November 2013
7 100 Word Bias 8 A Probability of Words 11 America Matters Media
November 2013 CONTENT
12 Art
54
44
12 The Art Inside Me (AIM)
15 Community
15 Mustang Matters
18 Cover Story 18 William Furs
32 Creative Coalition of Midtown 37 DigiTips
38 Essay
38 My Mom's Final Lesson
44 Event 44 46 48 50
Kytami The Charity All-Nighter The Potentialist Movement Thicker Than Thieves
54 Fashion 4 Ways 54 Fur 4 Ways
60 Feature - My Life With Death
60 David Ellefson from Megadeth Bonus
65 Film
65 Matt Shepard is a Friend of Mine 67 Grace Notes
70 Local Lit
18
70 "D.L." Whitehead Darwin's Sword 72 The Devils of Eden (Preview)
74 Movers
74 Heather Hoffman
76 New Business
76 SINGER Social Club
81 On The Rise
81 Singer-songwriter Liam Kyle Cahill
46
82 Poetry
82 by Student at Rainshadow Community Charter High School
84 Profile
98 91
84 Downtime Bonus 87 Raw Nutrition - Giving Thanks 89 Riverwalk Report
91 Scene
91 The Midnight Deer
94 Theater
94 RENT at TMCC's Arts Center
32
38
81
98 Tribute
98 Mary Jane Hutchison
Editor/Publisher Oliver X Art Director Grae Warren Business Development Shelly Brown Design Associates Mike Robertson Kristine Toward Design on the Edge Paula Campbell Megan Duggan Copy Editor Elisika Arango Contributing Writers Tina Mokuau Jenny Spencer John Clement Thomas Lloyd Qualls Cody Doyle Rory Dowd Sean Cary Sean Savoy Gertie OK Elisika Arango Isha Casagrande Amber Howland Contributing Photographers Chris Holloman Shannon Balazs Tony Contini Clayton Beck Dana Nollsch Anicia Beckwith Digiman Studio Kyle Volland Kiley Sauer Illustrator Lucido Jerry Stinson PAN Pantoja Sales 775-412-3767 Legal Counsel MATTHEW P. DIGESTI, ESQ. | THE DIGESTI LAW FIRM LLP" Submissions renotahoetonightrocks@gmail.com Website renotahoetonightmagazine.com All content, layout and design is the property of Reno Tahoe Tonight Magazine. Duplication or reproduction is prohibited without the expressed written consent of Reno Tahoe Tonight Magazine. Copyright 2012. Reno Tahoe Tonight is produced on 10% recycled American paper and is printed with all soy and vegetable inks.
Snapshot
Photographer Chris Holloman "Redbull Gives You Wings!" Bboy performs at the RedBull Party for Reno Food Bank October 07, 2013 Reno Knitting Factory
ss-
100 Word Bias
Thee Reverend Rory Dowd
Album images courtesy of the artists
Stabby Unicorn
Licking the Magic Castle
Combining the negative space of 80’s music mixed with 90’s wall of distortion fuzz, Stabby Unicorn’s first album is ambitious. Starting with the Devo-esque “No Capacity” their sound is pretty quirky. Keyboard effects, droning guitar riffs, bare bones drumming and dual boy/girl vocals create a mildly haunting audio space. The slow, psychedelic build in “Camaro” makes the hair on the back of my neck stand up every time I hear it. Despite the trance-y nature of the many of the songs though, I found most of them to be pretty dance-y too. This is subversive pseudo-pop, and it’s really good. You can purchase digital or physical copies of Licking the Magic Castle at: http://stabbyunicorn. bandcamp.com/album/licking-the-magic-castle.
Wolpertinger How We Are Alike
Self-described as “Schizophrenic songs from desperate places,” this 15-track album is the mood music for the long dark teatime of the soul. Consciously creating a conduit to the subconscious, the darkly whimsical lyrics leave you feeling spent, but hopeful--like the calm after a good long cry. That’s not to say this is a ‘sad’ album. It’s great rock music with fantastic poetry, in the tradition of Giant Sand and Red Red Meat: powerful, intense and somewhat obscure. A lyric from “Nations” sums it all up, “I don’t know, man/I don’t know/I know/This isn’t what I signed up for.” Check out How We Are Alike and other Wolpertinger recordings at: http://wolpertinger. bandcamp.com/releases
d
Actors Killed Lincoln
The Land is Unfamiliar
dfvs fvsd
Fiddles and banjoes and brass, oh my! In this self-titled, full-length release, dark, punk rock ragtime story-songs about mythological battles of the soul dominate the audioscape. Everything about this CD is larger than life and bigger than Barnum. “High energy” doesn’t begin to describe the driving, demonic rhythms and frantic, harmonic wailings that issued from my speakers as I listened to the tracks. With a six member ensemble, melodies are not so much intertwined as they are “forged in the fires of Vesuvius”. Plus, they’re just a goddam toe-tapping good time. I dare you not to dance or sing along. Keep up with Actors Killed Lincoln at: https:// www.facebook.com/pages/Actors-Killed-Lincoln .
Jakki Ford
Alive and Swingin’ It’s time to break out the slick suits, skinny ties and sequined gowns. I don’t listen to big band classics all that much (shocker, I know), but this CD had me gliding and bopping around my house while I did some chores and got ready for a night out. Ford is an intensely emotive vocalist; so much so that I felt I could see her smiles and pouting eyes while listening through. It was hard to not have a spring in my step listening to clean jazzy arrangements of 30s, 40s, and 50s show tunes backing up her powerful singing. Check out all three of Jakki Ford’s releases at www.jakkiford.com .
Reno Tahoe Tonight 7
A Probability of Words
Text Thomas Lloyd Qualls Photo Kelly Peyton
"
Enough.
"
Obstacles are like wild animals. They are cowards but they will bluff - Orison Swett Marden you if they can
T
here is much talk these days about the ego and its evil ways, about the importance of eliminating or transcending it. It is true we should be more aware of the ego and its tendency towards chaos and distraction. But it is also futile to imagine that the ego is something we can destroy. More than this, it is delusional to believe that eradication of the ego is something we should aspire to accomplish. Though it has become the all-purpose whipping boy of many a guru, the ego is more akin to the tempting sprite or the trickster coyote of various mythologies. One of the ego's games is to set up unnecessary hurdles for us to clear. It tells us that if we clear this next hurdle, we'll feel better. We will be known as the hurdle-clearer. And all will be right with the world. But once we're over the hurdle, the ego immediately begins to diminish the accomplishment: It wasn't as high as it looked. Other people have overcome far greater obstacles. Immediately, the ego starts looking for the next thing to prove itself. And make no mistake, no matter how high the bar is set, it will not be enough. This is because -- among other things -- the ego has an attachment fixation with drama. 8 Reno Tahoe Tonight
The Master does nothing, yet he leaves nothing undone. The ordinary man is always doing things, yet many more are left to be done. -Lao Tzu The ego also has a terrible memory and tends to forget its job. Its primary job is to be the vehicle for the soul's expression. But for whatever reason, instead of sticking to the task at hand, it has developed an unending lust for want. And in the perpetual swoon of its desire to desire, it has forgotten its original charge to do the soul’s bidding. Intentionally or not, the ego engages in its own brand of mutiny and re-charters the course of the vehicle for its own means. No one is certain why this is. Perhaps, like most of us in this modern world, the ego is just easily distracted. But the havoc that follows in the wake of its attention deficit is connected to a great many of the human world’s problems. I want to be clear that want is not a bad thing. And that desire is an essential component of life. In a way, all creativity is born of desire. Obstacles are also not necessarily bad. All of us will encounter our fair share. And they tend to build character and identity, to add to our
Thomas Lloyd Qualls
self-confidence, and even to help us evolve as problem-solvers. Whoever is not in his coffin and the dark grave, let him know he has enough. -Walt Whitman So desire is not bad. Obstacles are not bad. The ego is not bad. The trick is one of perspective. Of balance. Of finding grace. One partner cannot do all the dancing. Or as the saying goes, everything in moderation, including moderation. In short, life should not be harder than necessary. You and I know it can be tricky enough, without putting up gratuitous roadblocks, without an unending shopping list. Without the constant struggle to have enough, to work enough, to know enough, to save enough, to give enough, to get enough, to grow enough, to live enough, to be enough.
The sun rises and sets every day. The Earth is always right here beneath our feet. The moon puts on a different show every night. The birds serenade us daily (though we have never paid them anything). The wind seeks us out and urges us to dance. The flowers bloom, the leaves change colors, the rain quenches our thirst, the snow paints the landscape. Though there are countless distractions we encounter on any given day, these simple and not-so-simple things are always here to remind us that they are enough. That we have enough. That we are enough.
Isn't that enough?
Next time you are struggling with any issue in your life, ask yourself if the demons you are wrestling are real. Ask if your desires are your own. Ask yourself what will happen if you don't do this one more task, don't buy this one more thing, don't stretch what's already paper thin. Ask if there are simpler pleasures already within your grasp. Reno Tahoe Tonight 9
live streamin
g
America Matters Media
Community Radio Spurs Commerce: AMM as Business Cheerleaders
Special to Reno Tahoe Tonight
Community radio is a key strategy for economic growth in the developing world. It creates a targeted platform for broadcasting community activities, especially those in business. It provides a unique venue for community members to learn about nearby businesses, new businesses, new products and services available, special purchasing opportunities and even employment openings. In that spirit, AMM produces a number of radio shows with some powerful methods to promote businesses in northern Nevada:
Profiles in Business
Host Chip Evans welcomes four businesses each week to be profiled on the air. Business owners share how they got into their current business, products and services offered; what they have done to differentiate their business for success; advice for fellow entrepreneurs and how listeners can buy from them.
Nevada First
Famous “Buy Local” guy Dave Asher hosts guests to highlight the benefits of buying local by individuals, businesses, organizations and government. He stresses the preferred hierarchy for buying to help our local economy: buy from a locally-owned business (that hopefully buys from other locally-owned businesses), then from locally-owned franchises of chain stores, and then, if you have to, from the national chain stores. Dave Asher
Gastro Gab
Host Kelly Rush’s new show highlights local eateries and their local suppliers, exploring the growth and diversity of this important business segment and providing deeper insight into what we are being served to eat and drink.
Business Matters with Chip Evans MBA
This show highlights broad business topics to inform and aid the business community through discussion with business leaders and representatives from organizations that support business. The first and third show of the month features “Breakthrough Coaching” with Chip and Rudi Wiedemann advising companies on their most pressing current challenges.
Chip Evans
The Cheri Hill Show
Prominent local business leader and educator Cheri Hill interviews guests on a wide range of business topics with a focus on our local business community.
Nevada Matters
Cheri Hill
The station’s signature mid-day local affairs show, “Nevada Matters” is a forum usually available for local business owners to come by the studio and tell the listeners about upcoming business events and specials.
Dedicated Programs and Show Segments
Many businesses decide to have their own radio show or a dedicated segment of an appropriate show (with real-time social media) to highlight and share their expertise or the goods and services they provide. We produce such shows for lawyers, doctors, accountants, stock brokers and publishers.
Multi-Media Advertising
We have assembled cost-effective advertising programs with strategic partners that can include radio, social media, television and print media to help businesses needing to reach new prospective customers – a real challenge in today’s fragmented media market. The essence of “Community Radio” is to serve the community. We are pleased to support our local business community however we can! Call us to discuss how we can be a help to your business! Go to www.americamatters.us for information about which stations and times shows will air and repeat. For impacting, cost-effective advertising on America Matters Media stations and affiliates, please contact America Matters Media General Manager Chip Evans at chip@americamatters.us or call 775-827-8900. Reno Tahoe Tonight 11
Art
Sharon DeMattia’s
The Art Inside Me (AIM)
F
olks know Sharon DeMattia as a beautiful, deep thinking, bike riding dynamo and loving mother with a beaming smile and crystalline heart. Her expressed interests are equally fascinating as she has embarked on a life journey that is helping people to create a dialogue with themselves and others as they discover the art inside each of us. “The goal of The ART Inside Me (AIM) project is to start the conversation that changes how we view ourselves and others through the medium of an ART canvas, says DeMattia. “AIM is about recognizing that we are all not only artists, but art ourselves,” she notes. According to DeMattia, these self-exploratory and cathartic exercises have broad applications for many fields, including the Healing Arts, Education, Military (PTSD), Business (team building and branding), Personal self-discovery, children and adults “There is no better work of art than humanity-forever unique not only in appearance but in our life stories. The imperfections are what make us unique and perfect, and when those are celebrated and shared we connect emotionally with others--we realize we all have a right to our story, and we belong.
Text Oliver X Photos from Sierra Arts Gallery by Sarah G. Stevenson
12 Reno Tahoe Tonight
I attended the October 5 ART Inside Breast Cancer Gallery Show that celebrated the stories of Breast Cancer at Sierra Arts Gallery and was tremendously moved by the renderings offered by the survivors of this disease that touches so many families. The gallery exhibit featured the ART canvasses made by the women and their family members, done with brightly colored Promarkers. The words and symbols each rendered seemed to represent the participant’s personal manifestos: “Risk Taker,” “Go Big!” “Don’t Die Wondering,” Unconditional Love.” On the north wall of the exhibit were castings of female breasts made by the exhibitors of their own breasts. My take-away was that the entire experience was insightful for me as a viewer and galvanizing, therapeutic and for some of the exhibitors, transformative. DeMattia’s point is that “defining our humanity on a personal level begins the conversation that allows us to develop a better perspective on ourselves and subsequently each other. The ability to truly see another’s perspective is key for establishing true empathy, appreciation and connection with those around us,” she emphasizes. DeMattia’s recent ART projects include Healing ARTs at Renown, Casa de Vida, a private, nonprofit corporation providing a home and support services for pregnant young women, Living the Bliss Self Discovery Retreat, Create, Explore, Discover. Art Retreat, to name just a few.
