Landsailing World Championship set for July 2014 in Nevada

Photo credit: Mark Harris

The North American Landsailing Association (NALSA) will host the FISLY-NALSA 14th Landsailing World Championship at Smith Creek Playa (dry lake) near Austin in Northern Nevada July 12-19, 2014. The regatta is expected to draw entrants from at least four continents and 10 to 15 countries. They will be competing in fleet races sailed in at least eight classes. The sailing vehicles are called landsailers in America and land yachts internationally.

NALSA has hosted two previous World Championships (1990 and 2002) in Southern Nevada during the spring months. International entrants requested that the 2014 regatta be held in the summer, so they could bring their children. Smith Creek Playa was selected because its 6,000-foot elevation offers some respite from the high temperatures of the southern deserts. Nearby Austin provides modern amenities with a historic Old West flavor.

NALSA President Dennis Bassano stated, "We are pleased that the regatta has been named a Nevada 150 official event. This is a year-long celebration of Nevada’s 150 years as a state and offers regatta contestants and visitors a great opportunity to explore Nevada’s rich Old West history, including nearby Pony Express stations, working ranches, mines and many other historic sites."

NALSA is the U.S. affiliate of FISLY, the International Federation of Sand and Land Yachting. Read more about landsailing in Nevada in this story from our January/February 2013 issue. Watch a video below.



Video credit: John Eisenlohr & Duncan Harrison

Plein Air Art Gallery Debuts in Gold Hill

Join Reno-based artist Erik Holland during the "Art in the Afternoon" reception November 9-10 at the Jones Mansion in Gold Hill. Holland has gathered more than 50 Nevada pieces for the sale, which allows attendees to finish some early Christmas shopping for the Nevada-lover on their holiday gift list. The exhibit features large and small watercolor and oil paintings of Virginia City, Gold Hill, Reno, and Carson City, which exhibit Holland's luminous style.

Holland has displayed his work in several successful art shows in the Reno area and recently published his first book—Outback Cartoonist—which features his favorite cartoons from a decade of cartooning in three different states. The plein air artist teaches at the Nevada Museum of Art, Truckee Meadows Community College, and Rainshadow Charter School. Holland plans to break ground on a new book soon, which will feature iconic buildings in Nevada towns.

The show runs from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday and 1 to 3 p.m. on Sunday, with Holland on site both days to discuss his work. Much of Holland's work can be viewed here: hollandrenoartist.com.

Nevada Distillery Serves Up Savory New Spirit

Churchill Vineyards, Nevada's only estate winery and first legal distillery, is set to release Churchill Vineyards Brandy—the state's first legally-distilled spirit—for retail purchases on Saturday, November 2. To celebrate the occasion, the winery is unveiling Nevada’s first and only brandy during an open house at its Fallon location on Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. During the event, the public can purchase this landmark bottle of brandy while enjoying free tastings and a 20 percent case discount for wine purchased at this time.

Churchill Vineyards, owned and operated by 5th generation Nevadan Colby Frey and his wife, Ashley, have expanded their already successful winery business into the spirits market providing Nevada’s first and oldest legally commercial distilled spirit.

“This is a very exciting time for the expansion of our business,” Frey says. “We’ve been aging the brandy in premium French oak barrels for five years, allowing us to use the prestigious VSOP designation. Since 2006, we have been experimenting with our Nevada grapes, grains, and other Nevada-grown products to produce high quality spirits. With the passage of recent legislation, we are now able to sell our long-aged spirits.”

Frey handcrafted and distilled the brandy in small batches using the same grapes used to produce Churchill Vineyards’ esteemed wines. The quality of the brandy can be seen in the natural amber hue, characterizing the extraction of the oak and flavor from the French oak barrels.

“Wine and spirits have a well-documented place in the history of the old west,” Frey adds. “Coming from a long line of Nevada farmers, we’re excited to tap into Nevada’s history and bring to market a great product made from Nevada resources.”

Churchill Vineyards’ wine can be purchased at major retail outlets Whole Foods, Scolari’s Food and Drug Company, and Total Wine & More. The brandy is projected to hit retail stores around November 11. To stay up-to-date on the release, visit churchillvineyards.com or follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/churchillvineyards.

Dayton Valley Days Delivers Family Fun

The 25th annual Dayton Valley Days, September 21-22, promises two days jam-packed with family fun, events, food, and a parade.

The event begins Saturday morning with a pancake breakfast, and allows attendees to visit various craft booths, vendors, and informational displays on the historic Pike Street. Visitors have a chance to explore a one-room schoolhouse and the historic firehouse/jail. 

The event features a show n' shine, which allows vehicles not only to be showcased in a classic show n' shine setting, but also to be driven in the parade. Participants have a range of cars including customs, classics, tuners, muscle cars, rods, antiques, sports cars, and trucks.

