Amarillo Magazine | November 2011

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION: DID YOU KNOW?

amarillomagonline.com November 2011

Pass Pie the

Eye Candy

Tempt yourself this holiday season with glitzy costume jewelry. Sparkly gems, colorful stones and ornate beadwork make a delicious addition to any outfit.

Holidays Made Easier

With the Holidays around the corner, are you wondering how you are going to do it all again this year?

Robin Huffaker Vigliano and Toi Huffaker Key of Biti Pies

Stocked with Love Grocery shopping is often considered a chore, but for the clients of Catholic Family Service’s InterFaith Hunger Project, it’s an errand they look forward to and cherish.

AMARILLO GLOBE-NEWS

Thank you,

Amarillo

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contents

On the cover 36 Pass the Pie Chocolate meringue, coconut cream, buttermilk, pecan, cherry, apple. Are you craving a sweet slice of pie yet? Read about three local families who have made baking pies a part of their daily routine. photos by Shannon Richardson

Features

25 Eye Candy

Tempt yourself this holiday season with glitzy costume jewelry. Sparkly gems, colorful stones and ornate beadwork make a delicious addition to any outfit.

30 Holidays Made Easier

photo by Jeff Harbin, Life of Riley Photography

With the Holidays around the corner, are you wondering how you are going to do it all again this year? Tear out organizer Nancy Altschwager’s list of pre-and-post-holiday tips to help you reduce your stress level and meet your holiday goals.

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49 Stocked with Love

Grocery shopping is often considered a chore, but for the clients of Catholic Family Service’s InterFaith Hunger Project, it’s an errand they look forward to and cherish.

54 New Traditions

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Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

Thanksgiving marks the beginning of holiday indulgence and with Grandma’s rich stuffing and Mom’s buttery pecan pie, how are you supposed to resist?

Cook up some new Turkey Day family traditions by recreating holiday favorites with health-conscious ingredients.

sections

Audrey Rivera, manager of Catholic Family Service’s grocery, embraces a client.

Contributors..............................8 Online Page............................12 Out & About...........................14 The Way I See It....................22 Dress Code..............................25 Home.........................................30 Special Feature.....................49

Inspire........................................52 What’s Cooking?..................54 Events........................................63 Let’s Eat!....................................73 Retro Rewind.........................82 Spotlight..................................84

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contributors

Shannon Richardson

Andy Chase Cundiff

Shannon shot “Eye Candy” on page 25, the cover story, “Pass the Pie” on page 36, “New Traditions” on page 54, and “Let’s Eat!” on page 73. He has been photographing commercial/advertising work for the past 14 years. His photography has won numerous Addy awards including three best of shows as well as being featured in the Graphis Photo Annual 2001, JPG Magazine and Shots. He recently published a photographic book about Route 66. See Shannon’s work at shannonrichardson.com and route66americanicon.com.

Andy, a local artist, singer and songwriter, has called Amarillo home for 20 years. He plays at a variety of venues around the Panhandle. See Andy’s artwork every month with Jon Mark Beilue’s column (page 22). Contact Andy at andychasemusic.com.

Heather Ladd Heather photographed some of the events in “Out & About” beginning on page 14. She earned a B.A. in English from West Texas A&M University. She and husband, Micah, have three children. Heather is a teacher for Boys Ranch ISD and has been a professional photographer for two years. See Heather’s work at heatherladdphotography.com.

Andy and T Price

Neil Starkey

Jeff Harbin

Neil photographed some of the events in “Out & About” beginning on page 14. He has a degree in television production from Rogers State College in Claremore, Ok. He has been a photographer for more than 20 years. After moving to Amarillo in 2005, Neil started his video and photography business, For the Generations. Contact Neil at ftgvideo.com.

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Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

Andy and T created the recipes for “New Traditions” on page 54. Together, they own Real Food Café on Sixth Street and also operate a catering company specializing in weddings and private parties. Andy and T have been creating and serving their “made-fromscratch food with a wholesome flare” for more than 10 years. Find Andy and T on Facebook under Real Food Company.

Jeff photographed “Stocked with Love” on page 49 and “Spotlight” on page 84. He is a husband, father of two little boys, a firefighter with the Amarillo Fire Department and the owner of Life of Riley Photography. He was born and raised in Amarillo and is proud to work in the community. His passion for art and the creative process began as a child and led him to his love of photography. To see Jeff’s work, visit lifeofrileyphotography.com.

Sunset Art Gallery of Amarillo “Friendliest Gallery in Texas”

Featured Artist: Nelda Sheets

First Friday Artwalk November 4, 2011 5-9 p.m.

Sculptors Cathey Delisle James Roybal

Jim Gilmore Bev Steigerwald

Jim Ward Don Webster

Painters Carl J. Smith Pat Dagnon Guido Frick Ramon Kelley V. Noe

Anita Louise West Joshua Sorenson Benjamin Kelley Bonnie Williams Cecy Turner

Wes Hyde Bud Heiss Richard Alan Nichols Rick Howell Charles Bunnell

Fine Art and Sculptures 3701 Plains Blvd. #122 Amarillo, Texas

(806) 353-5700

www.sunsetartgalleryofamarillo.com Voted Best Gallery in Amarillo! - Thank you Art Lovers

Publisher

Les Simpson

Editor

Michele McAffrey 806.345.3256 michele.mcaffrey@amarillo.com

Feature Writer

Drew Belle Zerby 806.345.3223 drew.zerby@amarillo.com

Tyler Mitchell

Creative Services Supervisor

Designer

Darren Hendricks

Graphic Artists

Matthew Anderson Brian Bussey

VP Advertising/ Revenue Development

Mike Distelhorst

Classified Sales Manager

Cindy Brown

Retail Sales Manager

Jaime Pipkin

Online Sales Manager

Kendra Barrett

Major/National Accounts Manager

Dewey Shanks

Account

Representatives

Vicky Coronado Sharon Denny Trish Faris Cory Griggs Cindy Ledesma Rick Miller Michelle Parsons Natasha Reavis Kristi Slocum Marcy Weldon

Sarena Poor

Advertising Sales Support Supervisor

Sales Assistants

Lynsie Johnson Yolanda Navarette Leasa Salazar

To advertise in Amarillo Magazine, please contact Jaime Pipkin at 806.345.3432 or jaime.pipkin@amarillo.com.

To advertise on amarillomagonline.com, please contact Kendra Barrett at 806.345.3472 or kendra.barrett@amarillo.com.

Production Director Division Controller

Mike O’Connor Mike Clayton

900 S. Harrison St., Amarillo, TX 79101 806.376.4488 • amarillomagonline.com Amarillo Magazine is a monthly publication of Amarillo Globe-News Custom Publishing. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written consent. Letters to the Editor are welcome but may be edited due to space limitations.

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Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

editor’s letter

When I was growing up, the baker in our household was my dad. I have many warm memories of November days spent baking. Dad had the uncommon gift of making work look more like fun, and anyone he tapped for chores around our house, be it me and my sister, visiting cousins or his grandchildren, would find themselves cooking all day, building a shed in the backyard, planting his garden or any variety of do-it-yourself tasks.

Anyway, every Holiday season, Dad would break out my grandmother’s white bread recipe and we’d bake. And bake. We’d deliver miniature loaves of bread to the priests and nuns at my childhood church, neighbors, coworkers and friends. I can close my eyes and recall the delicious smell of freshly-baked, warm bread.

I couldn’t wait for the first slice slathered with butter. We’d make cookies (most of them edible and nearly all of them kind of misshapen and a bit ugly), pies and anything else that struck his fancy.

When I married my husband, Dad welcomed my new stepsons with open arms – and put them right to work. I can imagine him thinking, “Great! A whole troop of worker bees!” And like my son and anyone else who’d been a part of his life before them, my stepsons fell for it. Spending time with Grandpa completing his projects wasn’t work; it was fun!

So he continued our tradition of ugly cookies and holiday baking, something all the grandchildren looked forward to every year. I got my sweet tooth from my dad but like him, I’ve grown to need less and less sugar as a daily fix. As Dad got older, it became a running joke at family dinners when we knew he was bringing dessert: “Did he put sugar in the pie this time?” We gagged down many a dry and bitter pie while he happily ate his share.

Like my father, each of the couples we interviewed this month for “Pass the Pie” made the work of running a bakery feel more like living a dream. As Skeeter from Biti Pies told us, “If you do something you really like you never have to work a day in your life…” I was refreshed and inspired to see local business owners succeeding because of their passion for something they really love doing.

Fortunately for all of us, our city is the type of town where small businesses thrive. Loyal customers abound and I believe they’re drawn to the enthusiasm, drive and entrepreneurial spirit needed to take a dream and make it a thriving enterprise.

I’ll think of each of them as I set about my holiday baking this year. I’m still not much of a pie expert but the tips they shared with us made me think maybe I could give pie baking a shot. If I’m wrong and I simply don’t have what it takes (namely patience) to craft perfect, flaky crust, I know exactly where to find the folks that do!

Keep an eye out for Facebook updates closer to Thanksgiving. Each of the bakeries in our cover story generously offered prizes for our readers that we’ll be giving away. Satisfy your craving for sweets or get a leg up on your holiday baking by winning fresh pies and cakes from Belmar Bakery & Cafe, Biti Pies and Village Bakery Café. And if you haven’t already, please like our page at facebook.com/ amarillomagazine.

As always thanks for reading,

online page

amarillomagonline.com Cover Story Extended Photo Gallery

Online Exclusive Pies from the Village Bakery Café

Find out how Mikey the red kangaroo is getting along at his new home at the Amarillo Zoo.

Holiday Helpers

Register to win

Little Brown House giveaway

Last month’s winner was Dawn Schacher.

Let the bakers featured in “Pass the Pie” give you a hand during the holidays. We’ll have prizes from each one, so visit us on Facebook for more details.

Fancy the housewares featured in “What’s Cooking?” Or are you just looking to add to your kitchen collection? Every month, one lucky reader will receive a $50 gift certificate to Little Brown House. Register to win at amarillomagonline.com/contest.

Last month’s winner was Ann Weld.

The winners of Jason Boyett’s Pocket Guide books were Mindy Choate and Janet Evans.

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Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

Submit your name and contact information to amarillomagonline.com/ contact this month for a chance to win a $100 gift card to Dillard’s.

We’re social!

Follow us (@AmarilloMag) on Twitter and like our Facebook page, Amarillo Magazine.

Contests, giveaways and more!

Like our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/amarillomagazine, to be eligible for prizes and giveaways.

photo courtesy of Amarillo Zoo

See more photos by Shannon Richardson from “Pass the Pie.”

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out & about

Amarillo Area CASAblanca Gala

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Amarillo Area CASA held its 11th annual gala at Vintage Autohaus on September 9. Guests channeled partygoers of the 1940s at the benefit, which featured live entertainment and live and silent auctions.

1. Nancy Johnson, Robert Crabtree, Amy and Greg Smith, Janie Archer and James Baker, Jr. 2. Donna and Randall Sims 3. Mary and Dave Rausch, and Barbara Richardson 4. Shanny Dow and Kay Craighead 5. Sterling Parr, Remington McDermott and Chloe Parr photos by Neil Starkey

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Culinary Bash

On September 17, the 14th Annual Culinary Bash was held at TPMHMR. Benefiting clients of Texas Panhandle Centers, restaurants and cooking teams demonstrated their talents at the event hosted by Volunteer Services Counsel. Live music by Insufficient Funds and a silent auction was included.

1. Kenny and Leisa Hand 2. Jerry Johnson and Gayla Christian 3. Anne Jones and Keri Vigil 4. Anna and David Isom 5. Adrian and Vette Meander, and Ravon and Herace Stacey

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photos by Neil Starkey

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Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

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Thanks, Amarillo!

Best Mattress/Bedding Store

Tripp’s Harley-Davidson general manager, Jason Tripp, values the quality of Amarillo Magazine.

“It’s an exclusive magazine,” he says. “It’s an upper-end magazine and it’s well put together.”

Jason says the dealership advertises with the magazine to attract a broad client base.

“We focus on that ad more to get people in here that wouldn’t ordinarily come in, not so much focused on the motorcycles, but on the merchandise that we sell on top of that.”

Employees ask customers how they heard about the store and Jason says Tripp’s monthly ads have brought in new shoppers to the family business.

D&D MATTRESS

“People come in here to look at the merchandise and… it could lead to a motorcycle sale one day. Got to get them in here.”

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BEST 2011 OF AMARILLO

Call Jaime Pipkin at 345.3432 to advertise your business in Amarillo Magazine.

November 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

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out & about

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Texas Panhandle Honor Flight Send Off and Reception

America Supports You Texas hosted a send off and reception September 13 at Tascosa High School. Texas Panhandle Honor Flight, a three-day trip, takes veterans from World War II, Korea and Vietnam to visit war memorials in Washington, D.C. as an act of gratitude for their military service.

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1. David King, and Kaye and Ryan Meza 2. Albert and Neva Barker 3. Justin Patters, Jack Barnes, Larry Lewis, Rhonda Wilshire and Tammy Lewis 4. JoAnne and Bill Snider 5. Michael Bloomer, Kayla Kennedy, Yazmine Barley, Kassandra Sanchez, Marcus Walker and Cassandra Hernandez photos by Heather Ladd

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Komen Greater Amarillo Race for the Cure

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The 21st annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure took place September 24 in downtown Amarillo. Runners and walkers alike showed their support at the breast cancer awareness event by participating in the 5K competitive race or the Fun Run/Walk.

1. Tina Hall and Nita Bowsher 2. (back row) Olivia Reeves, Jane McFather, Abby and Ronald Reeves, and Emily and Eli Hunt (front row) Aly, Isabel and Aaron Hunt 3. Jenny Miller, Viva Pierson, Becky Coker, Chris Otterness and Mika Smith 4. Lauren Little, Shelby Foster and Tess Maxfield 5. Jay White and Stephen Romero

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photos by Chriselda

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Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

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out & about

Solid Gold Hits LIPS! Gala

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Community volunteers performed November 6 at the annual LIPS! Gala. Solid Gold Hits was the theme of the event benefiting children of Opportunity School. The evening featured hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and a silent auction along with a lip-sync show.