Her hope is to inspire families, businesses, kids and the general public to host their own AIM events, group functions, school and solo projects. “Adults can have a party (that’s both fun and meaningful) with wine and cheese; kids can explore this as a creative exercise of sharing and self-identification—it’s better than a party favor or another toy,” she beams. “Do a canvas, it’s a great Christmas gift and it’s better than a sweater. As a business event, AIM will help differentiate yourself and your business.” When asked what the project has meant to her, DeMattia states, “For me it is allowing myself to be imperfect and to connect to who I am, to what my essence is at my core—absent all the other stuff that we assign significance to.” Contact Sharon DeMattia for information on customizable packaging at Sharon@ artinsideme.com, or Artinsideme.com Facebook. com/AIMforconnection http://www.flickr.com/ photos/105918403@N05/ Reno Tahoe Tonight 13
Text Chip Evans Photo Debbie McCarthy
Community
Mustang Matters
A
dvocates for the protection of Nevada’s wild horses and burros are finding their voice on America Matters Media. A new and already nationally-syndicated radio show entitled “Mustang Matters” is raising awareness of the plight of America’s wild horses. An impressive array of hosts has been assembled for this impactful radio program, including Lacy J. Dalton (famous country-western singer and head of the Let ‘em Run Foundation), Eddie Floyd (founder of Nevada Matters, Inc. and husband of Shari Floyd, operator of the Wynema Ranch Wild Horse Sanctuary), Cindy Hartzell and Shannon Windle (leaders of the Hidden Valley Wild Horse Protection Fund) and Joann Spotted Bear (a Lakota Indian and Naïve American advocate). Heard across the country, this weekly broadcast features an in-depth analysis of the complicated issues associated with preserving the wild horse and its habitat, all anchored on a bedrock conviction that rounding up these national treasures and sending them off to slaughter for food overseas is simply not acceptable. Did you know filet of foul has become a prized delicacy in Asia? The often chaotic interplay between residential communities, developers, ranchers, state and federal agencies, environmentalists, public safety officers, the many wild horse advocate groups and the horses themselves has had many twists and turns over the years – some based on laws, some based on habitatencroaching development, some on the competition for grazing land for cattle and some based on the rising prices for horsemeat and profit opportunity for slaughterhouses. “Mustang Matters” has become a vital venue for discussion and involvement of organizations and concerned individuals. In addition to seeking out wild horse advocates and hosting discussions on our other shows, AMM has launched the new nonprofit Wynema Ranch Wild Horse Sanctuary near Reno. The mission of the sanctuary is the rescue, rehabilitation, care and preparation for adoption of abused, neglected and abandoned animals, particularly wild mustangs, horses, burros and mules. The sanctuary currently houses over 100 rescued wild mustangs. This new sanctuary is a key component and focal point for the network of advocates working to protect
the wild horses in northern Nevada. Together they seek and gather animals in need of either long-term or temporary care, rehabilitate animals that are hurt physically and/or emotionally by their interaction with humankind and rescue animals from natural and commercial slaughter. Additionally, the sanctuary will provide public education about the plight of the wild mustang, create opportunity for the public to experience the beauty of these animals in a near-wild setting, prepare animals and prospective owners for a successful adoption and provide follow up support. Other work of the sanctuary includes advocating for wild horses, burros and mules and the environment they depend on to live in the wild; providing veterans of the American military, those recently released from incarceration and those in addiction recovery opportunities to heal and grow through interaction with the animals it shelters. Lastly, they will raise funds and create partnerships with governmental agencies and allied organizations to assure their good work is financially sustainable and can expand. The protection and preservation of wild horses is a unique community issue in northern Nevada-a perfect challenge for AMM, the Home of Community Radio!
“Mustang Matters” airs live on KRNG 101.3FM on Wednesdays at 11AM, streaming at renegaderadio.org, and replays on Saturday at 6AM. Airs on KKFT 99.1FM on Sundays at 9PM. Wynema Ranch Wild Horse Sanctuary info at wynemaranch.com Let Em Run Foundation info at letemrun.com Hidden Valley Wild Horse Protection Fund info at hiddenvalleyhorses.com Chip Evans General Manager - America Matters Media VP/COO - Nevada Matters. Inc. Chip@AmericaMatters.US Cell 775.240.1222
Reno Tahoe Tonight 15
Cover Story
William Furs: Fur on Flesh Part 1 William Furs is the leading purveyor of fine furs in northern Nevada. The place where form and function meet luxurious master craftsmanship. Open 34 years in the same location and operated by William Asmar as William Furs for the past twenty years, the store is a furrier fantasy land of gorgeous coats, hats, men’s fur coats, and men’s reversible fur and leather jackets, women’s fur trimmed boots and gloves, ear muffs, stolls, neck wraps, throws, fur teddy bears, pillows and blankets. The store also has one of
S
northern Nevada’s largest selections of men’s leather jackets.
peaking to Asmar was like having a history lesson on the modern application of fur manufacturing, purchasing, service and sales. I talked with the industry veteran about how he built his brand in the first of our two-part series. RTT: How did you start the business? William Asmar: Twenty years ago I came to this store to buy a coat for my wife. I wasn’t in the fur business. The store used to be called Furs By Kurt, who was an old German Jewish man from Austria. He was an expert and we became friends. I bought the coat for my wife and I learned the business from Kurt. He said it would take me six months to learn the business. I learned it in two months and started selling coats and he was amazed! RTT: What has been your secret to selling? William Asmar: I adore beauty. Who knows, maybe it’s my accent, and my appreciation for the glamour of the fur? Maybe people like me? But they do trust me and they trust my knowledge. I can still sell a $10,000 mink coat in August, and have done so many, many times over the years. I learned the business in a good way. Kurt introduced me to manufacturers in New York, where I could go and buy from the designers. We have a very good name and reputation in New York. Now I can pick up the phone and they can ship. So, I took over the business and expanded it. We added leather for men and for women. We expanded and added the storage vault. We store 3,000 coats in the summer season for customers here in Reno. There are a lot of furs in this town. 18 Reno Tahoe Tonight
People love to dress up; coats are beautiful-- they’re elegant. I even added a room for consignment.
PETA
William Asmar: I respect PETA’s opinion; they are entitled to it. We are in Reno. It’s a hunting town. There are westerners, cowboys, hunters, ranchers and outdoorsmen. Now the fur is mostly farm raised. They use the pelts for the fur industry; the meat and bones for dog and cat food; they use the blood and fat for shoe polish and cosmetics. Now you can go to Macy’s and buy mink oil for your skin. So, now we call fur a “product of nature.” It’s better to wear a fur jacket than to wear a micro fiber jacket that’s manufactured and made from oil products. With fur there are no petrochemicals involved and no pollution of the ozone in the process. The Canadian government four years ago passed a law calling fur a green product, referring to it as a green sustainable and renewable resource. It helps our industry to have more young people discover the value and practical comfort of fur. RTT: Is there a certain part of the pelt that’s usable or is the entire pelt used? William Asmar: Every section of the pelt is used (mink paws, mink tail, and mink head). It is very expensive to waste. Sheared fur is soft like velvet. All kinds of fur can be used for pillows and bed throws. For a king sized bed sheared beaver is stunning! It sells for about $6,000. Fur is an investment. Most of the time fur doesn’t appreciate in cash value, but it can be passed on from generation to generation.
Text Oliver X Cover and feature photos
Jenni wears a natural
Chris Holloman Katipo Creative
Chinchilla
Models Jenni Gabelman, Scott Lomill
jacket with
and Brittney Brannagan
hood.
Hair Nellie Davis Outsiders Hair Studio Makeup Kristina Nierman Kiss and Makeup Catering Java Jungle Production Assistance by Brian Williams and Cindy Pratte Styling assistance by Isha Casagrande On the cover Scott wears a black natural ranch mink coat. Brittney wears a natural mahogany mink with spotted leopard.
Reno Tahoe Tonight 19
Cover Story
William Furs: Fur on Flesh Part 1 Well-kept fur has a life span of 70 to 80 years and can be remodeled or restyled. Nowadays we shear and color fur for the younger generation’s tastes and trendy styles.
HISTORY RTT: How did fur evolve from utilitarian use to a fashion statement for Americans? William Asmar: When this country was founded, fur was there. But the fur industry came into fashion in the 1930’s and 40’s. In Alaska, Canada and remote areas, trappers hunted the animals and used fur to clothe their families. They roast the carcasses in the winter to feed their families. Trapping became part of the settler ecology for food, clothing and livelihood. SAGA has been the industry leader for the past twenty years. They are the largest corporation in the world for fur manufacturing and located in Copenhagen, Denmark. They raise foxes and mink. SAGA brought all the top designers to their company to teach the proper cutting and handling and design of fur. Designers found that compared to other materials like leather, microfiber, wool and cashmere, nothing makes a woman look more glamorous, warm, and sexy than real fur. Now all the top designers like Yves Saint Laurent and Gucci have gone back to trimming fur in their garments, collections and accessories. RTT: Did you research and absorb this history from your own curiosity? William Asmar: I learned the basics from Kurt and from Owen Bartell. He was a good friend of mine too and a furrier and very knowledgeable. But most of my knowledge and experience has come from my travels. Going to meet the designers in person. Shaking hands; knowing them and seeing what they do. I went to Montreal, New York, Hong Kong, Paris and Las Vegas to the biggest shows there called Magic and Market. So travelling to these countries and to those markets, I learned about design and about the new styles and what was in fashion. Every year we go, my wife Zalfa and I, and we see a lot of fashionable pieces. And we say, ‘Oh my God look how it’s beautiful. Do you think we should we buy it? Do you think it will sell in Reno?’ Because people think Reno is conservative, but not anymore. We have a lot of people moving here from California. We are growing; we have people who travel a lot and they know about fashion. Believe me when I buy those amazing and trendy pieces from Europe 20 Reno Tahoe Tonight
and I put them in my store those are the first ones to sell! I thought I would always need to stock the classic black and brown mink coats. They are still selling, but the fashionable pieces for the young crowd this is where my market is now—the unique stuff. So by traveling the world I can find the merchandise. RTT: Do you order in anticipation of trends or do you order based on preorders? William Asmar: I buy two or three pieces of a kind from each manufacturer—maybe fifteen or twenty coats. But if I see that one kind of style is selling I reorder that style. The best items now are the fun reversible coats, because you can have mink or beaver on the inside and leather or taffeta on the outside like a rain coat. So you are warm on the inside and protected against rain or snow on the outside. These coats are the best sellers. It’s more for your money. If it’s reversible, you can wear it in all weather, year round.
Services
William Asmar: We do cold storage of almost 3,000 during the summer. Fur should be in storage during the summer months. We have a very dry climate here. Furs will crack and shed if they are not stored. The good news is that we charge $40 per coat for one year…very affordable. If you have a mink coat that you don’t wear, you bring it to me and we can sheer it and make it reversible. Even if you want to change the color we can change it. We all know when we get older and it’s cold our fingers sometimes don’t function so well. We have found a way (and we’re the first store in the United States) to use magnets as fasteners. We also do brightening. RTT: What is brightening? William Asmar: We do brightening for the white lynx and white fox coats. Over time it oxidizes and turns yellow. We use a proprietary method to bring back the coat to its original color and luster using a proprietary method. We also do a lot of leather repair and leather cleaning on premises. We are the only company that does this in Reno. Our store has no competition in Reno. We have customers come from Oregon, Montana, Idaho, Utah, and California—from all over the west—they come here.
Brittney is wearing lambs wool goat hair boots made in Italy and a black fox wrap with black fox headband.
William Furs is open six days a week from 9:30am – 5:30pm and closed Sundays. Located at 3370 Lakeside Ct in Reno. 775-828-0995. www.williamfurs.com. Next month RTT will feature part two of this two-part series on William Furs.
Reno Tahoe Tonight 21
Cover Story William Furs
Scott wears a natural tanuki (Chinese raccoon) full-length men’s coat.
District 3 Delusion Boot by Buckle
22 Reno Tahoe Tonight
Brittney is tempting in this white Sheared Mink with silver fox colored hood.
Reno Tahoe Tonight 23
Cover Story William Furs
Jenni is stylish and comfortable in her goat hair with silver fox fur boots and blue fox wrap with silver fox headband.
24 Reno Tahoe Tonight
Brittney wears ranch mink with black fox stollwrap and sheared mink bikini top.
Reno Tahoe Tonight 25
Cover Story William Furs
Brittney wears a full-length ranch mink with black and crystal fox trimmed sleeves; Scott is in a black leather reversible sheared beaver coat and Jenni is wearing a natural Canadian lynx coat. 26 Reno Tahoe Tonight
Scott smolders in a natural island fox fling from Norway.
Reno Tahoe Tonight 27
Cover Story William Furs
28 Reno Tahoe Tonight
Brittney is wrapped in a natural Russian sable fling.
Reno Tahoe Tonight 29
P H O T O G R A P H Y
&
G R A P H I C
D E S I G N
W W W. K AT I P O C R E AT I V E . C O M 775.379.3075
K AT I P O C R E AT I V E @ G M A I L . C O M
Supplies and art kits for children at Nevada Fine Arts
Youth and Arts
Text Vanessa Simpson Photos Focus in Photography
M
aybe it’s because I am an artist, but I remember sitting at my second or third grade desk in elementary school creating informative posters for various contests like, “Fire Safety” or “Earth Day”. Since those formative years, I’ve grown to become a firm believer in two sayings, “art saves” and “learn through play.” If you are creative, producing something isn’t just a want or a desire--it’s a necessity. When I entered high school and college and even now when I make lists for the day, I find the best way for me to remember something is to draw what I need to know. I count myself lucky to have been around creative individuals throughout my formative years. As a teenager, I was a nanny for a local potter’s son, my oldest sister is a painter, and my mom is a writer. I have family and dear friends who are photographers, chefs, wood workers, musicians, actors, and playwright. But what if, as a young person, you don’t have people like this within your reach? Or perhaps you are a parent or family member of a child who is incredibly imaginative, but you aren’t sure how to foster his talents and grow his creativity? How, when, and where does
32 Reno Tahoe Tonight
our community provide space, tools, mentors, and classes for the artistic young people that live here? Where can our under 21 crowd see art and design in a playful and new way? The Creative Coalition of Midtown is full of resources and opportunities to do just that.