The parade promises floats, antique tractors, rescue and fire equipment, classic cars, trucks, motorcycles, marching groups, mounted horses, horse-drawn wagons, and many other parade participants.

After the parade, attendees can enjoy the salsa cook-off and chili competition. Profits from the chili tasting raises funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Mason Valley and the Lyon County Shop-with-a-Sheriff program.

Children can enjoy bounce houses, an obstacle course, and a pet parade, which features dogs, cats, reptiles, birds and a few unconventional pets. Be sure to sign up your favorite pet and its human for the parade.

The event is loaded with local history, thanks to history groups such as the Battle Born Civil War Reenactors and the Historical Society of Dayton Valley. The Misfits, a local theater group, is performing at the community center Saturday, and offers a humorous look at the Dayton of yester-year through cowboy poetry, singing, jokes, and lots of input from the audience.

Railroad Days, which is now scheduled during Dayton Valley Days, is going to be on the corner of Old Town Dayton at U.S. 50 and Main Street, where the Historical Society of Dayton Valley will be showcasing the Carson and Colorado railroad depot that served Dayton for decades, a railroad car, and many other facets of their preservation work in the town.

Visit daytonvalleydays.org for a complete schedule of events.

The Range 702 in Las Vegas Aims to "Shoot Out Cancer"

The Range 702, Nevada's largest indoor shooting facility, is hosting an on-site shooting competition to "shoot out cancer” with proceeds benefiting Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Nevada, a non-profit organization that provides support and services to families of children diagnosed with cancer.

On Friday, October 11, Shoot Out Cancer competitors will shoot a series of three firearms and will be scored on precision and accuracy by The Range 702’s Range Safety Officers, who are on-site during the competition.

The $120 event registration includes:
-45 rounds on a Glock, Springfeild XD, and AK47
-Eye/ear protection
-Targets
-Post-competition awards banquet with food and beverages

Participants are entered into Top Overall, Top Female, and Top First-time shooter categories for a chance to win a firearm (pending background check). A raffle is also held following the event for a chance to win experiences with event sponsors including Sky Combat Ace, and Flightlinez Bootleg Canyon.

“The Range 702 is excited to turn the sport of shooting and into a friendly competition to support the Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation’s cause to assist families so that kids don’t have to fight cancer alone,” said Lianne Heck, Director of Marketing at The Range 702. “The Range 702’s staff are so determined to hit our goal of raising $30,000 by registering 250 participants, that they have all volunteered to let the Candlelighters kids shave their heads in celebration if we reach the goal!”

The Shoot Out Cancer competition takes place on Friday, October 11 from 7-9 p.m. at The Range 702, located at 4699 Dean Martin Drive in Las Vegas. For more information or to register for the Shoot Out Cancer event at The Range 702, visit www.candlelightersnv.com.

Holabird Hosts Lecture at Nevada State Museum

On Thursday, August 22, mining geologist, author, and scholar Fred Holabird is hosting the Nevada State Museum, Carson City's Frances Humphrey Lecture Series with his presentation, “Gold at the Silver Mint: How the 20th Century Gold Mining Boom Affected the Carson City Mint.” The talk will take place from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m and features book signings by Holabird and an in-depth look at the unique history of the Carson City Mint.

Holabird, an expert in the history of American mining, coins, the Comstock, and the West, was a mining geologist for two decades and managed two open pit gold mines before switching to mining history. He runs one of the largest auction houses for Western Americana in the country. Author of more than 100 catalogs, he has written 150 professional articles and a dozen books.

While the Carson City Mint stopped making coins in 1893, it remained open as a U.S. Assay Office until 1933. As such, it was an official arm of the U.S. Mint, and received gold and silver from producing mines. A secondary mining boom came with the discoveries of Tonopah in 1900 and goldfield in 1903. The finds fueled more exploration and discovery at other Nevada sites, and many of them submitted their gold to Carson City. Others sent their gold and silver to the San Francisco Mint. Holabird’s talk will center on the Carson City Mint activity based on surviving Carson City Mint records held in private hands.

The museum is located at 600 N. Carson St. and is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $8 for adults. Visitors 17 and younger and members get in free. For more information call contact Deborah Stevenson at 775-687-4810 ext. 237 or email dstevenson@nevadaculture.org.

"Grease" Takes Over Eldorado Showroom

You can revisit the world of the T-Birds and Pink Ladies at Rydell High with the energetic classic rock 'n' roll musical “Grease,” playing at the Eldorado showroom now through November 10.

Editor Matthew B. Brown and I had the opportunity to attend the musical, which features old-fashioned fun and just the right amount of laughter mixed with breathtaking singing. Having never seen "Grease" before I really wasn't sure what to expect. I found myself laughing out loud within the first few seconds after the curtains opened, and it was all uphill from there.

