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Letter from EditorCITY MAGAZINE

June 2010

Contents

06 Pasta!

08 Local Flavor

10 Texas 45 Years

14 Cellulite

16 Hoopla June 2010

18 Summer Camp

20 Vacation Packing

22 Revamp Outside

24 Fathers Day

Camey

With Father’s day approaching I thought I would stop and take a look at my life and the many life lessons I’ve learned. Some of them are the fruits of difficult experiences and some are simply advice I received from my wise family memebers.

I’d like to share with you some of my life lessons that I can thank my father for. Be gratefulBeing grateful is perhaps the most important attitude you must have to live a happy life. Don’t take things for granted. Be grateful even for simple things.Follow your heartNothing can replace following your heart. Listen to your heart and find the courage to follow it.Dream bigHow far you go is very much determined by how big your dream is. Good is the worst enemy of bestWhen you reach a position that is good enough, you may become comfortable and think that it’s no longer worth it to continue fighting for the best. That’s why good is the worst enemy of best: it makes you stop before you achieve your fullest potential. Run your own raceYour race is different from other people’s races. Realizing this is liberating because it frees you from envy. Focus on what you can controlSometimes you might have bad experiences that you can’t do anything about. You can’t change other people but you can change yourself. Failure is your friendBefriending failure makes you dare to try new things. It puts you on the path of inventions, breakthroughs, and innovations. Failure is often the price of progress.Relationships are your greatest treasuresAt the end, what do you want to achieve in life? Your relationships are your greatest treasures. Understand it before it’s too late.

Happy Father’s Day!

Pasta salads are a summer staple at barbecues and cookouts, but the usual mayo-laden sides aren't a good choice for those of us wanting to maintain that beach body we've worked so hard to achieve. Lighter pasta salads featuring fresh vegetables and even fruit are a much better choice. Here are some summer pasta salad tips and recipes for your next BBQ or cookout.

Tips for healthier pasta salads

Toss pasta with fresh ingredients Many popular pasta salad recipes include canned vegetables, heavily processed meats and cheeses, and pre-made dressings. To keep your pasta salad light, use fresh ingredients. Healthful picks from the farmer’s market, freshly cut herbs and high-quality cured meats and cheeses will result in summer pasta salads with first-rate flavor.

Finely chop your ingredients To deliver the most welcome flavor and eye appeal, chop ingredients such as garlic, onions and peppers as small as possible. Minced garlic is far more

preferable than a large chunk of a pungent clove. A good option is to mince garlic, onions and peppers, and then whisk them into the dressing. Finely chopped herbs will add a nice color. Other ingredients, such as meats, cheeses, vegetables and fruits, are best cut into a medium-sized dice.

Dress lightly Instead of using heavy mayonnaise-based dressings or pre-made store-bought dressings, opt for a few delicious drizzles of extra-virgin olive, balsamic vinegar or a citrus juice. Don't mask the flavors of super-fresh salad ingredients with a heavy dressing.

Choose good pasta Pasta comes in a fun array of shapes and sizes. For a salad, your best bet is a medium-sized pasta such as penne, rotini and bow ties. Noodles, like spaghetti, may be hard to eat on paper plates, and small pastas, such as orzo, can be hard to pick up with a fork and can get lost amid vegetables and dressing. Also, keep in mind that frozen pasta can become gummy after it's cooked and cooled. Cooked dry pasta will keep its shape and texture.

Lighten up with pasta

6 - City Magazine

Greek Feta Pasta Salad

Makes 8 servings

Ingredients: 1/4 cup red wine vinegar 1 tablespoon lemon juice 2 cloves garlic, crushed 2 teaspoons dried oregano Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste 2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil 2 cups penne pasta, cooked al dente 10 cherry tomatoes, halved 1 small red onion, chopped 1 green bell pepper, chopped 1 red bell pepper, chopped 1/2 cucumber, sliced 1/2 cup sliced black olives 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

Directions: 1. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper and olive oil. 2. In a large bowl, combine pasta, tomatoes, onions, peppers, cucumber and olives. 3. Drizzle dressing over pasta mixture and sprinkle with crumbled feta. Chill until ready to serve.