1. Rob Vartabedian and Lindsey Williams 2. Claudia Shelton, Dianne Hill and Jennifer McElreath 3. Lana Hollar, Trayce Henderson, Julie Godwin, Natalie Woods, Glenda Allen, Cindy Jones and Christy Wells 4. Chris Hinz, Chris Barnes, Jill Goodrich, Jim Blake Childers and Matthew Tavern 5. Mark Murray, Dominic Padilla and Jonathan Shelley

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photos by Heather Ladd

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Tales of Texas

On September 10, the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum presented Tales of Texas. Catered by Perini Ranch Steakhouse, potential and current PPHM members enjoyed an evening of dinner, music and stories.

1. Bill and Janis Weems 2. John McKinley 3. Billy Fred and Barry Jones 4. Jo Tyler Bagwell 5. Tom Perini, Dale Cronk, Suzanne Travis and Johnnie Hudsman photos by Neil Starkey

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Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

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November 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

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out & about

Tri-State Fair & Rodeo Gala

2

Guests gathered September 10 to celebrate the Tri-State Fair & Rodeo Gala. The annual event, held at the Amarillo National Center, showcased the finalists for the Amarillo Star talent competition and Kevin Fowler in concert and included silent and live auctions 1 benefiting scholarship programs for high school graduates.

1. Annie and John David Shannon 2. Shannon Wilson and Mishon Wright 3. Cynthia Williams, Wendy Winings and Jill Homen 4. Karen Latta, and Kellye and Lance Baker 5. Dave and Linda Eastlake photos by Heather Ladd

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Una Gran Cena

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Wesley Community Center hosted Una Gran Cena on September 29 at the Amarillo Civic Center Grand Plaza.

The 60th annual fundraiser benefiting the Methodist mission featured dinner and 1 live music.

1. Mitzy and George Veloz 2. Garry and Annette Nall, and John Fowler 3. Ashley and Robin McLaurin 4. Christina Hamilton, Sonia Sanchez, Veronica Rosas, Andy Martinez, Dafney Montanez and Keila Martinez 5. (front) Zuleica Varela, Fatima Rangal, Daniela Varela, Cynthia Garcia and Keila Martinez (back) Sarena San Miguel, Abigail Contreras, Magaly Guerrero, Itzayana Carrasco and Brenda Fernandez photos by Neil Starkey

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Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

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November 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

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the way i see it

Jon Mark Beilue

Thanksgiving, the middle child of holidays

L

et me be the first to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving. That sounds weird. Maybe because it’s likely still October as you flip through the pages of this magazine, and it’s still September as I write this.

But magazines, especially monthly ones, always have to cut in line and get ahead of the calendar. So it’s officially the November issue, which brings me to Thanksgiving. And so I come to praise the last Thursday of the month, not to go barreling past it with a quick nod on the way to Christmas.

Wishing anyone a Happy Thanksgiving sounds a bit contrived because very few actually do that unless it’s the Wednesday before, but it’s high time we do. Thanksgiving Day is the most unappreciated, underrated and quite possibly the best holiday we have.

Poor Thanksgiving is sandwiched between Halloween and Christmas. It’s like the middle child, never getting the attention it should. No one is arguing Christmas and its top place in the holiday pecking order, but Thanksgiving is overshadowed even by Halloween.

I’ve said this before, but if Christmas is Brad Pitt, and Halloween is George Clooney, then Thanksgiving is the Tom Hanks of holidays. It’s never splashy or gaudy. It doesn’t call attention to itself and never seems to be in the middle of a controversy. But it’s still very, very good.

I came to this conclusion in a rare moment of clarity several years ago. The tryptophan from the turkey was starting to kick in, the men flopped on furniture and the living room carpet like beached whales waiting for the Cowboys to kick off. The women were in the kitchen, staying just far enough away so there wouldn’t be some inane conversation between the sexes.

There was nothing but four days of R&R, punctuated by hours of football with Indian summer days in the ’60s. None of the overwrought stress and headaches that come with the commercialism of Christmas.

Yes, I will have another piece of pecan pie.

You’ve got to hand it to the Pilgrims. Maybe they did dress funny, but they hit on something back in 1621. They had left not-so-jolly old England the year before to escape religious persecution and the bland food.

So here they were, a year later, having crossed the Atlantic and in a strange land with no cable, but they were thankful. Thankful to be together. Thankful for God’s blessings. Thankful the Indians hadn’t used them for tomahawk practice.

So, in some form, for 390 years, we’ve paused in an attitude of gratitude to be thankful, to not take things for granted, to be much appreciative of what we have.

But we just don’t seem to be thankful enough for Thanksgiving. For many, it’s just an excuse to rest up for 3 a.m. shopping on Black Friday.

Every holiday deserves a good song. We can’t even get a decent song out of Thanksgiving. Is “We Gather Together” the best we can do? It’s

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Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

from a Dutch hymn from the 1500s.

How many movies about Christmas and Halloween? Hundreds, if not more. They even get their own billing. “The Christmas Story” is shown on a loop on TBS for 24 hours on Christmas. “Halloween” has been remade about a dozen times and now, crazed Michael Myers stumbles around with a butcher knife and an oxygen tank.

There’s one Thanksgiving movie – “Planes, Trains and Automobiles.”

Steve Martin and John Candy, like the holiday itself, starred in one overlooked, but great movie. But it’s just not enough. Thanksgiving deserves better.

For one thing, it’s on a Thursday. President Roosevelt made that official in 1941. No wonder he’s considered one of our greatest presidents, for that skillfully puts the four-day weekend into play. And if anyone has to work that Friday, other than those poor retail sales clerks, there’s so little going on that it seems like a holiday.

You know when Canada has its Thanksgiving? On a Monday. What are they thinking up there?

There’s no holiday that’s a better fit for football – America’s sport passion – than Thanksgiving and the days that follow. Thanksgiving is a football feast, going together like sweet and potatoes. And now it looks like the Detroit Lions might be decent, giving families across the country reason to offer more than an occasional 11 a.m. glance while waiting for the Cowboys. The NFL has even added a third game at night.

True, the TexasTexas A&M rivalry is on life support, and the Oklahoma-Nebraska game is dead. But there’re still other college rivalries, high school playoffs are really starting to heat up, and then it’s on to the NFL to wrap up the Thanksgiving long weekend.

Can you imagine a Thanksgiving in, say, April? Makes no sense.

Thanksgiving is simple and unpretentious. No one ever had to attend a spouse’s work Thanksgiving party. No one ever went through the hassle of putting up an inflatable Pilgrim in their front yard or fell off the roof stringing Thanksgiving lights.

Jon Mark Beilue is a Thanksgiving has columnist for the what all Americans Amarillo Globe-News. want: four-day weekend.

He can be reached at Football. Good food. jon.beilue@amarillo.com or 345.3318.

Simplified holiday cheer with a dash of gratefulness thrown in.

All together now: Happy Thanksgiving, everyone. am

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dress code

empt yourself this holiday season with glitzy costume jewelry. Sparkly gems, colorful stones and ornate beadwork make a delicious addition to any outfit.

photos by Shannon Richardson

November 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

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dress code

Previous page: Multi-color bead necklace $48, Possibilities Green jewel cuff $28, English Rose

Clockwise from top left: Turquoise lace ring $32, Possibilities Gold ball and pearl necklace $38, Et Cetera Drop earrings $5.99, Target Lavish necklace $249, Raffkind’s Clothiers Green stone ring $24.99, Silverland Dillard’s Collection brooch $25, Dillard’s Aqua stone earrings $29, Panache

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Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

Clockwise from top: Erica Lyons jeweled cuff $34; Anne Klein purple stone necklace $45, Dillard’s Lavish cuff bracelet $251, Raffkind’s Clothiers Chartreuse stone ring $32, Possibilities Black stone cuff $22, Panache m haskell necklace $48; m haskell purple bead stretch bracelets $28; m haskell chandelier earrings $28, Dillard’s

November 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

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dress code

Clockwise from top left: Amber stone cuff $45, Riley Blue Vintage charm necklace $48, Et Cetera Drop earrings $24, Possibilities Stone cuff $148, Et Cetera Silver and pearl ring $58, Possibilities Kenneth Cole jewel cuff $95, Dillard’s Turquoise drop necklace $88, Possibilities

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Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

Holiday Open House Friday & Saturday • November 11 & 12 Fun — Great Finds — Refreshments

Lizzie Mae’s Mercantile

3,000 sq. ft. of Gifts and Home Decor in a Most Unique Cabin Setting I-40 Exit (64) | Soncy, North to Amarillo Blvd. go West, 1¼ miles | 806-331-1710 | 10101 Amarillo Blvd. West

November 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

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Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011 illustrations by Matthew Anderson

Nancy Altschwager

How to keep the fun in and the stress out

party at your house, clean out your refrigerator/ freezer two to three weeks before the event. This will give you room for all the holiday goodies and help you see what you have versus what you need.

Clean out: If you’re having a holiday dinner or

all the items you are going to use: dishes, silverware, glasses, serving dishes, tablecloths, tables and chairs.

If you need to borrow, buy or rent items make these arrangements in advance.

Do inventory: This is also a good time to inventory

Food, food, food. Party, party, party.

ith the Holidays just around the corner, are you wondering how you are going to do it all again this year? Has the list-making-shopping-gift wrapping-mailing-cookingdecorating season become overwhelming? With some planning and organization you can have a stress-less holiday season.

Here are some pre-and-post-holiday tips to help you reduce your stress level and meet your holiday goals. Spread out your pre-holiday tasks.

Start with a master to-do list: This list includes everything that you need to do before the holidays. Then transfer your to-do items, one or two per day, to your calendar. Get started early making plans for each holiday.

W

Made Easier

Holidays

home

November 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

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try out a new or complicated recipe. Be realistic and make it easy on yourself. Do as much ahead of time as you can. Everyone wants the cook to be happy and relaxed… especially the cook!

Be realistic: Keep it simple. Now is not the time to

will save time and be less stressful for you. Items such as pies, cakes, cookies, rolls and side dishes can be defrosted, heated and served. The day before prepare as much of the food as you can. Put into serving dishes and cover (olives, pickles, dips) or cut and store in bags until ready to use.

accept help! If friends and family offer to bring something to eat or help set up or clean up, accept their offers. This allows your guests to participate in the festivities and they feel like part of the celebration (with the added bonus of cutting down on the amount of work the host/hostess has to do).

Delegate, delegate, delegate: Ask for and

Cook ahead: Pre-cooking and freezing your food

party make sure the table linens are clean and pressed. Do the same with the clothes you and your family are wearing.

Get set: The night before the event, set your serving, food and beverage tables.

thaw and cook food. Frozen turkeys take three to four days to thaw in the refrigerator. The first year I was married, I learned this lesson the hard way. I now cook my turkey the day before (I use cooking bags), slice and put in a 9x13-inch pan, add chicken broth and turkey drippings and cover. On Thanksgiving Day all I have to do is heat and transfer to the serving platter. It stays moist and I don’t have the mess of carving at the last minute.

Allow prep time: Give yourself plenty of time to

Press on: A few days before your dinner/

disposable containers and plastic bags. You can use these to store leftovers or to make take-home goodie bags for your friends and family. Don’t forget to purchase extra garbage bags.

Stock up: Buy extra

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on your list who loves flowers? Consider a holiday certificate to a local florist or nursery. Older adults love what I call “consumables,” gift certificates to a local restaurant or a basket of homemade or store-bought goodies.

Think outside the box: Is there someone

envelope makes returns easier. It also helps you keep on track with your budget.

Keep track: Keeping all your gift receipts in an

Make a list: Once Thanksgiving is over there are only a few weeks before the gift-giving season is here. These are the weeks our holiday activities and parties are happening so now is the time to start making your lists and checking them twice. I suggest you make two lists; the first one is: “Must Buy For” (family and friends).

The second list is: “Would Be Nice to Buy For” (coworkers, neighbors, service providers).

fun, but often it turns into a rush job. So set aside two evenings to wrap presents. The first night, wrap all the gifts that get mailed and gifts that will be exchanged before the holiday (friends, coworkers, etc.). As soon as the out-of-town gifts are wrapped, put them in the shipping box and mail the first week of December. The second gift wrapping night is for gifts that are going to be exchanged on the holiday. I love gift bags and tissue. They save time and money!

All wrapped up: Wrapping is supposed to be

people on your “Would Be Nice to Buy For” list can be easy. Everyone likes homemade treats especially during the holiday season. Take an evening and make cheese balls or hot chocolate mix, something simple that you can put in a holiday container. If you do not have time to cook or bake, give flavored teas or coffees in a holiday mug. Holiday candles, candies or a small live plant are effortless and appreciated options.

Get crafty: Shopping for the

each person on your “Must Buy For” list. Then write down ideas and start shopping now. The first gifts to shop for are the ones that have to be mailed.

Let your fingers do the shopping. The Internet and catalogues can be great options.

Start shopping: Put a dollar amount next to

Gifts, ribbon and paper - oh my!

home

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to pack up those decorations you got out a month ago, use these tips to help make this process easier now and next year when you unpack again: • Pack similar items together.

• Wrap fragile decorations in bubble wrap – it is reusable for years.

• Use plastic storage boxes; they keep the dust out, are sturdy and easy to label.

• Use Ziploc bags to contain small items.

• Label a box with its contents.

Pack up: When the holidays are over and it is time

keep in mind where they will be stored. Consider factors such as heat/cold, dust and dirt. Never store your candles and snow globes in the attic or garage.

The candles melt and the globes freeze and break (I know from experience).

Stow away: When storing your holiday items,

Decorate

Nancy Altschwager Nancy is the owner of Let’s Get Organized!.

She is a professional organizer with several years experience organizing homes and offices. Additionally, she helps seniors downsize and move into retirement communities. She is a member of the National Association of Professional Organizers.

Using these stress-reducing ideas will help you feel more in control throughout the holiday season and will give you time to focus on what matters – family, friends and the holiday spirit. am

to buy paper, ribbon and decorations for next year.

