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THE Innovation ISSUE SYN Shop Downtown hacking space provides a place to create, learn, and share
Featured Artist Zak Ostrowski draws inspiration from cosmic mythology to give meaning to his art
Roseman University New medical research facility brings cutting edge technology to Las Vegas
Farmers’ Markets Farmers regain the spotlight at Evolve222’s “micro markets”
EDITORS’ LETTER in St Louis Cathedral, in the heart of the French Quarter, thanking my sixth greatgrandmother, Charlotte Dreux de Fazende, for her contributions to the development of the community. For my 40th birthday at the end of July, my husband and I will go to New Orleans to view the plaque and pay respect to my ancestors. Their vision, tenacity, perseverance, and innovative spirit made my life possible.
“They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.” — Andy Warhol Innovators built Las Vegas. From the Anasazi Indians who built the “Lost City” just northwest of Vegas 2,000 years ago, to the scout Rafael Rivera who looked at a valley filled with grass and water and deemed it “The Meadow,” pioneers looking to improve their own lives and the lives of future generations paved the way for us. I hold the early explorers and pioneers in high esteem for many reasons, primarily because of a personal connection. Mathurin Dreux, my seventh greatgrandfather, traveled with Bienville from France in the early 1700s and stumbled upon a small French and Native American trading village. They looked at the location of the snake- and alligatorinfested swampland and saw the potential for an important trade route. In 1722, Nouvelle-Orléans became the capital of French Louisiana. The Dreux family played an important role in building New Orleans. There’s a plaque Copyright 2014 by BLVDS, Inc., all rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without written permission from BLVDS, Inc. Every effort was made to ensure the accuracy of
Much like New Orleans has a reputation as a party city today, Las Vegas— with the entrepreneurial spirit of its forefathers forgotten by most—is viewed by most of the world as an escapism destination. The dramatic tales of more the nefarious characters in Las Vegas’s history outshine the stories of the innovators who contributed to the development of our multi-faceted city. We dedicate this issue to the innovators in our community—those that take their creativity to the next level by seeing their vision through to reality. We are honored to call these tenacious visionaries our neighbors and our friends. — Stephanie Pierotti
The Cover Fractured Fissure (2013 2014) 3D concept sketch for desert art installation by ZDC - Zak Ostrowski, Drew Gregory, Clemente Cicoria This series of conceptual renderings are inspired by fractures in the landscape (natural and man-made) and elements within and around environments. We are in the process of working a desert pavilion installation based on some of the render concepts. the information in this publication, however, BLVDS, Inc. assumes no responsibility for errors, changes, or omissions. BLVDS, Inc. accepts editorial and photography submissions. Send all submissions to: editor@blvdslv.com.
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Jan Craddock | President & Publisher Stephanie Pierotti | Editor In Chief Chris Cutler | Copy Editor Victoria Hart | Creative Director Editorial Board Brian Paco Alvarez Mauricia Baca Durette Candito Lisa Chasteen Chris Cutler Kendall Hardin Nancy Higgins LuAnn Kutch Dawn Labonte Rob McCoy Julie Murray Contributing Writers Joy Bellis Chris Cutler Hektor Esparza Jenessa Kenway Temple Kinyan Valerie Miller
Jillian Plaster Willie Robinson Jason Roth Karen Rubel Dana Satterwhite Rick Sellers Eric Strain Kimberly Trueba Mark Vranesh Rachael Wadley Stephanie Youngblood
Stephanie Pierotti Jillian Plaster Dana Satterwhite Erika Washington
Contributing Photographers Diane Bush Chris Cutler Talbot Snow Lucky Wenzel Analyst and Archivist Nancy Lee Craddock Interns Christianne Alquilos Nicole Cauilan Greg Simpson
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The Innovation Issue | July - August 2014 | 3
CONTRIBUTORS
Hektor Esparza is a community activist and nonprofit leader. The father of four is often in some state of quixotic frustration. Each morning, he groans about his life before getting out of bed. Yet, he is loved, respected, and usually gets what he wants though he’s too grumpy to enjoy it when he does. Also, he hates deadlines and loves a good micro-brew.
Erika Washington has spent the past 6 years discovering what’s behind the neon lights of Vegas. Whether interviewing celebrities, covering political events or playing dress up with her daughters, she loves every minute of it. Follow her shenanigans on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram as the ‘Vegas Soulcialite’.
Joy Bellis is a native Philadelphian who came to Las Vegas in 2002 after spending15 years in Florida. An account executive in advertising and public relations, she has a penchant for the game of golf (and several championships under her belt). Although she’s a late bloomer in the field, she wants to be a writer when she grows up.
Dana Satterwhite National brand advertising creative for 20 years, Dana currently freelances and runs TastySpace gallery in the Emergency Arts building. He has written for several local magazines and serves on a number of boards. His greatest loves are his wife, daughter, family, words, visuals, racquetball, chess, food, gardening, and freedom.
Chris Cutler holds an MFA in creative writing from Murray State University (KY). She believes everyone has a story to tell and founded The Las Vegas Memoir Project to help people write their stories. When she’s not traveling, Chris teaches at IADT and through DEO at UNLV, writes, and tries to keep her Welsh Terrier from updating his Facebook status on her iPad.
Stephanie Pierotti is the proprietor of Avondale Shirt Co. and an instructor at The Art Institute of Las Vegas. As a foodie and wine lover, she holds certifications from the Court of Master Sommeliers and the International Wine Guild. A seven year resident of Las Vegas, Stephanie currently lives in Summerlin with her husband Michael.
Jillian Plaster is a foodie.
Temple Kinyon moved to Las Vegas 11 years ago after enjoying life in rural Idaho. Embracing the diverse setting Las Vegas offered, she settled into her freelance writing life, pursuing both fiction and non-fiction. When she’s not writing, Temple creates with paper, paint, fabric and ink, and adores adventures with her husband and two ferociously funny bulldogs.
Valerie Miller writes for media outlets including BLVDS LV and Bloomberg News. A UNLV graduate, Valerie is the Small Business Administration Nevada’s Michael Graham Entrepreneurial Spirit Award winner. In 2013, Valerie won four journalism awards from the Nevada Press Association, which previously named her Outstanding Journalist.
Jenessa Kenway has been carving out a nitch covering the arts in Las Vegas blogging on art events, reviewing exhibits and visiting artists in their studios. She holds a Master’s in Fine Art from UNLV and is currently pursuing a Master’s in English. She is also an adjunct faculty member at UNLV. When she not out running down an art story she enjoys desert hikes with her husband and two beagles.
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She loves to cook, but she loves to eat even more. While attending Le Cordon Bleu in her hometown of Las Vegas, her passion for food lead to writing reviews of local restaurants. Plaster also developed her own line of fresh dog food which she sells at her unique pooch boutique, The Dog House, located at Town Square.
C O N T E N T S | BLVDS LAS VEGAS | NO. 45 | July - August 2014
THE Innovation ISSUE COMMUNITY
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UP Summit Global summit participants quench their thirst for knowledge while experiencing Las Vegas.
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SYN Shop Downtown hacking space provides a place to create, learn, and share.
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Turntable Health Membership-based clinic breaks the mold of ordinary healthcare.
ARTS
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Featured Artist Zak Ostrowski draws inspiration from cosmic mythology to give meaning to his art.
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This is Mammoth Local art activists bring a slice of Chicago to Vegas.
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Vegas Creates Showcasing every aspect of art and design by locals.
LIFESTYLE
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Regional Travel There’s something for everyone among the red rocks of Sedona.
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YOUNG AT HEART Seniors bring color to Vegas with a new art form: Yarnstorming.
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LOCAL ESCAPES Las Vegans don’t have to drive far to have a get-away experience.
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PETS Four-legged friends can join their humans for a night out at restaurants all over town.
F lav or
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LOCAL CHEF Chef Crystal Whitford gives donuts a “facelift” at O-Face.
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Cooking Classes Learning opportunities abound for the Valley’s youngest aspiring chefs.
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Local Farms & Farmers Urban Hydro Greens’ vertical farm brings the New Age Farming movement into the city.
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Farmers’ Markets Farmers regain the spotlight at Evolve222’s “micro markets”.
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Ethnic Cuisine: Cajun & Creole • Lola’s expands into Summerlin • Leidenheimer Bread Pudding recipe • Our favorite local Cajun & Creole spots
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IMHO Dr. Z has a prescription to fix healthcare in this country, and he’s starting with Las Vegas.
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Roseman University New medical research facility brings cutting-edge technology to Las Vegas.