Makes 8 servings

Ingredients: 1/2 cup olives, chopped 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon fresh basil 1 teaspoon salt Freshly ground black pepper to taste 1 pound elbow macaroni, cooked al dente 1/2 pound hard salami, diced 1/2 pound pepperoni, diced 1/2 pound hard provolone cheese, diced 2 green peppers, diced 3 tomatoes, diced 1 onion, diced

Directions: 1. In a small bowl, whisk together oil, vinegar, basil, salt and pepper. 2. In a large bowl, combine macaroni, salami, pepperoni, Provolone, peppers, tomatoes and onions. 3. Drizzle dressing over pasta and toss. Chill until ready to serve.

Italian Antipasto Salad

8 - City Magazine

My original training is in Tex-Mex cooking, but as I have stated in the past, I didn’t know that it was Tex-Mex at the time. Now it seems that every recipe I find is infused with other cultures. Last week I cooked a Jamaican dinner but I served it with corn tortillas, queso fresco & cilantro. I thought it all went great together but if any true Jamaican had walked in, they

may have punched me! It seems to me that Bobby Flay puts ancho peppers or green chiles (be it New Mexican or poblano) in just about everything he prepares. Not surprising since I too prefer my lasagna with a roasted salsa. Wow that sounds nice! I highly suggest it even though The Olive Garden doesn’t have it on their menu but I’ll bet the cooks keep some salsa stashed away in case of an emergency. In California the latest craze is an Asian fusion “Taco Truck”. Yes, that’s Asian food in a taco! It has been so successful that they are franchising the concept. Anyway, when I watch the Food Channel I notice that so many restaurants claim not to have changed their “Granny’s” recipes?!?! I find that very hard to believe since my Granny’s tastes and eating habits changed as she aged and so have mine. So in closing, do look out for my rendition of Jamaican jerk chicken tacos at a Taco Truck near you.

Jorge Veloz II

Is Anything Sacred in The Food World?

With 20 years of being Amarillo's cornerstone of fine dining, Marty's continues its dedication to their patrons. Happy Hour Mon.-Thur. 4pm-7pm & Friday 4pm-8pm, with Free Pizza on Fridays!!! Wed. & Sat. Happy Hour Specials available all night long in the back bar!!! Also

on Wed. & Sat., all restaurant and bar employees get their first drink for $1 with proof of employment!!!

specials for only $6.99!!! CALL NOW TO MAKE YOUR SPRINGTIME

CATERING & BANQUET ARRANGEMENTS!!!

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Try our famous margaritas... Or order food To-Go!!! We also have traditional Tex-Mex & New Mexi-

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fresh daily!!! Family Owned, Family Operated.

1100 S. Ross 806-371-0411

Indulge the inner Aussie in you with Outback's Happy Hour Bar Specials from 4pm-6:30pm Mon.-Fri.!!!

$2.00 15oz. Domestic Drafts, $2.75 22oz. Domestic Drafts, & $2.50 Appetizers!!! Can't make the Happy

Hour??? Then take advantage of Outback's ALL DAY EVERY DAY DRINK SPECIALS- $1.95 10oz. Domestic Drafts and $3.75 Gold Coast Ritas!!! Come visit Amarillo's little piece of flavor from down

under today!!!

7101 I-40 West

806-352-4032

For decades, Amarillo and Canyon have played host to a multitude of attractions and features that have drawn people from all over the world. With Historic Route 66 running through the middle of the city, many visitors are simply passing through, while others have come to our area as their primary vacation destination. While here, these guests can take in a variety of world famous spectacles. There is of course the Cadillac Ranch courtesy of local celebrity and philanthropist Stanley Marsh. Residents and tourists can take on the 72oz steak challenge at the Big Texan. For those that enjoy the outdoors, they can visit Palo Duro Canyon, North America’s second largest canyon. For travelers that are lucky enough to be in the Texas Panhandle during the summer, Palo Duro Canyon is the setting for one of our areas most famous attractions, Texas- The Musical Drama.