Most of these items are 50-75 percent off.

Think ahead: Right after Christmas is the best time

decorating the house is “divide and conquer.” Divide your decorations so that like things are together. For example, table top decorations are grouped together, the same for tree and outdoor decorations. This is the time to update your holiday décor. Recycle crumpled wrapping paper and get rid of old ribbon and bows. If a string of lights didn’t work last year, it won’t work this year. Check in to recycling options at local home stores and buy new.

Do the same with your other decorations.

If your holiday wreath is crushed, dusty and beyond repair, let it go. There are lots of new ones to choose from. Conquer your holiday stress by taking a hard look at what you want to use and what you do not. Make a list of the new decorations you need and shop just for those.

Divide and conquer: The key phrase for

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Cover Story

PassPie the

by Drew Belle Zerby

photos by Shannon Richardson

From top left: Pumpkin pie, Village Bakery Café Cranberry Apple pie, Village Bakery Café Buttermilk Chess pie, Belmar Bakery & Cafe Apple Crumble, Belmar Bakery & Cafe Pecan pie, Biti Pies Cherry pie, Belmar Bakery & Cafe Pumpkin pie, Belmar Bakery & Cafe French Apple pie, Village Bakery Café Buttermilk pie, Biti Pies Fantasy Cream pie, Village Bakery Café Pecan pie, Village Bakery Café

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C

hocolate meringue, coconut cream, buttermilk, pecan, cherry, apple. Are you craving a sweet slice of pie yet? Three local families have made baking pies a part of their daily routine. One turned heirloom recipes into a successful small business. Another transformed an aging, traditional bake shop into a full-line, retail bakery while two out-of-towners made Amarillo home as they have taken over the reins of a beloved, artisan bakery.

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Biti Pies

In the Huffaker household, baking pies is not just a Sunday afternoon pastime; it’s an around-the-clock profession. Using her mother’s recipes, Jueleda “Skeeter” Huffaker and her family have built Biti Pies, a business that has proved it’s anything but small.

During the late 1980s, Skeeter and her youngest daughter, Michel, nicknamed The Little Biti Girl, would bake pies at their home in Sundown while the three older children attended school. They made the miniature desserts in their kitchen and sold them to local convenience stores, never fathoming their future popularity.

“They took off,” Skeeter exclaims. “We couldn’t make enough. We did it for fun, but it turned into a big thing.”

In 2000 the family moved to Spearman and Skeeter, following in her mother’s footsteps, opened a restaurant, The Panhandle Diner, and was able to produce the pies there. Six years later, the family purchased an old home off Sixth Street in Amarillo and transformed it into a bakery.

But at first, things weren’t easy as pie, Skeeter says.

“Nobody knew what it was,” she says of the shop when it opened in 2007. But today, “everybody in Amarillo now knows what a Biti Pie is.

We’ve come a long way.”

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Tips • Handle the crust as much you want until you add the water, and then the more you handle it, the tougher it will get.

• Ingredients need to be at room temperature.

• Seal meringue all the way to the crust. Otherwise it will shrink.

• Grab [crust] mix and make a ball. If it won’t break apart, it’s too greasy. If it won’t come together, there’s too much flour.

– Jueleda “Skeeter” Huffaker, co-owner Biti Pies

Favorite Kitchen Gadget • Tracing wheel (a sewing tool)

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Skeeter, along with the rest of Biti Pies’ baking crew that includes her sister-in-law, Robin Vigliano, her daughter, Toi Key, and her son Aaron’s wife, Cristina, arrive at the bakery between 7 and 7:30 a.m.

Preparing an average of 600 to 700 pies daily, which involves making the dough, meringue and everything in between from scratch, is what Toi describes as “Huffaker hard.” Despite the long, tedious hours, they treasure spending time together and believe in their product.

“If you do something you really like you never have to work a day in your life… We all get along and everyone cares about the quality so I couldn’t find better employees,” Skeeter says as she watches the heirs of Biti Pies artfully sculpt meringue over pie crusts. “And in the future it will be theirs.”

Long before Skeeter and her husband, Mike, began the business, Aaron realized the potential of the pies when he and a group of kids in Spearman sold them to raise money to build a skate park.

“I don’t eat [the pies] very often but when I do, I remember why people buy them,” says the operations manager. “Whenever I eat one, I say, ‘that’s better than I remember it being.’ When you take a bite it’s like, ‘Ahhh.’”

Skeeter says she isn’t surprised the menu of coconut cream, chocolate and lemon meringues, pecan and buttermilk pies is a hit around the Panhandle.

“They’re quality, they’re homemade,” she states.

“They remind you of what your grandma used to make. A lot of people come up and they always whisper, they’ll go, ‘These taste like my mom’s or my grandmama’s,’ but they always whisper like they’re telling something they’re not supposed to say.”

For Skeeter, it’s not just about making a profit and satisfying customers, but is rather something deeper.

“I’m just trying to preserve the art of baking,” she says as she smooths icing over freshly-baked cakes. “People don’t bake like they used to.”

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Village Bakery Café

Before moving to Amarillo in 2009, Gretchen Anthony already owned her own bake shop in Palmer Lake, Colorado. The single mother of three starting out selling rum cakes at craft fairs and soon began delivering custom orders to local businesses after people recognized her talents in the kitchen. After running her business out of a church, Gretchen took a chance and opened Bodhicitta Bakery. The Fort Worth area native and her husband, Jason, were content until the day Village Bakery Café owners, George and Phyllis Enloe, relayed some exciting news to the couple.

“I wanted to get my foot back in Texas for many, many years, and when they contacted us and said that they were retiring, we jumped on it,” Gretchen exclaims, a grin spread across her face.

Gretchen admits operating a bakery in the health-conscious state of Colorado was a pie-in-the-sky venture, making the opportunity to move back to the hearty state of Texas that much more tempting.

“They would rather have granola than a cream pie,” Gretchen deems of Coloradans. “Here, people are more excited and it’s nice to see people really excited about your food.”

Before obtaining full ownership in July of the bakery nestled in Wolflin Village, Gretchen and Jason were partners with the Enloes for two years, working alongside them, learning the business. Jason considers himself a jack of all trades and has held a range of jobs from a facilities manager of a gymnastics center to a bartender, so becoming a business owner and baker wasn’t that much of a stretch. Gretchen claims he now bakes bread better than she does.

While Gretchen has honed her baking skills, she says her creations have not always been successful. Recalling the first apple pie she made Jason, his favorite, Gretchen says she followed the recipe religiously, despite misgivings of it calling for half a cup of lemon juice. The result: a bitter, soggy apple pie.

“At that point I was just like I’m going to cook with my heart and my mind,” she declares. “If half a cup of lemon juice sounds excessive in the recipe for an apple pie, then I’m going to have to go with my gut on that one. Learning to bake was a process of learning and figuring out.”

Today, however, Gretchen has baking apple pies down to an art; the French Apple Pie and Mile High Caramel Apple Pie are proof.

Since taking over Village Bakery Café, the Anthonys have added a few new recipes, such as the Fantasy Cream Pie, a confection that consists of layers of chocolate ganache, pecan caramel sauce, chocolate pastry cream and coconut pastry cream. Although the couple plans to modify parts of the menu, they intend to keep alive the wholesome reputation the Enloes established with their artisan bakery.

Jason Anthony, co-owner of Village Bakery Café

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Tips • Every oven is different. When in doubt, use a thermometer in your oven.

• Cooking times are just suggestions.

You have to keep an eye on it.

You have to look at it, feel it.

– Gretchen Anthony, co-owner Village Bakery Café

Favorite Kitchen Gadget • Small, plastic spatula

Gretchen and Jason promise to maintain the standard customers expect from the Village by continuing to make fresh, fromscratch pastries on site. And yes, they still use the same, specialty European butter we’ve come to pine for.

“It’s still using the same integrity, the same quality ingredients,” Gretchen explains. “[Customers] know no matter what they get here it’s going to be good and it’s going to be high quality. If they’re unhappy, for any reason, then we’ll fix it.”

Jason and Gretchen do not dread waking up at dawn day after day to serve patrons of Village Bakery Café because it is rewarding for them to know customers trust and love their fare.

“As long as you feel good when you leave this restaurant of having eaten something that sticks in your head as very memorable, we’re happy,” Gretchen assures. “We really want people to have the most memorable experience. When you’re an adult and you remember, ‘Oh my gosh, my mom used to make this,’ we want to be that to people in this community.”

Jason rolls out pie dough

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Belmar Bakery & Cafe Richard Zaccardo, co-owner of Belmar Bakery & Cafe

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Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

Belmar Bakery & Cafe owners, Deana and Richard Zaccardo, never anticipated taking over a 37-year-old bake shop when they bought it from the original owner, Marvin Jackson, in March 2002. Deana, who graduated from Texas Tech University with Bachelors and Masters degrees in Exercise Science, was a full-time fitness instructor; Richard, on the other hand, already had his foot in the door at Belmar working part-time at the bakery he drooled over as a child.

“I was always the little kid with my face on the window outside,” Richard recalls as he watches a machine (the sheeter) flatten pie dough.

With just the two of them on staff, Deana and Richard survived their first holiday season, but it definitely took some adjustments, Deana says. On top of learning a new business and expanding the shop to include a café, the Zaccardos found themselves spending the majority of their time at the bakery. Richard even parked Deana’s parents’ travel trailer in the parking lot and didn’t budge until they got into the groove of operating a bakery. Despite the rough start, customers remained loyal to Belmar, encouraging its new owners.

“We have great, great, supportive customers who love this place,” Deana says, “and when we bought it I think they loved the fact that we were putting a lot of love and TLC in it. I think the customers appreciated that.”

The husband-wife team of 18 years has kept most of Belmar’s original recipes, but they’ve also made adjustments, such as the café and Cakeland as well as slightly changing up the initial menu. Deana and Richard have added five pies to the 20-plus selection of old-style favorites.

Tips • Don’t be afraid to overcook [pie]. – Richard Zaccardo, co-owner Belmar Bakery & Cafe • Use beans or rice to keep pie dough from bubbling up if you don’t have pie weights. – Deana Zaccardo, co-owner Belmar Bakery & Cafe

Favorite Kitchen Gadgets • Pie “sheeter” • Paint brush (for glazing crusts) – Richard Zaccardo, co-owner Belmar Bakery & Cafe • Pie crimper – Deana Zaccardo, co-owner Belmar Bakery & Cafe

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“Apple, cherry, blueberry, the real classics people grew up with,” Deana says. “Very traditional, that’s what works for us.”

Belmar prides itself on making all of its products on site daily and fans have voted it Best Bakery in the Best of Amarillo polls for a decade. Belmar may have changed over the years, but customers can bet they will get tried-and-true recipes they grew up on in the neighborhood bakery.

As the first and last person in line to get a piece of cake when he was little, Richard developed an appreciation for baking from his mother.

From their honeymoon, Deana has a picture of Richard smiling in front of a bakery, so it makes perfect sense that he chose this career path.

Deana sold her Jazzercise franchise in order to devote more time to the family business that she claims has helped her stay on a strict diet plan. The couple’s varying views and talents is what makes Belmar successful. Separated by a wall and two swinging doors, Richard sticks to baking while Deana runs Cakeland and the creative, marketing and financial aspects.

“It’s a good deal. Sometimes the stresses of the business, he may see it some way and I see it my way. And I usually get my way and so it’s a joke around here,” Deana laughs, employees nodding their heads in unison behind her.

Although he originally dreamed of opening his own doughnut shop, Richard seems pretty happy with the full-line retail bakery.

“It’s very rewarding when we have customers stand in line for a pie,” Richard says as he pours cherry filling into a raw pie shell. “It’s very rewarding.” am

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Stocked with Love

photos by Jeff Harbin, Life of Riley Photography

Catholic Family Service’s grocery supplies food, friendships

by Drew Belle Zerby

G

rocery shopping is often considered a chore, a menial obligation that requires making checklists, monitoring budgets and impatiently waiting in line. For the clients of Catholic Family Service’s InterFaith Hunger Project, however, shopping for food is an errand they look forward to and cherish. With nearly 500 active and 100 homebound clients, and 125 candidates on the waiting list, Catholic Family Service’s grocery has become a saving grace for fixed-income families and individuals. Operated by more than 20 volunteers, the store stocks basic items such as milk, meat, fresh produce and nonperishable goods for individuals 55 years of age and older or the disabled, says Katherine Camp, community service supervisor.

“We try to act as a full-functioning grocery,” Katherine says, facing shelves bare from a week’s worth of customers. “It depends on what we can get, but we usually try to keep things like hamburger meat and chicken that they can make multiple meals out of.”

For 25 years, InterFaith Hunger Project has served Amarillo and the surrounding communities. The program is the only charitable food operation in the Panhandle that allows clients to choose their own food. Many pantries supply clients with a set package of items, running the risk of clients being unable to consume the food due to an allergy or special nutritional needs, Katherine says. In addition to fundamental grocery items, the store stocks specialty products, such as lowersodium products and diabetic foods that appeal to its client base.

“When they come into our store, we’re kind of guaranteed 100 percent of what they take out they’re able to cook with and use,” says Katherine, who graduated from West Texas A&M University with a degree in social work.

Although dollar values are assigned to the groceries, no monies exchange hands, and clients receive food at no cost, Katherine says.

Allotted a specific monthly budget, customers use the dollar value as a guideline for their selections. A budget of $40 at Catholic Family Service’s pantry would likely equal around $120 at a commercial grocery, Katherine compares. Perishable items, such as breads, fresh fruits and vegetables, are exempt from the client’s budget. Most of the pantry’s customers make $600-700 per month through social security, leaving little or no money for food after bills and medicines, she says.

“We look at income versus expenses and then determine how much they qualify for down at the store,” Katherine explains. “We assign a value but it’s not comparable to a grocery store. Everything is priced less than a grocery store.”

Throughout the year, InterFaith holds fundraisers and drives as well as provides special gifts for clients, such as holiday baskets. Volunteers package and deliver nearly 400 baskets that include a turkey or ham and traditional fixings such as stuffing, potatoes, green beans and cranberry sauce.