Nevada Fine Arts
1301 South Virginia Street If you are searching for a literal artist tool kit for your young person, look no further than Nevada Fine Arts. It’s a “candy store” for artists of all kinds, offering art craft supplies and kits for ages three and up. The owners, Doug and Debbie Wolff, opened the original store in1969 and became part of the Midtown family in 2007 when they relocated from East Fourth Street to the current 1301 South Virginia Street location. Nevada Fine Arts reaches out to the youth by working with the teachers from our local elementary, middle, high school, and college educational institutions. This includes Reno and Spark homeschooling and charter school communities. They donate or sell supplies for art classes giving discounts and gift certificates to students and teachers. Debbie says, “We encourage school
field trips to the store and offer product demos for people ages ten years to adult.” As a kid, I would have been in heaven if my class had taken a field trip to the art supply store. Wandering the isles of Nevada Fine Arts is a good way to see what the store has to offer, as well as do a bit of holiday shopping for the artist in your life. They have unique gifts and stocking stuffers for all ages. If you have a masterpiece that needs framing, they have an expert staff to frame those cherished pieces created by your young artist(s). The staff of Nevada Fine Arts is always helpful, friendly, and knowledgeable. To find out more about events and classes please check their website nvfinearts.com. Better yet, stop in and say, “Hi.”
an entirely new part of the museum and witnessed some wonderful interactions happening between teen and adult artists. Seeing the mentors in action made me proud of the people in my city. I can hardly wait to see this year’s upcoming “Stranger Show” at the Holland Project (see the Holland Project to find out more details) as well as the annual Scholastic Art Awards competition and exhibition that the Museum hosts. This competition gives middle and high school students the opportunity to participate and compete at a regional level. To find out more about what is happening at the Nevada Museum of Art, please check their website nevadaart.org, subscribe to their mailing list, or like them on Facebook.
Nevada Museum of Art 160 West Liberty Street
The Nevada Museum of Art was originally founded in 1931 as the Nevada Art Gallery. Today, the museum is a 60,000 square foot, four-story space for locals and tourists alike to enjoy, learn, and experience art. I spoke with the vibrant Claire Muñoz who is the Director of the E.L. Cord Museum School and oversees the Youth and Community Based Arts Initiative, and the Museum’s free monthly “hands/ON!” program which offers free admission and activities geared towards families and youth ages 2-12. Hands/ON is held each month during “Second Saturdays” and is an interactive day at the museum. It gives parents and children a chance to explore the museum together as well as learn more about the particular theme for that month. I have brought my two children down for the event and we all had fun exploring, playing, and creating. The Nevada Museum of Art is also working in partnership with the Holland Project to produce a variety of community events designed to engage youth from our area in the arts. These events are driven by the young people that participate in them giving the youth a platform for engagement in a primarily over 21 town.
Paint brushes at Nevada Fine Arts patiently waiting their turn.
Instructor, Jerry Stinson working with a student during an NMA Art High class
When I visited Claire for this interview, I was introduced to Reno Tahoe Tonight 33
Creative Coalition of Midtown Youth and Arts
The Holland Project 140 Vesta Street
The Holland Project is a six-year-old nonprofit with a small staff and an amazing team of dedicated, wonderful people who serve as contributing members and volunteers. These are the people who help to provide programming for all ages in arts, music and cultural events. I asked my contact, Britt, how often they offer events and was surprised by the answer. “Holland offers approximately 13-18 events monthly. The all ages shows are in all genres, poetry nights, art exhibits, workshops, and special events.” As I mentioned in the Nevada Museum of Art section, students and mentors are gearing up for this month’s annual “Stranger Show.” In this show, Hug High School students are paired up with local artists who have similar interests. The final project is a collaborative piece guided primarily by the student. Working together, mentor and student artist create an original work of art based on the word “strange.”
Lydia Ziolkowski with her work at the one night only Young Blood pop-up art show held at The Holland Project in October.
34 Reno Tahoe Tonight
During the month of December, Holland is doing several holiday themed fundraising projects including a print sale featuring limited edition original prints and artwork. Items such as Rogue Art, Craft Village, Holiday Survival Kits, and hand-printed cards will also be included in this holiday sale. To find out more about what is on tap, the Holland Project is on Facebook, Instagram @hollandreno, Twitter @hollandproject as well as their own website hollandreno.org. They also reach out to the general public by providing information about upcoming events via fliers and posters around town. Holland Project event information is also included in the calendar listings of the local press. Get down to the Holland Project and support this amazing non-profit.
Heather Lee Jones poses with Happy Happy Joy Joy’s, “Little Boy Blue”.
Happy Happy Joy Joy 955 South Virginia Street
Happy Happy Joy Joy opened its doors on May 1st, 2013. "Midtown's Biggest Little Shop of Random" is owned by Heather Lee Jones. Heather started the store with the help of her mother Karen Karg and her boyfriend Kenny Dixon. They offer toys and gifts for kids of all ages. Happy Happy Joy Joy is a visual and tactile space. Staff encourages people to come in and have a good experience even if they are not there to buy. When I visited the store, I made a mental list for my holiday shopping and upcoming birthdays. She has so much fun stuff on the shelves. I asked Heather how the store is involved in the arts. She stated, “Currently we have one permanent art installation, Shoezilla hanging in the store. We also have art showings from local artists throughout the space.” She’s planning on pairing up with the Rainshadow Charter High School to host a student art exhibit at the store. After the holiday madness, Heather is hoping Mojo JoJocrafting spinning records at the Reno to add aDjfew crazy classes to the Public House. calendar so stay tuned and stop by this eclectic and interactive space the next time you are in Midtown. You can keep up with what is happening at Happy Happy Joy Joy by finding them on the web
at happyhappyreno.com as well as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @happyhappyreno. I might not be all that young anymore (ahem), but every time I visit the businesses of Midtown, I feel more imaginative. I can not only introduce my children to a vibrant art community, but also know there is support for them and myself through classes at the Nevada Museum of Art, Nevada Fine Arts, or at The Holland Project. No matter what, we can go play like a kid at Happy Happy Joy Joy. I hope the adults and youth of our city see what incredible resources Midtown truly has to offer. Join the members of the Creative Coalition of Midtown as they host "Black Friday in Midtown" on Friday, November 29th, from 9am-5pm. A donation of a pair of children's winter shoes or boots or $20 donation to the Washoe County School District's Children in Transition program will get you a pass for the event. Passes are good for discounts and special offers for many of your favorite Midtown businesses. In addition to shopping, there will be a Santa photo booth, carolers, a local artist fair, and more! View CreativeCoalitionReno.com or FB/ CreativeCoalitionReno for details. Reno Tahoe Tonight 35
DigiTips
Text Amber Howland Photo Edward Howland
Get Your
Together
In recent months I have spent a lot of time working with customers to clean up their Google profiles. This is due in part to Google’s product evolution over the past couple of years adding Google+ and changing Google places. Also, I have noticed a commonality among users to add Google products as they need them. For example, a recent client had a Google places page set up by one employee, YouTube set up by another, and a Google+ account they didn’t know existed. Combining accounts can be time consuming and at times difficult but it is very important for your business to have a cohesive account, not only for ease of use but for better search results for your business. Below are Google properties you want to have and how to make sure they are set up properly.
W
hen looking for your Google properties, it will ask you to login and will prompt you to put in your Gmail account. You can set up an account without Gmail and if you want to do that, use this link https:// accounts.google.com/SignUpWithoutGmail. Google Places: Most local businesses have a Google places account but to double check if you have one, you can go here google.com/business/ placesforbusiness/ and search for your business. If your business is not clamed, claim the business. It may prompt you to then set up a Google+ page. YouTube: visit youtube.com/ and create a channel. Even if you don’t have videos now, you still want a channel so you can add videos later. It is always easier to create your account then add to it after the fact. Once you have finished creating your YouTube channel, customize it by adding your website and social media sites. It will prompt you to add a Google+ page as well. Google Plus: plus.google. com/. You must have a personal Google profile to create a Google plus page for your business. Once you have a Google+ profile created, use the menu on the left to find “pages”. From here, you can create a
Google+ page for your business. If you have a local business already set up with a Google places account, it will search for the business and ask you to verify. It will also auto fill your Google+ page with information from your places account. From here, go back into your YouTube Channel and from the settings tab, connect your YouTube account to your Google plus account. If you find that you have some of the above accounts set up but don’t have access it might be time to call your social media professional who can sort out the confusion and re-link your accounts properly. If you have questions about your set up, feel free to email me at amber@ dragonflymedia.net. Do you have a digital topic you’d like me to write about in a future column? If so, please let me know by emailing me at amber@dragonflymedia. net.
Amber Howland
Dragonfly Media, Dragonflymedia.net, (775)746-4690 Amber Howland is General Manager of Dragonfly Media, based in Reno, Nevada. Dragonfly Media works with small to medium size businesses to increase their digital influence through SEO/SEM, social media management, website/app development, and email marketing. Reno Tahoe Tonight 37
Essay
My Mom’s Final Lesson Young Suk Miller
(known to friends and family as Lin)
August 8, 1951 September 3, 2013 Text and photos courtesy of Tessa Dee Miller
S
ometimes it takes a tragic situation to really shake us to our core. Our pain jolts us out of our complacency and makes us open to changing the daily routines that we have become so attached to—the ones we don’t even question anymore and never thought that we would even have the desire or will power to change. Our eyes are opened to the seemingly inconsequential habits that we were completely oblivious to that could ultimately lead to our demise. Out of this pain, we hope that we are strong enough to learn the difficult lessons and become the phoenix that rises from the heartache and ashes to create a future for ourselves and others that doesn’t forget or take in vain the heart-wrenching events it had to go through to understand the path it now has no other choice but to take
amount of words can sum up a life, especially one as dynamic as my mom’s.
My stepdad once said, “If anyone told me your mother was a saint, I’d tell them that they didn’t know her very well.” It’s true that she wasn’t perfect, but who is? Or even wants to be? My mom was progressive, quirky, stubborn, opinionated, and independent, To understand my pain and my path, you must first get to know my but the counterparts to those traits also made her fun, interesting, mom. As gracious as Reno Tahoe intelligent, caring, hardworking Tonight is to give me as much and downright hilarious most of space as I want to write this, no 38 Reno Tahoe Tonight
the time. She was like a complex coin made up of two conflicting yet complementary sides. My mom loved taking care of people and most of all entertaining them. Her method of communicating her love for people was to cook for them, and if you asked anyone that ever experienced one of her meals, they would say that she was the best cook around. Her food was a revelation, and her imprecise cooking methods and food presentation was a true art form. She loved to throw elaborate dinner parties and BBQs as well as to travel, shop, and turn her backyard into a garden oasis of assorted herbs, roses and foxgloves. She was a strong, vibrant, generous woman who loved to laugh--and what an infectious laugh she had! She rarely spoke of her past. I think it was a combination of not wanting to re-live painful memories and wanting to protect my sisters and me. I never understood the latter. It would’ve helped me tremendously to know where she was coming from, and in turn, where I came from. What I know I have pieced together bit by bit whenever my mom was feeling somewhat nostalgic for her own mom. Other family members occasionally fill in the blanks. What I do know is that she was a fighter who was born ahead of her time. I’m pretty sure she had been feisty and independent her whole life. She was born during the height of the Korean War. Her single, pregnant mother fled from the North to the South and gave birth to her at a P.O.W. camp. After a tumultuous childhood characterized by times of feast and famine, her mother became ill with tuberculosis. My mom bravely cared for her dying mother at the tender young age of nine. No one wanted to take care of my grandmother—for fear of contracting the disease themselves—so my mom did the best that a nine year old could do in taking care of a terminally ill parent by herself. She would take the bus across town to beg for rice from her extended family then carry the heavy bags back to her home. When her mom became so ill that she couldn’t get up to go to the bathroom anymore, my mom changed her cloth diapers then cleaned them in the river near where they lived. I still can’t comprehend what this must have been like for my mom. I cared for her as she was dying of stomach cancer, but I had the help and support of my family and friends. Having enough food was never an issue, and we had a top of the line washer and dryer that we took for granted. I was also 29 years old. Still too young to lose a mom to be sure, but nine? Can you even imagine?