Set at the stunning Pioneer Amphitheatre inside the magnificent beauty of Palo Duro Canyon, Texas Musical Drama has been entertaining visitors for almost half a century. This year marks the 45th Anniversary of Texas’ performance and promises to be an impressive summer blockbuster to top all others.

The Pioneer Amphitheatre provides an extraordinary place for the presentation of one of our state’s most spectacular musicals. Sitting on the edge of the canyon with the various hues of sediment imbedded in the steep walls bordering the theatre, accented by the Texas Panhandle’s breathtaking sunset, offers spectators a pre performance extravaganza of beauty. While enjoying this awe-inspiring sight, attendants that arrive early can indulge in a down-home steak dinner courtesy of The Big Texan Steak Ranch.

10 - City Magazine

After dinner, within this natural amphitheater carved into the rock and stone of a canyon older than man, the experience of a lifetime begins. The signal to the start of the outdoor production is a lone horseman galloping across the crest of the canyon rim across the way and stopping atop a 600 foot cliff, bathed in the falling sunlight and hoisting an oversize Lone Star Flag in the wind. The sight of this cowboy of days past with a huge flag of Texas easily sends butterflies through any Texan as well as visitors from around the world. The excitement then crescendos with a burst of fireworks and a moving swell of the music, the horseman, galloping away into the sunset. Suddenly, a cast of more than 60 actors, singers, and dancers take the stage to kick off the show that millions of fans from all around the world have come to see. Like the official web site says, only a state as big as Texas could host a show as big as TEXAS!

Texas takes us on a journey through the Texas Panhandle during the 1800’s as we follow the fictional characters that personify the stories, tribulations, and triumphs of southwest settlers during this time period.

Texas Musical Drama had its beginning in 1960 when the William Moores and Ples Harpers of Canyon, Texas were intrigued by an article in Readers Digest about Paul Green who had re-created the history of several regions in tremendous dramas with pageantry and music. Margaret Harper wrote to Green to see if he would be interested in weaving such a production around the story of the Texas Panhandle and the great canyon across it. Mr. Green agreed and 135 people from 12 counties met in 1961 and together formed the Texas Panhandle Heritage Foundation to raise money for the production. A sound and light demonstration was held and the show Fandangle was brought from Albany, Texas to perform in 1964. In 1965, a sound and light booth was donated and Margaret Harper's Thundering Sounds of the West was performed at the theatre. During 1966, the State of Texas built the dressing rooms and concession building, and at last on July 1, 1966, Texas Musical Drama opened to 61,338 guests that first year. Since that time more than three million visitors have come to see productions in the Pioneer Amphitheatre in the beautiful Palo Duro Canyon State Park.

City Magazine - 11

Since 1999, 3.5 million dollars in improvements have been made at the Pioneer Amphitheatre. In 2001 new side stages were completed. The Pete and Wanda Gilvin monument and the new sound and light booth were built in 2002. Many volunteers helped with the installation of the highly technical equipment which produced a state-of-the-art facility worthy of praise.� In 2002, Texas Express was formed as an outreach arm of the Foundation with the initial goal of 10 performances. The original 12-member ensemble of college students and graduates performed over 50 events including performances for over 2,000 school students in April and May. Texas Express has been invited to entertain groups as diverse as the South Plains Legislative Day the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center , the DECA State Convention and the 2003 Southern Legislative Conference, showcasing their talents for over 1,000 legislators from 16 southern states. � In 2003 a new script, Texas Legacies, based on historical characters, was written and performed with a plan to produce a new script in epic format every few years. By popular demand Texas Musical Drama retuned for the 2006 Season. Attendance was up over 28% over the last year and revenue was up 44%. Texas Musical Drama is here to stay, proof being that reservations have increased dramatically over past years, and attendance is on the rise. � If you have never experienced the awe of this incredible production, call 806-651-2181 to get more information or visit them online at www.texas-show.com for more information and enjoy a piece of Texas history and entertainment!!!