The Innovation Issue | July - August 2014 | 5
Community
COMMUNITY
1000 leaders
INNOVATION TAKES ROOT IN THE DESERT Written by Erika F. Washington
Global start-up leaders quench their thirst for knowledge in the desert.
tarry-eyed dreamers determined to make their mark on the world have been coming to the Mojave Desert for over 100 years. Most recently the Downtown Project and Zappos have taken the oldest part of our town and turned it into a vibrant hub of innovation.
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Las Vegas was built on taking chances, so it is easy to see why it would be the perfect place for entrepreneurs to take a big gamble. It was no surprise when UpGlobal—a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship, grassroots leadership, and strong communities— decided to bring their yearly summit to downtown in late May. UpGlobal’s mission, according to their website, is to “improve the global human condition by amplifying the efforts of start-up community leaders and their ability to create and sustain flourishing entrepreneurial communities around the world.” 8 | blvdslv.com
Trey Bowles
More than 1000 community leaders traveled in for the four-day UP Summit to celebrate the past year’s accomplishments, to learn new techniques, and to reignite their excitement for the start-up community. For many of the visitors it was their first time in Las Vegas and, for some, it was their first visit to the United States. Instead of spending time on the Strip, the group had a variety of “fun experience” options which included traveling to Hoover Dam, Red Rock, and other out-of-the-way destinations that most first-time tourists never see. The weekend, however, wasn’t all play. Lectures, panel discussions, and group activities filled both mornings and afternoons. Even breakfast and lunch breaks featured “meetings of the mind” and focused on the best practices, new ideas, and cultivation of a community’s unique ecosystem. Trey Bowels led an hour-long workshop in which the participants sat in a circle on new-age metallic bean bag chairs to discuss community cohesion. The 30 or so people exchanged ideas on how to collaborate effectively with other community builders, organizations,
Shavonnah Tiera
Dylan Jorgensen
and programs in their community. Bowels stressed the idea that, as leaders, the group needed to concentrate on “speaking life into a community by building up what you have…instead of tearing down and focusing on what is lacking.”
mission and says that even though his community’s job market isn’t as volatile as the one in the States, “...there is still room for thinking outside of the norms. We have to be ready for what’s to come in 10 years.”
“There is still room for thinking outside of the norms. We have to be ready for what’s to come in ten years.” ~ Simon Kaiser
On the Inspire Theater stage, a special local panel discussed the idiosyncrasies of a Las Vegas start-up venture. Panelist Dylan Jorgensen said that one of the biggest hurdles of the entrepreneurial journey is the fear of being vulnerable. “You have to just do it.” Capitalists, angel investors, and large banking institutions such as JP Morgan Chase were also on hand to give advice on how to find funding for both small and large projects. Simon Kaiser made his first trip to Las Vegas from Zurich, Switzerland for the event because he believes in the
In fewer than seven years, UpGlobal has spread its Boulder, Colorado roots across the country and to almost every continent in the world. While the yearly summit has taken place in a variety of locations (including Rio de Janiero last year), 2014 marked its first time in Las Vegas. Shavonnah Tiera, an advisor at the UNLV start-up center and a bornand-raised Las Vegan, joined the organization in 2009. As the weekend began to wrap up, Tiera said she was very pleased by the turn out and, most importantly, by having everyone experience another side of Vegas. UpGlobal leaders plan to continue creating a living, breathing blueprint for new entrepreneurs to follow and tweak as they travel through their journeys. Starting a business is a high stakes game, but it could yield a jackpot that can benefit an entire community. up.co
The Innovation Issue | July - August 2014 | 9
COMMUNITY
$40 per month
HACKING
LAS VEGAS Written by Jenessa Kenway
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“It’s like having a bunch of MacGyvers all in one room.” —Alicia Dirk, SYN Shop Member
ucked on 4th Street next to the bustle of Fremont, a small community of hackers belonging to SYN Shop moved in just over a year ago. Although the group boasts a hefty array of high-tech equipment, these hackers are not in any way linked to the nefarious types trolling the Internet. Prior to the criminal connotation, the term “hacking”—which originated around 1960—referred primarily to communities of programing and design enthusiasts. That perfectly describes the members of SYN Shop. Members gather daily to tinker with robots, problem-solve designs, and print threedimensional sculptures.
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Over the past decade, hacking spaces have begun popping up all over the country. In 2008, SYN Shop founders Krux Rosowski and Brian Munroe spent time visiting other community hacking spaces including HeatSync in Mesa, Arizona and Noisebridge in San Francisco, California. The creativelycharged community experience left them convinced that Las Vegas was in need of its own hacker space. “You can get a garage full of tools but you can’t get a garage full of people,” explains Rosowski. “Seeing the community of other hacker spaces made us want that here. With a community, you can accomplish much larger things. You get people who know things you don’t, so you can do more than you could on your own. Plus, the community can inspire you to make even more things!” “It’s like having a bunch of MacGyvers all in one room,” says veteran member Alicia Dirk, of her experiences at SYN Shop.
Rosowski kicked things off with SYN Shop gatherings in his garage starting with three people at first. Slowly the group grew in popularity, and the growing membership (over 100 members currently) and the growing tool collection needed a larger, more formal space. The SYN Shop equipment offerings are diverse and include everything from 3-D printers, a Full Spectrum, 90w laser cutter, industrial sewing machine, 3-D microscope (“Great for checking soldering joints,” adds Rosowski), a weaving loom, and a massive CNC routing machine called the Shopbot. “You basically put wood in, and furniture comes out,” says Rosowski. A brief safety certification process and membership of $40 per month grants access to all these incredible tools. Members just need to bring their own materials. For those not ready to join, membership is not required to sign up for classes.
Placing a small silver ball on the track, he tests the progress of his project. The ball slides from track to track before spiraling down a plastic bottle and shooting out of the bottom. Both Rosowski and Alicia chime in with excited approval and suggestions for improvements, demonstrating the type of creative collaboration that happens all the time at SYN Shop. “It’s all about the making,” remarks Alicia, “taking things apart and putting it back together even better.” SYN Shop | synshop.org 117 N. 4th Street, Las Vegas, NV 89101
SYN Shop offers a variety of classes from soldering, lectures in welding, artisan chocolate crafting (“I’m teaching chocolate tempering at the moment,” adds Alicia.) network cable crafting, Sesame Street Muppets, quilting, electronic troubleshooting and more. Members are encouraged to share their knowledge with others informally or by volunteering to teach a class. “We want you to walk away with something, not just a new skill,” adds Brian Dirk, another veteran member, glancing up from the Rube Goldberg machine he’s constructing. “We had a puppet class and everyone made and left with an awesome professional puppet.” The Innovation Issue | July - August 2014 | 11
COMMUNITY
24 - hour access
Turning HEALTHCARE UPSIDEDOWN
magine that you belong to a health clinic filled with professionals who already know you, your medical history, your family, work, social situation, and probably even your favorite flavor of ice cream. Imagine that you can call, text, or email them with health concerns and that they will gladly take same-day urgent appointments. Imagine that you have 24/7 phone access to physicians, health coaches, behavioral specialists, and nurses all focused on preventive medicine with the goal to keep you healthy—even when you’re well.
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Enter Turntable Health and its founder, Dr. Zubin Damania. After working at Stanford for 10 years, “Dr. Z” saw firsthand the nation’s dysfunctional healthcare system. “There were so many patients in the hospital, and they didn’t need to be there. If only
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Turntable Health breaks the mold of ordinary healthcare with its membership-based primary care clinic focused on physical, mental, and emotional health, with pediatrics, adult medicine, urgent care, health coaching, yoga classes, and more.
there were a focus on prevention,” he says. “There were so many docs who were burning out dealing with the horrible bureaucracy of medicine. Turntable Health removes most of that bureaucracy and allows a true preventative focus.” For a small monthly fee, members benefit from an all-inclusive approach to their healthcare. A wellness team looks at each patient’s specific needs and goals regarding health, lifestyle, and fitness. Patients have access to on-site fitness, nutrition, health-related classes, and many procedures—lab work, for example—are performed right in the clinic. If a patient needs an outside specialist, Turntable’s open communication ensures the collaborative approach stays intact. Dr. Z was introduced to the emerging renaissance of Downtown by his
Written by Temple Kinyon Photography Courtesy of TurntableHealth
friend, Tony Hseih, and says “We were convinced that this was the perfect place to open our first clinic.” Dr. Z founded Turntable Health to move healthcare forward into a new realm. “I see it as a much more viable model than our current system. Anytime you are allowed and incentivized to focus on just doing the right thing for patients, things tend to work out quite well.” TurntableHealth.com
WHETHER IT’S INSIDE IN THE AC OR OUTSIDE IN THE SUN, SUMMER HAS A NEW HOME BASE. FORE! THE PLANET Eighteen holes of serious indoor fun! Explore a tropical rainforest, navigate a polluted waterway and learn how to make a wildlife refuge in your own backyard, all while playing a game of indoor miniature golf. Serious fun for the whole family!