As one of the longest-running shows of all time and among the most produced shows in the United States, "Grease" has kept fans coming back for decades. It’s the story of a popular tough guy, Danny, and Sandy, a virgin do-goody, who reunite at school after a summer fling. Sandy finds that Danny has changed from the boy that she knew over the summer and has to decide whether or not they're a good match.

Guests will have a rockin', rollin' good time singing along to songs from the hit motion picture like, "Summer Nights," "Beauty School Dropout," "Born to Hand Jive," and "Greased Lightnin’." Don't miss the energetic crowd-pleaser that's fun for the whole family.

Tickets for “Grease” start at just $24.95 with dinner-and-show packages available from $34.95 and room-and-show packages from $49.90. VIP and group seating, as well as show packages, are all available through the Eldorado Showroom Box Office.

Performances are nightly except Monday with showtimes Sunday and Tuesday through Thursday at 7 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m., and Saturday at 7 and 9:30 p.m. (schedule is subject to change). For more information, call 800-648-5966 or visit eldoradoreno.com.

Tahoe Rim Trail Offers Free Guided Summer Hikes

With Summer in full swing, the Tahoe Rim Trail Association (TRTA) is taking advantage of the sunny weather by introducing hikers to some of the Lake Tahoe's most beautiful trails. Join TRTA as they explore the Tahoe Rim Trail on one of their many themed hikes. The hikes are great for all ages (shorter hikes being most appropriate for kids) and are an excellent way to exercise, socialize, and learn about the great outdoors in the Tahoe Basin.

The next free hike, themed "Birds, Views, and Falls," is August 3 and allows hikers to search for birds and spectacular scenery, and makes a stop at Galena Falls. Possible bird sightings include Green-tailed Towhee, Clark's Nutcracker, Mountain Bluebird (Nevada's state bird), and MacGillvray's Warbler. The 6.5-mile hike is moderately difficult and participants are asked to bring a lunch as it will be eaten on the trail.

On August 14, the "Deuter and Tahoe Mountain Sports Pack Testing Trek" allows attendees to test the latest gear. Participants can test packs of all shapes and sizes including light hydration haulers, dependable daypacks, and expedition size packs, and can test multiple packs throughout the hike. The 6-mile hike includes a pack fitting discussion and photo opportunities of Galena Falls.

August 18, families can explore the outdoors during the "Van Sickle Bi-State Hike." The 3-mile hike provides a fantastic view of Lake Tahoe and even passes by a waterfall. On the return trip, attendees can stop by Explore Tahoe to enjoy a light lunch and browse the gift shop.

To sign up for a free guided hike or to learn more about TRTA, visit tahoerimtrail.org

Summer Hike Schedule:

August 3: Birds, Views, and Falls Hike
August 14: Deuter and Tahoe Mountain Sports Pack Testing Trek
August 18: Van Sickle Bi-State Park Hike
August 20: Peak of the Rim Full Moon Hike (TRTA Members Only)
August 24 & 25: Backpacking 101 - Gray Lake
September 7: Tahoe Meadows to Lake Tahoe/Diamond Peak Vista Point
September 19: Full Moon Hike (TRTA Members Only)
September 20: Peak of the Rim Full Moon Hike (TRTA Members Only)
September 21: Mark Twain Hike

Belmont Courthouse Labor Day Celebration

 

On Saturday, August 31, the Friends of the Belmont Courthouse is having its Labor Day celebration in the central Nevada town, Belmont. The celebration allows attendees to enjoy a barbecue, live music, art shows, games, and tours of the historic Belmont Courthouse. The event aims to raise funds to aid the protection, restoration, and preservation of the courthouse, which was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.

The Friends of the Belmont Courthouse—a non-profit organization that aims to save the building—is making strides restoring the courthouse, recently installing several new windows. The new windows are built according to state historic preservation standards and greatly enhance the aesthetic qualities of the courthouse. According to Donna Motis, president of the Friends of the Belmont Courthouse, more improvements are on the way. "We have commitments from private donors for four more windows," Motis says. "And our group has raised enough funds at this time to replace an additional three more."

You can learn more about Friends of the Belmont Courthouse in the July/August issue of Nevada Magazine, or by visiting belmontcourthouse.org.

Friends of the Belmont Courthouse 
P.O. Box 985 Tonopah, NV 89049
belmontcourthouse.org 
775-482-3968

Las Vegas Restaurant Week

Veal T-bone at Silverado Steakhouse

Friday, August 23 kicks off the seventh annual fall Las Vegas Restaurant Week, which runs through August 30. The event provides connoisseurs of culinary creations with a unique selection of multi-course local cuisines, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Three Square Food Bank.