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special feature

Katherine Camp, community service supervisor, stocks food items.

This is not just a grocery store. This is a place when [clients] have problems, my shoulders are broad.”

- Audrey Rivera suppliers, InterFaith heavily relies upon goods from High Plains Food Bank, purchasing from the food bank with grants primarily provided by United Way. As a result of natural disasters in recent years, the program has received delayed and smaller grants from FEMA, Katherine says. Every Monday, High Plains Food Bank sends food; however, the weekly delivery does not guarantee a vast and diverse supply of groceries. In September, the project was limited to one order of meat, 1,500 pounds to feed InterFaith’s client base for the entire month, says volunteer Audrey Rivera, who is in charge of ordering the majority of the store’s food.

“Some of our clients, the only food they get is here. When that happens, you have to see them go without meat,” Audrey says, grief filling her voice. “To watch them when they first come makes me cry because they get to eat that night or to hear them say, ‘My neighbor was hungry so I shared my food.’”

Audrey has been the store manager for the past four years. Before becoming a volunteer, she was a client of the grocery, an experience that helps her relate to shoppers and provides insight to their needs.

A retired baker, Audrey found herself sitting alone at home, growing older, she says. One day, her daughter asked her to volunteer with her

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Audrey Rivera, store manager, bags groceries for a customer at InterFaith’s pantry.

at the grocery for a day, a task Audrey initially dismissed because of health issues. With artificial knees and having lost both of her breasts to cancer, Audrey believed she would be of no use, but her daughter eventually convinced her otherwise.

“I feel like I was planted here,” Audrey professes. “I went to work one day and said, ‘That’s it.’ The next day I was so bored out of mind, I called my daughter and said, ‘Do you think they’d mind if I go to work with you tomorrow?’ And I’ve been here ever since.”

Audrey has become close to the customers that frequent the store.

When a client passes away, she tries to take food to the family to show them those at the grocery care. When she is able, she accompanies volunteers on deliveries to homebound clients. If Audrey is sick or suffering, she doesn’t consider not showing up for work because she knows her customers will console and comfort her, she says.

When shelves are empty and food is limited, rather than complaining, customers remain grateful and emanate contagious sanguinity.

“A lot of the clients here have the best spirit,” Katherine extols. “You wouldn’t be able to tell just from talking to them they’re down and out or low income. They have the greatest spirits and they’re so thankful for what they get down here. That’s amazing.”

Customers have come to see that the store offers more than food.

It’s a gathering place where clients and volunteers can celebrate the birth of a grandchild, mourn the loss of a neighbor or uplift someone during an illness. It’s a place where they can seek counsel from their peers and form friendships. With every shopping trip, customers become richer.

“This is not just a grocery store. This is a place when [clients] have problems, my shoulders are broad,” Audrey says, clasping her hands close to her chest. “That makes a difference in the community because... we have people from all walks of life. You’d be surprised at the people that are down on the bottom now, but we’re actually some of the richest people. Money, we have none, but we have so much.” am

For the holidays, InterFaith Hunger Project seeks volunteers.

InterFaith packages and distributes nearly 400 gift baskets for its clients and organizes a Christmas party that includes a visit from Santa, a toy drive and a holiday meal for more than 600 people.

If you are interested in volunteering or donating, visit cfsama.com or call Dena Dyer, development and communications director, at 376.4571, ext. 223.

Catholic Family Service’s grocery store is open Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., and Wednesday 1-3 p.m.

November 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

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inspire

Stop and Smell the Paint Cori Burns

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Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

L

ike many people, I often feel my life is whizzing by. Mentally, I can instantly step back 30 years and recall the scent of my dad when he came in after a hard day’s work; the color of my first bike; the name of the boy who sat next to me on my first day at a new school in third grade; even the first time I saw one of my now-best friends in an accounting class at college.

These days, however, it seems most of the time I can’t remember what happened just last week. In fact, one of my most valued talents for years was my almost photographic memory. I have always had an uncanny ability to remember something about everyone I met and some small detail about all of my experiences and interactions with them.

My memory and the use of it as a tool served me well throughout my school years, in relationships, and in my career. Yet, just last week, I caught myself asking my husband the same question three times in one night!

I coach people every day about tools that will help them work more efficiently and become more effective. I use all the latest technology for lists and reminders, and have perfected the skill of multi-tasking. As a business coach and marketing specialist, I’ve come across many studies related to how people process sensory experiences differently and how that affects our memories, relationships and interactions.

I say all this to point out that intellectually I have known these facts for years. I have always highly valued productivity, efficiency and performance. Until recently, that is, when it took my 5-year-old daughter’s little nose to remind me to slow down and stop to smell the paint.

To know me very well is to know that most people consider me a little neurotic about cleaning and painting my house. As the daughter of an entrepreneur who just happened to own a commercial paint contracting company, our family’s way of cleaning has always included repainting and repurposing on a regular basis. I don’t think we ever lived in a house that lacked good paint brushes and enamel in various colors and finishes, kept handy for use at any given time. It’s been the running joke (and sometimes a frustration) that you can expect to smell the noticeable scent of paint at any family gathering or event we host.

A few days ago, I was touching up my own house, continuing my extremely productive week on a Saturday morning when my daughter woke up, came in and said, “Mommy, it smells like Grandpa’s house. It smells so good. I miss them.”

At first, I thought, “Wow.” It’s ironic and a little hilarious that my daughter finds the smell of enamel as comforting as I do and it reminds her of her grandpa’s house. Most children think of freshly-baked cookies or newly-cut grass, but of course, being mine, she would naturally love the smell of paint. Then I took a few minutes to smile and consider what she’d brought to my attention: an experience I almost missed while I was being so productive.

There are some rituals in families that are always consistent, things we hold dear in our hearts that create memories and habits for a lifetime. But we don’t always slow down to think about how those memories or habits are created. Luckily, in an odd way, I am comforted and delighted that my daughter loves the smell of paint, because it symbolizes hard work, attention to detail and a love for creativity and purpose, all of which she now associates with her grandpa and her mom.

It was inspiring and jolting to see a smaller version of myself so clearly and realize that life moves so fast we often miss the powerful symbols of continuity and love all around us. Sometimes you miss the familiar smells of home and family because you don’t take the time to create them.

So I began to look at the little nuances that consistently define my family – all the various ways relationships are formed, family bonds are strengthened and values are created. I reflected on the things we do in our industrious lives that reinforce what is important or not important.

It seems the smallest things that happen year after year and day after day often inform how we strengthen a marriage, empower a child or just demonstrate our love.

I realized at that moment I was doing more than being creative or productive – I was creating a memory. I was emphasizing a skill that is so much more important than a straight baseboard line or a clean wall.

I was creating values and connections that are demonstrated rather than spoken. So because of a child’s tiny nose, I am reclaiming my focus and my memories. I’ve decided to take a little more time to stop and smell the paint. am

Cori Burns Cori is the marketing director of the WTAMU Enterprise Center, a professional business coach and the owner of Cori Burns Consulting. She is the mother of two daughters, Taea and Tylar, ages 5 and 2 respectively, and married to Daniel. Cori grew up in Dallas and moved to the Amarillo area in 1998. She enjoys painting, athletics and a variety of other hobbies, but, most of all, using her creativity to help others.

November 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

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November 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

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what’s cooking?

Creamy Turnip-potato Puree 2 pounds turnips, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces 1 pound Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces 2 garlic cloves, crushed 2 teaspoons salt ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper ¼ cup light sour cream or plain Greek yogurt ¼ cup chopped fresh chives 3 tablespoons prepared horseradish 2 teaspoons sugar Place turnips, potatoes and garlic in a 5-quart pot. Cover with cold water to 2 inches above the vegetables; bring to a boil. Add salt; simmer, uncovered, until tender (about 15 minutes). Drain the vegetables in a colander; return to pot. Cook over medium heat to remove excess water, stirring well (about 5 minutes). Stir in the remaining ingredients; mash with a potato masher until smooth. Transfer mixture to a serving dish.

Makes eight servings

Buttermilk and Herb Dressing Muffins 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 large yellow onion 3 thinly sliced celery stalks 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed ½ teaspoon dried rubbed sage ½ teaspoon dried thyme ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 cup lower-sodium chicken broth ½ of a 12- to-14-ounce package herb seasoned cubed stuffing ½ of a 12-to-14-ounce package cornbread stuffing 1 cup low-fat buttermilk (1 percent) 2 large eggs Coat a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray; set aside. Heat butter in a large saucepan over medium heat until melted; add onion and next five ingredients (through pepper). Cook until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add broth; simmer. Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Remove pot from heat; stir in remaining ingredients with a fork. Cover and let stand 5 minutes. Spoon stuffing mixture into 12 cups of prepared muffin tin in mounds; bake in middle of oven until golden on top, about 25 minutes. Let cool in oven at least 15 minutes; remove from tin.

Makes 12 servings

Green Beans with Caramelized Shallots and Gremolata 1 ½ pounds fresh green beans, trimmed 1 tablespoon olive oil 6 shallots, peeled and thinly sliced ¼ cup chopped parsley Zest of 1 lemon 2 large cloves garlic, chopped Salt and pepper, to taste Cook green beans in large pot of boiling, salted water until tender crisp (about 5 minutes). Plunge into ice water to stop cooking and retain color. Set aside. Heat oil in a large skillet. Add shallots and cook slowly, stirring often, until golden and tender, about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, to make gremolata, combine parsley, lemon zest and garlic in a small bowl. Add green beans to skillet; toss over medium heat until heated through. Season with salt and pepper; toss to mix and coat. Place green beans in a serving bowl or platter and sprinkle with gremolata.

Note: Green beans can be cooked a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Makes about six servings

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Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

Pear Tart Tatin 2 pounds firm pears, peeled, cored and halved lengthwise Juice of 1 lemon 1 cup sugar 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 unbaked pie crust Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Place pears in a bowl, gently toss with lemon juice and ¼ cup of the sugar and set aside for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, melt butter in a 9-inch, ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add remaining sugar and cook, stirring constantly, until mixture turns golden brown and caramelized. Remove skillet from heat. Stir to cool, as the sugar will continue to darken even off the heat. Drain pears and place in skillet, round side down, with stem end facing center. Roll out dough on a floured work surface into a 10-inch round about ¼ inch thick. Place dough on top of pears, covering edge of skillet. Press edges down between pears and inside of skillet and cut four ¼-inch steam holes in center. Bake for 25 minutes or until pastry is golden brown. Remove skillet from oven and tilt it carefully; pour excess juices into a small saucepan and reduce over high heat until thick. Place a large, flat serving platter on top of the skillet and invert quickly and carefully. Spoon the reduced caramelized juices over the pears. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Makes eight servings

The

Real Scoop Lighten up Thanksgiving

• Pumpkin Pie: Add an extra egg white or two to hold the custard together while still keeping things creamy.

Consider portion sizes, ingredients when cooking holiday favorites

• Try plain yogurt or fat-free sour cream in creamy dips, mashed potatoes and casseroles.

Have a healthier Turkey Day feast with recipes from T and Andy Price.

• When making a graham cracker crust, eliminate the sugar all together. The graham crackers have a light, natural sweetness. Most pie fillings are sweet enough on their own that no one notices the difference.

• If you don’t care for turnips, try using cauliflower. Use the ration of half pureed cauliflower to half spuds.

• Dressing: Baking in muffin tins helps with portion control. Adding spinach, mushrooms or other veggies helps slash calories.

• When you make gravy, skim fat from the top of the turkey drippings or use a fat separator. Also, using half of the drippings and the rest canned broth lightens it up.

• Sweet Potato Casserole: Swap marshmallows for canned pineapple chunks. You’ll get the sugar rush

minus the empty calories. Or bake whole sweet potatoes and serve with a little maple syrup.

• Serve whole-wheat dinner rolls and a whole-grain side dish, such as brown rice and wild rice pilaf for added fiber.

• Cook with healthy fats such as olive and canola oil when possible. If a dish really needs the flavor boost of butter, add a minimal amount.

Craving more cooking tips? Then visit amarillomagonline .com where you can submit questions and comments for T and Andy and get more advice, whether you’re an expert chef or a novice cook.

November 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

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Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

events November

Featured Event

“Young Frankenstein”

This month, “The New Mel Brooks Musical Young Frankenstein” is coming to Amarillo. Based on the 1974 comedy film written by Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder, “Young Frankenstein” won the 2008 Outer Critics Circle Award and the Broadway.com Audience Award for Best Musical.

Adapted from Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” and “Son of Frankenstein,” the award-winning performance begins with the funeral procession of the mad scientist, Dr. Victor von Frankenstein. Set in the mid 1930s, the story follows Dr. Frederick Frankenstein (that’s Fronkensteen) after he arrives in the village of Transylvania Heights to take care of the estate of his late grandfather, Dr. Frankenstein. Despite his convictions, Victor finds himself sucked into the family business of bringing the dead back to life, thus ensuing the monstrously hilarious saga of the young doctor and his creation.

Tickets are currently on sale.

photo courtesy of Celebrity Attractions

Performances are November 16-17, 7:30-10:30 p.m.

Amarillo Civic Center Auditorium 401 S. Buchanan 378.3096 panhandletickets.com

To have an event listed on the calendar, email details to michele.mcaffrey@amarillo.com or fax a press release to 806.345.3282.

View an updated listing of events throughout November at amarillomagonline.com

November 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

63

I’m a new person from size 42 to 34!* “I lost 50.5 pounds and 42 inches in 17 weeks!”

Jerry

As 2011 began, I started to notice my clothes were getting pretty snug.

At work, I saw three or four people that were on the Metabolic plan, and it was really working for them. One day in early March as I was buttoning my size 40 pants I realized it was time to buy size 42 pants. At that point I decided I would never wear size 42 pants. On March 18, I went to the Metabolic Center and enrolled. As we talked we set my weight loss goal at 50 pounds, which I agreed to. After leaving the center, I laughed out loud. I thought to myself, “Crazy people. I will never lose 50 pounds.”

Now 50-plus pounds are gone and I am part of the human race again!