VEGAS NIGHT LIFE ANIMAL SHOW The real animals in Vegas come out at night. Some are freaky. Some are sneaky. And, some are downright creepy. Come meet the motley crew at our NEW live, interactive show. Twice daily through September 1 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Open daily through Sept. 1
DIVINE CAFE Whether choosing to dine comfortably indoors or enjoy the scenic surroundings on the patio, you’ll love Divine Cafe’s delicious food and breathtaking view of the Las Vegas Strip. Open daily, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
NEVADA STATE MUSEUM
SUMMER CAMPS
Priceless artifacts give you a million-year glance into Nevada’s past, from prehistoric creatures all the way to sequined showgirls.
Kids can run wild at Springs Preserve summer camps, providing fun and educational experiences for Southern Nevada students.
Open Thursday – Monday
Camps offered weekly, through August 22
Open daily, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 702-822-7700 • U.S. 95 and Valley View Blvd. For our calendar of events and pricing, visit springspreserve.org.
EVENTS
DO SOMETHING
City of Las Vegas Children’s Summer Concert Series – Story Pirates (ages 3+)
DIFFERENT Explore the sights and sounds of our great city!
JULY 2014 Linda Alterwitz - In-Sight July 1 - 26 Trifecta Gallery 702.366.7001 trifectagallery.com
Yasmina Chavez presents Floss & Gravity JUNE 30 - AUG. 16 TastySpace Gallery 617.513.7336 tastyspacelv.com
Dinosaurs vs. Robots JULY 1 - 26 Blackbird Studios 702.782.0319 blackbirdstudioslv.com
Vegas Night Life Animal Show NOW - SEPT. 11 Las Vegas Springs Preserve springspreserve.org
Animals Behind-theScenes Tour Saturdays & Sundays Las Vegas Springs Preserve springspreserve.org
A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum JULY 9-26 Super Summer Theatre supersummertheatre.org
Really Rosie JULY 11 - 27 Las Vegas Little Theatre 702.362.7996 lvlt.org
JULY 16 Charleston Heights Arts Center 702.229.6383 JULY 17 Historic Fifth Street School 702.229.3515 artlasvegas.org
Ride the Southern Nevada Railway Every Saturday & Sunday Boulder City NevadaSouthern.com
JULY 10, 17, 24, 31 Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort 702.567.4700
Nashville Unplugged featuring D Vincent Williams JULY 11 Club Madrid: Sunset Station 702.547.7777
The Magic School Bus™ Kicks Up A Storm NOW- SEPT. 1 DISCOVERY Children’s Museum discoverykidslv.org
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JULY 12 The Smith Center thesmithcenter.org
Tony Sacca: A Celebration of Songs JULY 19 The Smith Center thesmithcenter.org
Summer Splash Bash JULY 19 Garside Pool 702.229.6393
Celebration: The B3 Organ Summit JULY 20 The Smith Center thesmithcenter.org
Movies in the Square: Annie
Ashton Zyer
JULY 18 1st Street Stage, Fremont Street Experience, Admission is free
Jazz at the Lake
True Romance
JULY 10 - 13 888.406.5885 lasvegaselvisfestival.com
Summerland Tour – Everclear, Soul Asylum, Eve 6 and Spacehog
JULY 17 – SEPT. 11 City Hall Chamber Gallery 702.229.1012 artslasvegas.org
JULY 12 Winchester Cultural Center clarkcountynv.gov
Las Vegas Elvis Fest
JULY 18 Winchester Cultural Center clarkcountynv.gov
Celebrating Life! 2014 Winners Circle
Frida Kahlo: Viva la Vida
JULY 1 - 26 Brett Wesley Gallery 702.433.4433 brettwesleygallery.com
Jazz Out of the Box
JULY 17 Town Square mytownsquarelasvegas.com
Thirsty Third Thursday Pub Crawl JULY 17 Kicks off at Hennessey’s Tavern 702.382.4421 to RSVP
The Poets’ Corner (ages 17+) JULY 18 West Las Vegas Arts Center Community Gallery artslasvegas.org
Movies in the Square: Narnia JULY 24 Town Square mytownsquarelasvegas.com
Harmony of Balance Artist: Yaffa Cary JULY 24 – SEPT. 17 City Hall Grand Gallery 702.229.1012
Cardboard Boat Regatta JULY 25 Desert Breeze Aquatic Facility 702.455.7798 clarkcountynv.gov
Dave Koz & Friends Summer Horns with Mindi Abair, Gerald Albright, and Richard Elliot AUGUST 2 The Smith Center thesmithcenter.org
Soul On Fire with Cuba Gooding, Sr. - Spontaneous Combustion JULY 26 The Smith Center thesmithcenter.org
AUGUST 6 The Smith Center thesmithcenter.org
The Art of Mummification JULY 27 Natural History Museum 702.384.3466 | lvnhm.org
Movies in the Square: Free Birds JULY 31 Town Square mytownsquarelasvegas.com
AUGUST 2014 Su Limbert AUGUST 1 - 30 Trifecta Gallery 366.7001 | trifectagallery.com
First Friday SEPTEMBER 5 firstfridaylv.org
Deep Purple in Concert AUGUST 15 3rd Street Stage Fremont Street Experience Admission is free
JULY 26 - 27 Natural History Museum 702.384.3466 | lvnhm.org
JULY 27 Hosted by Hot Diggity Dachshund Club & Rescue Tivoli Village near Leone Cafe tivolivillagelv.com
AUGUST 14 Town Square mytownsquarelasvegas.com
The Composers Showcase of Las Vegas
Wild Physics Fun: Magnetic Super Powers
Pet Adoptions
Movies in the Square: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2
Shrek the Musical
Movies in the Square: Planes
AUGUST 6 - 23 Super Summer Theatre supersummertheatre.org
AUGUST 21 Town Square mytownsquarelasvegas.com
Movies in the Square: Smurfs 2
Thirsty Third Thursday Pub Crawl
AUGUST 7 Town Square mytownsquarelasvegas.com
AUGUST 21 Kicks off at Hennessey’s Tavern 702.382.4421 to RSVP
Wine Walk SEPTEMBER 6 The Village Lake Las Vegas .NewVistaNV.org
Culinary Academy First Annual Event Taste of Hospitality SEPTEMBER 18 Poolside at the Mirage theculinaryacademy.org
AUGUST 9 The Smith Center thesmithcenter.org
Seether in Concert AUGUST 9 1st Street Stage Fremont Street Experience Admission is free
Labor Day Band Dance with the Jerry Tiffe Combo AUGUST 28 Charleston Heights Arts Center 702.229.6383 artslasvegas.org
Ghost The Musical AUGUST 1 First Friday firstfridaylv.org
SEPTEMBER 5 Cashman Center harvestfestival.com
Rudy - the Journey to a Movie
SEPTEMBER 2014 Wonderland
Las Vegas Harvest Festival Original Art and Craft Show
AUGUST 12 - 17 The Smith Center thesmithcenter.org
Arsenic and Old Lace SEPTEMBER 4 - 20 Super Summer Theatre supersummertheatre.org
42nd Annual Greek Food Festival SEPTEMBER 25 - 28 St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church 702.221.8245
The Innovation Issue | July - August 2014 | 15
MAY 30 – OCT 18
OC Tanner amphiTheaTer JUN 5 – OCT 17
AUG 1 – OCT 16
L O C AT E D J U S T 9 0 M I N U T E S F R O M V E G A S IN SOUTHERN UTAH.
2014 Summer Concert Series 350 West Lion Blvd, Springdale, Utah Zion National Park May 17 Southwest Symphony Orchestra
June 28 Arvel Bird
May 24 Red Desert Ramblers
July 12 Most Wanted
May 31 Eric Dodge & the John Houston Gospel Choir *Concert starts at 7:30 pm*
July 26 Trevor Green
June 7 Spanish Brass Thursday, June 12 Phoenix Boys Choir June 14 Lawn Darts June 21 David Correa & Cascada
Aug. 2 Randy Anderson Band *Concert starts at 7:30pm* Aug. 16 Utah Symphony Orchestra Aug. 23 Brodie Perry – Voce & Co. Aug. 30 Classic Country Band *Programming subject to change
Tickets available at the door – CASH ONLY $12 Adult $6 Youth $35 Family Advance tickets available from the DSU Box Office 435.652.7800 Concerts begin at 8pm unless noted.