Diners have the chance to visit any participating restaurant during the specified dates to enjoy a meal created specifically for the week-long event.

Beginning Thursday, August 8, diners can visit www.helpoutdineoutlv.org for an updated list of fall Las Vegas Restaurant Week participants and menu details. The site allows diners to search by type of cuisine, restaurant location, or donation amount.

Some restaurants that have participated in the past include: Andre’s Restaurant and Lounge, Bagatelle, Don Vito’s, LAVO Italian Restaurant, Mesa Grill, Primarily Prime Rib, Silverado Steakhouse, Table 34, and TAO Asian Bistro.

Roast Prime Rib from Primarily Prime Rib

As Southern Nevada's only food bank, Three Square provides more than more than 24 million pounds of food and grocery products (approximately 18 million meals) per year to nearly 600 partners including non-profit and faith-based organizations, schools, and feeding sites throughout Southern Nevada.

CANFEST

On August 24, celebrate all that is canned beer during the fifth annual CANFEST. As the worlds first international canned beer festival, CANFEST is held in the Peppermill Resort Hotel's 62,000-square-foot Tuscany Ballroom, and features dozens of breweries from around the world, a live band, DJ, and a revamped VIP area. Attendees enjoy unlimited tasting of canned beer from breweries including Anderson Valley Brewing Company, Sun King Brewing Company, Oskar Blues, and more.

Truly an ode to canned beer, CANFEST celebrates the ever-growing trend of canning beer and its benefits, such as protecting taste, lightening travel loads, and convenient packaging.

General admission tickets are $35 in advance, or $40 at the door, and allow event access from 7-10 p.m. VIP tickets, which include a dinner buffet and private beer booths, are also available for $60, and allow attendees to enjoy the event from 6-10 p.m. Tickets are on sale now at CRAFT Wine and Beer, 775 Gastropub Restaurant, and the Peppermill Resort Hotel Box Office in Reno.

A portion of the proceeds benefit the Reno Bike Project, a non-profit bicycle shop that promotes and educates the community on the importance of bicycle use. CANFEST offers beer lovers a chance to attend the festival for free by donating a new or used bicycle to the Reno Bike Project through August 2.

CANFEST VIP tickets are also awarded to those who purchase a Reno Bike Project Commuter Membership. The CANFEST VIP Membership package is a $160 value offered at $100 during the CANFEST Bike Drive campaign.

Arts In Bloom

On Saturday, July 20, the 11th annual Arts In Bloom art-and-wine festival returns to Victorian Square in Sparks. From 11 a.m.–7 p.m., art and wine lovers can spend the day sipping fine wine and shopping for art and jewelry. The free event showcases the work of more than 30 of the region’s most renowned artists. Paintings, woodwork, glasswork, pottery, jewelry, and unique handcrafted gifts are just a few of the items that are available for purchase.

Attendees 21 and older who wish to sample from more than 30 varieties of wine will be able to purchase a wrist band and commemorative glass for $20. The tasting, which runs from 3-7 p.m, offers wines ranging from a light pinot grigio to a hearty red zinfandel. The event also features a fashion show, hosted by Outlets at Legends in Sparks.

Arts In Bloom is a featured event of Artown, the Reno-Sparks area’s month-long celebration of art, theater, and music.

Grow Your Own, Nevada!

This summer, the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension is teaching Nevadans how to grow safe, fresh, organic produce at home and in school and community gardens without spending a lot of money. The "Grow Your Own, Nevada!" classes are scheduled every Monday through August 26, and focus on "back-to-basics" techniques for producing plentiful harvests. Designed to get Nevadans of all ages active outdoors, "Grow Your Own, Nevada!" welcomes all students, even ones who may not have considered learning to garden before.

"Many communities in Nevada are considered "food deserts," because they have limited access to fresh, healthy foods," said Heidi Kratsch, Cooperative Extension horticulture specialist. "We’re trying to change that by offering these courses to help Nevadans turn their backyards, schoolyards, and community spaces into sustainable, edible gardens."

Classes run from 2:30 - 4:30 p.m., and can be attended live in Reno, or via video conference at extension offices throughout the state. Classes in Reno are $15 per person, or $50 to attend all eight. Local K-12 teachers may attend classes for free with proper identification. All other locations, where classes will be available via video conference, fees vary from free to $15 per course. When registering for classes, click here to fill out the online form, or call the cooperative extension office directly (listed below).

Classes include:
July 8: A Community of Gardeners Film & Panel Discussion

July 15: Composting in Small Places

July 22: Reducing Food Safety Risks in Home, School, and Community Gardens

July 29: Kids in the Garden

Aug. 5: What’s Wrong with My Plant?