Having my weight checked twice a week made me realize how fast the weight was coming off.

I am running two miles every day.

My feet, knees and body feel great! I no longer take medicine for acid reflux.

It’s like I am a new person. I am wearing size 34 pants and enjoying my clothes again.

Thank you, MRC!

Arts & Entertainment Nov. 3

First Thursday Art Showing the 806 coffee + lounge 2812 SW 6th, 322.1806

Nov. 4 First Friday Art Walk 5-9 p.m. The Galleries at Sunset 3701 Plains Blvd., 353.5700 “James and the Giant Peach” 7:30 p.m.

Amarillo Little Theatre Academy 2019 Civic Circle, 355.9991

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Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

Nov. 13

“Evil Dead the Musical” 8 p.m. Avenue 10 616 S. Harrison, 444.2637

Nov. 16

Nov. 5

“James and the Giant Peach” 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Amarillo Little Theatre Academy 2019 Civic Circle, 355.9991 “Miss Nelson is Missing” 7:30 p.m.

Texas Academy of Performing Arts 3701 Plains, 318.8088 “Evil Dead the Musical” 8 p.m. Avenue 10 616 S. Harrison, 444.2637

Nov. 6

“James and the Giant Peach” 2:30 p.m.

Amarillo Little Theatre Academy 2019 Civic Circle, 355.9991 “Miss Nelson is Missing” 2:30 p.m.

Texas Academy of Performing Arts 3701 Plains, 318.8088 Amarillo Symphony Youth Orchestra Fall Concert 3 p.m. Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096 “13” 7:30 p.m. Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Nov. 7

“13” 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. GlobeNews Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Nov. 10

806-356-6066

“A Baroque Premiere! Presenting our New French Harpsichord” 8 p.m.

Fibonacci Building, 3306 SW 6th, 236.3545

Jason Roberts, Organist 7 p.m.

Presented by friends of Aeolian Skinner Opus 1024. St. Andrews Episcopal Church 1601 S. Georgia, 376.6316

“13” 2:30 p.m. Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

*Individual results may vary

“Urinetown the Musical” 7:30 p.m.

Presented by WTAMU Theatre. Sybil B. Harrington Fine Arts Complex, Branding Iron Theatre, on the WTAMU Campus in Canyon, 651.2804

“Miss Nelson is Missing” 7:30 p.m.

Texas Academy of Performing Arts 3701 Plains, 318.8088

Nov. 8

©

Nov. 12

“Urinetown the Musical” 7:30 p.m.

Presented by WTAMU Theatre. Sybil B. Harrington Fine Arts Complex, Branding Iron Theatre, on the WTAMU Campus in Canyon, 651.2804

Nov. 11

“Urinetown the Musical” 7:30 p.m.

Presented by WTAMU Theatre. Sybil B. Harrington Fine Arts Complex, Branding Iron Theatre, on the WTAMU Campus in Canyon, 651.2804

“Young Frankenstein the Musical” 7:30-10:30 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Auditorium 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096 “Urinetown the Musical” 7:30 p.m.

Presented by WTAMU Theatre. Sybil B. Harrington Fine Arts Complex, Branding Iron Theatre, on the WTAMU Campus in Canyon, 651.2804

Nov. 17

Third Thursday 6:30-9 p.m. Amarillo Museum of Art 2200 S. Van Buren, 371.5050 “Young Frankenstein the Musical” 7:30-10:30 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Auditorium 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096 “Urinetown the Musical” 7:30 p.m.

Presented by WTAMU Theatre. Sybil B. Harrington Fine Arts Complex, Branding Iron Theatre, on the WTAMU Campus in Canyon, 651.2804

Nov. 18

“Urinetown the Musical” 7:30 p.m.

Presented by WTAMU Theatre. Sybil B. Harrington Fine Arts Complex, Branding Iron Theatre, on the WTAMU Campus in Canyon, 651.2804 Amarillo Symphony Presents “Get Back! Music of the Beatles” 8 p.m.

Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Nov. 19

Amarillo Symphony Presents “Get Back! Music of the Beatles” 8 p.m.

Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Benefits & Fundraisers Nov. 4

Christmas Roundup 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Amarillo Civic Center South Exhibit Hall 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Nov. 5

Christmas Roundup 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Amarillo Civic Center South Exhibit Hall 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Canyon Nights Gala “La Nuit de Mystere (Night of Mystery) 6:30-10:30 p.m. Hosted by United Way of Amarillo and Canyon. Evening includes live music from Anderson, Flesher & Key, dancing, gaming, live and silent auctions, valet parking and open bar. Evening attire. Proceeds benefit the United Way 2011 campaign.

First United Bank Center 3301 4th Ave., Canyon. For ticket information, call Marley Hoggatt at 376.6359, ext. 203.

Something to “Bee” Thankful for...

Freedom Fund Banquet 7-10 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Grand Plaza 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Nov. 6

Christmas Roundup 12-5 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center South Exhibit Hall 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Holiday Entertaining Made Easy with

Nov. 7

Beans & Cornbread Benefit Luncheon 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Heritage Room 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Honeycrust Hams

Nov. 12

Friends’ Book Sale 12-6 p.m. Amarillo Public Library Downtown Branch 413 E. 4th, 378.3054 Annual Hunt Dinner 6:30 p.m. The annual hunt dinner is hosted by the Friends of Amarillo Botanical Gardens and Betsy and Bryan Kelley. Highlights include a silent auction, beef and wild game and music by Andy Chase Cundiff. 352.6513

Nov. 13

Friends’ Book Sale 2-6 p.m. Amarillo Public Library Downtown Branch 413 E. 4th, 378.3054

Cajun Fried Turkeys • Smoked Turkeys • Turducken Assorted side dishes

2626 Paramount|Amarillo, TX

806.354.9898

Nov. 17

United Way Victory Luncheon 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Amarillo Civic Center Heritage Room 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Nov. 19

Nutcracker Ball 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and 7-11:30 p.m.

Amarillo Civic Center Heritage Room 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Classes & Seminars Nov. 1

Insurance 6:30-8 p.m. Insurance needs and understanding your policy. For reservations, call 383.3456. Amarillo Habitat for Humanity 2700 S. Wilson, 373.1185

Nov. 5

Back in Control 8:45 a.m.-4 p.m. Parenting skills for parents of pre-teens and teens. Call 359.2005 to register. Texas Panhandle Centers Children’s Services Building, 1500 S. Taylor, 354.2191 Outdoor Holiday Decorating: Entryways 10 a.m.

Reservations required. Amarillo Botanical Gardens 1400 Streit Drive, 352.6513

Nov. 8

Cooking on a Budget 6:30-8 p.m. For reservations, call 383.3456. Amarillo Habitat for Humanity 2700 S. Wilson, 373.1185

November 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

65

Nov. 11

First Comes Love…Then Comes Money 7-9:30 p.m. Love-and-money experts Bethany and Scott Palmer, better known as The Money Couple, seen on ABC’s “Good Morning America,” “Better TV,” USAToday.com, FoxBusiness .com, Reuters, and “U.S. News & World Report,” teach how to navigate the murky waters where romance and money meet and how to make your relationship a success. Trinity Fellowship Church, West Sanctuary 5000 Hollywood Road, 355.8955

Nov. 12

First Comes Love…Then Comes Money 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Love-and-money experts Bethany and Scott Palmer, better known as The Money Couple, seen on ABC’s “Good Morning America,” “Better TV,” USAToday.com, FoxBusiness .com, Reuters, and “U.S. News & World Report,” teach how to navigate the murky waters where romance and money meet, and how to make your relationship a success. Trinity Fellowship Church, West Sanctuary 5000 Hollywood Road, 355.8955

Nov. 15

Made to Fit: Amarillo Little Theater and the Texas Panhandle Open through Jan. 22. Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, Textile Gallery 2503 4th, Canyon, 651.2244

Why Try? 4:30-5:30 p.m. Truancy prevention class every Tuesday for six weeks. Call 359.2005 to register. Texas Panhandle Centers Children’s Services Building, 1500 S. Taylor, 354.2191

Littlefield Murals Open through Feb. 19. Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum 2503 4th, Canyon, 651.2244

Communication Skills 6:30-8 p.m.

Communication and conflict resolution.

For reservations, call 383.3456. Amarillo Habitat for Humanity 2700 S. Wilson, 373.1185

Nov. 29

Loan to Own 6:30-8 p.m. Lender practices and different types of loans.

For reservations, call 383.3456. Amarillo Habitat for Humanity 2700 S. Wilson, 373.1185

Aftermath: Images from Ground Zero Photographs by Joel Meyerowitz Open through Dec. 31. Amarillo Museum of Art 2200 S. Van Buren, 371.5050

Music Andy Chase Cundiff 7 p.m. every Tuesday night. 575 Pizzeria 2803 Civic Circle, 331.3627

Amazon Voyage: Vicious Fishes & Other Riches Open through December.

Don Harrington Discovery Center 1200 Streit Drive, 355.9547

The Stew Moss Show 8 p.m. every Tuesday night. Crush Wine Bar & Deli 701 S. Polk, 418.2011

Hunters of the Sky Ongoing exhibit at Don Harrington Discovery Center 1200 Streit Drive, 355.9547

“America’s Horse in Art” Art Show and Sale Open through Nov. 12. American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum, 2601 I-40 East, 376.5181

Planetary Landscapes Ongoing exhibit at Don Harrington Discovery Center 1200 Streit Drive, 355.9547

Spiritual Places Open through Jan. 9.

Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, Harrington Changing Gallery 2503 4th, Canyon, 651.2244

TRY!: Rodeo on the Southern Plains Open through Sept. 9, 2012. PanhandlePlains Historical Museum 2503 4th, Canyon, 651.2244

Exhibitions

Space Lounge Ongoing exhibit at Don Harrington Discovery Center 1200 Streit Drive, 355.9547

Amazing Bodies! Ongoing exhibit at Don Harrington Discovery Center 1200 Streit Drive, 355.9547

Casey Berry 9 p.m.-12 a.m. every Tuesday night. Pepito’s Mexican Restaurante Y Cantina 3333 S. Coulter, 353.7373 Andy Chase Cundiff 7 p.m. every Wednesday night. Blue Sky 4201 I-40 West, 355.8100 Casey Berry and Shane Rogers 9:30 p.m. every Wednesday night.

Skooterz 4100 Bushland Blvd., 355.6600 The Stew Moss Show 8 p.m. every Thursday night. Moe Dogs Grill 3515 SW 6th, 372.8741

A September to remember, An october full of Splendor, A november to treASure

Dudley E. Freeman, M.D. • Sarah Bergeron, RNC, WHNP • George Barnett, M.D. • Cullen Hopkins, M.D. • Gregory A. May, M.D.

7620 Wallace Blvd. • Amarillo, TX 79124 • 806.359.5468 • panhandleobgyn.com 66

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

Gilbert Hernandez 9 p.m.-12 a.m. every Thursday night. Pepito’s Mexican Restaurante Y Cantina 3333 S. Coulter, 353.7373 Los Cuatro Compadres Mariachi Band 6:30 p.m. every Friday night. La Frontera Restaurant 1401 S. Arthur, 372.4593 Freethought Oasis 11 a.m. every Sunday. Roasters Coffee & Tea 1818 S. Georgia, 331.6563

Bentwood Rockers 8.p.m. Smokey Joe’s 2903 SW 6th, 331.6698 AFK 8-11 p.m. Cattle Call 4111 Wolflin, 463.7900 Smooth Condition 9:30 p.m. Butler’s Martini Bar 703 S. Polk, 382.4462

Nov. 10

Nov. 12

Nov. 11

Randy Rogers Band Doors open at 7 p.m. Midnight Rodeo 4400 S. Georgia, 358.7083

Yvonne Perea 6-9 p.m. Pescaraz Italian Restaurant 3415-K Bell, 350.5430

Jailbox Doors open at 12 p.m. the 806 coffee + lounge 2812 SW 6th, 322.1806 Jason Patrick 6-9 p.m. Pescaraz Italian Restaurant 3415-K Bell, 350.5430

Southern Crossing 11 p.m. Hoots Pub 2424 Hobbs, 358.9560

Ray Wilson and the Texas Heat 6:30 p.m. Fire Slice Brick Oven Pizzeria 7306 34th, Space 10, 331.2232

Great American Taxi Doors open at 8 p.m. GoldenLight Cantina 2906 SW 6th, 374.0097

Casey Donahew Band Doors open at 8 p.m. Midnight Rodeo 4400 S. Georgia, 358.7083

Texas Blues Rangers 8-11 p.m. Cattle Call 4111 Wolflin, 463.7900

Smooth Condition 9:30 p.m. Butler’s Martini Bar 703 S. Polk, 382.4462

Nov. 5

Nov. 2

Nov. 3

DJ Gemini 8 p.m. Butler’s Martini Bar 703 S. Polk, 382.4462 Shane Rogers 11 p.m. Hoots Pub 2424 Hobbs, 358.9560

Nov. 4

Remedy Mix 7:30-10:30 p.m. D’Vine Wine 2600 Wolflin Village, 467.9465

Kevin Fowler Doors open at 8 p.m.

Midnight Rodeo 4400 S. Georgia, 358.7083

On Again 9:30 p.m. Butler’s Martini Bar 703 S. Polk, 382.4462

Nov. 8

The Stew Moss Show 8 p.m. Crush Wine Bar & Deli 701 S. Polk, 418.2011 Old Man Markley 8 p.m. GoldenLight Cantina 2906 SW 6th, 374.0097

Nov. 9

DJ Gemini 8 p.m. Butler’s Martini Bar 703 S. Polk, 382.4462

Kacie Williams 7:30-10:30 p.m. D’Vine Wine 2600 Wolflin Village, 467.9465 Jason Boland & The Stragglers Doors open at 8 p.m. Midnight Rodeo 4400 S. Georgia, 358.7083 Brian Keane 8 p.m. GoldenLight Cantina 2906 SW 6th, 374.0097 Union Street 9:30 p.m. Butler’s Martini Bar 703 S. Polk, 382.4462 Tommy Gallagher Band 11 p.m. Hoots Pub, 2424 Hobbs, 358.9560

Yvonne Perea 6-9 p.m. Pescaraz Italian Restaurant 3415-K Bell, 350.5430

Leftmore Doors open at 9 p.m. the 806 coffee + lounge 2812 SW 6th, 322.1806 DJ Gemini 8 p.m. Butler’s Martini Bar 703 S. Polk, 382.4462

Nov. 16

Smooth Condition 9:30 p.m. Butler’s Martini Bar 703 S. Polk, 382.4462

Nov. 17

Yvonne Perea 6-9 p.m. Pescaraz Italian Restaurant 3415-K Bell, 350.5430 DJ Gemini 8 p.m. Butler’s Martini Bar 703 S. Polk, 382.4462

Nov. 18

Jason Patrick 6-9 p.m. Pescaraz Italian Restaurant 3415-K Bell, 350.5430 Carol Huddleston 7:30-10:30 p.m.

