasting
Wet your whistle with some tasty libations as more than sixty wineries and breweries will offer their wares at this tasting event held at the Las Vegas Hotel, along with a live wine auction, silent auction and the musical sounds of the Las Vegas Academy Jazz Band. Chef Hubert Keller of Fleur de Lys and Burger Bar at Mandalay Bay will also be making a guest appearance. And you can enjoy yourself knowing that you’ll be helping a good cause as the event helps benefit programming and community outreach initiatives for Vegas PBS. Call 799-1010 or visit www.vegaspbs.org for more information.
February 16
Black History Month Festival
Enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of a rich cultural history as the Springs Preserve hosts this festival commemorating the contributions of African-Americans to Southern Nevada’s legacy and traditions. The family-friendly event includes live music and dance, a children’s film festival, a historic African-American photography exhibit and much more. Vendors will be on hand throughout the day, offering food and drink, art, clothing and much more, all reflecting the cultural spirit of the festival. Take in the fresh air and beautiful surroundings as you help celebrate an important part of Nevada’s diverse heritage. For more information, call 822-7700 or visit www.springspreserve.org.