TUACAHN.ORG | (866) 321-5065
www.dixie.edu/tanner • 435-652-7994
Arts
ARTS
1
ZAK talented individual
OSTROWSKI Life is beautiful for artist, designer, fabicator. Written by Dana Satterwhite Zap 4 box located in the the Cambridge Neighborhood
rtist, designer, and fabricator Zak Ostrowski makes a lot of things, most notably an impression. When he shares whatever he’s most recently conjured with his bare hands with the rest of the world, it’s generally with such a measurable level of ease and matter-of-factness, you’d think something like setting fire to every square inch of a motel room (which he did as part of last year’s Life Is Beautiful Art Odyssey installation) was as common as breathing air. It’s not. And his innovative take on the world—much of it known to the city and much of it there, inconspicuous, for discovery—is anything but common as well.
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Having lived in Albuquerque, Portland, and Miami for much of his life, Ostrowski—an 8-year Vegas resident—appreciates cities not simply as places to reside, but as living organisms. He values structural aesthetics and functional, visual urban planning, giving a second glance to any seemingly errant fence post or a generally overlooked manhole cover pattern. No detail is too small to consider. He is a rare breed of dreamer and maker who draws from far outside and deep within to find and give meaning to every facet of each project that comes his way—and they are many.
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Operating independently much of the time and collaborating with a core group of friends and creative peers whenever possible, Zak switches between the fine art, design-build, fabrication, and rendering worlds seamlessly, daily, and typically while in stealth mode. Giving careful consideration to materials ranging from wood, stone, metal, fiberglass, and often employing transformation, Ostrowski’s work and influence can be seen and felt throughout the Valley. In downtown Las Vegas, Ostrowski’s creations can be found in City Hall’s first- and second-floor permanent collections, as well as inside The D Hotel and Inspire Theater. His work also resides all the way in Boulder City and in numerous private collections. Don’t let the tattoo sleeves fool you. There’s a story in every colorful drop of ink, but he’s a gentle soul. Catch him early in the morning as he gets his caffeine fix and, down-to-earth guy that he is, he’ll happily tell you as much as you’d like to know. Zak Ostrowski’s work is on display at the BLVDS House Gallery B, 509 S 7th St., thru August 31. zakattakart.com | zodiabula.com
LOVE, DEATH, & Everything
In Between
Zap 4 box located in the the Cambridge Neighborhood
O U R 2 0 1 4 S E A S O N J UN 2 3 – O C T 1 8 MEASURE FOR MEASURE HENRY IV PART ONE BOEING BOEING TWELFTH NIGHT INTO THE WOODS
Fractured Fissure (2013 - 2014) 3D concept sketch for desert art installation by ZDC - Zak Ostrowski, Drew Gregory, Clemente Cicoria
THE COMEDY OF ERRORS SENSE AND SENSIBILITY SHERLOCK HERLOCK HOLMES: THE FINAL ADVENTURE
Dr. Stephanie Youngblood
Protecting Retirement Savings From Market Downturns
CHIROPRACTOR
702.870.8060 500 S. Rancho, Suite E-9 Quail Orient Las Vegas, NV 89106 Near Downtown
Angie Welsh
Todd Howell
702-580-4263
702-400-4500
Keeping its promises since 1848
Want even more Community & Culture? Subscribe at www.BLVDSLV.com
Have a story idea? Email it to editor@blvdslv.com www.BLVDSLV.com • 702.386.6065
8/13
opening night
LET THE MIGRATION BEGIN!
ocal art activists, Todd VonBastiaans and Bryan McCarthy, were in Chicago in May and were lucky enough to get tickets to see Seven Homeless Mammoths Wander New England, recommended by Chicago theatre critic Hedy Weiss. By intermission, Todd and Bryan were already formulating ideas to bring the entire production to Las Vegas.
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And they did! Museums, romance, politics, and yes, seven enormous mammoths collide in this academic sex comedy by
Madeleine George, one of America’s most fun and original playwrights. Meet Dean Wreen. She’s having a difficult week. A proposed renovation to her small private college campus, specifically converting a dusty old natural history museum into a fancy new dorm, is meeting stiff resistance from the town. Meanwhile, her ex-girlfriend has returned to live with her. This complicates Wreen’s relationship with Andromeda, her new (and much younger) girlfriend who loves “alternative kinship structures.” Until she finds herself living in one.
Local art activists bring Chicago hit play Seven Homeless Mammoths Wander New England to Las Vegas.
Hedy Weiss, Chicago Sun-Times columnist, called Theater Wit’s Midwest premiere of Seven Homeless Mammoths “...the smartest, funniest, most poignant play to arrive on a Chicago stage in a very long time.” Chris Jones, of the Chicago Tribune, concurred. “It’s an exceedingly funny play. I snickered and chortled all night long.” New City’s Lisa Buscani summed up George’s smart, funny relationship play as “...intelligent, erudite, and sharply humorous.” Note: Seven Homeless Mammoths is Rated M for mature content and language. Performances of Seven Homeless Mammoths Wander New England will run for two weeks, August 13-24. Tickets are $25. The Art Square Theatre 1025 1st Street, Las Vegas, NV 89101 ToddAndBryan.com or CockroachTheatre.com
The Innovation Issue | July - August 2014 | 21
ARTS
VEGAS CREATES
PRINT MAK ING
Showcasing every aspect of art and design from the talented and eclectic mix of people who make Las Vegas home.
ARCH ITEC TURE
Paper and Home is a graphic design studio and retail boutique specializing in couture invitations, announcements, fine stationery items, and gifts for all occasions. Their appointment-only design studio is classic and comfortable with a touch of chic, just like the personalities of local husband and wife owners, Michael and Brooke. Together with their friendly team, they proudly deliver refined design and exceptional service to their clientele. | paperandhome.com
FASH ION Three architectural firms have collaborated on building design and construction for the 106-acre, 1.6 million-square-foot development called Downtown Summerlin. Altoon Partners and ELS Architecture and Urban Design have designed the retail component of Downtown Summerlin, while Gensler has designed the nine-story office tower to be called One Summerlin. With their headquarters in Los Angeles, Altoon Partners has earned a reputation at home and abroad among clients seeking innovation and quality. Their philosophy is to create contemporary buildings, making thoughtful connections to the rich and diverse cultures and climates, geography and heritage of the community. For more than 45 years, ELS Architecture and Urban Design has designed extraordinary buildings and spaces that enhance the experience of urban life. They believe that thoughtful and compelling design translates emotion, excitement, vision and connection into places that engage people and nurture community. As the architect of One Summerlin, Gensler sees design as strategy in action, focused on results. They help clients leverage design’s power to generate innovative solutions that effect real transformation. | downtownsummerlin.com
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JAECI is a Vegas-based lifestyle unisex jewelry line inspiring others to believe in themselves, to find their passion in life and to be trendy at an affordable cost. Owner and designer Jenna Consiglio believes that by staying true to yourself, you can do anything. All you have to do is believe. | jaeci.com
PAIN TING
Muralist and designer Tiki Jay One has been contributing to the public art scene for over two decades representing renowned graffiti crew CBS (2013) and the members of the communities he interacts with. Tiki Jay continues to elevate the visual medium through monthly involvement in art shows, public murals in Los Angeles and Las Vegas Arts District, and through local businesses such as Coterie, Precious Slut Tattoo, and the Las Vegas Backyard Wall Project. | tikijay1.com
LIGHT ING
LiveSpark’s FirePixels flame effects are a completely new approach to propanefueled flame effects for applications that require close proximity, variable height, and precise timing. LiveSpark’s first permanent installation and first anywhere fire-shooting streetlight was recently installed in downtown Las Vegas. livesparkfire.com
PER FORM ANCE
SCULP TURE
Las Vegas-based artist Angel Delgado uses everyday materials to express ideas about restrictions and prohibitions. Inspired by the months Delgado was imprisoned in Cuba for a controversial performance art piece in 1990, the works examine the unique materials available to prisoners with limited access to supplies. View his show at the Amanda Harris Gallery of Contemporary Art. amandaharrisgallery.com.