Calendar June 2010SATURDAY JUNE 56:00PM-10:00PMSTAR STUDDED GALABENEFITING THE ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATIONCHILDERS PLACE$75.00 PER PERSON

7:00PMCOORS RANCH RODEOAMARILLO NATIONAL CENTER$10.00 PER PERSON

7:00PMROUTE 66 ROLLER DERBYAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/ N. EXHIBIT HALL$13.00 PER PERSON

9:00PM-11:00PMNIGHT AT THE MUSEUMEXPLORE THE MUSEUM BY FLASHLIGHTPANHANDLE PLAINS HISTORICAL MUSEUM$10.00 PER PERSON

TUESDAY JUNE 87:00PM-9:00PMSTARLIGHT THEATERFEATURING “SONCY BEECH BUMS”SAM HOUSTON PARKFREE TO ATTEND

WEDNESDAY JUNE 912:00PMHIGH NOON ON THE SQUAREENTERTAINMENT BY AMARILLO SYMPHONYCATERED BY MR. GATTIS

POTTER COUNTY COURTHOUSE LAWN$6.00 PER PERSON

THURSDAY JUNE 107:30PMMUSIC IN THE GARDENSFEATURING MIKE FULLERAMARILLO BOTANICAL GARDENS$5.00 PER PERSON FRIDAY JUNE 114:00PM-7:00PMKIDS EXTRAVAGANZA TRADE SHOWAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/ REGENCY ROOM

SATURDAY JUNE 1210:00-12:00PMBACKYARD HENSA CLASS ABOUT RAISING HENSWILDCAT BLUFF$3.00 FOR ADULTS, $2.00 FOR SENIORS & CHILDREN

10:00AM-6:00PMKIDS EXTRAVAGANZA TRADE SHOWAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/ REGENCY ROOM

10:00AM-11:00AMA VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY OPEN HOUSEAMARILLO ZOO

12:30PM-3:00PMFAITH CITY EMPTY BOWL LUNCHEON

AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/ GRAND PLAZA

6:00PM- 10:00PM2ND ANNUAL PORK DERBYCIRCLE BAR RANCH IN BUSHLAND

7:05PMAMARILLO VENOM VS AUSTIN TURFCATSAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/ COLISEUM

TUESDAY JUNE 157:00PM-9:00PMSTARLIGHT THEATERFEATURING “THE CAROL HUDDLESTON GROUP”SAM HOUSTON PARKFREE TO ATTEND

WEDNESDAY JUNE 1612:00PMHIGH NOON ON THE SQUAREENTERTAINMENT BY MIKE FULLERCATERED BY CHICK-FIL-APOTTER COUNTY COURTHOUSE LAWN$6.00 PER PERSON

THURSDAY JUNE 175:30PM-9:00PM“GIRLS NIGHT OUT”3RD ANNUAL FUNDRAISER EVENT FOR JUVENILE DIABETESH GALLERY/ CANYON BUSINESS PARK

16 - City Magazine www.mycitymag.com

Calendar June 2010

FRIDAY JUNE 187:00PM-11:00PMAMOA’S ROCK ON DANCE PARTYAMARILLO MUSEUM OF ART$50.00 PER PERSONRESERVE NOW BY CALLING 371-5050

SATURDAY JUNE 1910:00AM-5:00PMWOMEN’S HEALTH & FITNESS EXPOAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/ N. EXHIBIT HALL

1:00PM-3:00PMGROW A SUCCESSFUL HERB GARDENPRESENTED BY MARY KAY WELLSWILDCAT BLUFF NATURE CENTER$10.00 PER PERSON

2:00PM-6:00PMSTICKY WICKETS CROQUET IN THE GARDENSAMARILLO BOTANICAL GARDENS$25.00 PER PERSON

MONDAY JUNE 217:30PMRONNIE MILSAP IN CONCERTAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER AUDITORIUM$30.00 & $38.00 PER PERSON

TUESDAY JUNE 227:00PM-9:00PMSTARLIGHT THEATERFEATURING “SOUTHWEST COWBOYS POETS ASSOCIATION”