D’Vine Wine 2600 Wolflin Village, 467.9465

November 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

67

Mr. Nizzi 8-11 p.m. Cattle Call 4111 Wolflin, 463.7900

Electric Gypsies 11 p.m. Hoots Pub 2424 Hobbs, 358.9560

Craig Morgan Doors open at 8 p.m.

Midnight Rodeo 4400 S. Georgia, 358.7083

Nov. 26

Yvonne Perea 9:30 p.m. Butler’s Martini Bar 703 S. Polk, 382.4462

Nov. 19

Bentwood Rockers 7:30-10:30 p.m.

D’Vine Wine 2600 Wolflin Village, 467.9465 Digital Style Doors open at 8 p.m.

Avenue 10 616 S. Harrison, 444.2637 2 ½ Feet 8.p.m. Smokey Joe’s 2903 W 6th, 331.6698

Shouldn’t pain relief be available today versus months waiting for an appointment?

People with arthritis know what a struggle it is to remain physically mobile. As each day goes by without treatment, pain and stiffness increase, limiting the joys of simple movement.

The good news is that treatment programs are available – right now – with the knowledgeable care and guidance of Luis G. Ramos, MD, FACR, noted rheumatologist at Allergy A.R.T.S. We welcome back Dr. Ramos, following a stint from 2007 to 2011 at LeBrant Rheumatology in Florida, where he further expanded his expertise in arthritis. Dr. Ramos is now accepting new patients and looks forward to easing your pain so you can enjoy life once again.

It’s Time to Feel Better!

With increased awareness, proper diagnosis and comprehensive treatment, you can overcome everyday challenges and take control of your health and well being.

Welcome back to the good life!

To find out more, contact Allergy A.R.T.S. at (806) 353-7000 or visit our website, www.allergyarts.com

68

Constantine Saadeh, M.D., FACP, FACR Luis G. Ramos, M.D., FACR

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

Solano Project 8.p.m. Smokey Joe’s 2903 W 6th, 331.6698 DJ Gemini 8 p.m. Butler’s Martini Bar 703 S. Polk, 382.4462 Wade Bowen 11 p.m. Midnight Rodeo 4400 S. Georgia, 358.7083 Electric Gypsies 11 p.m. Hoots Pub 2424 Hobbs, 358.9560

Nov. 29

DJ Gemini 8 p.m. Butler’s Martini Bar 703 S. Polk, 382.4462

Eat This McKinley Doors open at 9 p.m. the 806 coffee + lounge 2812 SW 6th, 322.1806

Randy Rogers Band Doors open at 8 p.m. Midnight Rodeo 4400 S. Georgia, 358.7083

Nov. 30

Boss 420 11 p.m. Hoots Pub 2424 Hobbs, 358.9560

Nov. 20

Fierce Bad Rabbit Doors open at 9 p.m. the 806 coffee + lounge 2812 SW 6th, 322.1806

Nov. 21

Los Cuervos Doors open at 9 p.m. the 806 coffee + lounge 2812 SW 6th, 322.1806

Smooth Condition 9:30 p.m. Butler’s Martini Bar 703 S. Polk, 382.4462

Nature

Lunch with the Longhorns 1:30 p.m. every day in November. Meet the park Longhorns as the Park Interpreter gives them their daily ration. Palo Duro Canyon State Park 11450 Park Rd. 5, 488.2227

Nov. 10

Nov. 23

DJ Gemini 8 p.m. Butler’s Martini Bar 703 S. Polk, 382.4462

Full Moon Hike 5-6 p.m. Reservations required; deadline to register is Nov. 8.

Group size limit of 25. No pets, please.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park 11450 Park Rd. 5, 488.2227

Sick/Sea Doors open at 9 p.m. the 806 coffee + lounge 2812 SW 6th, 322.1806

Special Events

Nov. 24

DJ Gemini 8 p.m. Butler’s Martini Bar 703 S. Polk, 382.4462

Nov. 25

Yvonne Perea 6-9 p.m. Pescaraz Italian Restaurant 3415-K Bell, 350.5430 Mike McClure Band Doors open at 8 p.m. Midnight Rodeo 4400 S. Georgia, 358.7083 AFK 8-11 p.m. Cattle Call 4111 Wolflin, 463.7900 Dustin Morris Doors open at 9 p.m. the 806 coffee + lounge 2812 SW 6th, 322.1806 Valley of the Uncanny 9:30 p.m. Butler’s Martini Bar 703 S. Polk, 382.4462

6842 Plum Creek Drive Amarillo, Texas 79124

Yvonne Perea 6-9 p.m. Pescaraz Italian Restaurant 3415-K Bell, 350.5430

Nov. 2

Common Reader Lecture/Reception Reception 6-7 p.m., lecture 7-9 p.m.

Featuring Jonathan Safran Foer, award-winning author of “Everything is Illuminated.” Sponsored by Amarillo College and Friends of the Library.

Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Nov. 22

Community Prayer Breakfast 6-8:30 a.m. Amarillo Civic Center North Exhibit Hall 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Sports & Recreation Nov. 3

WTAMU men’s soccer vs. Saint Edward’s University 7 p.m. Buffalo Sports Park, Canyon, 651.4400

Nov. 4

Nov. 13

Nov. 26

Nov. 19

Nov. 5

Nov. 18

Nov. 29

Nov. 20

Nov. 10

Nov. 19

Trade Shows

Nov. 29

Amarillo Bulls vs. Odessa Jackalopes 7 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Coliseum 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

WRCA World Championship Ranch Rodeo 2 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Coliseum 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Amarillo Bulls vs. Odessa Jackalopes 7 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Coliseum 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

West Texas A&M University Equestrian event 2-7 p.m. WTAMU Horse Center, 651.8463

WRCA World Championship Ranch Rodeo 7 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Coliseum 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

West Texas A&M University Equestrian event 8 a.m.-8 p.m. WTAMU Horse Center, 651.8463

Nov. 11

Nov. 20

WRCA World Championship Ranch Rodeo 7 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Coliseum 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Nov. 12

West Texas A&M University Equestrian event 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. WTAMU Horse Center, 651.8463

Buffs vs. Texas A&M University – Commerce 1 p.m. Kimbrough Memorial Stadium, Canyon, 651.4400 WRCA World Championship Ranch Rodeo 7 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Coliseum 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Nov. 23

Amarillo Bulls vs. Wichita Falls Wildcats 7 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Coliseum 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Nov. 25

Lady Buffs basketball vs. St. Mary’s University 6 p.m. First United Bank Center Canyon, 651.4400

Buffs basketball vs. Rhema Bible College 7 p.m. First United Bank Center in Canyon, 651.4400

Nov. 4

Head to Toe Women’s Expo 4-9 p.m.

Amarillo Civic Center Heritage Room 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Nov. 5

Gem & Mineral Show 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Amarillo Civic Center Regency Room 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Artistry in Wood 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Amarillo Civic Center Regency Room 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Artistry in Wood 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Amarillo Civic Center Regency Room 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Amarillo Farm & Ranch Show 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Nov. 30

Amarillo Farm & Ranch Show 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Nov. 6

Gem & Mineral Show 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Amarillo Civic Center Regency Room 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Lady Buffs basketball vs. Metro State College 6 p.m. First United Bank Center Canyon, 651.4400

Thanks,

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November 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

69

Prius V 2012

2012 PRIUS V

Meet the Prius V, a new addition to the Prius family. With a larger, more versatile rear cargo area, it offers all the benefits of the 3rd Generation Prius plus added functionality. What’s more, Prius V has more cargo volume than 80 percent of small SUVs, while achieving a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle rating. The upcoming Prius Plug-in Hybrid, part of our growing Prius family, is our most advanced Prius yet. Designed to take greater advantage of the electric drive mode of Prius, it conveniently charges in about three hours with a standard outlet. Finally, the highly-anticipated Prius C offers our hybrid technology in a compact size.

So whether your interest is the environment, technology or savings at the pump, hybrid technology is progress we can all feel good about.

www.street-toyota.com • 45th & Soncy 355-9846 • 1-800-6STREET

2012 CAMRY

With each day bringing new advancements to the way we live and work, shouldn’t your car be advanced, too? Meet the reinvented 2012 Toyota Camry, the car designed to fit you and your 21st century lifestyle. You’re no doubt familiar with Camry; it’s America’s best-selling car. And over the past 25 years, it’s become the standard for quality. In fact, 90 percent of all Camrys sold in the past 15 years are still on the road. With such remarkable acclaim, you might expect us to rest on our laurels. We didn’t. Camry is more luxurious, with a redesigned interior.

It’s now available with new multimedia systems. And the Camry Hybrid LE now offers an estimated 43 city mpg.

Quite simply, the 2012 Camry is what you’ve come to expect from this legendary sedan.

The reinvented Camry is ready. Are you? 2012 Toyota Camry. Moving forward.

www.street-toyota.com • 45th & Soncy 355-9846 • 1-800-6STREET

month or let’s eat!

RESTAURANTS info • FOOD • SPIRITS

let’s eat!

The Burger Bar

The Burger Bar uses the freshest ingredients when preparing its classic fare. The fries are cut on site, the homemade relish is prepared daily and the appetizers are made from scratch. Every month, the downtown restaurant features a burger of the month in addition to its five other burger combinations. However, the eatery’s menu is not just dedicated to burgers. Hungry customers can try a ripper, a deep-fried, all-beef hotdog, and jazz it up with a range of toppings, such as the homemade relish.

The Burger Bar, 614 S. Polk, 376.4700, burgerbaramarillo.com

photo by Shannon Richardson

Open Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m., and Friday through Saturday, 11-12 a.m.

PRICING GUIDE $ most entrees under $10 $$ most entrees $11 to $20 $$$ most entrees over $21

RESTAURANT KEY Outdoor Dining ☎ Reservations Recommended T Live Music y

c Full Bar C Beer and/or Wine only ^ Best of Amarillo Winner

NEW New to Let’s Eat! UPDATE

Updated entry

The Let’s Eat! Guide is a reader service compiled by the Amarillo Magazine editorial staff. The magazine does not accept advertising or other compensation in exchange for a listing. The guide is updated regularly. To correct a listing or recommend a restaurant for consideration, contact Michele McAffrey at michele.mcaffrey@amarillo.com.

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575 Pizzeria Toppings runneth over at 575 Pizzeria, not to mention the specials that rotate every month. (Check the board when you walk in.) It’s family-owned and family-friendly, so it’s a great Friday night dinner choice. 2803 Civic Circle, 331.3627, 575pizzeria.com $$ C T ^ NEW 7 Bar & Grill Seven is the magic number at 7 Bar & Grill. The menu consists of $7 entrees, from burgers and sandwiches to pasta and seafood and every Thursday night, patrons can enjoy 77-cent beer specials. It’s the ideal setting for an evening out at a reasonable price.

3300 S. Soncy, 358.2222 $ c Acapulco Mexican Restaurant & Bar When the weather’s nice, enjoy sitting on Polk Street while you enjoy a margarita and a traditional Mexicanstyle shrimp cocktail. 727 S. Polk, 373.8889, acapulcomexicanrestaurant .net $$ c T y ^ Applebee’s We love the smaller portions at Applebees, like the Sliders, a bite-size selection of easy-to-eat sammies each with a side of fries. Finish off your meal with Dessert Shooters, the just-enough dessert for every sweet tooth.

5630 Amarillo Blvd. West, 677.7470 / 2810 Soncy, 351.2810, applebees.com $c B L Bistro The intimate, cozy atmosphere creates the ideal date place, not to mention the food is plated perfection. Note: You might want to leave the kids with a sitter. 2203 S. Austin, 355.7838, blbistro.com $$$ c ☎ The Back Porch An Amarillo original, this quaint tea room serves up great lunch fare. The Chicken Avocado Sandwich on croissant is the way to go. Get the lunch plate with a cup of cheesy veggie soup and chips. Wash it all down with the excellent flavored tea. 3440 Bell, 358.8871, backporchamarillo.com $ The Bagel Place Whether for breakfast or lunch, the Bagel Place offers a wide variety of flavored cream cheese and bagel flavors.

Zip through the convenient drive-thru for a great, lazy morning take-home breakfast. For lunch, try the bagel sandwiches made with Boars Head cheese and meat. 3301 Bell, 353.5985 $y

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Bangkok Restaurant When you’re looking for authentic Thai, Bangkok delivers. Start with the sticky rice, move on to the cucumber salad and finish with the Chicken Larb. Your kids will love watching the big fish tanks while you wait for your table. Warning: Spicy means spicy. Bangkok means business. 5901 Amarillo Blvd. East, 383.9008 $ Barnaby’s Beanry Visit Barnaby’s on historic Route 66 for classic cafÊ food. If you haven’t had the corn bread cheeseburger, you’re missing out. Leave room for homemade fruit cobbler. 3811 SW 6th, 358.6998 $ ^ The Bar-B-Que Shop The Bar-B-Que Shop, which offers carryout and catering, serves a variety of smoked delights from turkey legs and sandwiches to ribs and brisket. But don’t forget about the fresh, homemade cakes made daily.1213 SW 3rd, 373.8994, smokedbarbequeamarillo.com $ y Belmar Bakery & Cafe Open since 1965, Belmar is an Amarillo tradition. Loyal customers abound and each one has a favorite treat they return for again and again (we’re big fans of the thumb print cookies). The cafÊ offers a cozy place to meet for early morning coffee and pastries or tasty lunch with friends. 3325 Bell, 355.0141, belmarbakery.com $ ^ Big Texan Steak Ranch Everyone knows about the 72-ouncer, but did you know the breakfast buffet is only $9.95? Yes, you read that right.