A tragedy like that could devastate and ruin a person but not my mom. Despite being ostracized because others feared that she must’ve contracted tuberculosis from her mom, she chose the path of the phoenix. She focused on her education—which she saw as her way to a better life—studied hard and marched to the beat of her own drum. She knew the Korean stereotype of docile, subservient wife and homemaker was not for her. She left Korea when she was just 19 and never looked back. She then sponsored her sisters and their families so that they could join her in the U.S. She was a pioneer. She took a tragic, broken beginning of a life and turned it around in the style of the American dream. She learned English, worked hard, raised us children and made sure that we were never, ever hungry. She made tremendous sacrifices and worked 30+ years in smoke-filled casinos so that we could get the best education possible and grow up with opportunities she never had. Through these actions and so many others, she taught us a myriad of important life lessons. I don’t know enough about Korean culture to know if stubbornness is a prevalent attribute, but either way, my mom was as stubborn as they come. Most of the time it was a good characteristic. She struggled fiercely to get what she wanted, which most of the time revolved around somehow improving the lives of us girls. However, her stubbornness at times, I believe, contributed in part to her eventual death. She vehemently put her trust in Western medicine’s doctors and shunned alternative cancer therapies when she was diagnosed with stage IV stomach cancer about two years before she passed. At the time Reno Tahoe Tonight 39
Essay
My Mom's Final Lesson her reasoning seemed valid: doctors are educated in western medicine; therefore, they are the most qualified to take care of people here in the U.S. My sisters often suggested nutritional therapies and other alternative methods of treatment, which were all brushed off by my mom because these doctors were against them. They told us that changing diet or other alternative therapies would counteract the effects of the chemotherapy that they put her on—the only therapy along with radiation and surgery recognized by doctors for cancer. This is the best that they can offer after billions of dollars supposedly put towards research: a treatment that you hope kills the cancer before it kills you. None of us pushed back. Standing up to the queen was rarely done in my family. And to be honest, I trusted the doctors as well. Knowing what I know now after countless hours of intense research, I believe that there was a lot that we could have done for my mom over the course of those two years beginning with just simple changes in diet. I struggle to not start my sentences with what if’s because I know that if we had been better informed of the cancer situation in this country, we would’ve done things differently. Although my Korean dragon mom shunned her homeland and its culture, she still valued education above all else. How fitting that in dealing with my mom’s passing, my coping mechanism has become educating others. My mom’s stubbornness also didn’t skip a generation. I’m voraciously tearing through any information I can get about how to eat healthier and avoid the ubiquitous carcinogenic elements in our environment. It’s become an obsession. As I ravenously continue to sift through the muck of internet articles, conflicting studies and false information put out by money-hungry corporations and politicians, I feel torn between excitement that there are great alternative cancer and general disease therapies out there, and a deep, dark depression that we didn’t try any of them with my mom. The depression grows when I realize that our misfortune is the product of an intricate tapestry of lies and greed. The system—consisting of food corporations, pharmaceutical companies, and our government for starters—is woven together to prevent us from knowing what chemicals are in our food and daily environment that can make us deathly ill, and to keep it under wraps that they are exposing us to these toxins so that they can save a buck, or profit off of our suffering. This has become my journey: connecting the dots and realizing that we need to be our own advocates. I am just beginning, but I know that 40 Reno Tahoe Tonight
it is an essential part of my general health and my healing process. To be able to forgive myself for not being able to save my mom, I need to be able to educate others in hopes that they can save themselves and their loved ones. Everything I learn I want to share with every single person in the world. But I feel overwhelmed that I can’t research fast enough, or make enough people listen to me. The overachiever in me, cultivated by my Korean dragon mom, wants to tear down and change our entire American system. I will try my best to temper this by starting small and suggesting that you begin by incorporating just one thing into your lifestyle—something that is not overwhelming to you that you will stick with. Start by checking the ingredients in your food, and cut out one or as many of these carcinogens and hormone disruptors as possible: high fructose corn syrup and other refined sugars, food dyes (Yellow 5, Red 40, etc.), carrageenan, BHA/BHT (food preservatives), BPA (in canned foods and lots of plastics), rBGH milk and opt for organic whenever possible. Substitute essential oils for OTC drugs. Most importantly, do your research! Make yourself aware of as many carcinogenic elements in your food, “medicine” and environment as possible, and then try to limit them. We don’t live in a bubble; we won’t be able to cut everything out, but we can minimize our risks if we are diligent about it. I know that you all are thinking that this sounds like a lot of work. It is certainly overwhelming at first, but don’t let your shortsightedness get the best of you. It’s so easy to say, ‘It’s not affecting me at this minute, so I don’t have time for it.’ The next thing you know, it will be too late, and you will be reminded daily of the regret you feel for not paying attention sooner. Trust me. Statistics show that 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women will get cancer at some point in their lives. Cleaning up your diet is an essential element of not being a part of this statistic. If that isn’t enough of an incentive, consider that a poor diet also contributes to diabetes, heart disease, obesity, ADHD and a whole slew of other diseases. Educate yourself preemptively about our food and healthcare system so that you don’t contribute to these dismal numbers and are not frantically trying to research ineffective cancer treatments while your mom is dying. If you had seen what I’ve seen, the thought of cutting out things we consider to be staples in our daily diet would be a no-brainer. I cared for my mother as she lost her battle with cancer, and then I watched her die. Luckily, many of you haven’t had to experience this, so there’s no way to really make you understand that this is
a horrible way to go. From my mom’s cancer diagnosis to when she died was about two years. From the time that she was given a break from chemo and we thought that she was going to kick it, it was just a few short months before she was gone. It happened so fast but agonizingly slow at the same time. This disease didn’t take her quietly in the night. She suffered tremendously. By the time she had passed, she looked like a Holocaust victim and hadn’t eaten in weeks: skin, bones and nothing else besides the extremely uncomfortable distention in her belly due to pharmaceutical drugs and whatever other crap they put in her IV. Bedsores covered the entire backside of the lower half of her body, but the worst was the frequent, convulsive vomiting of the most disgusting-smelling bile you could ever fathom because there was no food in her stomach. It was a suffering so unbearable that it broke a spirit as fierce as my mom’s, pushing her to the point where she would say, ‘Why can’t I just die?’ I really hate to get morbid on you, but it is so important to understand what the consequences of staying in the dark are. It is a miserable experience from both sides: living through it and having to care for someone who is living through it. It is one that I hope you will look to remedy preventatively instead of waiting until it’s too late, like I did. My mom gave the ultimate sacrifice so that we could be shaken to our core and break down the routines that we have established
unquestioningly. I wouldn’t have torn apart the life I know and began to educate myself any other way. My illusions of a safe food and healthcare system have been shattered, and I have chosen to make drastic changes in my life and what I consume. I understand that you all may not be ready for that, but I encourage you to at least start with just that one small step. It is a wonderful opportunity you now are empowered with: to learn through the mistakes of others instead of living them out yourself. A better life through education; this was my mom’s ongoing and final lesson to me and to you through me. If you’d like to read more about my mom, our experiences with cancer, honest musings about my healing process, as well as what you can do to educate yourself, feel free to peruse my blog at www.thenestreno.com/blog. We are also holding a fundraiser on Tuesday, November 12th from 5:30pm-7:30pm at my store, The Nest, with proceeds from Thirty One purchases courtesy of Lauren Diaz, as well as a percentage of Nest purchases going towards my mom’s medical bills. If you feel so inclined, PayPal donations can also be sent to linmillermemorial@gmail.com. Tessa Dee Miller The Nest 201 Keystone Ave. Reno, NV 89503 www.thenestreno.com thenestreno@gmail.com Reno Tahoe Tonight 41
INTRODUCING
RENO’S RIVERWALK DISTRICT by Courtney Meredith & Christopher Meredith
Available at Reno Visitor Center, Barnes & Noble, & Amazon ISBN-13: 978-0-7385-9671-6 Retail price: $21.99
Event S PECIAL
TO
R E N O
KYTAMI with J Tablet, SubDocta and DJ Awoken November 8, 2013 @ Bodega Nightclub
If a line exists between classical and electronic, between ancient and new age, synthetic and organic, Kytami has sliced through them all using only a violin bow. But what more does she need? Apparently nothing at all, as Kytami has already been dubbed a “music revolutionary” by What’s Up Magazine USA and a “violin extremist” by her countrymen, bringing her music to audiences in Taiwan, Dubai, Berlin and the States. Through an alchemy of classical, fiddle styles fused with the heavy bass elements of Dubstep and Hip-Hop, Kytami has managed to soar above the constraints of musical genre labeling, forging a unique path that’s taken her alongside groups from Swollen Members to acoustic rockers Blackie and The Triumphs. Kytami is regularly dubbed Canada’s most diverse and engaging fiddler. After co-founding the critically acclaimed global fusion sound storm Delhi 2 Dublin in 2006 and subsequently co-songwriting them toward international success until
44 Reno Tahoe Tonight
TA H O E
TO N I G H T
2010, Kytami surged forward with her own solo career, bringing the essence of her music to audiences in its purest form. Detonating dance floors from Germany to Hong Kong and Joshua Tree to Shambhala, fans world-wide are grooving to the prodigious musicianship of the dynamic artist. Though critics still find Kytami’s work to be hard to categorize, the enigmatic artist has had a great year in 2013, winning Live Act of The Year Vancouver Island Music Awards, and on October 6, her self-titled release won the Western Canada Music Award for Electronic Dance Album of the Year. Residing in Bend, Oregon has contributed a large part of Jay Tablet’s popularity in the Northwest music scene. The Californiaraised artist is finishing his 13th year of music as half of Cloaked Characterz and indubitably making a name for himself as a solo artist. Since 2000, dark party music has led Jay Tablet, and long-time friend, Rory Oneders (the other half of CCZ), through “ZonkedOut Tantrum” and “Let Me In” where Rory paused to take on Daddy Duties, and Jay Tablet pioneered on as a solo act with his first full-length disc, “Put It On The Tab”. Although Cloaked Characterz is currently on hiatus, you can expect an album from the duo in 2014. Since PIOTT, Jay Tablet has toured heavily throughout the west coast, sharing show bills with Zyme, Equipto, Tech N9ne, Pep Love (of Hieroglyphics), E-40 and Abstract Rude, among others. Jay Tablet, whose given name is Joseph Tavares, took over a year to complete his upcoming album, “TabLife.” Tab had a specific reason for taking extra care of his latest brain child: crafting every beat, vocal and mixing session by himself. Fast-rising Reno DJ SubDocta will close the event and Sacramento’s DJ Awoken will open. 9PM doors; 21+ w/ID. Bodega Nightclub is located at 559 East Fourth Street in downtown Reno. Follow Kytami on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Kytami
Reno Tahoe Tonight 45
Event
The Charity All-Nighter
Text Oliver X Photo Tony Contini Additional photos courtesy of the artists
A Benefit for Women and Children’s Center of the Sierra and The Children’s Cabinet Food Pantry
Black Rock City All Stars
The Charity All-Nighter is a red carpet gala heralding the launch of Brian Perry Filmworks and bringing together some of the region’s brightest stars to raise funds and awareness for two organizations the Women and Children’s Center of the Sierra and The Children’s Cabinet Food Pantry Presented by Positively 4th Street, a consortium of East Fourth Street businesses, Community Affect and Brian Perry Film Works, the event will feature live performances by the popular Inspirational R&B artist Swayde Wilson; SyWren & Athena; an All Star Tribute to Earth Wind & Fire by the group September (featuring Cliff Porter, Tim Snider, Whitney Myer, the Mojo Green Horn Section and many more); fast-rising Hip-Hop artists Keyringz; DJ Rewind and an After Party performance with Black Rock City All Stars and much more! Bottle service and delicious food will be available and local
46 Reno Tahoe Tonight
Christina Kekke
speakers from the non-profit community will be on hand for the celebration. The event is MC’d by Reno Tahoe Tonight’s Editor-Publisher Oliver X. Major sponsorship is being provided by Cemex, and participating organizations and supporters include Plato’s Closet, Tahoe Blue Vodka, Reno Tahoe Tonight Magazine, DP Modeling and many more. Tickets for the event are available at http://charityallnighter.eventbrite.com Event organizer Brian Perry says he wanted to do something to give back to the community that has supported him and his newly launched Brian Perry Filmworks. “Brian Perry Filmworks is a company I founded in early 2013, with a vision of bringing filmmaking to our local community in way that hasn't been seen before. I say that with the utmost respect towards other filmmakers in Reno, but still, I have a specific vision I want to carry out. I have complete belief in the many talents we have right here in the Reno Nevada area. I absolutely love the whole ‘creative’ process of filmmaking, which makes me all the more passionate about bringing my vision to reality, and sharing that vision with as many people as I can. The organizations that will benefit from a generous donation from the proceeds of this event are doing life changing work and we’re so fortunate to have them in our community.”
About The Children’s Cabinet Food Pantry and the Women and Children’s Center of the Sierra Since 1985 The Children’s Cabinet’s mission has been to provide critical resources for families in need. This partnership with the community has been instrumental in the lives of program participants, guiding them to resources and transformational opportunities for healthier and happier families. The Food Pantry provides nourishment to clients and to the public who are food insecure. http://www.childrenscabinet.org/ family-youth/family-programs/food-pantry/ The Women and Children’s Center of the Sierra is modeled after the breakthrough research work of Dr. Ruby Payne, Phillip DeVol and Terie Dreussi Smith published in “Bridges Out of Poverty.” The center provides education, job training, resources and support to help women escape or avoid poverty and provide a better life for their families. Their clients are families that have made a conscious decision to leave public assistance programs in favor of a new life for their children and themselves. http://waccs.org/about-us/
Artist Bios Swayde Wilson
Swayde Wilson is a prominent Gospel recording artist, CEO and Founder of View Line Entertainment LLC/Films.
Keyringz
It seems the days of hip hop being an urban force in cities around the United States is over. The days of this phenomenal movement having a home in each culture around the world has arrived. What better time to bring a group that's based on multicultural influences. From inside The States to the Peoples Republic, Keyringz is a group that has the musical versatility to give everyone around the globe something they could relate to. Crowned "Reno's favorite Group," loved and backed by
every artist they come in contact with, and a fan base that’s risen to 10,000+, they made a concrete foundation with the local scene. www.keyringzmusic.com
Christina Kekke - Creative Director at Brian Perry Film Works
“I don’t wait for inspiration to hit me, I work at it until it comes, and it always comes,” explains the newest addition to the Brian Perry Filmworks team, Creative Director, Christina Kekke. Originally from Portland, Oregon, Christina currently resides in Truckee, California. Her journey in the music industry has taken her all over the country--writing, singing, dancing, performing, and starting her own entertainment company in Manhattan at the age of 25 where she honed in on her marketing, branding and creative directing skills. With a versatile background and vast experiences in the creative world, Christina has always been determined to take risks and be an innovator, with an emphasis on telling a story that people can relate to and appreciate. “What is art if you can’t interpret it in a way that has meaning to you?”
Black Rock City All Stars
The seminal Hip-Hop/EDM fusionists in northern Nevada, these innovative musical adventurers bring the vibrant energy of the Black Rock Desert to each performance. Be ready to rock and groove to the stank these veteran funkateers bring to the stage. 1am showtime for their After Party set on the main stage of the Bodega Nightclub.
The Charity All-Nighter Friday, November 22, 2013. Doors at 7PM. Bodega nightclub and Lounge is located at 555 East Fourth Street, Reno, NV 89510. 775-378-4507
Reno Tahoe Tonight 47
Event
The Potentialist Movement Special to Reno Tahoe Tonight
“Amidst the attention given to the sciences as how they can lead to the cure of all diseases and daily problems of mankind, I believe that the biggest breakthrough will be the realization that the arts, which are conventionally considered ‘useless,’ will be recognized as the whole reason why we ever try to live longer or live more prosperously.” 48 Reno Tahoe Tonight
-John Maeda
W
e the Potentialists believe contemporary artists must immerse themselves in all forms of art. Being able to flow freely between music, visual, and performance art is the starting point for modern art. We allow the moment to dictate an art piece, utilizing found or available materials within the workspace. On November 16th from 7 to 11pm at the Generator, located at 1240 Icehouse Avenue, in Sparks, six Potentialists will create works of art combining everything from ballet to sculpture. The works will resemble living paintings or will give the impression of walking through several different worlds. Curated by Potentialist artist Pan Pantoja and featuring Ryan Ostler, Chad Sweet, Aric Shapiro, Eric Brooks, and Matthew Schultz. This event’s purpose is to launch a new art movement and will be an event worth attending.
S HANNON B ALAZS P H
O
T
O
G
R
A
P
H
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT & ARTIST PHOTOGRAPHY WWW
.S HANNON B ALAZS .