SAM HOUSTON PARKFREE TO ATTEND

WEDNESDAY JUNE 2312:00PMHIGH NOON ON THE SQUAREENTERTAINMENT BY TRIPLE L BLUEGRASSCATERED BY DESPERADOESPOTTER COUNTY COURTHOUSE LAWN$6.00 PER PERSON

THURSDAY JUNE 245:00PM-8:00PM“SUMMER FIESTA”CHAMBER EVENTIN FRONT OF CHAMBER BUILDING

7:30PMMUSIC IN THE GARDENSAMARILLO BOTANICAL GARDENS$5.00 PER PERSON

FRIDAY JUNE 25BRIGHT NIGHT HIKEWILDCAT BLUFF NATURE CENTER$3.00 FOR ADULTS, $2.00 FOR SENIORS & CHILDREN

SATURDAY JUNE 267:00AM-4:00PMDOG SHOWAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/ N. EXHIBIT HALL

7:00AM-12:00PMKIDS FISHING DERBYMARTIN ROAD LAKEAGES 16 & UNDER ARE FREE

6:00PM

POTTER COUNTY STEAK OUTPRIME RIB DINNER & DANCEBENEFITING POTTER COUNTY 4H & FFAAZTECA MUSIC HALLCALL 679-3209 FOR TICKET INFO

SUNDAY JUNE 277:00AM-4:00PMDOG SHOWAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/ N. EXHIBIT HALL

TUESDAY JUNE 297:00PM-9:00PMSTARLIGHT THEATERFEATURING “BLUE DENIM II & FRIENDS”SAM HOUSTON PARKFREE TO ATTEND

WEDNESDAY JUNE 3012:00PMHIGH NOON ON THE SQUAREENTERTAINMENT BY YVONNE PEREACATERED BY SCHOLTZSKY’SPOTTER COUNTY COURTHOUSE LAWN$6.00 PER PERSON

THURSDAY JULY 17:30PMMUSIC IN THE GARDENSAMARILLO BOTANICAL GARDENS$5.00 PER PERSON

SUNDAY JULY 39:30AM-3:00PMRED, WHITE & ZOOA FOURTH OF JULY EVENT$3.00 FOR ADULTS, $2.00 FOR SENIORS

City Magazine - 17

You're still a few weeks, a month, or even two months away from sending your son or daughter to summer camp, but it's not too early to start preparing. The last week before your child leaves will be chaotic and stressful, so the more you can do now, both mentally and physically, will help make the process easier later.

Here's a list of 10 things you can be doing now to prepare your child for camp:

Packing- Many families dread packing, but packing doesn’t have to be a test of wills between parents and kids. If you do it together, a bit ahead of time, the process can actually be enjoyable. At the very least, knowing what and how to pack can decrease the chances of forgetting important equipment or running out of underwear half-way through the session. Start your packing preparation with the camp’s own list. Naturally, if you delay packing until the last minute, it can become a nightmare. No matter how long camp lasts, living out of a footlocker, suitcase, duffel bag, or backpack takes careful preparation

Safe touch talk- Teach your child about safe and unsafe touch. Make sure they feel confident enough to

go for help if the feel they are in an uncomfortable situation.

Prepare for homesickness- Homesickness is the distress or

impairment caused by an actual or anticipated

separation from home. It’s characterized by acute longing and preoccupying thoughts of home and other beloved objects. In other words, homesick feelings are normal. Even the adults at camp get a little homesick.

10 Thingsto Do NOW toPrepare yourChild for Summer Camp

18 - City Magazine

Go to the pharmacy or local store and spend a few minutes in the travel accessories area looking for small sizes of items your child might need at camp. You might not need 1000 cotton swabs for a week of camp...

Pick up some freezer or lunch bags to begin packing small items. Get some permanent markers to label the bags. In one bag, make a postage kit of pre-addressed labels or envelopes and some stamps. Get envelopes and stamps that have a no-lick, peel-off adhesive. Muggy summer camp cabins are the death of regular stamps and envelopes.

Buy some labels to label your child's clothes. Just type "camp labels" in a web search box and you'll find several companies that offer camp labels or just make your own.