Every morning from 7-11 a.m. you can pile your plate high with pancakes, sausage and skillet potatoes. Top it off with a trip to the Omelet Bar before leaving completely satisfied.

7701 I-40 East, 372.7000, bigtexan.com $$ c T ☎ ^ Biti Pies Biti Pies are miniature versions of traditional pies everyone loves. It’s just the right size for one person and possibly a friend – that is if you feel like sharing. Don’t miss out on this bite-sized treat that is melt-in-your-mouth good.

604 S. Maryland, 367.9903, bitipies.com $ Blue Sky Blue Sky’s burgers and homemade fries are the perfect companions to a Lone Star Beer or an Oreo shake. Be prepared to share the one-size-feeds-a lot cheese fries. 4201 I-40 West, 355.8100, blueskytexas.com $ C y T ^

The Burger Bar The Burger Bar operates on a straightforward concept and offers a simple menu that includes shakes, floats and of course, burgers and fries.

You may be tempted to forgo the aforementioned and give the ripper, a deep-fried hot dog, a shot. Have your fill of feel-good food for an early lunch or late dinner. 614 S. Polk, 376.4700, burgerbaramarillo.com $$ c Café Marizon Enjoy the quaint café atmosphere in an historic building on Polk. Café Marizon serves up great home-cooked taste with consistently tasty specials of the day. Go early so you can have a piece of the homemade pie or cake. 705 S. Polk, 374.3058 $ y Calico County An Amarillo favorite for decades, the home-cooked taste keeps people going back for more. You can’t beat the petite cinnamon rolls dripping in butter, the squash casserole and the chicken-fried chicken. Be sure to try the excellent waffles as well. 2410 Paramount, 358.7664, calicocountyamarillo.com $ Carino’s Italian For a taste of Little Italy, we recommend one of the house specialties like Angel Hair with Artichokes and Shrimp and an Italian Margarita. Don’t forget: Cheesecake is the perfect finish to a great meal. 8400 I-40 West, 468.9375, carinos.com $$ c Carolina’s Wood-Fired Italian Despite the small interior, Carolina’s is great for a date or even the whole family. Start your meal off right with a first-rate Caesar salad and garlic bread.

You can’t go wrong with any of the authentic pasta entrees. 2916 Wolflin, 358.2099 $$ C Cattle Call Enjoy Texas-style barbecue beef, sausage and chicken at Cattle Call. For something different, try the stuffed baked potato. It’s delicious. So are the onion rings. 4111 Wolflin, 353.1227, cattlecall.com $ C Celia’s Cocina Celia’s serves some of the best authentic Mexican food in Amarillo. It’s well known for delicious chile rellenos, enchiladas and guacamole. Much of the food is prepared by Celia herself and it’s sure to satisfy. 2917 SW 6th, 491.5632 $$

Cheddars Casual Café There’s a reason there is always a crowd at Cheddars. You’ll find outstanding American-style food at prices that won’t break your budget, which makes it the perfect place to bring the whole family.

Treat yourself to a basket of buttery, honey-kissed croissants with your meal, and no matter what you order, you’ll discover that everything’s good.

3901 I-40 West, 358.2111, cheddars.com c $$ ^ Chop Chop Japanese Steakhouse Chop Chop’s slogan is “Simple. Fresh.

Fast.” And that’s exactly what you get when you order the hot teppanyaki-style Japanese cuisine. There’s a renovated dining room, quick drive-thru and delivery options so you can decide how you want to dine. 3300 S. Coulter #1, 457.0700, chopchoprice.com $ Cracker Barrel Old Country Store and Restaurant A home-cooked breakfast for supper says comfort food like nothing else, especially when there’s a chill in the air. We love Uncle Herschel’s Favorite.

It’s almost too much to handle, but we’re not afraid to try! 2323 I-40 East, 372.2034, crackerbarrel.com $ ^ Crush Wine Bar & Deli Have you always wished for your very own Cheers? A place where everybody knows your name? Forget the beer and peanuts, Crush Wine Bar & Deli has that beat by a mile. Not sure how to choose from the extensive wine list? No worries, they’ll school you on the choices and you can try a smaller pour just to be sure. Give the excellent tapas, sandwiches, entrees and desserts a try as well. 701 S. Polk, 418.2011, crushdeli.com $$ C y ^ Dale’s Grand Burger Looking for a quick stop to grab a tasty lunch? Then try locally-owned and operated Dale’s Grand Burger. You can’t miss with the famous Grand Burger and homemade onion rings.1900 Bell, 358.8228 $ y Doug’s For a quick, tasty meal, stop at Doug’s and try the chopped beef sandwich.

The menu is reasonably priced and the barbecue sauce is fantastic.

3313 S. Georgia, 352.8471 $ Dyer’s Bar-B-Que If you’re a meat lover, Dyer’s is the place for you. The all-you-can-eat lunch special is hard to beat. On Fridays and Saturdays, eat your fill of premium smoked prime rib. 1619 S. Kentucky, Suite E526, 358.7104 $$

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Eat-Rite The food at Eat-Rite isn’t just good for you, it’s delicious as well. Feast on the organic salad bar or choose from a variety of tasty sandwiches, soups and entrees. The marinated carrots are pure, tasty goodness.

2441 I-40 West, 353.7476, eat-rite.com $ ^ Eddie’s Napoli’s Napoli’s has created an oasis in downtown Amarillo.

Indulge yourself in the homemade bread while you browse the ample menu. We gently nudge you toward the Amarillo Special or a personalized New York-style pizza. 700 S. Taylor, 220.2588, napolisonline.com $$ c

☎T

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El Patron When you’re looking for friendly service and flavorful Mexican cuisine at a reasonable price, you can’t beat El Patron. Prepare yourself for its more-than-generous portions, such as the restaurant’s namesake, which includes a 10-ounce rib eye steak, two enchiladas, rice, beans, lettuce, tomato and sliced avocados. Just looking to unwind? Then enjoy El Patron’s 99 cent draft beer and margaritas on the rocks during Happy Hour.

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El Tejavan Authentic Mexican food is definitely on the menu at El Tejavan. We love the homemade guacamole served up thick with onions and cilantro. The Ceviche makes for a great starter or a light meal. For authentic taste, try the soft corn tortilla chicken tacos. The recipes at El Tejavan have been passed down for generations, so everything’s good. 3801 I-40 East, 372.5250 / 3420 I-40 West, 354.2444, eltejavan.com $$ c T Embers Steakhouse Embers offers an array of cuisine from hamburgers and steaks to mahi mahi and swordfish. We have our eye on the goat cheese and Applewood smoked bacon burger. Enjoy the extensive wine list and food pairing suggestions while relaxing on the patio. You’ll enjoy a feast at lunch or dinner, seven days a week.

2721 Virginia Circle, 350.3303, amarilloembers.com $$ - $$$ c y English Field House Restaurant Visit a piece of Amarillo history at the English Field House. Named for Amarillo’s first airfield, the restaurant offers great, cooked-fresh café food. Take the family for Sunday breakfast. It’s worth the drive.

10610 American Drive, 335.2996 $ Famous Dave’s If you live in a house that’s divided over which barbecue style is best, make peace at Famous Dave’s.

Not only can you choose the type of meat, but you can choose your sauce as well. Dave’s truly has something for everyone. 8518 I-40 West, 358.3283, famousdaves.com $$, c ^ Fernando’s Restaurant & Cantina Family-owned and operated, Fernando’s serves up classic Tex-Mex with a twist. The self-serve salsa bar caters to the tastes of even the most delicate diner.

From spicy to mild, zesty to sweet, there’s something for everyone, even cucumber and chipotle salsa.

2740 Westhaven Village, 356.0342 $ c Fire Slice Brick Oven Pizzeria You know you’re in for a good time at Fire Slice when you see the menu. Choose from pizza specialties like “Tommy Boy” and “Hot Momma” or build your own.

Each pizza is made fresh in a custom-built pizza oven.

7306 34th, space 10, 331.2232, fireslice.com $$ C

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GJ’s Café and Grill Take a trip to GJ’s during your next lunch break whether you’re in the mood to dine in or drive through. With the choice of four specialty burgers, seven specialty burritos and 11 Mexican entrees, you’ll be back to work full of energy and good food. 3609 SW 45th, 331.2233, gjscafeandgrill.com $ Gatti’s Food galore is what you’ll find at Gatti’s with unlimited pizza, pasta, salad bar and desserts. You won’t have to tell the kids twice to finish their meal because once they do they can head to Gatti Town and feed their fun.

4412 S. Western, 355.5601, gattispizza.com $ GoldenLight Café As the oldest operating restaurant in Amarillo, the GoldenLight has been in business since 1947, all in the same location. For a great burger and fries, this is the place to go. 2908 SW 6th, 374.9237, goldenlightcafe.com $CT^ Green Chile Willy’s As the owners say, the way you like it is the way they fix it. Hand-cut grilled steaks, excellent burgers and grilled chicken; you name it, Willy’s has it. And you can’t beat the country atmosphere for a relaxing, good time. 13651 I-27, 622.2200, greenchilewillys.com $$ ^

The Happy Plum The Happy Plum Asian American Takeaway offers a variety of take out at its quick and easy drive-thru. The green pepper steak and pho choices caught our eye. If you can take the heat, spice things up with The Happy Plum’s sauce.

Save room for some sugary plum puffs; they melt in your mouth. 3321 Bell, 358.0310, thehappyplum.com $ Hoagies Deli Hoagies made a name for itself with its delicious Philly steak sandwich. Fill up at lunch or dinner with a warm Panini or a generously-portioned Colossal Spud. 2207 S. Western, 353.5952, hoagiesdeli.com $ Hoffbrau Steakhouse Family-owned Hoffbrau has been serving Texas-style steaks and beer for three decades. We recommend one of the Gr8 Steaks or something from the Hill Country Favorites list upon your first visit. Guaranteed, you’ll go back again.

7203 I-40 West, 358.6595, hoffbrausteaks.com $$ c

Indian Oven The moment you enter Indian Oven, you’ll be enveloped by the fragrances of cardamom, ginger, anise, garlic and chili wafting from the kitchen. Start your meal with a generous portion of naan as you work your way through the extensive menu. Feast on chef specials like Chicken Tandoori and Chicken Tikka Masala or try a little of everything on the generous buffet. Finish up with the todie-for rice pudding. Don’t leave without sipping the Mango Lassi.

11000 I-40 East, 335.3600 $$ Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches Jimmy John’s prides itself on its fresh ingredients and friendly service. Feeling healthy, but can’t bear to pass up the homemade French bread? Then try the 8-inch vegetarian sub layered with provolone cheese and packed with alfalfa sprouts, cucumber, lettuce, tomato and real avocado spread.

2330 S. Soncy Rd., Suite 500, 354.9200, jimmyjohns.com $ Jorge’s Mexican Bar & Grill In the mood for fajitas? Look no further than Jorge’s Mexican Bar & Grill.

Portion sizes are generous and prices are reasonable. 6051 S. Bell, 354.2141, jorgesmexican.com $$ c y ^

Kabuki Romanza Who says you can’t enjoy fresh sushi aboard a boat in the heart of the Panhandle? Kabuki Romanza serves Teppan-style cooking and fresh-sliced sushi in a dining area that resembles a boat, surrounded by special effects that add to the tropical feel. 8130 I-40 West, 353.4242, kabukiromanza.com $$ – $$$

C^ Kushi Yama Fusion is the concept of this cushy, Vegas-style restaurant. The name is a union of two elements: Kushi refers to a Japanese skewer and Yama derives from the last name of owner Tadamichi Tayama. Revolving around Asian tapas, the menu offers sushi and a variety of seasoned and sophisticated meat and seafood dishes. 3319 I-40 West, 358.2900, kushiyamarestaurant.com $$$ c La Fiesta Grande Authentic taste and a lively atmosphere make La Fiesta a great place to take the whole family. From nachos to barbacoa, there’s something for every taste.

2200 Ross, 374.3689 / 7415 SW 45th, 352.1330, lafiestagrande.com $$ C

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La Frontera La Frontera has served the Amarillo community for more than 20 years, offering the true taste of authentic, traditional Mexican food. With a cozy atmosphere, great service, friendly staff and delicious food, what else could you ask for? 1401 S. Arthur, 372.4593, eatatlafrontera.com $ T Logan’s Roadhouse Visit Logan’s Roadhouse for everything from quick lunches, take-out options and party platters to mouth-watering, hand-cut steaks and a variety of entrees for health-conscious diners like Mesquite Wood-Grilled Salmon or a Health Nut Grilled-Chicken Salad.

Everything’s made with the freshest ingredients and served in a casual, upbeat atmosphere. 8310 I-40 West, 467.8015, logansroadhouse.com $$ c Los Braceros Mexican Bar and Grill For 11 years, Braceros has provided hungry patrons with delicious meals and great, traditional Mexican food.

The Nachos con Carne appetizer and a Michelada are a must. If you have big eaters to feed, try the Parrillada. 3303 Bell, 355.0889 / 2822 SW 6th, 220.2395, bracerosroute66.com $ c T McAlister’s Deli McAlister’s is not just another deli. Its made-to-order menu is chock full of fresh sandwich and salad options that make for a quick and tasty lunch. And let’s not forget the Famous Sweet Tea that is handcrafted in house daily.