COM
Y
Event
Seedless 10DenC Thicker Than Thieves, One A-Chord and Love Like Wes November 6 @ The Alley in Sparks Seedless 10DenC is an Alternative Rock/ Funk Indie band from northern Nevada, that play infectious Reggae inflected Rock with Hip-Hop flavor. Original band members who are still knocking it down are Grady Holdridge (Lead Vox) and Paul Anthony (Bass/ Guitar). Their vision and dedication has connected them with Sam Solorio, and Saul Gonzalez who are poised to take their music to the next level. After recently bringing on East Coast Guitarist Jim Guidmon, they have a working formula of creating songs full of groove based sounds, and most often their own brand of fun. After forming in 2008, they began writing songs in 2010; songs that are easy to dance and chill with. Since the release of their debut album Evolution from Deep Water in 2012 (available on iTunes) the band has changed their approach somewhat to include a little Reggae Rock fusion. Their upcoming EP “Road to Roam” has brought 50 Reno Tahoe Tonight
in a blend of love songs such as “On the Inside” and Irie/Reggae Rock styled tunes like “Don’t Get Angry.” Fans have compared their sound to the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Lenny Kravitz, Cake, Faith No More, and others. The final show of 2013 for Seedless 10DenC will be opening up for San Diego based band Thicker Than Thieves at The Alley in Sparks, Nevada on Wednesday, November 6th. One A-Chord (Salinas) will also be in the lineup, along with local band Love Like Wes. Tickets are only $10 at the door, or $8 pre-sale tickets are available at Recycled Records, BAR, Art Dogs & Grace, and Still Smokin’. Doors are at 8:30pm.
Couture Closet
Fashion Lounge
Personal Styling
Television Host
Editorial Styling
Fashion Show Production
Full Service Salon
Event Planning
Upcoming Events 11/7 Lipstick Fashion Lounge & Salon Open House 4pm-7pm 11/14 Reno Mom's Blog Mom's Night Out 6pm-9pm 11/16 Haute Holidays-Baubles, Bubbles & Brunch 11:30am-2pm 11/21 Get Stond Jewelry Trunk Show 4pm-6pm
Boutique Hours Tuesday-Saturday 11am-5pm Private Shopping Appointments 333 South Arlington Avenue - Reno - NV 89501 - 775.348.2675 w w w. l i p s t i c k l l c . c o m
Text, Styling & Makeup Isha Casagrande, LipstickLLC.com Photos Nick Schab | Model Emma White Hair Rhonda Avers, Lipstick Fashion Lounge & Salon
Fur 4 Ways
Fall is all about the fusion of fashion and fur. There is nothing more stylish than piling on plush layers of faux or the real thing. It adds irresistible glamour to every ensemble. It is soft, sexy, devastatingly flattering and unbeatably warm. Here are four fabulous ways to wear fur this season. Isha Casagrande is a fashion stylist who has a passion for fashion and a love for shopping. Isha’s attitude is that fashion is about confidence and that confidence is about style. Welcome to her fashionable world where labels do not matter, but that your self-worth does.
Cream p uff Get Stond Crazy Lace Agate necklace $58, Bently Born necklace $89, shell necklace $24, champagne pearls $18, zebra bracelet $18, Woman of Troy ring $15; stone ring $18 all from Lipstick Fashion Lounge. Lloyds Denver Vintage swing coat $600 & pony clutch $100 from Labels Consignment Boutique . Vintage slip $8 from Junkee Clothing Exchange.
54 Reno Tahoe Tonight
dy Foxy La
San Diego Hat Co. faux fox hat $45, faux fur clutch $34, Get Stond Druzy Agate necklace $50, gold chain $18, Bently Born necklace $79 & bracelets $28 each, Heywood Studios mink bracelet $48 all from Lipstick Fashion Lounge. Faux fur vest $79 & fringe Sweater $48 from Buckle at Summit. Sequin shorts $88 from Labels consignment Boutique. Fishnet stockings $24 from Judy's Dance Shop. Reno Tahoe Tonight 55
trib al c hic Get Stond Druzy Agate necklace $50, crystal beaded necklace $32 & leather belt all from Lipstick Fashion Lounge. BKE jacket $79.95, Daytrip sequin tank & shorts & Corral boots $289 all from Buckle at Summit. Hue sweater tights $18 from Marshalls. Juicy Couture leopard muffs $52.50 from Labels Consignment Boutique. 56 Reno Tahoe Tonight
Faux leather leggings $36 & Heywood Studios faux fur shrug $89 from Lipstick Fashion Lounge. Valentino ostrich feather tank and shrug $228 from Labels Consignment Boutique. Get Stond Druzy Onyx Agate necklace $50; Guess booties $89 from Macy's.
n of e e u q ight n e th
Reno Tahoe Tonight 57
Feature
Part 1 of a two-part feature
My Life With Deth: Discovering Meaning in a Life of Rock & Roll by David Ellefson with Joel McIver HOWARD BOOKS
Text Oliver X
Heavy metal hero David Ellefson, bassist and co-founder of the multiplatinumselling superstar group Megadeth, has rocked hard and lived even harder during his long and influential entertainment career. But Ellefson’s new memoir My Life With Deth released October 29, is much more than the standard fast-times and fall from grace yarn depicted in most rock star tomes. The reader instead discovers an introspective, down-to-earth artist with a formidable intellect, whose rise and redemption has been built on a foundation of values, family and faith. 60 Reno Tahoe Tonight
Ellefson called me from Costa Rica to talk about the book, as the group continues their Killing Road world tour with Black Sabbath. RTT: The meta messages of your book revolve around friendship, forgiveness and reconciliation. Talk about some of that and how those values shaped you and helped you to tell your story. David Ellefson: I was raised in a great family and in a great community; a farm community where hard work, do what you say, say what u do, suit up and show up was the norm. The farm work isn’t gonna get done by shuckin’ and jivin’ … you know that the plow doesn’t move itself. You have to do the work. Which is funny, because I think in a large way that’s the dichotomy of my story. And as I get into the music business, for the love of playing and performing, I see the bigger picture of what rock stardom is and that it’s something within my grasp. I somehow feel like I’m wired to accomplish this. But then as I get into it, I realize that the music business isn’t anything like the farming business. Everybody’s trying to move the plow without doing anything. Lying, conning and shystering and schmoozing. Talking about doing it, but never doing it, ya know. So that’s definitely one big theme of the book, and of course when you hang around con men and shysters long enough you eventually start to become one of them--if for no other reason than you have to play by their rules if you’re gonna play in their game. And it corrupts you in a certain way. Maybe add some drugs and booze. You dangle the carrot of success and fame and it becomes like this euphoric cocaine high that you’re always chasing. So it’s no wonder that people in the entertainment business like cocaine, because their life and the high of the cocaine rush are the same thing: this euphoric lie that doesn’t really exist, but you’re always on the treadmill chasing it. So certainly that’s a big part of my story. At some point of course I realize that this isn’t working, and at age 25 I was forced to look at my options—which was really only one option: either get clean or die. Or worse, don’t die. Stay and cling on to the bitter end and become this despicable person. Ya know sometimes death is the better option, believe it or not. In my experience most people don’t get clean until they reach that jumping off point. So, I’m glad it happened to me young and early. Certainly my faith as a kid was important.
Reno Tahoe Tonight 61
Feature
My Life with Deth
When you’ve got the conscience of your faith staring you in the face in the mirror every time you look at it, it becomes pretty easy to not live with yourself much quicker. My upbringing was really one of the greatest gifts I had. There’s a proverb that talks about ‘Raise your children in the instruction of the Lord, for if they stray they will return.’ RTT: Proverbs 22:6
The soul craves
and felt relaxed. That’s the baffling feature of drugs and alcohol: some people can have a drink and do their thing without any ill affect. But for me one led to ten and ten led to a hundred. And then you’re at that place where one’s too many and a thousand’s not enough. That’s the story of addiction really. And of course in the music and entertainment business, ya know, tragedy sells. And the best story is a horrible story, because it sells the most. And so sometimes you can even be applauded for a life that’s crumbling and falling down. But at the end of the day, when you go to bed it’s just your head on your pillow by yourself. And then it’s like, what is your head telling you then.
connection. And
my experience is—
addict or not—trying to live life without a connection to
your creator is like
David Ellefson: Yes! That happened to me for sure. So, since 1990 when I actually got sober, my journey has been away from that life. Of course none of us are perfect; there’s always the allure and temptation. That’s part of being human. That’s also the story of the bible and since the beginning of time. As humans we fall; that’s all part of mankind and our struggle here on planet earth. My story in that sense is not that much different probably from most people. So hopefully that’s the connection that the book has to the reader.
trying to drive a car without gas.
- David Ellefson
RTT: In your book’s intro, written by Alice Cooper, he says “Ironically sometimes the most rebellious and controversial thing a rocker can do is become a Christian.” When you were at your lowest low did you know what you were doing wasn’t the way to go and you just did it anyway? At those times, did you hear that still small voice referred to in I Kings 19:11? David Ellefson: Oh for sure, as I talk about in the book, I looked down my nose at musicians who drank and took drugs because they make the band sound worse. We were so passionate. We practiced; we’d get together and we’d rehearse and then you take it on stage and someone has a few beers and smokes a joint and the band sounds horrible. It’s like, we just wasted all that time preparing for this performance, ya know. It didn’t make sense. Until the day I took a drink and suddenly the ease and comfort came over me that quenched my fears, it helped me relax. Quite honestly, I didn’t know I was nervous until I took the drink 62 Reno Tahoe Tonight
That’s the point where I was fortunate enough to get to at age 25; find an option out of it and get sober. I’ve had the best years of my life ever since. RTT: What role did becoming a parent have in the example that you felt your life should be? David Ellefson: Well fortunately I was clean for a few years before I got married. And then we were married for about a year before we started raising children. My wife and I had known each other even back in my dark using days, so she was very hip to how I am as an addict. She’s not a fan, she’s my wife. She reminds me of that from time to time. She says ‘Look, if you want a fan I’m not it, I’m your wife.’ It’s nice to have fans, but the truth is all of us in this business need real people around us who will shoot straight and tell us like it is. It’s easy to get caught up in our own press and start believing our own hype. So by the time we started having children, I was prepared for it, or at least the groundwork had been laid for it. And to raise my kids in a clean and sober household was important. My wife’s
not an alcoholic or an addict, but she even quit drinking. She just put it down. She was like ‘If you don’t drink, why should I drink? I’ll stop.’ So it’s nice to have that stability in our house. You can listen to what people say or watch what they do. I think our actions definitely speak louder than our words. By just having a clear head and a clean lifestyle is probably the best example I can lay down for my kids. RTT: It’s no secret that you have gone through the faith based 12 Step programs. What do you say to those who try to go the cold turkey route and don’t have a foundation in their lives to support their sobriety? David Ellefson: Well my experience is that some people drink and use—sometimes heavily--and get themselves into a bit of trouble. But given some dire circumstances where they hit a wall, are able to stop, moderate, put it down and walk away from it. There are some people who can do it. They’re probably not alcoholics; maybe they’re just caught up in a lifestyle. There are also other people--like me—who can take one drink and set in motion an addiction and it twists your thinking and basically dissolves your spirit. Now that person—which is me—when you come to the point where you’re putting the drink and the drugs down, there’s gotta be something to fill that hole. It was presented to me as a God hole and only God fits in it. The soul craves connection. And my experience is—addict or not—trying to live life without a connection to your creator is like trying to drive a car without gas. The two are meant to go together; the two don’t work without each other. That addiction component even more so brings that feature--of need for connection to the creator—clearly out in the open. RTT: Our big brains often delude us into thinking we’re the mighty independent. We are not connected to anyone. Rugged individuality. We don’t need anybody. I just watched a special about Killer Whales called Blackfish. I was struck by their incredibly advanced social order. They stay connected as a herd their entire lives. The pups are birthed and they stay with their mothers their whole lives. To divorce the mother from her child is a harrowing experience. The film showed what happened at Sea World with their practices of separating the pups born in captivity from the mother whales and taking them to far away sea life aquariums on other continents, and the life-shattering pain they expressed in
shrieks and wails that the researchers had never ever heard before. They identified these shrieks as long distance wails for their pups to come back to them. The film showed the devastating effect of this separation and the depression and lifelessness that ensued because the mother whale’s connection to her purpose was gone. David Ellefson: I get goose bumps when you tell me that because really when you go back to Genesis I that’s the story of creation. To me there’s only one God, it’s just however you understand him. The creator created a perfect world. There was never meant to be death, sickness, illness, divorce, separation, cheating, lying—none of that was part of it. Because it was good orderly creation, G.O.D. creation. As the narrative of the bible goes, Satan and a third of the angels fall away from God. And their mission isn’t to pick on us, their mission is to pick on God, but they do it through us. Any chance that they can get to separate us from God is a victory for them and a disappointment for God. But God knows he gave us free will and the power of choice. So if you look at life and the world through the lens of faith and creation, the good Lord is thrilled when we return back to him. Even making the effort to get back makes him smile. When addiction pounds you into the dirt-almost to a finish--and you somehow are able to come out of that and ask for help and reach out, um ya know…the people who only go the self sufficiency route, God bless ‘em if that works. Whatever works to get you clean I guess? But my own experience is that in and of myself I was incapable. Addiction was my match. The 12 Step programs talk about it being one day at a time. Luke 9:23 I think it is, talks about ‘Deny yourself daily, take up your cross and follow me.’ So Christianity is a one day at a time program too. As is every faith walk on this planet. It’s a one day at a time thing
Read part two of my interview with David Ellefson in the December 2013 issue of Reno Tahoe Tonight. And don’t miss Megadeth December 19 at the Grand Sierra Resort. Reno Tahoe Tonight 63
PRODUCTION | POST | AUDIO | FINISHING COMMERCIAL | MUSIC VIDEO | DOCUMENTARY
WWW.BRYONEVANSFILMS.COM
Bruka Theater 21st Century Theater Art Presents
Film
Matt Shepard is a Friend of Mine Special to Reno Tahoe Tonight
T
he Reno premiere of the film on November 16th, will include Q&A with the director, producers and a few of Matthew Shepard’s friends from the film. Brüka Theatre will present the film at 7:00 pm on November 16th, 2013. Doors will open at 6:30. Advance tickets will be $10 for students and seniors, $12 for general admission, and tickets will be $15 at the door. You can get tickets to this event online at brownpapertickets. com. (http://www. brownpapertickets.com/ event/500068) Matt Shepard is a Friend of Mine director Michele Josue, executive producer Liam McNiff and local co-producer Zeina Barkawi will host a Q&A immediately following the film. Zeina Barkawi, one of Matt’s closest friends and a subject in the film, resides in Reno and is excited to bring this story and film to the local community. Fifteen years ago, on the night of October 6, 1998, two men lured Matthew Shepard, a gay freshman at the University of Wyoming, from a bar in Laramie, Wyoming. He was kidnapped and driven to a field where he was tortured and tethered to a fence and left to die. Never regaining consciousness, Matthew succumbed to the severe injuries from the attack and died on October 12, 1998. His tragic story brought the reality of inequality and vicious, irrational contempt into the public consciousness and set the stage for the landmark Matthew Shepard and James Byrd
Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act, which President Barack Obama signed into law in 2009. Matt Shepard is a Friend of Mine follows director Michele Josue, a close friend of Matt’s, as she travels to pivotal locations in Shepard’s life, interviewing other friends and family members, and gaining insight into the beautiful life and devastating loss of Matthew Shepard. Reno Tahoe Tonight 65
OF
DANCE THEATRE HARLEM A FULL NIGHT OF DANCE REPERTORY COMPRISED OF CLASSICS AS WELL AS CUTTING-EDGE NEW WORKS THAT BRING UNPRECEDENTED RELEVANCE TO CLASSICAL BALLET.