Aug. 12: Urban Organic Farming

Aug. 19: Native Plants for Garden Pollinators

Aug. 26: Garden Design & Function

Classes are available at the following Cooperative Extension offices:
815 N. Second St., Battle Mountain, 775-635-5565

2621 Northgate Lane, Ste. 15, Carson City, 775-887-2252

701 Walnut St., Elko, 775-738-7291

701 S. Main St., Eureka, 775-237-5326

111 Scheckler Road, Fallon, 775-423-5121

1325 Waterloo Lane, Gardnerville, 775-782-9960

314 Fifth St., Hawthorne, 775-945-3444

810 Sixth St., Lovelock, 775-273-2923

100 Academic Way, Owyhee, 775-385-9164

1651 E. Calvada Blvd., Pahrump, 775-727-5532

4955 Energy Way, Reno, 775-784-4848

1 Frankie St. Old Courthouse, Tonopah, 775-482-6794

1085 Fairgrounds Road, Winnemucca, 775-623-6304

504 S. Main St., Yerington, 775-463-6541

Buildings, Bites, and Brews

On July 13, Reno's newest addition to the Dine the District Food Tour gives attendees a whole new way to experience an array of different culinary creations and locally brewed beer, all while learning the history of some of downtown Reno's most unique architecture. Referred to as the event "where foodies come to feast," Buildings, Bites, and Brews brings over 15 businesses together to present different tasty options from some of Reno's finest restaurants and taverns. For beer selection, Buildings, Bites, and Brews is pairing up with the Brewers Cabinet, who is donating local beers.

Before the feast commences, for an additional $10, attendees can enjoy an informative one-hour tour with locally renowned author and historian Alicia Barber from 12-1 p.m.

The main event runs from 1-4 p.m., and tickets are $20 per person if purchased in advance, and $25 the day of the event. Tickets can be purchased online, however, they are limited. Redeem tickets by presenting a receipt at the new Reno Tahoe Visitor Center located in the Reno eNVy store.

If you still want to learn more about the area after the feast, there is a free book signing by authors at the Reno/Tahoe Visitor Center, featuring Alicia Barber, who wrote Reno's Big Gamble, and Chris and Courtney Meredith, authors of Reno's Riverwalk District Images of America.

Participating Locations:
Campo- Food only
Chocolate Bar - Food only
Fuego - Food only
Noble - Food & Beer- (vegetarian option)
Pizanos - Food only
Pizza Reno - Food & Beer
Rounds Bakery - Food only
Thai Corner - Food only- (vegetarian option)
Z Pie - Food & Beer
Wild River Grille - Food & Beer
Java Jungle - Food
Jungle Vino - Beer

Death Valley Celebrates Centennial of the Hottest Air Temperature Ever Recorded

The original Death Valley weather station.

On July 10, 1913, a scorching temperature was recorded in Death Valley National Park. A measurement of 134 degrees marked the highest air temperature ever recorded on the planet. On July 10, 2013, Death Valley National Park, in cooperation with the National Weather Service (NWS), is hosting a celebration of the 100th anniversary of the sweltering record.

The event, which takes place at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center in Death Valley National Park, features NWS meteorologists and National Park Service Rangers who will discuss why Death Valley is so hot and everyday tips to survive in the hot climate. Following the discussions, attendees can participate in a ritual that has occurred daily since 1911 by accompanying Death Valley Rangers to the weather station to observe the daily temperature.

With the current heatwave across the region, Death Valley may soon claim a new record high. A temperature of 129 degrees was recorded on Sunday, June 30, 2013, breaking the previous June record of 128 degrees, set in 1994.

Because of the extremely hot temperatures, the National Park Service cautions summertime visitors to Death Valley to take proper safety measures, including drinking plenty of water and limiting time spent outdoors.

Star Spangled Sparks

The 12th annual Star Spangled Sparks celebration returns to the Sparks Marina, Victorian Square, and John Ascuaga's Nugget July 4, for another year of family entertainment, food and drink vendors, and, of course, the region's most spectacular fireworks display.

Among this year’s attractions at the Sparks Marina are the Model Dairy milk carton boat races, free tethered hot air balloon rides, a fun run/walk, a pancake breakfast, climbing wall, and a display of army and air force vehicles that kids can explore.

A highlight of the event each year is the Sparks Idol talent competition. Sparks Idol starts at 11 a.m., and showcases the regions most talented singers, dancers, comedians, and performers in front of thousands of attendees.

The fun moves from the Sparks Marina to Victorian Square at 4 p.m., featuring the Buddy Emmer Band playing on the main stage at the Nugget from 5-9:30 p.m. At 9:45 p.m., look to the skies over the Nugget for the best fireworks display in Northern Nevada.

There is a free shuttle running between the Outlets at Legends and the Nugget from 6-11 p.m.