8605 SW 34th, 355.7500, mcalistersdeli.com, $ y Mexico Lindo Restaurant Mexico Lindo has a friendly staff that delivers excellent service with a smile. The appetizing food comes at reasonable prices and the restaurant offers several popular items like the gordita plate, crispy rellenos and enchiladas. 4515 S. Georgia, 355.1851 $C Moe Dogs Grill Memories of Route 66 come alive at Moe Dogs Grill. What once served as a filling station now serves hot dogs, burgers and other Americana classics. Decorated with memorabilia yet updated with flat screen TVs, Moe Dogs patrons have the opportunity to win a free meal –that is if they can down eight jumbo hotdogs piled with chili, cheese and jalapeños within 30 minutes. And yes, there are fries with that. 3515 SW 6th, 220.2198 $c

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My Thai It’s hard to find authentic Thai cuisine that compares to My Thai. We recommend the Angel Noodle with sautéed tomatoes and mushrooms for a tasty alternative to fried rice.

2029 S. Coulter, 355.9541, mythaiamarillo.com $ Outback Steakhouse Let’s just start with the Bloomin’ Onion.

We could actually end there and be completely satisfied, but what’s a trip to Outback without a Wallaby Darned and Pepper Mill Steak? Speaking of completely satisfied, leave room for the Chocolate Thunder from Down Under.

7101 I-40 West, 352.4032, outback.com $$ c Pan-Handlers Kick your lunching experience up a notch at Pan-Handlers. Settled in the basement of Amarillo National Bank Plaza One, this family-run restaurant supports the community by using farmfresh produce. With a list of daily specials ranging from Mexican to seafood and cleverly concocted sandwiches (try the ANBLT on ciabatta bread), your dining experience will be anything but bland and boring. 410 S. Taylor, 352.2590 $ Pepito’s Mexican Restaurante Y Cantina Happy hour, live music and delicious Mexican food makes Pepito’s the perfect place to hang out with friends. Pair the taquitos al carbon or marinated fajitas with a cold Michelada. 3333 S. Coulter, 353.7373 $$ c T Pescaraz Italian Restaurant Come ready to linger when you visit Pescaraz. From the charming décor and impressive bar area to the array of entrees, soups, salads and impressive wine list, you’ll want to take time to savor every bite. Enjoy excellent service and live music in the evenings.

3415-K Bell, 350.5430, pescaraz.com $$

cT^ Pho Van When we say Pho Van is the place in town to find authentic Vietnamese food, we mean it. You’ll find spring rolls, Pho (noodles in Vietnamese), and delectable pork chops in this small hole-in-the-wall restaurant. Owner, Em, stands by his wife’s garlic chicken wings, promising you won’t find their equal anywhere.

5625 Amarillo Blvd. East, 383.6552 $ Pizza Planet For dine-in or take-out, Pizza Planet offers some of the best pizza in town. If you like a good chef salad, this is your place. Be prepared to share – it’s huge.

2400 Paramount, 353.6666 $ – $$ C

The Plaza A long-time Amarillo favorite, the many loyal customers of the Plaza attest to the great food and affordable prices.

Eat your fill of fresh chips and hot sauce and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.

Perfect for a family night out, the menu offers enough variety to suit the pickiest eaters. 2101 S. Soncy, 358.4897 $ c Red Hana From Lubbock comes the Asian restaurant Red Hana. Nestled inside Bell Plaza, Red Hana offers an array of dishes from sushi to Mongol-andHibachi-grilled items. The Mongolian barbecue will certainly hit the spot. Stop

by Monday through Sunday for lunch or dinner or even just relaxing in the sake lounge. 5807 SW 45th, 356.7045 $$ Red Lobster Seafood is a real treat in the Texas Panhandle and Red Lobster is an old stand-by when you have a hankering for shrimp. Our favorite? The scampi swimming in delicious garlic butter complemented by tasty garlic cheese biscuits. 3311 I-40 West, 353.9596, red lobster.com $$ Robinson’s BBQ Robinson’s has mastered the art of barbecue. We especially love the chopped beef sandwiches. But don’t limit yourself to just a sandwich; try the tasty Frito pies. If you’re in time for breakfast, try the excellent breakfast burritos. 5920 Hillside, 358.2194 $

Sharky’s Burrito Company Think of Sharky’s as a burrito assembly line, a place where you call the shots and load a tortilla (flavored or not) with all your favorite toppings. Start with the meat and work your way through a plethora of options including beans, rice, veggies and cheese. The endless combinations will keep you going back for more. 1612 S. Georgia, 359.7330 $ Texas Firehouse Sports Bar & Grill More grill than bar, Texas Firehouse offers everything from a delicious, fried green bean appetizer to steaks, all in a family-friendly, smoke-free environment. Watch all your favorite sporting events while you eat.

3333 S. Coulter, Suite D1, 351.1800 C $ - $$ Thai Arawan You’ll get your fill of fresh, authentic Thai cuisine at Thai Arawan. We recommend the Angel Noodle and the ChickenFried Rice. Consistently good flavor and friendly service make this one of our favorites. 2834 Wolflin, 463.7167 $$ Tyler’s Barbeque Going back to the basics, Tyler’s Barbeque combines a straightforward menu with a relaxed atmosphere. We suggest the mouth-watering Man-Sized Double Meat Sandwich or the tasty Frito pie. 2014 Paramount, 331.2271, tylersbarbeque.com $

Roosters Espresso Café Roosters offers more than just a good cup of Joe. Stop in and plan on staying for a hot breakfast pastry or one of the delicious lunch specialties. It’s the perfect place to relax with your friends for lunch. 3440 Bell, 353.7309 $ y

Village Bakery & Café The Village offers a large selection of handmade European pastries and breads to complement fresh, gourmetstyle breakfasts, lunches and dinners.

The casual bistro setting makes it the perfect place for a special lunch date. 2606 Wolflin Village, 358.1358, villagebakerycafe.com $ ^ y

Sakura Japanese Steakhouse Choose from an extensive sushi menu that includes Nigiri style, cut rolls, special rolls, spicy rolls, sushi salads and for the beef lover, Texas sushi. At Sakura, get ready to be entertained by chefs who prepare your meal at the table. We wholeheartedly recommend the swordfish. 4000 S. Soncy, 358.8148 $$ – $$$ c

Western Bowl The next time you’re looking for dinner and some fun with the family, swing by Western Bowl. The diner strikes up five different bowling specials throughout the week. After you’ve worked up an appetite from all the bowling, head to the restaurant for some old-fashioned American food like a patty-melt or a B.L.T. 5120 Canyon Drive, 352.2737, $ c

Saltgrass Steak House Certified Angus Beef + Sidewinders = mouthwatering taste. Saltgrass has plenty of steaks to choose from and you can pair it with juicy Gulf shrimp or try the Seafood Fondeaux with Shiner Bock Beer Bread. Take our advice: Save room for the Two-Fork Cheesecake. It’s a piece of heaven that melts in your mouth.

8300 I-40 West, 351.0349, saltgrass.com c $$

Woodshed Bar-B-Que With “every bite prepared on site,” you can bet Woodshed will deliver fresh, homemade fare that will surely satisfy.

Eat your fill of barbecue platters and “sammiches” and classic dishes that fill the massive menu board. If you’re having a case of the Mondays, drop by after work and kick back and relax with $1 beer and live music. 2734 Westhaven Village, 322.1842 $ – $$ y ☎

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Young Sushi Rocks!

The friendly greeting you receive when you walk into Young’s is your first clue that your experience will be a good one. The helpful staff is always willing to offer suggestions regarding the sushi. If sushi’s not your thing, try the authentic Thai cuisine. 202 SW 10th, 371.7200 $$

C^

Canyon Buffalo’s Southwest Café Buffalo’s offers traditional Southwestern fare with hardy ingredients like corn, black beans and chili in a number of the specialties. Everything’s tasty but we recommend starting with the famous hot wings. 2811 4th, 655.4400 buffaloscafe.com $ c El Patio Mexican Restaurante Sometimes the only thing that will satisfy pesky hunger pains is great TexMex and that’s exactly what you’ll find at El Patio. The comfortable atmosphere and exceptional service add up to a perfectly satisfying meal.

1410 Hereford Hwy., 655.4300 $

Fat Boy’s BBQ Fat Boy’s has been dishing up delicious Texas-style barbeque since 1988 so it’s safe to say they know what they’re doing. The meat has the perfect amount of smoky flavor. Top that off with sweet barbeque sauce and a few homemade sides and your taste buds will thank you.

104 23rd, 655.7363 $ Feldman’s Wrong Way Diner Step into Feldman’s and you might wonder where you are: Gilligan’s Island, a model train shop or an eatery. As soon as you catch a whiff of the classic American food, you’ll know. The fun, casual atmosphere and model trains that run a course along the ceiling make Feldman’s a great place for the whole family. Try the made-fresh burgers or the Tortuga chicken, satisfaction guaranteed. 1701 5th, 655.2700, feldmansdiner.com $ The King and I Craving fresh sushi? The King and I will surely satisfy. Try the customer favorite, the Canyon roll, and savor every scrumptious slice of crab, tempura shrimp, avocado, cucumber and cream cheese topped with red tuna, white tuna, shrimp and eel. If you still have an appetite, order the fried bananas covered with powdered sugar and strawberries. 104 15th, 655.2491 $$

Morning Glory Tea Room Morning Glory offers a charming eatery for your next special occasion or lunch out with the girls. While you’re there, browse through their furniture and accessories while you wait for your food.

The tea room serves breakfast or lunch Tuesday through Saturday with a menu that changes weekly. 1608 4th, Canyon, 655.7221 $$ Rock N Roll Soda Shoppe Located in downtown Canyon, the Rock N Roll Soda Shoppe offers classic soda shop fare along with Southwestern treats. The Chick-a-Dilla, a chicken fajita quesadilla served with hot sauce and guacamole, is a taste-treat paired with any of the specialty drinks. Give the Trash Can Lid Sundae Sampler a try. It’s a smaller portion of all the sundae flavors served up on a trash can lid. 404 15th, 655.3381 $ y Something Different Grill The Something Different Grill has made a great name for itself in Canyon. The menu offers a variety of entrees ranging from sandwiches and burgers to pasta and Asian noodle bowls. The service is quick but you can forget fast-food taste.

Everything tastes like home-cooked goodness. 210 23rd, Canyon 655.6565 $

Hereford Brix Steakhouse Brix is more than just a steakhouse.

The diverse menu offers something for everyone including seafood and chicken. You’ll enjoy the relaxed, cozy atmosphere as you dine. 1404 W 1st, 364.2583 $ c

Vega Boot Hill Saloon Chef Rory, a Jersey native, features her signature recipes at the Boot Hill Saloon.

She’s been a guest on “The Rachel Ray Show” and worked with chefs Bobby Flay, Giada Delaurentis and Paula Dean, to name a few. So when you visit, you know you’re in for a treat. The food is superb, a mixture of great culinary skill with a Texas twist, and the“Sweet After Thoughts” are to die for. 909 Vega Blvd, 267.2904, boothillvega.com $$ y ☎ c

taste of the city SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Kabuki Romanza

Join us for a wine dinner... at Kabuki, an evening filled with exquisite dining and perfectly balanced wines to compliment. We hope you will join us in the exploration of fine wine and exquisite cuisine at future wine dinners. Each wine dinner will feature a unique dining experience balanced with tantalizing wines, perfect for any occasion. Call Carey or Venita at 353.4242, ext. 6 for more information. Open seven days a week.

11 a.m. – 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.

8130 I-40 West, Amarillo, 353.4242

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Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

Thank you for voting us Best Fountain Drinks!

Limit one with coupon. One coupon per visit.

Please mention coupon when ordering.

Not good in conjunction with any other offers.

Offer good only at participating SONIC Drive-Ins. HURRY! OFFER GOOD THROUGH November 31, 2011.

No cash value. Copies, sale, or Internet distribution or auction prohibited. ©2011 America’s Drive-In Brand Properties LLC.

THANKS FOR ANOTHER GREAT YEAR! RS 9 YEAA IGHT! STR

Thanks for voting us the best liquor store. We sincerely appreciate your business and will continue to offer you the best possible value and services.

M&R LiquoR 5901 Bell • 806.358.4726

November 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

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November

Image courtesy of Amarillo Public Library Archives

retro rewind

Fourteenth Avenue and Fillmore Street, next to Sanborn Park

Ice Storm On a Saturday night in November 1940, an ice storm wreaked havoc on Amarillo and the Panhandle. Ice covered streets, buildings and trees, causing millions of dollars of damage. With communication, power and travel stalled, citizens were isolated and without a steady water supply for days. It was not until the following Thursday that utilities were restored to Amarillo, according to the Amarillo Daily News.

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Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

spotlight

Ginger Hagen Mother, teacher, cook

I

t’s not out of the ordinary for Ginger Hagen and her family to enjoy homemade meals nightly. While they don’t employ a personal chef, Ginger, her husband, Tim, and their 3-year-old daughter, Lulu, are part of a weekly food co-op in which members alternate kitchen duties by preparing and delivering nutritious dinners.

“Healthy food is really important to all of us and once we started having kids we were just trying to think of an option to feed our families healthy meals on weeknights without having to cook every night,” Ginger says of the four-family group.

In her hometown of Jackson, Mississippi, Ginger participated in a cooking co-op, a practice she wanted to continue with people of kindred food philosophies and palates.

“It’s a no-brainer for me,” says the St. Andrew’s Episcopal School art teacher.

“It’s a lot of food to cook and then to package and deliver and by the time I get home my kitchen’s a wreck and I’m exhausted,” she describes. “But Monday through Wednesday I get dinner delivered to my door... It is amazing.” am

If I had a time machine I would travel to… a simpler time. I would love to see the world the way my grandparents and great-grandparents saw it growing up, and to live in a less immediatelygratified culture where good things take time and are more appreciated because of the limitations.

My favorite meal to make from scratch is… almost everything. Homemade pizza night is a big hit around our house these days.

One of my favorite childhood toys was… my bicycle. I have an amazing sense of direction, and I would ride all over our neighborhood mapping out every single street in my mind.

If I were a character in a book, I would be… the hen in “The Little Red Hen.” I have a strong need for fairness. And I also like baking bread.

For the full story, log on to amarillomagonline.com.

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Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • November 2011

The greatest piece of advice I’ve ever received is… live simply so that others may simply live.

photo by Jeff Harbin, Life of Riley Photography

Q&A

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Power to the harvest

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