NOV 16, 2013 $25•$35•$45 8pm
Grand Sierra Resort’s Grand Theatre Purchase tickets at the Grand Sierra Box Office, Renoisartown.com, (775) 789-2285 Sponsored by:
The presentation of Far But Close was made possible by the MetLife Community Connections Fund of the New England Foundation for the Arts’ National Dance Project. Major support for NDP is also provided by the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation and The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.
Additional support provided by:
Pink Martini Holiday Show featuring China Forbes
DEC 1, 2013 $25•$45•$55 8pm
Purchase tickets at the Grand Sierra Box Office, Renoisartown.com, (775) 789-2285 Sponsored by:
Grace Notes Text L. Martina Young Photo Joseph A. Dubon
T
his November issue of Reno Tahoe Tonight Magazine marks a full year for “Grace Notes.” November to November—13 months, thirteen essays— also connotes a thirteen-month lunar-solar calendar. Much has been written on the early preGregorian calendar that observes a thirteen-month year, an onto-chronological framework that honors a lunar significance on life and time and meaning. The sacred and complex numerology involved in the observance of the number thirteen exceeds my capacity for a thorough investigation within the context of these pages; however, suffice it to say that it is an observance dwelling at the cultural core of sacred Jewish mysticism, just for starters. Throughout the ages, the practice of omitting the presence of thirteen has no doubt been condition and cause for superstitious concern as well as assuring its mystic wonderment. For example, I learn that ‘thirteen,’ according to Cirlot’s Dictionary
of Symbols, is “symbolic of death and birth, of beginning afresh,” hence perhaps, the sense of doom that hovers like a shadow around the number, particularly given the dominant culture’s aversion to the idea of death. In the Old Testament, we find that the prophecies of Ezekiel are based on a thirteen-month cycle. Lastly, the renowned Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz, in his book, The Thirteen Petalled Rose, discusses the bonding of the many into the one, an insightful reading on the number thirteen as signifier of the infusion of spirituality into the material world. And so, in this, my thirteenth month with RTT, in the year 2013, I embrace the opportunity to infuse these pages with thirteen forms of acknowledgement: each a nod that bows the head earthward; lingual offerings that pass from the lips of many the world over connoting gestures of grace; and that themselves form an imaginal bridge for remembrance of “Grace Notes” past ~
DHANYAVAAD Hindi AHÓ Apsaaloke Indian MERCI French GRATZI Italian Japanese ARIGATO GRACIAS Spanish TODAH RABA Hebrew Russian TAV DAARIM Egyptian JAARAAMA Fulani, West Africa DANKE SCHÖN German Greek EFCHARISTO MAHALO Hawaiian L. Martina Young—dance artist, choreographer, writer, and lecturer—will take a momentary hiatus from her “Grace Notes” column in order to concentrate on her life work, SWAN—performance and memoir. The first literary installation of “SWAN: a poetical inquiry in dance, text & memoir,” commemorating Ms. Young’s 25 years as a Nevada-based artist, is now available through Amazon and Reno’s Sundance Bookstore. Reno Tahoe Tonight 67
Found @
Second Edition Now Available
www.wakingupatrembrandts.com Reno News & Review Best of 2008, ‘09, ‘10
Thomas Lloyd Qualls
"Waking Up At Rembrandt's" is an impressive debut novel showcasing an undeniably talented and imaginative author... -Midwest Book Review
Local Lit
Reno Horror Fiction Writer Dennis "D.L." Whitehead
Reno-based author Dennis “D.L.” Whitehead is a fascinating guy. He’s been places and had experiences that most people only ever read about. He’s been everything from a network engineer to a journalist, taxi cab driver, and celebrity bodyguard just to mention a few. What D.L. Whitehead really is, though, is a storyteller. Text Kelly Rush Book jacket cover art by Travis Szudajski
B
orn in Merced, CA in 1966, Whitehead grew up in a tiny town about 80 miles north of Los Angeles. He got bitten by the writing bug at age 13 and it’s been a long and angst-filled road he’s traveled since. Now he wants to share his work and help others avoid some of the pitfalls of becoming a published writer. Most of Whitehead’s current body of published work consists of a collection of horror thriller short stories, but he has written countless fiction pieces. He has been working on his debut novel, Darwin’s Sword for nearly 13 years.
“When I first got the idea for Darwin’s Sword, which is currently being scheduled for release, it was one of those things where you get your ideas from strange places. I was watching TV and there was Headline News. This guy steps out with slicked-back, salt and pepper hair, the perfect suit. He walks out and says, ‘I’m going to be the first to clone a human being,’ and he began to lay out the way he was going to do it. The problem was he sounded more like a used car salesman than a doctor, and it stuck with me because this personality quirk made him the center of attention. “I started thinking about what motivates a guy like that. What I came up with was if you are so egotistical that you believe yourself to be not just a creator of life, but a creator period, and that everything revolves around you, you will eventually fall off a long cliff. I wondered if this guy cloned himself and the only thing that affected the clone was his attitude, what would happen, and Darwin’s Sword came pouring out.” With D.L.’s thirst for knowledge and desire for as much accuracy as is possible within a work of fiction, he found himself in a genetics lab at the University of Arizona in the 1990s. He met with scientists who were working on creating organs with stem cells. Considering he was dealing with the biological version of rocket scientists, Whitehead decided the best way to draw them out was to get them drunk. 70 Reno Tahoe Tonight
“We went to the local bar and I said, ‘If I was going to do this as the plot of a novel, how would I do it?’ And they’re like, ‘Oh, that’s not possible.’ So I ask, ‘If it was possible, how would you do it?’ This one guy took a napkin and began to design a drawing into, in essence, a three dimensional womb. He goes, ‘Well this is how you would do it, if it could be done. But you can’t because you can’t maintain optimal control,’ and all these factors, but he wrote out this long layman’s explanation. The first version of Darwin’s Sword was over 500 pages nearly half of which was this entire technical breakdown given by these geneticists at the university. Whitehead realized that wasn’t going to work and took action. “I began to cut away. The final version comes out with a very simple explanation that is character driven, rather than all of these facts. But in essence, I whittled 200 pages of stuff down to about four lines, which this cloning doctor’s wife explains. Basically he added pairs to the gene pool that have nothing to do with human life, it has to do with reproduction but the problem is there’s no way to turn it off. In one go, it’s about this guy who creates a being that can’t be stopped, but also, the being in and of itself is its own destruction.” Aside from getting paid, one of the toughest parts of being a professional novelist is getting published. However, with the help of the Internet, social media, tight-knit communities like Reno, and great local businesses like LeRue Press in Sparks, it’s gotten somewhat easier. Says Whitehead, “When I gave it to Jan (Hermsen owner of LeRue Press), she said, ‘I knew within two pages that I was going to sign you. After I read the novel, I couldn’t tell where fiction began.’ Now that’s the greatest compliment you can give a fiction writer. I like that idea because even if you’re dealing with fantastical stuff, I think what makes stories good is their believability. “If you want to write general fiction, horror, detective fiction, romance, whatever, there’s always
conflict. The best conflict is reality. Your characters have to be real. They have to live and breathe. Otherwise they’re just figures on paper, two dimensional. As people, we’re multi-dimensional with so many different angles and perspectives that are dichotomies. Do you take action or not do anything? You can put that premise into any of those genres and make it work. How do you identify what you’re supposed to write? A true writer can see a situation and begin to create a backstory. Then depending on what your favorite story type is, you can create scenarios and decide what direction to take it.” Whitehead has more than just decades of writing experience; he has decades of life experience. It’s what makes him such an interesting personality and compelling writer. Based on this, he has developed a comprehensive 10-week writing course kicking off in early 2014, with a preview class being held in November that covers the full spectrum from putting your first words on paper to pro-level fiction production. “It’s three levels. Level 1 is about getting you writing. The first workshops are about becoming a storyteller. Taking an idea and turning it into a story, and learning where your talent lies. “Level 2 is intermediate and deals with working as a fiction writer. This level is more about you as the writer and developing the tools in Level 1 to move into Level 2. “Level 3 is advanced. You’re writing regularly now. You also learn marketing and social media, how to promote yourself, and where to look for avenues of publication.
good teachers and because of that, Whitehead sees an opportunity to spare others some strife.
“All of those things are encompassed in this series. It’s ten weeks of learning, practicing, and producing. Writing is nothing more than learning an instrument. It’s like learning chords on a guitar; anybody can take a chord chart and learn how to finger, but to learn how to compose the tune you have to have the right tools.”
“The reason I want to do these classes is because I want to help others the way I was helped. Without the courses I took and other authors I learned from, I don’t think I would be where I am. In the end, it’s about teaching people to look within themselves to find that talent. So many writers stop because of the daunting task of putting the words on a page. That’s the person I want to help move forward. It’s about encouragement.”
One of the strongest things that comes across about D.L. Whitehead is that he just wants to help. His journey has taken twists and turns that would have felled a weaker soul, but along the way he had
Check out http://www.dlwhitehead.com to read Whitehead’s short stories, find class schedules, and get news on the impending release of Darwin’s Sword coming in November 2013. Reno Tahoe Tonight 71
Local Lit Preview
Part 1 of a two-part feature
Art Official Media LLC
Text Oliver X
The Devils of Eden:
A Veteran’s Story of Contemporary War I want to be an Airborne Ranger… Live the life of sex and danger… Airborne Ranger… Sex and danger. -Army Infantry Cadence – Excerpted from The Devils of Eden
By Joseph Holsworth Photo Shannon Balazs
To say that talented local author Joseph Holsworth and I started off on the wrong foot would be an understatement. Witness this Facebook thread: Joseph Holsworth: Will you be doing a review for my book? Oliver Ex: Hi Joseph, we had to hold on that unfortunately Joseph Holsworth: I see. Don't bother. Reno is obviously a place with next to no interest in the literary arts. Keep concentrating on shitty local bands, its working great for the city. Oliver Ex: Shitty local bands? Wow where’d that come from? It's a matter of time management on our end Joseph. I hadn't had a moment to read the book as planned. My apologies. Often it takes a cycle of up to 90 days to actually do a proper lit review. It's not personal, but I understand u being miffed. I should have let u know that straight away. Oliver Ex: For the record, the book is on order and will arrive at Sundance Books in a week or so. Joseph Holsworth: I’m sorry, man. Just one of those frustrating weeks. Sorry for taking it out on you. Oliver Ex: Hey dude, here's my number: 775-4123767 call me if u have a moment. I wanna share something with u. Joseph Holsworth: Just have to apologize once more. I love Reno local art; it’s where I came up. I just feel like I’m not being included in that when I produced something pretty special. Thanks for understanding my frustration, and more, thanks for your interest in my book. Oliver Ex: You're very welcome. I am honored and so excited to be able to actually write about something that matters Joseph. Holsworth did in fact phone me (and has since appeared on my radio show to promote his novel), and was profoundly contrite—which really wasn’t necessary--assuring me he was not a dick. I accepted his apology and I read him my notes 72 Reno Tahoe Tonight
(perhaps because I wanted him to know the book was in good hands with me because I was the son of a badass combat veteran), since I can often express myself better through the written word. “…I cannot write about a book I haven’t read or a movie I haven’t seen. Though some ’journalists’ clearly do both…I came from a military family, living with a mother and father and an uncle in a household that served their country in wars made noble by obfuscation and lies. Rather than building character, war exposes our smallness and cluelessness. War breaks men. Go to a veteran’s hospital like Long Beach or San Francisco and see the heroes, limbless, eating through stomach tubes, almost forgotten by families who visibly wince upon seeing the decrepit remnants of their once strong loved ones. Who am I to judge? The unfriendly fire and drive-bys on the streets of the LA of my early youth cannot compare to my father’s experiences in theaters of war. I have not been embedded in a hostile foreign land; ensconced in safe zones wearing flak jackets making dispatches by maglight in darkened hotel rooms in cities with curfews on lock down.” I read this aloud to Holsworth, who listened politely, and we were cool.