The Desert Winds is Las Vegas’ premiere contemporary wind ensemble and is led by Artistic Director, Charles A Maguire. Their 2014-15 season, entitled “COLORATIONS,” will feature various guest artists and highlight works by upand-coming composers from throughout the world. Hear them perform their season opening concert at CSN’s Nicholas J. Horn Theater on October 4, 2014. thedesertwinds.org
The Innovation Issue | July - August 2014 | 23
ARTS
FILM
CURA TION
The Nevada Film Office promotes the State of Nevada as a film destination to hundreds of film, television, commercial, and multimedia projects annually. From finding the perfect shooting location, to demystifying the film permitting process, to acquiring crew and equipment, they remove the guesswork from the process so filmmakers can focus on the big picture. Photo: L-R: Danette Tull, Brian O’Hare, Eric Preiss, Ed Harran, and Veronica Quarles | nevadafilm.com
LAND SCULP SCAPE TURE DES IGN
Los Angeles-based RAW Artists curates a show featuring the work of local artists in over 60 cities throughout the world. The bi-monthly Las Vegas show brings together talented hair and makeup artists, musicians, photographers, fashion designers, and performing artists. | rawartists.org/lasvegas
CULi NARY
For 43 years, Nuvis has been creating experiences which connect people with their environments. A love of the land is most fully expressed in the preservation of its beauty and integrity; where an active quest for the refinement, delicacy, and subtle qualities of the designed landscape is tempered by the pragmatic and aesthetic needs of the present and incorporated into a creative vision for the future. | nuvis.net
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Cantina Laredo fully embraces the lost art of tableside guacamole preparation. Not only is the personal presentation impressive, but you can also request a little more of this and a touch more of that to tailor your guacamole experience to pure perfection. In this delicious format, you just might forget that avocados are a packed with heart-healthy unsaturated fat and are a good source of fiber, potassium, and vitamins C, K, folate, and B6. Salud to that! | cantinalaredo.com
LITE RAT URE
PHOT OGRA PHY
Located inside Inspire Theater is one of a handful of Espresso Book Machines, which publishes a book while you wait. Only 30 of the machines exist in the country, many of them in libraries and in bookstores, making this is a rare find in Las Vegas. Just bring in a PDF file that contains your novel and cover design, and watch it go! From novels to cookbooks to family chronicles— whether you’re looking to print a single copy or hundreds—there is no better time to get published. | bookmachine@thewritersblock.org
AUDIO MUSIC
The Las Vegas Camera Club is dedicated to instant analog photography, including sale of vintage Polaroids, Fuji Instax cameras and film, and Polaroid compatible film from Impossible. Our goal is to help people become better image makers, and to have stupid amounts of fun doing it. Memberships include free admission to monthly events, which the public may attend for a fee. Members get access to a unique collection of cameras, a small book library, and hardware and film discounts. | lasvegascameraclub.com
PROD UCT DES IGN
Kella Bo Bella performs at BB’s Clubhouse while competing in a local battle of the bands event. Eight bands entered, and Kella Bo Bella swept the competition with roaring applause. The performers won a paid gig at the clubhouse—and some free drinks. | facebook.com/kellakellabobella
Co-founded by UNLV alum Greg Friesmuth and headquartered in Las Vegas, Skyworks Aerial Systems is a hardware company that designs, manufactures, and sells small and adaptable unmanned aerial systems—more commonly known as “drones.” SkyworksAS not only offers a variety of solutions to both civil and commercial companies, but also assists with educational, research, and development initiatives as well. | skyworksas.com
The Innovation Issue | July - August 2014 | 25
Specializing in hand-selected, artful details for the home and body. Open Monday – Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. 6985 W Sahara, Ste. 105, Las Vegas, NV 89117 702.368.2601 | www.urbanranchgeneralstore.com
Lifestyle
LIFESTYLE
5
- hour drive
REGIONAL
TRAVEL
The red rocks and soil of Sedona are rich with Ferrous Oxide (FE2O3), the element responsible for the red color.
hen my husband was lucky enough to retire a few years ago, we decided to move back to Las Vegas for several reasons, one of which was the fact that we love the scenery. If you love the desert as much as I do, there isn’t much that beats the natural beauty of this area... except for Sedona.
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A short four-to-five-hour drive from Las Vegas, Sedona squats among red rock buttes and mesas and under a cerulean blue sky. The air, much less infected with car fumes, is clean and crisp, and one can detect a slight juniper or wildflower scent in the air. And, if you can believe New Agers, the area contains vortexes full of electromagnetic energy conducive to relaxing, meditating, and healing. The highlights of the drive through Oak Creek Canyon and Sedona are, of course, the natural wonders of the area. Paprika-colored formations (Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, Coffee Pot Rock, Cathedral Rock, Airport Mesa, and others) dot the landscape. In addition, the 58-year old Chapel of the Holy Cross juts from between huge red rocks and invites visitors to a spiritual respite. While viewing the sites from your car is, in itself, a great experience, you can hike the 28 | blvdslv.com
Written by Chris Cutler Photography by Chris Cutler
ribbons of trails that thread through the area or take a jeep tour into the backcountry. There is more to Sedona than natural beauty, though. Art lovers can gallery hop to their hearts’ content. While western art abounds, many galleries feature contemporary artists who work on canvas, in glass, or with metal. The Sedona Art Center, a nonprofit gallery that holds exhibits, has information on the local art scene. A trip to Sedona is not complete without a visit to one of the aforementioned vortexes. Long revered by Native Americans as a sacred place, Sedona has, in the last 20-30 years, gained popularity for its spiritual energy. While some authorities say the entire area is a vortex, others say that various sites (Airport Mesa, Bell Rock, the Chapel) exude different energies.
DISTANCE: 275 miles - 5 hours CLOSEST AIRPORT: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is 2 hours away. Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport is approximately 2 1/2 hours away from Sedona. | visitsedona.com
250 Pass the
YARN please lap blankets
Yarn bombing. Yarn storming. Guerrilla knitting. Whatever you want to call it, these seniors are going at it.
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Written by Joy Bellis Photography Diane Bush
f you see a bunch of women attaching colorful pieces of yarn artwork to trees, benches, railings, posts, and more, you can bet you’re watching yarnstormers in action.
Yarnstorming is a relatively new art form created by people who work in wool and other materials that they knit or crochet. At times, they use the knitted artwork to decorate public facilities and have even adorned statuary with temporary attire. Locally you can see a fine example of the art in the entrance of the West Flamingo Senior Center at Flamingo and Jones. Diane Bush, the supervisor of the center, has organized a group as the Yarnstormers Club. These seniors are busy creating colorful items to not only add beauty to their environment, but also to provide convenience and safety. They covered the center’s handrails with their work to shield it from the heat and to give some ease of access. Bush says the Yarnstormers intend to complete 200 lap blankets by December, but they are in need of more yarn of any color or composition. It’s tough to be a Yarnstormer without the necessary raw ingredients. If you can help, contact Diane Bush at 702.455.7742.
Yarnstormers working on an art installation they completed in 2012 for the Maryland Parkway pedestrian bridge.
The Innovation Issue | July - August 2014 | 29
LIFESTYLE
15 A ROSE BY ANY
years young
OTHER NAME
Two local schools of medicine come together to create something even bigger.
Written by Chris Cutler Photography by Roseman University
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or an institution that is barely 15-years old, Roseman University has come a long way very quickly.
Founded in 1999 in Henderson as the Nevada College of Pharmacy, the school enrolled its first class two years later. Today, Roseman University of Health Sciences offers advanced degrees in Pharmacy, Dental Medicine, and Business Administration, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees. In addition to its Henderson campus, Roseman also has a location in South Jordan, Utah. Its recent merger with The Nevada Cancer Institute Foundation (NCIF) gives the school a Summerlin campus that will house Roseman’s planned College of Medicine. According to Roseman President Dr. Renee Coffman, the merger does more than just provide a home for its medical school. Had the university not acquired the facility, several research groups would have left Southern Nevada when NCIF went bankrupt. “The Ralph and Betty Engelstad Cancer Research Building, with 184,000 squae feet of exceptional infrastructure, including 24 fully-equipped research labs, has been a vital resource for world-renowned medical researchers who are already part of the University and conducting research in the building,” she states. Having research groups in place is vital to receiving accreditation of a medical school. 30 | blvdslv.com
Roseman’s teams are currently studying the fields of diabetes and obesity, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease, and substance abuse and depression. Some of the projects include studies of the role played by diabetes and obesity and the onset and progression of prostate cancer; ways to develop new and more effective therapeutic agents for treating Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease; and development of anti-melanoma agents.
Jeffery Talbot, Ph.D., director of the Research Center on Substance Abuse and Depression, recently announced development of an antidepressant that would start to work within 24 hours. While there are many drugs that treat depression, none currently on the market works quickly while maintaining the drug’s level in the body. Says Dr. Talbott, “What makes this study unique and exciting is that in the same drug we seem to have both of the properties you want in an antidepressant—both rapid and sustained effects.” Coffman believes that the university is on track for welcoming its first class of medical students in 2017. “As a private, nonprofit university, Roseman is well-positioned and has flexibility to work toward the development of a College of Medicine which we see as being a game changer for Southern Nevada and the Intermountain West region.”
The Innovation Issue | July - August 2014 | 31
LIFESTYLE
REFRESHING ESCAPES Written by Hektor D. Esparza Photography by Talbot Snow
Places to go when things start really heating up in Las Vegas.