Get Your Kicks on Route 66

June 28 marks the opening of a new exhibit at one of Las Vegas' premier family adventure parks, Springs Preserve. In 1946, the popular song "(Get Your Kicks On) Route 66" hit the airwaves, immortalizing the road for decades. Springs Preserve is celebrating the iconic road with its new exhibit, "Next Exit: Route 66." The exhibit showcases how Las Vegas artists Su Limbert, Todd Duane Miller, Andreana Donahue, Justin Favela, and JW Caldwell have interpreted Route 66 using a variety of different mediums.

As the most famous road in American history, Route 66 stretches more than 2,400 miles and crosses eight states. Established on November 11, 1926, the road has since become popularized for connecting “Old America” (the East Coast and Midwest) to “New America” (referred to as the “Sunbelt”).

The exhibit runs through September 15 and is open to the public 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets are free for Springs Preserve members. Visit the website for general-admission prices. Discount rates are given for Nevada residents, students, military personnel, and seniors.

"Next Exit: Route 66"
Springs Preserve
springspreserve.org
702-822-7700

First Flight in Ely Centennial Celebration

In July 1913, aviator Frank Burnside took the first airplane flight in Ely (second airplane flight in the entire state), taking place just 10 years after the Wright brothers flew for the first time.

On Friday, July 5, the 100-year anniversary of this first flight is celebrated at Ely's Nevada Northern Railway Museum. The museum hosts an unveiling of a six-foot replica of the original plane, a steam-train ride, as well as a presentation by Burnside's grand nephew.

The event also features the "Kick up your Heels" dance with music by Steve "The Mustang" Campbell. The dance is free and cocktails will be served; attendees must be 21 and older.

On Saturday, July 6, there will be a free pancake breakfast at the Ely Airport.

Kingston Days

The town of Kingston normally celebrates with their annual fireman's picnic and fundraiser. However, being that 2013 is Kingston's sesquicentennial, they have expanded the annual fireman's picnic and fundraiser into the Kingston Days event.

Kingston Days, August 2-4, is a celebratory weekend of events hosted and staffed by members of the Kingston Volunteer Fire Department, the Kingston Fire Association, and their families.

The festival kicks off opening night with fireworks at Kingston Pond. Free camping is available all three nights at Kingston Park.

The following day, attendees can enjoy an event-packed schedule including a fishing derby, fire department picnic, bingo, gun raffle, horseshoe tournament, rubber-duck race, music festival, and more. The night winds down with an all-you-can-eat spaghetti dinner.

On Sunday, a pancake breakfast, ATV poker run, and a rib and chili dinner keep folks occupied.

The Kingston Volunteer Fire Department's picnic has been held annually for more than 20 years. All proceeds from Kingston Days benefit the fire department. 

Kingston Days
kingstonnevada.org
775-964-1034

Great Basin National Park: Revisited

Stella Lake Summer Day, by Lady Jill Mueller

On Friday, June 21, the Nevada Historical Society — Nevada's oldest cultural institution — in Reno will host a free reception from 5 to 7:30 p.m. for Lady Jill Mueller, the artist featured in the new exhibit Great Basin National Park: Revisited. There will be refreshments and free admission to the galleries.

Interestingly, Mueller was featured in the February 1990 issue of Nevada Magazine in a department titled, "NEVADA ART & ARTISTS." Click on the image at left to view the 1990 article. Mueller's Reno exhibit, which will be on display until September 20, 2013 and then travel throughout the state, focuses on the beautiful painted landscape of Great Basin National Park.

The Nevada Historical Society museum is located on the University of Nevada, Reno campus. Hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Give Hope Foundation to Host Annual Golf Classic

Famous Hole 15 at LakeRidge Golf Course offers spectacular views of Reno.

The Give Hope Foundation is pleased to announce its 2013 annual golf tournament, the Give Hope Northern Nevada Golf Classic at LakeRidge Golf Course on Friday, May 31 at 1:30 p.m. This annual event raises money to assist local children and their families dealing with catastrophic childhood illnesses and provides an opportunity for community members to join together for a beautiful afternoon of golf, generosity, and fun.

Give Hope is operated 100 percent by volunteers. Ninety percent of all donations stay in Northern Nevada, and 10 percent are allocated for specific research projects at Children’s Hospital Oakland, where the majority of Northern Nevada children with catastrophic illnesses are sent for treatment.

To purchase a foursome, player spot, or sponsorship or to donate to the Give Hope Golf Classic, please contact Amanda Flangas at 775-250-2998 or visit givehopeonline.org or facebook.com/pages/Give-Hope-Foundation.

California Trail Days, May 18-19

Visit the California Trail Interpretive Center, and learn the stories of the pioneers who endured the 2,000-mile trek to California; some seeking land, some gold, others seeking adventure, and some for reasons we may never know.