Joseph Holsworth
Joseph Holsworth is the real fucking deal, and for anyone with an ounce of humanity coursing through their veins, The Devils of Eden will have the impact of a sledgehammer on your dome, and is destined to be a classic in the annals of the literature of contemporary war. Raw and unflinchingly honest, Holsworth’s Devils resonated with me and his Prologue set the tone, referencing the cultural indoctrination that is a prerequisite to becoming a killing machine: “For myself and the vast majority of men who served, the atrocities in which we took part were so unthinkable that it was at first difficult to put into context with the backdrop of our middle class upbringings. It became rather apparent to me upon observation that the modern day warrior seemed to be most prevalent in those whom had never expressed the virtues they so passionately wish to exercise. “I was all about it. Fighting, war, all that bullshit. I didn’t grow up in the ghetto, and my dad never hit me, but I wanted to kill. I wanted to kill in that fucked up way that they want a certain percentage of young men to want to kill—behind the stars, stripes, and democracy of American liberalism. They built
us to fight behind that cause. They built us for war…They sold us the notion that to be a man was supreme. And there was no better way to prove one’s patriotism than to kill for your country.” Holsworth, who returned from service and studied Literature at the University of Nevada Reno, wrote Devils eight years after serving three tours of duty (and four unforgettable months in the Paktia Provence along the border of Eastern Afghanistan and Western Pakistan, in a region known as the most dangerous place on earth) as an Army paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division, describes his experiences from Fort Bragg to his time in Gardez, Afghanistan in vivid detail, in dialogue that is resolutely flippant, suspenseful, and crackling with piss and vinegar, situational hilarity and heartbreak. Holsworth’s vernacular, narrative flow, candid introspection, astonishing lucidity, stentorian sentence sound and quickwitted observational acumen makes The Devils of Eden not just compelling, but essential reading. Order The Devils of Eden at books@ArtOfficialMedia.com or phone 443-693-7622. Read Part II of our look at this important book in the December edition of Reno Tahoe Tonight. Reno Tahoe Tonight 73
Movers Text Oliver X Photo Tony Contini
Heather Hoffman’s HIH Consulting
H
elping local donors and charities connect. Individuals who care about their communities often find themselves looking for a convenient way to share their philanthropic leanings with a local non-profit or charity, but get blinded by the big box organizations with big media and event budgets. But what about those worthy smaller organizations that fly under the radar, but do amazing, life-changing work? How does one find out about them? Heather Hoffman’s, a recent corporate expat with a passion for charity work, has found a way to bridge the gap between local donors who are passionate committed to supporting great causes, and the charities that depend on the generous donations of the local citizenry to continue their work. I spoke to Hoffman about HIH Consulting, the company she started to support the important work of local charities and Non-profits. Reno Tahoe Tonight: Describe the mission of HIH Consulting and explain who your customers are?
Heather Hoffman: Our mission is to match small businesses and philanthropists with local non-profits and charities. We provide a customized service to make sure our donor clients have the best match for their giving ideals. We do this by sitting down with our donors to discuss what type of causes they prefer and other specifications. Based on that information, we hand-select three to five local charities meeting those requirements. After a donor makes their selection, we coordinate the giving with the charity. We also help businesses select local charities when they have fundraising events. What donors appreciate is we remain the direct contact on behalf of the donor, so the donor’s requests are all handled by HIH Consulting, LLC. This mainstreams all interactions and correspondence, so once the donor makes their decision of which organization to donate to, we
Heather Hoffman
can decide what level of involvement they would like to have with the charity. Reno Tahoe Tonight: What are some of the challenges smaller non-profits face? Heather Hoffman: Several of our local non-profits and charities do not have a lot of funding or the staff to market themselves, so they find getting the community to know who they are and what they do a challenge. HIH Consulting LLC assists in getting the word out on behalf of these wonderful organizations. Reno Tahoe Tonight: What brought you to this field? Heather Hoffman: I have always been interested and active in volunteering and giving in the Reno community for several different organizations. This business idea came from a longtime, childhood neighbor, Betty Theis. Betty and her husband always generously supported the causes I introduced to them. During one of our conversations, she mentioned she was so glad to hear about a locally-based charity and wished she knew of more in the area. That’s when the light bulb went off for me. I realized local charities need a voice in our community. From this idea came HIH Consulting, LLC to help local donors and charities connect. Reno Tahoe Tonight: Does an organization have to have a current 501c3 status to work with you? Heather Hoffman: Organizations do not need to be 501c3’s; however they do need to be classified by the IRS as a charitable organization.
For more information on HIH Consulting, contact Heather Hoffman at Cell: 775.830.4474, email: heather@hihconsulting.com
74 Reno Tahoe Tonight
4th annual
indie reno Holiday Craft Fair
As always...amazing handmade SWAG for the first 25 shoppers BOTH days of the fair!
November 29 5pm-9pm November 30 10am-4pm
Sparks Museum
814 Victorian Avenue
Buy local . Buy handmade . www.indiereno.org
New Business
SINGER Social Club
SINGER Social Club general manager/partner Leslie Daley and owner Brett Silva
76 Reno Tahoe Tonight
Photo Tony Contini Special to Reno Tahoe Tonight
Located in the heart of downtown’s re-invented South-West corridor, SINGER Social Club aims to trumpet in a new era of class and style to this historic section of Reno, Nevada.
O
riginally the site of a Salvation Army Surplus, this 1923 constructed freestanding building also once served as a Singer Sewing Machine retail and repair shop--as well as a music repair and retail in the 1950’s. The SINGER boys (general manager/partner Leslie Daley and owner Brett Silva) hope to make use of this rich history in the design and décor of their classic concept. The concept? Simple. To recapture the roar and flair of a post-depression 40’s, 50’s, and 60’s Reno (a booming time for the city), with a taste for the excitement that bubbled and boiled in the era’s Motor City Mo-town, Delta Blues, Bayou Funk, and Chi-town Jazz. The goal? To bring art, music, and culture back to the rapidly evolving and developing historic district of Downtown Reno. SINGER Social Club will be a melting pot for artists, photographers, musicians, and DJs to express themselves and will stand as a platform for the aspiring and professional alike.
With the help of long time Green Room entertainment director and Keyser Soze front-man, Jammal Tarkington, SINGER hopes to fill a void in the downtown social scene through the use of affordable crafted cocktails, jumpin’ tunes, and impeccable service to create a state of exceptional “well-being.” Additionally, SINGER Social Club will host art galleries (in a format new to Reno), dance classes, and even hopes to create a live streaming and archived Internet Radio Station, offering a wide range platform for the ever talented group of DJ’s to live in/visit our city. So whatever your flavor SINGER Social Club will deliver. With a wink and a smile and the timeless question every patron wants to hear . . . “Wot’ll It Be?” SINGER Social Club’s projected soft opening will happen in mid-November, with an offical Grand Opening later in the month. SINGER Social Club is located at 219 West Second Street, Reno Nevada 89501.
Reno Tahoe Tonight 77
IT’S AWAYS A GOOD TIME AT
COLLEGE NIGHT WEDNESDAYS $3 WELLS $3 DOMESTICS
MUSIC FROM RESIDENT DJ PUNKTEMATRIX AND SPECIAL GUESTS
FREE ARCADE GAMING BEER PONG and video game tournaments
THURSDAY NIGHT IS
LADIES NIGHT SELECT SATURDAYS 8PM-2AM
BROWN PAPER BEATS W/THE FUTURE STRANGE CREW A HOUSE PARTY VIBE WITH CLASSIC JAMS AND NEW HITS
2AM-8AM
PUSH THE TEMPO W/KRONYAK AND SPECIAL GUESTS A LATE NIGHT VIBE WITH THE HOTTEST DANCE MUSIC
$2 REGULAR PABST $3 PABST TALL CAN $4 TECATE AND TEQUILA (8-12)
214 W. COMMERCIAL ROW RENO, NV
Special to Reno Tahoe Tonight
Singer-songwriter Liam Kyle Cahill Wants You! “After booking Liam several times locally, I was blown away both by his vocal chops and songwriting acumen. His hi-nrg live acoustic sets exhibit a kind of joy and love of songcraft and performance that is all too rare today. Join us in supporting Liam’s Indiegogo campaign.” – Oliver X Editor-Publisher Reno Tahoe Tonight
R
aw energy and passion is the fuel behind the driving sound of Liam Kyle Cahill. There few acoustic artists who can hold a candle to his hi tempo performances, contained within it whip-smart lyrics and some mighty guitar chops. He conveys a weary and worn honesty that is a rare commodity in the folk circuit of his generation. Liam’s goal: To be as "clever as Frank Turner, raw as Chuck Ragan, vulnerable as Brian Fallon, and entirely grassroots." His musical musings are as diverse as his worldly experiences. His is young troubadour’s adventurous spirit has carried him all over the US, around Europe, Asia, and down through Central and South America. Listen deeply to Liam’s music. He has something good to say…
Building Awareness “I made pdfs of my new press kit/bio to bring to coffee shops/bars/restaurants/establishments so that owners and patrons alike will know who I am,” says Cahill. “I simultaneously drop off a short stack of my Indie cards, which are business cards with a direct link to my Indiegogo campaign. I did a lot of research and found this to be an effective way of reaching a new audience, along with keeping the cards on me at all times to share with anyone and everyone I meet.” igg.me/at/liamkylecahill liamkylecahill.com liamkylemusic@gmail.com Reno Tahoe Tonight 81
Poetry
These poems were done by students at Rainshadow Community Charter High School.
“I Am”
I'm thankful and grateful that My money, my time, my music, and my love Has helped hundreds of innocent souls And that the ones who had no Place to sleep last night Can rest tonight
I'm thankful and grateful that I am not rich or wealthy in your mind But in mine, I have the money to spend on others and on myself And to have known that wealth is not the key to life But in my mind I’m a billionaire
I'm thankful and grateful that My time is not wasted; that everyone helped by me Is strong enough to build themselves up, and others And to go back home to cry to their mothers Just to say “I AM ALIVE”
I'm thankful and grateful that My music has brought me to this point in life Not to be selfish, abusive, or destructive
I'm thankful and grateful that My love for people has kept me from going blind And that the love of my life is just as kind Sometimes I think we have the same mind
Text Jessica Rose 82 Reno Tahoe Tonight
“Thankful and Grateful” Text Orion Hopkins
I am grateful for,
The fact that I am still alive after all the bullying, The fact that my mom cared enough to save me from the foster system at 4 months old, The fact that I go to a school where I feel wanted, The fact that I have good grades, when I used to have straight F’s, The fact that I have fun these days rather than only being sad and angry, The fact that I am drug free, because I don’t mess around with that, The fact that I have grown up enough to understand the world, The fact that I have experienced true love, lost it, and learned, The fact that I have friends who care about me and help me feel better on my down days, And the fact that I’m a better person then I was 5 years ago at the start of middle school,
I am grateful for, The fact that I’m a rock star, The fact that I am able to speak out against what’s wrong and corrupt with this country and the world to better it, The fact that I could be someone’s idol, The fact that I can play guitar as good as Eddie Van Halen, The fact that I help the less fortunate, The fact that my parents made me a good person, The fact that I didn’t get a haircut or a “real” job, The fact that I’m a free man, The fact that I re-found love, And the fact that I am extremely good hearted.
Reno Tahoe Tonight 83
Profile
Special to Reno Tahoe Tonight
The Alley The folks at The Alley continue to support and book the best of our local musical community, and RTT sponsored their popular Winter Concert Series concluded in spring with a second prize feature for the runner-ups Downtime. DownTime was created in the spring of 2011 and is comprised of members from different bands, all originating from within the confines of the Nevada State Prison System. The DownTime project was rebirthed upon the release of lead guitarist Scott Shlinghyde, creator of WrathChild and Original DownTime member, and Donovan Martin, who played drums for both DownTime and Hellcraft and quickly sought out and recruited bassist Hannibal, original Hellcraft guitarist. The connection between members doesn’t end there. After having several vocalists come and go, 84 Reno Tahoe Tonight
Winter Concert Series 2013 Runner-ups
DownTime the one that made the cut and the new CD (due to be released as a debut EP in the fall of 2013) is Mark Wright, a corrections officer of ten years for the Nevada Department of Prisons. With a mix of heavy melodic originals and covers, DownTime has made their move through the Reno Metal Scene and took second place out of 50+ bands in the Winter Concert Series at the Alley in Sparks, Nevada. Additionally the group members are the creators and hosts of the Reno Core series, which networks local musicians and bands as well as local businesses as sponsors and promoters. The line-up, and stage, is set for the group’s CD release and many rugged, dark metal shows in the near future and beyond. https://www.facebook.com/downtime.reno.3 https://www.reverbnation.com/downtimereno
Giving Thanks
Raw Nutrition Text Rachelle Lanning Photo Tony Contini
Every year I have the fantasy of creating healthier traditions for my family. But I’m often met with so much resistance that I feel like I'm "ruining it" for everybody just because I would like to pass down traditions that don't leave them feeling bloated and ten pounds overweight.
So let's just start with baby steps. Let's just replace the sugary desserts with healthy raw vegan pies. They are amazingly creamy, rich and decadent and nobody will even know they're healthy! Here’s one of my favorite recipes:
Raw Harvest Pumpkin Pie (makes one pie): Crust 1 cup cashews 1 cup almonds 1/4 cup raisins 1 cup dates 1/8 teaspoon salt
Pumpkin Filling 1 sugar pumpkin (about 7 cups), peeled, gutted and cut into cubes 1 cup dates 4-5 tablespoons melted coconut oil 1/3 cup maple syrup 1-4 tablespoons pumpkin pie spice (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger & cloves) To make the crust, process the nuts in your food processor until they are like a rough flour. Add the dates, raisins and salt. Pulse until it all sticks together in a lump. Press into the bottom of a pie dish and refrigerate.
To make the pie filling, process the pumpkin cubes until they can't get any smaller in your food processor. Add in the other ingredients and process until it can't get any smoother. Transfer the filling to your high- speed blender and blend on the highest setting to get it super smooth, like the cooked version. Add whatever you think it needs. Next, spread the filling onto your pie crust and let it set in the fridge for a few hours. (Found on www.thisrawsomeveganlife.com) There are so many recipes out there right at your fingertips now, just search raw vegan pie, or raw vegan thanksgiving. Even if you are not vegan and don't intend to make the whole feast raw, it will give you so many ideas and alternatives. Now let's just have a couple of side dishes that aren't loaded with carbs and starch, then people can just chose to substitute one or two heavy things with healthier, lighter alternatives. Search raw vegan mashed potatoes or raw vegan yams. Cauliflower and cashews thrown in the food processor creates a striking resemblance to the mashed potatoes everybody knows and loves. Toss in a little lemon, salt, miso and nutritional yeast and nobody will even know it's not potatoes! When they're ready we can talk about the turkey. Whether you are choosing tofurkey or a completely raw vegan substitute, there are actually amazing delicious and savory substitutions. Here are some websites that will give you ideas for those healthy side dishes and desserts, and if you're ready, lead you all the way through a completely raw, vegan, sustainable holiday with those you love. Maybe implementing these healthy traditions will give you a couple more of them to spend together. It will certainly leave you feeling a lot better come the New Year. Plus, traditions aren't meant to be set in stone; they too can evolve with us to facilitate this age of awakening. Choosingraw.com Therenegadekitchen.com Tofurky.com
Rachelle Lanning
Rachelle Lanning is the owner of The Seed, a new raw vegan cafe and juice bar located beneath The Studio at 1085 South Virginia 775 284-5545 Thestudioreno@gmail.com. Reno Tahoe Tonight 87
After so much shopping enjoy a plethora of prix fixed holiday dinners, seasonal small-plates, happy hour discounts and one-of-a-kind culinary creations in the Dining District. If you’re cooking at home and hosting a party of your own, a holiday centerpiece is a perfect accessory. BumbleBee Blooms Flower Boutique in the Riverwalk offers only the finest floral arrangements and gifts, backed by service that is friendly and prompt. Place your arrangement early for a special discount. You can order online by visiting their website at www.bumblebeeblooms.biz.