Photo courtesy of The Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art - Painting Women: Works from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
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he wonderful thing about summer in Las Vegas is you don’t have to go far to have an adventure. There are amazing, unique things to do both within the city limits and within a short drive in any direction.
Provided you get an early start, hiking Mt. Charleston or Red Rock, offers a break from the heat. Early evening is a good time to visit The Clark County Wetlands Park where you may get a peek at local wildlife including waterfowl, lizards, and rabbits. Leaving the state for the nearby environs of Southern Utah is well worth the trip. Hiking at Kolob Canyon or Zion National Park, or mountain biking at Brianhead resort offers a complete change of scenery at only a three-hour drive. If Death Valley doesn’t sound appealing in the middle of summer, perhaps a stop at Tecopa California Hot Springs (which is on the way to Death Valley) is a little more enticing. Just 90 minutes from Las Vegas, this desert oasis boasts some of the most highly rated natural mineral water baths and facilities. Adjacent to the springs is The China Ranch Date Farm. A narrow, winding dirt road weaves its way from Tecopa through a lunar-like landscape before depositing you at the small, family-owned date farm. The date milkshake is a must before heading home.
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It’s de rigueur for locals to say they avoid The Strip at all costs, but as much as I dislike an obvious tourist trap, you can find good values and see wonderful sights if you plan carefully. One of my favorite urban hikes is from Bellagio to City Center with a few stops along the way. The Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art always features a world-class exhibit. From now through October 26, the gallery presents “Painting Women: Works from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.” The collection includes paintings by Mary Cassatt, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Berthe Morisot. A jaunt to the east side of the Boulevard to Bauman Rare Books, which is located inside the Shoppes at Palazzo, will land you in a place most would not expect to find in Las Vegas. First editions of A Farewell to Arms, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Ulysses, and many other titles, as well as signed historic documents, are on display there. Cross The Strip again and venture into the architectural spectacle that is City Center. Inside the Daniel Libeskind-designed Crystals Mall is an immersive arts experience via the permanent installation “Akhob.” The word translates to “pure water” from Egyptian, and the experience has the abstract effect of being washed over in monochromatic color, space, and light.
Kolob Canyon, Zion National Park
The Innovation Issue | July - August 2014 | 33
LIFESTYLE
Al Fresco WITH FIDO 20 local restaurants with poochfriendly patios.
Written by Stephanie Pierotti
et parents throughout the Valley looking to spend a day with their dogs and enjoy a delicious meal can breathe a sigh of relief. There’s no need to leave your furry friends at home during your next lunch date or happy hour outing. These 20 places have great food and great spaces in which you and your friends of both the
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two-legged and four-legged variety can all relax together. Please note that many restaurants have a 25lb weight limit and some have breed restrictions, so it’s best to call ahead to find out if your pal can join you. Where’s your favorite spot in Vegas to take your pooch? Visit BLVDS’ Facebook page and tell us about your best-loved dogfriendly destinations. SUMMERLIN / WESTSIDE Cantina Laredo at Tivoli Village 440 S. Rampart Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89145 | 702.202.4511 Krayvings 11770 W. Charleston Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89135 | 702.945.0520 Dom DeMarco’s Pizzeria & Bar 9785 W. Charleston Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89117 | 702.570.7000
Grape Street Cafe 7501 W. Lake Mead Blvd. #120 Las Vegas, NV, 89128 | 702.228.9463 MOUNT CHARLESTON Mount Charleston Lodge Restaurant 5355 Kyle Canyon Rd. Las Vegas, NV 89124 | 702.872.5408 The Resort On Mt Charleston 2275 Kyle Canyon Rd. Las Vegas, NV 89124 | 702.872.5500 EASTSIDE Yappy Hour at Rumor Boutique Hotel Third Thursday of every month, 6-9pm 455 E. Harmon Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89169 877.997.8667 SOUTHEAST / HENDERSON Double Helix Wine & Whiskey Lounge at Town Square 6599 Las Vegas Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89119 | 702.735.9463 Crazy Pita Rotisserie & Grill at Town Square 6587 S. Las Vegas Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89119 | 702.778.3310 Sunrise Coffee 3130 E. Sunset Rd. Las Vegas, NV 89120 | 702.433.3304 Crêpe Expectations 9500 S. Eastern Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89123 | 702.583.4939 Greens and Proteins 8975 S. Eastern Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89123 | 702.541.7800
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DOWNTOWN MTO Cafe 500 S. Main St. Las Vegas, NV 89101 702.380.8229 Bar + Bistro at the Arts Factory 107 E. Charleston Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89104 702.202.6060 La Comida 100 6th St. Las Vegas, NV 89101 702.463.9900 Park on Fremont 506 E. Fremont Las Vegas, NV 89101 702.834.316
Triple George Grill 201 N. Third St. Las Vegas, NV 702.384.2761 SPRING VALLEY Greens and Proteins 9809 W. Flamingo Rd. Las Vegas, NV 89147 702.541.6400 MULTIPLE LOCATIONS In-N-Out Burger Select Capriotti’s Sandwich Shops (not all locations have patios)
Kicks Up A Storm Join Ms. Frizzle™ for a journey into the wonders of weather, it’s Wild Ride Certified! Learn how heat, water and air interact to create sun and make a storm at the Weather Mixing Dashboard, report the latest weather at the Frizzle News Station and much more. This hands-on traveling exhibit is based on the best-selling Scholastic books and the ever-popular television series now available on Netflix.
KM XB KLUC KXTE KXST KXNT FM /AM
DiscoveryKidsLV.org Scholastic’s The Magic School Bus Kicks Up A Storm exhibit was created by The Children’s Museum of Houston with cooperation from Scholastic Entertainment Inc. with major funding from the National Science Foundation; and in consultation with The National Weather Service, The American Meteorological Society, and the Oklahoma Climatological Survey.” TM & © Scholastic Inc. Based on the Magic School Bus book series. © Joanna Cole and Bruce Degen. All Rights Reserved.
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Quantum BioFeedback may be just what the doctor ordered! Don’t wait another minute! Call today to see if Quantum BioFeedback will be a good fit for you!
702.600.6076 Linda Vail, Naturopath 509 S. 7th Street Las Vegas, NV 89101 www.lindavailnd.com
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and a pool table. Call or visit our website to schedule a club tour and get your
FREE 30-Day Membership* (702) 331-8699 lasvegas.directbuy.com for your money Want more ________________? Join the club. LAS VEGAS Attendance at a pre-scheduled sales presentation required (lasts approximately 90 minutes) to activate your Free 30-Day Membership. This offer provides purchasing privileges at your local club of up to $1,000 from DirectBuy suppliers for 30 days from your DirectBuy Open House visit. Limit one per household. Current members and employees of DirectBuy are ineligible for this offer. Local incentives may be available for same-day purchases. Must be at least 21 years of age.
CMY
K
Flavor
F L AV O R
6th street downtown
Doughnuts DRESSED TO IMPRESS Written by Jillian Plaster
he fancy doughnut is the cupcake’s newest rival in the comeback of revamped, retro desserts. At the Downtown Project’s newest baby, O Face Doughnuts, the humble doughnut’s simple coatings have given way to twisted toppings such as breakfast cereals and bacon.
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Chef Crystal Whitford, the creator of the kooky concoctions, was a pastry chef at Spago and previously at Bouchon prior to taking the position at O Face. Her grandfather was a fourth generation Italian baker, so baking is in her blood. Crystal channeled her roots and fine dining background to use the doughnut as a blank canvas for both sweet and savory fillings. You’ll find selections like Pizza, Caprese, and Lox and Cream Cheese next to dessert-like options such as Key Lime Pie, Root Beer Float, and Maple Bacon. O Face has a never-ending list of recipes, and the menu rotates daily. Crystal makes everything—including the jams for the jelly doughnuts and the cereal-infused milk for glazes— from scratch. The toppings deliver on flavor and are visually impressive. Though the dough is a bit dense, the doughnuts aren’t overly sweet. The chef fries them in canola oil rather than shortening to ensure the doughnuts don’t harden as they cool. A vegan option (made with coconut milk, applesauce, and organic palm oil) is also available. Unlike other doughnut shops, O Face puts as much effort into their coffee as their sweets. They brew Caffe Vita coffee out of Seattle, a pioneer in the Farm Direct movement, and the baristas go through as much training as bakers. O Face Doughnuts 124 S. 6th Street, #140 Las Vegas, NV 89101 702.476.3223 | facebook.com/ofacedoughnuts
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Chef Crystal Whitford and her kooky doughnut creations.
4
locations to cook
SPICE UP SUMMER WITH COOKING CLASSES FOR KIDS
n a city teeming with celebrity chefs and restaurants featuring cuisine from around the world, it’s no wonder more and more Vegas kids are expressing an interest in the culinary arts. If you have a young aspiring chef in your family, there is a wide array of educational opportunities available throughout the Valley for kids of all ages.