California Trail Days is a free annual event at the California Trail Interpretive Center that celebrates the people whose lives were impacted by the westward movement. Trail Days will take place May 18-19. The theme of this year’s event is music. Los Californios will be performing, and there will be period music, a hurdy gurdy player, a Saturday night dance, a 19th-century doctor, historic firearm demonstrations, Dutch oven cooking, and gold panning.

Experience life-size dioramas, original murals, exhibits on the native peoples, and multimedia productions. Hike accessible trails, walk through a wagon encampment, and see a Shoshone Village. Hear the words of the pioneers, and learn of the successes of the Bidwell-Bartleson party and the events that led to the Donner Party disaster. Come see the Elephant at the California Trail Interpretive Center, where History Comes Alive.

The California Trail Interpretive Center, operated by the Bureau of Land Management, is located at the junction of the infamous Hastings Cutoff and the California Trail, eight miles west of Elko on I-80 at Hunter Exit 292. Visit californiatrailcenter.org and www.blm.gov/cv5c or call 775-738-1849 for more information.

Learn more about the history of the California Trail in this story from Nevada Magazine's September/October 2010 issue.

Dine The District Food Tour

Wild River Grille. Photo by @nevada_magazine on Instagram.

On Saturday, May 4, Reno Riverwalk Merchants Association, a coalition of more than 53 businesses located along the Riverwalk in downtown Reno, teamed up for a third time to organize the "Dine The District" (self-guided) Food Tour. Not only did guests have an opportunity to enjoy entertainment and a variety of culinary delights from the best downtown restaurants, the proceeds helped support the continued development of the Riverwalk District.

"Everybody benefits from a beautiful and active downtown river district," said Matt Polley, owner of Java Jungle. Rick Martinez, Riverwalk Merchants Association president and owner of West St. Wine Bar in the West Street Market, added: "The area hosts special events and concerts and builds memories for members of our community. Adding a vibrant dining district is yet another step in the right direction."

With the already popular monthly Wine Walk, the Dine The District food tours provide another opportunity for the community to enjoy the area. Some of the participants include Wild River Grille, Java Jungle, West St. Wine Bar, Campo, Noble Pie Company, Fuego for Tapas & Vino, Bumble Bee Blooms & Boutique, Imperial Bar & Lounge, and more.

With the Riverwalk quickly growing to be the culinary epic center of the city, the Merchants Association's goal is to create future quarterly food tours, progressive dining tours, a Riverwalk cookbook, and eventually an official Restaurant Week for the Reno area.

The cost was $20 per person pre-sale and $25 day of the event. The next Dine The District will be held July 13. For more info, visit renoriver.org or call 775-825-9255.

More great photos of the event here: http://instagram.com/ediblerenotahoe

Burlesque Hall of Fame Celebration

56TH ANNUAL BURLESQUE HALL OF FAME CELEBRATION SHOWCASES
LEGENDS, PIONEERS, AND INNOVATORS.

Ophelia Flame, 2012 BHoF 1st Runner Up

The Burlesque Hall of Fame’s 56th annual all-star Burlesque Showcase will take place Thursday, May 30 to Sunday, June 2 at the Orleans Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.

Imogen Kelly,
2012 BHoF Miss Exotic World

A unique entertainment and competition event, Burlesque Hall of Fame (BHoF) Weekend brings together the theatricality of neo-burlesque performance and the charm of classic striptease. Nightly showcases feature today’s top burlesque performers—female and male—from around the world, as well as “vintage vixens,” stars of the burlesque stage at the height of the art’s mid-20th century heyday.

“The Tournament of Tease is the Academy Awards of burlesque,” says Miss Exotic World 2012's Reigning Queen of Burlesque, Imogen Kelly (Sydney, Australia). “And the reunion showcase doesn’t just talk about burlesque’s history—it puts the people who made that history back on stage. The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend is the pre-eminent event celebrating this modern art form.”

With classes, discussion panels, and vending during the day and showcases each night, the BHoF Weekender appeals to fans and performers alike:

• Thursday’s Movers, Shakers, and Innovators show features international performances from burlesque’s cutting-edge.
• Friday’s 56th annual “Titans of Tease” Reunion brings together classic stars from burlesque’s heyday, showcasing vintage-style striptease.
• Saturday’s 23rd annual Tournament of Tease puts the world’s top neo-burlesque entertainers in competition for best debut, duo, groupn and boylesque categories, and for the coveted title “Miss Exotic World,” the Reigning Queen of Burlesque



Russel Bruner,
Best Boylesque

• Sunday’s All Stars & Icons gala rounds out the weekend with a spectacular line-up of inspirational icons and BHoF titleholders past and present.

Tickets are available starting April 5 via bhofweekend.com/ticketsales and at The Orleans Showroom Box Office the week of the show. Additional information can be found on BHoFWeekend.com.