RIVERWALK REPORT Text Courtney Meredith Come November, the Riverwalk District will have their chance to put there biggest little passion on display with a great lineup of fall-focused events and fun holiday finds. This month is all about unique holiday deals and seasonal dining. The early part of the month kicks off with a special 24th anniversary celebration at the National Automobile Museum and the unveiling of their new Pedal Cars exhibit. Learn more at www.automuseum.org.
Towards the end of the month quench your thirst for a good party or event with the popular monthly Reno Wine Walk on November 16, where a portion of the proceeds will benefit a local non-profit. On November 23rd the Reno Beer Crawl will celebrate in true Nevada Style with a special “Pray for Snow Beer Crawl,” featuring an 80’s winter wear costume contest, snow bunny competition, snow calling contest and a chance to win over $400 in gift certificates from local bars and taverns, including free lift tickets to Heavenly Ski Resort. Learn more about the Reno Wine Walk at www.renoriver.org and the Reno Beer Crawl at www.renobeercrawl.com.
Looking for your inner Picasso? Head to VSA at the Lake Mansion on November 13th for an evening of entertaining, stress free art instruction and a little bit of wine, during Paint & Sips featuring Pablo Picasso. Visit their website at www.vsanevada.org for details and a full list of other museum workshops this holiday season. If you are looking for some great holiday gifts look no further than Antiques & Treasures, La Terre Verte or Reno eNVy. Make sure to pick up a little light reading along the way with the new Arcadia book, History of Reno’s Riverwalk District. Or find some Fendi and boutique autumn flair at Labels Consignment Boutique (pictured right). No holiday party is complete without a great hairstyle or perfectly styled up-do. Make sure to schedule your next appointment in the heart of the city at either of the Riverwalk’s premier salons, Eye Candy Salon or Reno’s own rock and roll hole in the wall; Outsiders Hair Studio.
For information on future events visit our website www.renoriver.org, or call 775-825-WALK. Reno Tahoe Tonight 89
Scene
Text Cody Doyle Photo Vanessa Sampson
The Midnight Deer: Hand-made and Imported Vintage Treasures
L
ate at night, the moon luminous in the sky, infinite stars glistening like diamonds against the ebony backdrop; the sound of nature’s nightly song playing its familiar tune, you will often find Jennifer Goldring busily at work. She started this routine as a creative hobby several years ago making gifts for friends and family. One day, she decided to sell some things online and they sold, so she kept going. In 2010 she founded The Midnight Deer, a successful retail business. The name was born from the late nights that Jennifer is often found working, hence, The Midnight; Deer is symbolic of nature and things that are gathered from the land. Based in Brighton, United Kingdom, Goldring is a crafter and artist. Her immense love and respect for nature is evident in her many characteristic designs. She creates everything from jewelry and clothing to gorgeous hair accessories. “I use vintage items and hand-designed Perspex, sparkling beads, semi-precious stones and charms. The majority of my work is limited edition or one off [one-of-a-kind], making it all the more interesting to make and all the more special to own.” Jennifer explains with enthusiasm. Mostly sold online - where Goldring planted her
first retail seed -- there is one physical shop in all of the USA that proudly carries The Midnight Deer’s products -- Never Ender in Reno Nevada. Never Ender has a good selection of hand-made and worldly discovered treasures; from distinctive, hand-made whimsical pendants, rings, earrings and bracelets…to the stunning Moroccan and African seed jewelry. The exquisite Moroccan seed necklaces are available in several colors; including vibrant black-veined red, deep turquoise and bright orange. The African seeds are more earth tone colors, such as brown or black. Both types of seed necklaces are sourced during overseas travels, as opposed to being hand-made. The Midnight Deer’s collection is affordable to fit any budget. However, the love and passion that Jennifer puts into The Midnight Deer’s designs is priceless. Goldring feels good knowing that anyone that owns one of her designs has a oneof-a-kind gem. No one else will ever have the exact same item. See more of The Midnight Deer’s merchandise on their website www.themidnightdeer.bigcartel.com. Locals should head down to Never Ender, located at 119 Thoma Street and see many of the unique items that are currently in stock, or check our website at neverenderreno.com. Reno Tahoe Tonight 91
Theater
Rent
at TMCC’s Nell J. Redfield Performing Arts Center Text Oliver X November 1-17 Photo Tyson Schroeder
I
enter the back stage door of TMCC’s theater looking for Rent director Paul Aberasturi. My photographer Tyson is already here. I greet the energetic Aberasturi as the actors—who all look to be twenty-somethings—are milling about expectantly, waiting for the rehearsal to commence. After seven weeks of rehearsal, there’s a sense of anticipation in the room as the opening November show date nears. A male actor (who I later learn is the lead character) takes a few draws on his inhaler; another fiddles with his scarf; the live band tunes up in the first row; an actress scurries in breathless and apologizes for being late. Aberasturi brings the session to order calling the actors to the stage. His teaching style is engaging earnest, but respectful of the talented young minds he’s working with. He drops notes and nuggets for his actors to feed upon. “Tonight we wanna get more of the flow and 94 Reno Tahoe Tonight
feel, and we wanna run through that first scene leading up to ‘Hello Disease’ with Mimi, Benny and Mark… “ “Now you’ve got the rhythm—which is great because that’s such a rhythmic piece and you guys are all singing in that rhythm. So now we’ve gotta get beyond the rhythm, right? Tonight keep the rhythm don’t blow it. Try to get more natural. Keep the rhythm and keep in the character and you’ve got it made.” “Good guys, we’re getting better and better. When we start here in just a heartbeat, we’re gonna do it as nonstop as is physically, humanly possible. Really sing out and let us hear you. We don’t have mics until Tuesday night.” “Tuesday night’s gonna be a long night as I’ve told you. We do an hour and a half sound balance with all actors on stage and then we’ll go back and start running act two. But then it will be a night and day difference when you
hear yourselves in all of our monitors that are all throughout this theater. So be aware of that.” “So tonight just sing, but don’t sing incorrectly of course and strain your voices. But let’s see it. Really play to the intimacy of each other. Really relate to each other. I want to see people looking at people. Characters looking at characters. The people in the audience are gonna be watching you watching each other, not watching you watching the audience. Remember that. Minus the few times we drop the fourth wall…this is the fourth wall, the audience is not here. The people you are relating to are each other. That’s what’s going to draw the audience in. Because they’re looking through that magic wall and seeing your relationships. Get yourself set and let’s start the show in five minutes.” Producer Carolyn Wray is seated across the aisle from me. Tyson does a lighting test. “Be aware that you are being photographed people, so if you see a camera in your face, stay in character,” Aberasturi instructs. I take a seat in the fifth row behind the band and begin note-taking on my clipboard. As the rehearsal goes through its paces, I am impressed at the quality of the acting, singing and overall movement the young cast exhibits. The set transitions were still a bit awkward at times, but those kinks will be ironed out prior to the opening. I later speak via email with Aberasturi--whose fine production team includes the aforementioned Wray; Musical Director Ted Owens; Technical Director Ty Hagar (who also does set and lighting design), and Light Board and Video Operator Nathan Gilchrist—about the piece. RTT: Why was Rent selected for your season and what elements, in your opinion, made it a good candidate for a community college theater production? Paul Aberasturi: We selected Rent for our season this year for a number of reasons. From an academic point of view, we believe in producing shows that are challenging for our students to perform. Rent we believe fits that criterion. In addition to the challenges of the music, the critical thinking skills needed for the development of the characters within the musical’s storyline are large. As a higher education theatre program we believe that by presenting our student actors with these kinds of challenges elevated their education in the art. Of secondary importance, we chose
Rent because of the quality of the script, score, and concept. This Pulitzer Prize-winning musical is considered to be among the top musicals of all time. RTT: What challenges do you face mounting a musical with dance elements for a cast of this size? Paul Aberasturi: We believe in training our students to be triple threat performers: meaning those who can act, sing, and dance. Rent traditionally is a production that is more staged than choreographed, but with our production I felt the desire to create a style of movement that is very much to the beat of the music. It is not traditional musical theatre dance in most respects but is choreographed movement. Mig O’Hare is our choreographer our students have taken the challenge to learn this style quite well. RTT: What percentage of the cast are declared theater arts or dance majors? Paul Aberasturi: Nearly 60% of our cast and crew are theatre, music, and/or dance majors with us. The other 40% are getting degrees in other disciplines. RTT: What kind of vocal training goes on for the students during the semester to prepare them for their singing roles, or does that task rest solely with the actors to pursue on their own? Paul Aberasturi: Vocally, our student actors come to us with a wide variance of training. Some of our students have had vocal training for years and are music degree-seeking students while others have minimal training. We have regular vocal rehearsals throughout the process under the direction of Music Director Ted Owens. We push and pull our students in their training to be able to not only sing their parts well, but also correctly so they may be able to use this experience as training for their next production. Rent starring Michael Jackson as Angel Dumott Schunard, Brielle Lichten as Benjamin Coffin III, Malary Engstrom as Joanne Jefferson, Ryan Kelly as Mark Cohen, Jessie Briggs as Maureen Johnson, Delania Marenghi as Mimi Marquez, Cody Hamilton as Roger Davis, and Anthony Johnson as Tom Collins at TMCC Nell J. Redfield Performing Arts Center November 1-17. 505 Keystone Avenue Reno, NV 89503 Tickets at www.showtix4u.com 775-789-5671 Reno Tahoe Tonight 95
Tribute
Mary Jane Hutchison
June 3, 1944 – October 7, 2013 Text and photos courtesy of A. Grace Hutchison
Mom in Truckee
My mom and I shared a fantastic obsession for all creatures furry. Mom measured the success of her daily walks along the Truckee River by the frequency and ‘funny little happenings’ of the people (dogs) she met along the way, recounting to me and chuckling and recounting again. She declared that my Chihuahua, Mini, was ‘God’s heart drive’, because, well, God needs to store all that love somewhere. So I was hardly surprised when Mini glued herself to my mother’s side throughout the entirety of her time on hospice. Perhaps awed, proud, alarmed-but not surprised. For thirteen days, this tiny ‘spirit guide’ dutifully followed my mom 98 Reno Tahoe Tonight
from room to room, couch to patio; slept at her side through the many hours in bed.
"Jane was a remarkable historian with an insatiable curiosity, yet she shunned pretention or elitism"
I lay next to my mom, her hand in mine, as Mini exhaled a heavy sigh from a sunken pocket in the puffy feather comforter between us. In a stunning instant, I was struck by the magnificent image of a great golden sphere filling my mom’s chest; a bright undulating light. A deep warmth radiated from her hand to mine, traveled up my arm, and settled in my own chest. Not a light so bright as hers, just a merciful residual flicker. The next morning, she gracefully chose to exhale her final breath in a rare moment that Mini and I had both left the room. Mary Jane Hutchison, or simply Jane, loved to laugh. She had a wickedly playful wit and was the first to burst
out in laughter at even the most elemental of wisecracks. This is easily near the top of my favorite inherited traits, shared by both of my sisters. Get the four of us together, or in any combination, and a fit of the infamous cackle would surely ensue at some point (sometimes in bizarre sync, spurring further rounds of gutbusting cackle). Mom, I love that. Jane was a remarkable historian with an insatiable curiosity, yet she shunned pretention or elitism. She held a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in education, and was a creative and warm second-grade teacher in my hometown of Rapid City, South Dakota. Her many layers will mystify and inspire me always. A farmer’s daughter, she loved the land as much as she loved animals. She was a seeker, had a keen sense of personal ethic, was innately pulled to the spiritual realm, and was a lifelong Christian who maintained her own unique relationship with God and the universe. She was tender, adoring of her daughters and grandchildren, mischievous, blunt, dynamic, and held a deep reverence for the everyday man. She was a paradoxical picture of redemption, and I believe much can be learned from her ability to overcome and reinvent in the face of adversity. At times she was fiercely private, even reclusive. Other times she was the life of the party. I understand her. I write this tribute from the narrow perspective of just one of her daughters. Both of my extraordinary sisters, Jill Baker and Jennifer Wolterstorff, surely have entire tributes that paint their own stories and memories with her. Both of them have in past years taken her into their homes, bringing her closer to her beloved grandchildren: Lindsay, Jasmine, Philip, Dillon and Sean. They were devoted to her wellbeing
and care. She had a custom-fit, very different relationship with each of us, but all equally dear. I’m utterly grateful that I, too, had my chance to have her close by, if only for those last years. In 2009, she joined me in Reno, and truly did find a home and new lifelong bonds. I’ve said many times that bringing her here was the most important and life-changing decision in my life thus far.
Jane Hutchison, Grace Hutchison Mom and Mini
Thank you, Stephen, Rachelle and Kate for being close to us in those final weeks. For making us meals, even when she chose to eat Cheerios instead of manicotti. Thank you, Tai, for nudging us to take off our ‘brave faces’ and embrace this time as sacred. Thank you, Tessa, for reminding me to hold her hand. Thank you, Jill and Jennifer, for coming here and holding my hand. Thank you, Mom, for our laughter and strong spirit.
Just a few nights before she passed, we sat in the evening breeze and talked for hours of the mystical and breathtaking rite of passage she was facing. Of the inherent connection and eternal thread between her daughters and herself. Of those qualities in us she passed on... “Baby, you’re gonna fly,” she said to me. She would help us all from the other side, she added. We love you, Jane. Your brothers, their families, your grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and countless friends on this side have been holding you near and reaching out in your memory. Thank you for showing me your true self on that last night: light. The next day, and each one since, when I see the sun, I see you, and when I feel its warmth on my skin, I feel you. I know that this profound association will hold throughout my lifetime. You couldn’t have chosen a more dazzling and comforting way to reach me. Reno Tahoe Tonight 99