Start teaching your son or daughter to regularly use sunscreen according to the label of your favorite brand. Make it fun buy purchasing colored sunscreens and zincs.

Consider trip insurance. Most camps offer liability insurance but you can never be too safe.

Is your footlocker or luggage going to make it through the summer? If you decide to buy a new trunk or footlocker, make sure you can stand on it. Footlockers are furniture in most summer camp cabins.

Talk, talk, talk with your children about camp. Only through communication will you find about their concerns and goals for the summer. City Magazine - 19

A hassle-free, no nonsense vacation is something we could all use. The destination is, undoubtedly our focus, but choosing what we take with is just as important. Approximately 50 million Americans vacation every year so whether you're planning a family vacation or an individual getaway, you're going to need to know how to pack. Carrying that overstuffed piece of luggage can be quite aggravating. A vacation is supposed to be relaxing not stressing. That suitcase of clothes, shoes, toiletries, souvenirs and other useless nonsense will more than likely become your worst enemy when traveling. Travelers often believe that they must ensure that they have all the comforts and amenities of home. Why try to bring your entire life with you when the purpose of vacationing is to get away? When it comes to traveling, just remember that less is good - your back will thank you for it. When preparing for a trip, whether it is a weekend getaway or globe trotting adventure, the one thing to remember is to pack as light as possible. When packing, you should always ask yourself the following three questions: (1) where do you plan on going; (2) how long do you plan on being away; and (3) what will the weather be like? Once you have explored these questions you can begin packing.

Choose the Proper Luggage The type of suitcase(s) you need will ultimately depend on your destination. There are a number of styles, brands and sizes of luggage, but don't be fooled by their flashy, over-the-top features. You should not choose your luggage based on your personal style, but rather simplicity. Depending on the length of your stay and what you actually decide to take, one or two pieces of luggage should be all you need. Many types of luggage have hidden compartments that will make your packing much more efficient. Pack Only the Essentials Versatility is the key to smart packing - you should only pack what you really need. Now, while some people pack based on "needed essentials," others may decide to pack based on their "wants." The key is understanding the difference between these two. A need is "a physiological or psychological requirement for the well-being of an organism," whereas want is "to have a strong desire for." Still don't understand? We need things in order to survive, but want things in order to be happy. So, yes, a vacation is meant to make us happy, but it's no fun when we're lugging around objects too heavy to carry. When deciding on what you need to pack, you should always weigh your wants against your needs.

Vacation-Packing Made Easy

20 - City Magazine

If you use these items in your everyday life then it's a safe bet that you'll need them. If there is something you want later, you can always purchase it. Most destinations have some location where you can purchase/find what you want. Although, certain items, which may not be considered as needs under daily circumstances, (such as a first-aid kit shampoo and sunscreen), may be difficult to find in some underdeveloped destinations – so these should be packed. Pack the Correct AttireOne should always remember to only take what he will wear. Proper undergarments are obvious but what other types of clothing should be included? In order to determine this you need to research the expected weather conditions for your destination and decide on which activities you will partake. On vacation, what you do and what you can do may be largely affected by what you wear. Have a good idea of what you want to do while you are there and what the weather is expected to be like and pack appropriately. For short vacations: pack 1 or 2 items for 'unexpected' weather. For longer vacations: pack between 2-5 items but less than 10. Everything should be done in moderation. Remember…Whether you spending a day at the beach in Greece or skiing down the snow-covered slopes in Colorado. It is important to pack smart for comfort and ease. If you only pack what you need and always dress accordingly you should have no problems. The art of packing wisely is learning what you don't need; efficiency and understanding which items can be purchased at your destination. Your luggage should not create more work for you, you are on vacation, you should be escaping work.

Revamping your backyard

Get InspiredFinding inspiration for your backyard digs is as easy as flipping through the pages of your favorite magazines. Inspiration can be as simple as the items you get in the mail every day. Frontgate has a large amount of outdoor furniture and accessories along with Smith & Hawken, Crate & Barrel, Restoration Hardware and Pottery Barn if you don’t mind spending the extra money for shipping. Otherwise shop local and pick up great deals and bring your furniture home that day.