About the Burlesque Hall of Fame
The Burlesque Hall of Fame is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to inspire and educate the public about the unique history and heritage of vintage American Burlesque.

Doubt: a Parable

By Cambria Roth

“Doubt can be a bond as powerful and sustaining as certainty,” says Father Flynn, a progressive priest at the heart of the play “Doubt: a Parable,” performing through March 23 at Brüka Theatre in downtown Reno.

The year is 1964 at the St. Nicholas Church School in the Bronx, and Sister Aloysius is a cold, stern nun who is determined to prove her doubts certain. Her religious beliefs are tested in her quest to prove the sexual misconduct by Father Flynn with a young black boy.

All of the students at the school enjoy spending time with the priest and gym teacher, Flynn. In comparison, most students are terrified of the seemingly cold-hearted nun Aloysius.

From the opening scenes, there is a well-formed camaraderie between Aloysius and Sister James. It is also obvious from that scene that Aloysius runs her school on the premise of fear. She lectures the bubbly James about her tendency to perform while teaching as she points out, “Good teachers don’t perform, they cause students to perform.”

James’ wide-eyed innocence and obliviousness is endearing. She brings personality to the performance as she questions whether she is showing off. Despite Aloysius' frigid demeanor, she still brings humor to the play with statements such as, “It’s as if you’re on a broadway stage.”

"Doubt: a Parable" flier

The play takes on a more serious note, as James confesses that Flynn took a young black boy, Donald, to the monastery alone, and Donald came back to class scared with alcohol on his breath.

From this point on, Aloysius is convinced that the priest molested Donald, and she is determined to prove his misconduct. She confronts the priest, with James at her side.

Sister Aloysius’ campaign against the priest is fueled entirely by her own suspicions and no hard evidence, but she will stop at nothing. She will even step away from God for justice to be done.

From Flynn’s first sermon — and continuing sermons throughout the play — the audience is connected to his boyish humor and easygoing personality. The audience is also connected to Aloysius’ biting sarcasm and caring heart, which is initially concealed by her cold exterior.

Throughout the play, the viewer is kept guessing as to whether Flynn is guilty. The play switches between scenes of charming sermons from Flynn and dramatic discussions between Aloysius and James, allowing the audience to examine both sides of the situation and doubt both the priest’s actions and the nun’s accusations.

The play leads to several questions: How far is Aloysius willing to go? How could Flynn, a likable man, do something so terrible? Is it only Aloysius’ old-fashioned conservative mind that is accusing Flynn? Who does the audience believe?

“Doubt, A Parable” eventually leaves audiences not only doubting Flynn and Aloysius, but doubting their own beliefs as well.

A BIGGER Night in the Country

A Night in the Country Music Festival kicks off its 12th year with some of the nation’s hottest country music artists—including Eli Young Band, Billy Currington, Randy Houser, Casey James, JT Hodges, and Due West. This year’s festival takes place July 26-27 at the Lyon County Fairgrounds in Yerington. More info below.

 

Stop the Car, Dad! is First Exhibit at New Laxalt Gallery

"Once a Lake, near Fallon," by Erik Lauritzen

Stop the Car, Dad! is the debut exhibit featured in the new Laxalt Building Gallery at the offices of Nevada Magazine in Carson City, through March 1. The new art space is in the historic building that rings chimes throughout the community at 401 North Carson Street. The gallery is open to the public during normal business hours Monday through Friday, and admission is free.

While traveling the often-deserted roads of Nevada, renowned photographer Erik Lauritzen depicted quirky evidence of humans affecting Western landscape. Thirty of his photographs included in Stop the Car, Dad! capture life across the Silver State.

“From abandoned military installations to roadside architecture that reflects local flair, the sites Lauritzen photographed reveal a certain irony often underlying everyday encounters in the Nevada desert,” says Fran Morrow of the Nevada Arts Council. The council organized the show as part of its Nevada Touring Initiative – Traveling Exhibition Program that brings diverse art projects to communities across Nevada and beyond.

Stop the Car, Dad! is named for the moment of curiosity that often accompanies the discovery of a roadside attraction. The images record places where development gave way to dilapidation. Now abandoned, these way stations are evidence of the “boom and bust” Nevada lifestyle. In the photo collection, solitary signs and deserted buildings emerge as intriguing records of history.

Highly regarded as a representational and landscape photographer, Lauritzen was also considered an abstract artist working with photography. While maintaining a full teaching load, curating a gallery, and conducting workshops throughout Nevada and the region, he continued to challenge himself as an artist until his death in 2007.

In partnership with the Nevada Commission on Tourism and Nevada Magazine, the new Laxalt Building space will house occasional exhibits. Read more about the Traveling Exhibition Program in the January/February 2013 edition of Nevada Magazine, on newsstands now.