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Here’s a small sampling of the many classes and workshops that may help put your tots and teens on the path to culinary fame and fortune...or just help you prepare dinner every once in a while. Pizza Rock 201 N. 3rd St. Las Vegas, NV 89101 702.385.0838 | pizzarocklasvegas.com “Kids In The Kitchen” (Ages 12+) Kids get to create their own pizza using healthy toppings. Every Saturday at 10am. Reservations required. $10 per child, 100% of all proceeds go to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Introduction to the fundamentals of baking, how to follow basic recipes, use of different utensils, kitchen safety. Call for current schedule, $43 per child for four classes. “Creative Cooking” (Ages 6-12) Exporation of cooking basics, how to follow basic recipes, use of different utensils, kitchen safety. Call for current schedule. $43 per child for four classes. Henderson Multigenerational Center 250 S. Green Valley Pkwy. Henderson NV 89012 702.267.5800 | cityofhenderson.com “Breakfast Buddies” (Ages 3-5, or Parent & Me for 18months–3 years) Learn about kitchen safety and how to use basic kitchen tools while preparing the most important meal of the day. Call for current schedule. $33 per child for four classes.
Black Mountain Recreation Center 599 Greenway Rd. Henderson, NV 89015 702.267.4070 | cityofhenderson.com
“Mini Master Chefs” (Ages 5-13) Students learn to make food they enjoy but don’t know how to make at home, such as pasta, sauces, meatballs, soups, crepes, and waffles. Call for current schedule. $60-$75 per child for 3-4 classes.
Toddlers In The Kitchen (Ages 18 months -3 years) Parents learn how to safely include toddlers in a wide variety of cooking and baking activities. Call for current schedule. $33 per child for four classes. “Creative Baking” (Ages 3-5)
“Mini Master Bakers” (Ages 5-13) Students discover the science behind baking cookies, breads, cakes, scones, cream puffs, candies, and pies. Call for current schedule. $60-$75 per child for 3-4 classes. “Mini Cake Designers” (Ages 5-13)
Kids decorate mini cakes and cookies using fondant, buttercream frosting, and icing. Call for current schedule. $60-$75 per child for 3-4 classes. Williams-Sonoma Rampart Commons 1001 S. Rampart Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89145 702.938.9480 | williams-sonoma.com Shops at Green Valley Ranch 2255 Village Walk Drive Henderson, NV 89052 702.897.2346 | williams-sonoma.com Free Junior Chef Classes Learn to make delicious recipes, from main courses to desserts and snacks, with plenty of tasting along the way. Every Saturday 10am. Some classes ages 5+, some ages 8+. Class size is limited. Call your local store to register.
The Innovation Issue | July - August 2014 | 39
F L AV O R
40x INNER CITY more nutritious
FARM-TO-TABLE
f you’re looking for interesting new ways to add more greens into your diet, Chelsea Turner’s vision for a “New Age Farming Movement” in Las Vegas may be just what the doctor ordered. As the newest addition to the ownership team at Urban Hydro Greens, the recent UNLV grad is also an aspiring triathlete and a raw Vegan. “Chelsea has brought a youthful perspective to our business,” said Urban Hydro Greens co-owner Dennis Vitali, who founded the company in 2011 with his wife Nickie. “She’s walking proof of the benefits of a healthy balanced lifestyle. Her goal is motivate and inspire her generation to take an active interest in growing, being aware of what they’re putting in their bodies, and understanding their food.”
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The “New Age Farming Movement” promotes home growing, sustainability and a true farm-to-table concept. Urban Hydro Greens, a Nevada Department of Agriculture registered farm, is an indoor vertical farm in the heart of Las Vegas. They specialize in taking small spaces and growing literally tons of nutritious plants in an energy and water efficient environment. “We work hard to make a big impact on the community while leaving a small footprint,” said Vitali. Urban Hydro Greens’ primary focus is microgreens, which are plants grown seven to twelve days into their life cycle. The “micro stage” of their life cycle is the time when these plants are nutrient-dense and vitamin-packed. Recent studies show that some microgreens are up to 40 times more nutritious than their full-grown counterparts. Broccoli, kale, beet, radish, mustard, sunflower, sweet pea, onion, and bok choy are just some of the well-known veggies and greens that can be grown as ultranutritious microgreens. “Our company mission is to introduce these incredibly healthy little plants into everyone’s diet,” said Vitali. “We want to educate on the benefits of micros, and teach and promote a balanced healthy lifestyle utilizing nature’s little superfood.”
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Written by Stephanie Pierotti
Urban Hydro Greens’ micros are sold to select restaurant partners throughout Las Vegas, but their passion lies in selling directly to the public at local Fresh52 Farmer’s Markets. Here, they can interact with and get to know their customers. Their side-byside booths allow Urban Hydro Greens to sell fresh cut micros for home use, and to talk to Las Vegans about the New Age Farming Movement. The adjacent green smoothie booth sells delicious dairy-free, gluten-free, low-calorie, made-to-order smoothies using micros grown at their farm.
Turner’s message with the micros is that anyone can grow them, no matter what their experience level, no matter where they live. “It’s a 10-12 day minimal commitment to have everyday access to green nutrition,” Turner explained. “We sell home-grow kits for the micros online and at the farmer’s markets, and we’re gaining national traction with the movement.” The Urban Hydro Green team keeps strong ties with the community, and have been involved with several schools, giving demos on the micros and donating compost. “We want the next generation to understand where their food comes from, and we’re finding that kids not only love to grow the micros, but they love to eat them as well,” said Vitali. The team also gives free growing classes to the public at the West Charleston Library, teaching the benefits of the micros, how to use them, and how to grow them at home. “We want everyone to have access to healthy eating, and we strongly feel that when you grow something at home, you’re more likely to be excited about it and use it. We’re trying to help people regain control of at least a portion of their food again.” Visit Urban Hydro Greens at Fresh52 Farmer’s markets: Fresh52 at Tivoli Village on Saturdays from 9:00am-2:00pm 302 S Rampart, Las Vegas, 89145 Fresh52 at Sansone Park Place from 8:30am-1:00pm 9480 S. Eastern, Las Vegas, NV 89123 urbanhydrogreens.com
F L AV O R
222 evolve
J
EVOLVing the farmers market
Written by Valerie Miller Photography by Lucky Wenzel
ames Wong arrived in Las Vegas in 2003 with a desire to transform the community. Now, a decade later, Wong’s 222Evolve is changing the face of farmers markets.
“Micro Markets,” organized by Wong’s 222Evolve, are quickly taking their place among their larger farmers market brethren in Las Vegas. Just what is a Micro Market? It’s a small market, usually taking place at a community gathering spot, which just focuses on selling fresh food from two local farms. No longer will farmers’ produce get lost in all the arts and crafts that have come to dominate some of the bigger farmers markets, Wong promises. “Most of the Vegas farmers markets that are supposed to support farmers don’t really support farmers. Farmers aren’t the only ones at the market selling. There are also a lot of arts and crafts people selling things like dog treats,” Wong said. “We represent the farmer.” The Bloomin’ Desert Herb Farm and the Cowboy Ranch Farm are the featured local farms in the current 222Evolve Micro Markets. During the milder parts of the year in Las Vegas, Micro Markets are held on the patios of some local Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf restaurants. As the blistering summer heat takes hold, the Micro Markets are now being held downtown inside Turntable Health, at 701 Bridger Avenue. During the summer, the Micro Markets run from 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. every Friday. Wong, who also owns the Gym The Fit Labs, said the Micro Markets are something he has been working on for about six years. The markets finally launched about four months ago. “It’s so important these days to know where your food is coming from,” Wong added. Once he can grow the business enough for his two current clients, 222Evolve will take on new farms, and help them generate revenue through the Micro Markets. 42 | blvdslv.com
Most of all, Wong and 222Evolve want to promote change. “We don’t have to live the same structured lifestyle we have since the 1990s,” he said. 222evolve.com
Summer Squash Bruschetta Healthy
4 assorted summer squash— 3 cups diced in small pieces (Cowboy Trail Farm) 6 medium heirloom ruby red tomatoes diced (Cowboy Trail Farm) 1 or 2 garlic cloves minced fine (Crossfire Farms) 2 Spring onions roasted and chopped (Crossfire Ranch) 2 tablespoons of basil chopped (7 basil mix from Crossfire Farms) 1 teaspoon of sea salt (Bloomin Desert Farms) 1 teaspoon of black pepper (Bloomin Desert Farms) 6 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil or coconut oil Chop Arugula (Crossfire Ranch Produce)
Happy
We love this recipe because it’s so versatile and easy. Nothing beats al fresco dining outdoors right at dusk during the blazing hot summers in Las Vegas.
Easy
Preheat oven to 350°F. Stir oil, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper in large bowl to blend. Add tomato and squash and stir to coat. Let stand 5 minutes. Line rimmed baking sheet with foil. Cut onions in half and lightly coat with oil of choice and place in oven. Roast for 5 minutes and turn. Roast for additional 3-5 minutes. Remove, cool, and chop. Add to bruschetta mixture. Serve on a bed of chopped arugula with chicken, fish or prosciutto. #HealthyHappyEasy
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Southern Success
Written by Jillian Plaster
OPENING IN SUMMERLIN
Photography by Talbot Snow
here’s good news for those in Summerlin who don’t like to leave the suburban bubble but desire the faraway taste of the deep South. By summer’s end, Lola’s Lousiana Kitchen will open its new westside location off Summerlin Parkway and Town Center, offering a welcome beacon within a sea of chain restaurants. Lola believes the community is craving independent establishments and will prove correct if she can survive in the spot that was once Ruby Tuesday’s.
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Lola’s first location in the Holsum Bread Lofts downtown has been open about four years and, in that time, it has won a host of accolades that include multiple “Best of Las Vegas” wins and a spot on Food Network’s most popular show “Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.” Her most legendary dish is perhaps the flaky Bronzed Catfish served with gouda grits, kicked up a notch by spicy andouille sausage and a mushroom ragout. Other standouts include a velvety gumbo and Banana’s Foster Bread Pudding. The new location will have the same intimate feeling of the first but can offer more in its larger space, including plenty of parking. Live entertainment will accompany a jazz brunch on the weekends, a full liquor license will energize Saints’ game-time gatherings, and a separate dining room can accommodate private parties. An enclosed New Orleans-style courtyard hopes to channel a little Commander’s Palace and will be climate-controlled for year-round enjoyment. Perhaps most noteworthy, the new Lola’s will be the first restaurant in the city to have edible landscaping. Lola, a gardener herself, has chosen to decorate the perimeter with fruit trees, vegetable plants, and herbs—all grown organically. These goodies, supplemented with seasonal produce from local Gilcrease Orchard, will make appearances on diners’ plates.
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Bronzed Catfish & Grits All the goodness of the deep South! Seasoned and pan bronzed. Mississippi catfish served over Gouda grits with an andouille sausage and mushroom ragout.
Leidenheimer French Bread Pudding
Our Favorite Cajun & Creole Restaurants SPRING VALLEY Rhythm Kitchen 6435 S. Decatur Blvd. at Sunset Las Vegas, NV 89118 702.767.8438 | rhythmkitchenlv.com Streetcar Po-boys (locally owned) 1624 W. Oakey Blvd. between I-15 & Western Las Vegas, NV 89102 702.901.8788 | streetcarpoboysonline.com
For over 105 years, Leidenheimer Baking Co. has been producing its signature French bread in New Orleans. George Leidenheimer came to New Orleans from Deidesheim, Germany, and founded the bakery in 1896. His original recipe is still used, and Leidenheimer’s descendants still operate the family business using the same time-honored process. Their top secret production process somehow allows them to ship their bread throughout the country to restaurants - like our very own Lola’s - while maintaining its crisp crust, airy interior, and signature flavor. Recipe by Chefs Gary Darling, Hans Limburg, and Greg Reggio. 12 large eggs 1 tablespoon cinnamon 7 cups milk 4 cups sugar 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 1 cup raisins 1/2 pound butter 1 3/4 pound Leidenheimer French Bread (at least 1 day old 1”-2” pieces)
Blend eggs, milk, sugar, melted butter, vanilla, raisins, and cinnamon in a mixing bowl. Make sure sugar is totally dissolved. Add bread and gently press down until it is soaked. Toss to incorporate the raisins. Line a 3” x 10” springform with parchment paper. Lightly oil the paper. Fill the pan with the bread mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 to 1&1/2 hours or until a skewer pulls out clean. Bread Pudding Rum Sauce: 2 cups Karo light corn syrup 1/4 cup dark rum 1/2 lb butter-room temperature 2 tablespoons vanilla extract Heat corn syrup, rum, and vanilla to a simmer in a sauce pan. Using a wire whisk, vigorously mix in the softened butter. Keep at room temperature until ready to serve.
The Boiling Crab (small chain) 4001 S. Decatur Blvd. Betweem Flamingo & Twain Las Vegas, NV 89103 702.386.0808 | theboilingcrab.com
WESTSIDE Weeziana Gumbo & More 6475 W. Charleston Blvd. between Rainbow & Torrey Pines Las Vegas, NV 89146 702.822.4626 | weezianagumbo.com
DOWNTOWN Lola’s (locally owned) 241 W. Charleston Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89102 702.227.5652 | lolaslasvegas.com
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS Hot N Juicy Crawfish (small chain) 4810 Spring Mountain Rd. Las Vegas, NV 89102 | 702.891.8889 3863 Spring Mountain Rd Las Vegas, NV 89102 | 702.750.2428 9560 S. Eastern Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89123 | 702.776.3030 hotandjuicycrawfish.com
The Innovation Issue | July - August 2014 | 45
I n M y H u m b l e O p i n io n Written by
Zubin Damania, MD
The ZDoggMD is in da house!
hen I moved to Las Vegas from the Bay Area two years ago, the usual misconceptions stuffed my tourist-grade fanny pack. Would I burst into flames during my first summer? Nope. It turns out a shaved head radiates excess heat marvelously. Was the Carrot Top show any good? Yup. Another pleasant surprise! And so on.
I’d prefer they were awake). But I didn’t know anyone, so I went to the nearest ER. They did a great job, and my wife thought my new scar made me look sexy. The face I made when I got the $3500 ER bill was considerably less sexy. That was $1000 per stitch and another $500 for a $30 tetanus shot. Let’s just say that, in the ER, the House always wins.
But my greatest Vegas-induced revelation hit me while hiking in Red Rock. And I mean literally hit me. I mis-stepped while rock scrambling and cracked my freshly shaved dome on a pretty nasty rock outcropping. I had the requisite peaceful out-of-body Zen moment followed by a less peaceful re-entry into my body. As a doctor, my first thought (as I blinked through the blood) was, “That’s gonna leave a mark.”
It’s a local pastime to bash the state of healthcare in Las Vegas, and with good cause. In Las Vegas, we wait longer in the ER, are far less likely to get cancer screenings and other preventative care, and are twice as likely to die of preventable illnesses.
W
My second thought was, “OMG. What do I do now?” Like so many Las Vegans—and despite being an internist myself—I didn’t have a primary care doctor whom I could call. When I had previously asked locals where they go for good care, they recommended some place called “McCarran.” I was pretty sure that was out-of-network. I knew I needed three stitches and a tetanus shot, and a good family doctor could do that in his/her sleep (although
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It’s tempting to blame doctors for this, but that’s not quite right. Your plastic surgeon may have a private jet and a manservant named Jeeves, but the docs responsible for keeping you healthy—the primary care physicians (PCP)—are suffering miserably, particularly so in Vegas where there is a desperate shortage. In the fee-for-service mill, PCPs need to see a patient every few minutes just to pay overhead and debt, and they spend the vast majority of their day doing paperwork to please the bean counters. Physicians went into medicine to help alleviate suffering, but they are slaves to a broken system. It is no wonder that so few medical students want to do primary care. Would you?
The prescription to fix primary care (and, by extension, the rest of healthcare) is simple: Get rid of fee-for-service reimbursement and use a membership model, like a gym. Pay one fee for an allyou-can-treat buffet. What could be more Vegas? A team of doctors, nurses, social workers, and health coaches can support one another, focus on the whole patient, and make education (via classes and group visits) a priority. Elevating the human relationship that is at the heart of good health care and focusing on prevention would decrease costs throughout the system and improve access. Boom. I have lived pretty much everywhere, but Las Vegas is the first place that’s truly felt like home to me. We embrace innovation and change here, and we’re not particularly fond of authority. It’s fertile ground for true healthcare reform that can only come from a partnership between physicians and patients, not from government or industry or some bureaucrat. That’s why we built Turntable Health in the heart of Vegas. I just wish we’d been open when I cracked my head. As a member, I’d have gotten immediate care from a team who knows me...for free. In my humble opinion, we need to double down on great primary care because it’s the only way to beat the House. Are we all in?
The Innovation Issue | July - August 2014 | 47
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Introducing the 2014 Summer Explorer Southern Nevada Museum Passport!
Get your Passport at these participating museums: National Atomic Testing Museum Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art Boulder City Museum Clark County Wetlands Park Discovery Children’s Museum Hispanic Museum of Nevada
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