Many of these mail order catalogues offer a large variety of furniture styles, fabric patterns and colors to satisfy almost any design style. The photographs of outdoor settings can get your creative juices flowing. So do what I do and try snipping the photos and taking them to your favorite discount retailer as examples. Taking what you know about creating a welcoming interior space and applying the same design principles to the exterior also is a great way to come up with fun ideas. Any magazine or book written about interior spaces can be used in the same ways when designing your outdoor oasis.

It's all about harmonyIncluding a variety of shapes, colors, patterns and textures can turn a dull patio into a warm hangout, but make sure to select appropriately scaled furniture to keep the space inviting. Stay consistent with a central theme in all pieces and each individual part will contribute to the look and feel as a whole. To cap off the theme, find one eye-catching focal point. Whether it is a water feature, fire pit, unique cocktail table or a lush garden, choosing one item that is a main focus of the area helps to eliminate visual confusion and will develop a great sense of appeal.

Maximize your spaceWorking with minimal space? No problem. The key to maximizing your small patio space is to select furniture and fabric patterns that are small scale. You can fill the

space with the right-sized furniture and not make the area feel cramped or overloaded. Selecting small-scale prints also will enforce this same idea.

Another tip is to purchase furniture that contract to save space. Cocktail tables with ottomans that slide under the tabletop surface that you can pull out when extra seating is necessary, but tuck them away when not in use are a good option.

Save the trees!The number one mistake people make when revamping their outdoor space is adding too much "hardscape" but eliminating the natural landscaping of the area. It is tempting to remove all greenery in a patio setting and replace it with stone flooring, cool deck or concrete. But taking away all plant life can lead to a cold and lifeless space. Instead, keep your greenery as an effective way to lower ambient temperature and promote an overall sense of well-being.

Keep it comfortableIf you want your backyard to become a place that you, your family and friends want to retreat to, comfort is the number one priority. If the furniture is too hard, too soft, too deep or too shallow, you'll never make time to utilize the area. Make sure the furniture fits to your standards of comfort before buying it. Quality of fabrics also is extremely important. Dropping a little extra cash for quality fabrics will save you money in the long run. Aim for fade resistant and water repellent fabrics.

Dada. Daddy. Dad. Father. Pops. No matter what you call him, the meaning is all the same. In one simple word is a powerful and influential man in most people's lives. Fathers are not just "dads"; they are counselors, coaches, advisors and friends. There's no better time than Father's Day to honor and thank Dad for the impact he's had on your own life. Here we offer reasons to honor Dad this Father's Day and every day.

He helped you learn to ride a bikeWhen you're a kid, there are some pretty scary lessons to learn. But Dad's hand on the back of your bike seat made you feel safe, secure and confident enough to try riding without training wheels.

He helps you with your finances, even though you're an adultDads are great about doing certain things. Even though you know you should handle things on your own, he's always there for you if you need a hand. There is great comfort in having a little help from Dad (even as an adult). It's kind of like that hand on the back of the bike seat.

He came to every dance recital, softball game and school functionAs they grow, kids all get to the point where they're embarrassed if parents make an appearance -- especially (gasp!) in front of your friends. Regardless, your dad supported you through it all and was at every important function you can remember. Looking back, aren't you grateful for that?

He can give you a "man's perspective" -- and a father'sSeeing something from a different point of view is crucial. When you ask your father for advice, you get a two-fer. Not only can he offer a man's perspective, he can offer his advice from a father's point of view -- which means he is looking out for your best interest.

He taught you how to love by exampleLove is a tough lesson to teach, and one that is taught best by example. Watching the way your father treated your mother may not have been something you were aware when you were 5, 10 or even 20. But many important lessons don't have to involve a sit-down listening session. When teaching values such as love and respect, Dad led by example, and that makes the biggest difference.

Reasons to honor Dad on Father's Day

24 - City Magazine

He showed you how to change your oil and fix a flatYou can thank dear old Dad for teaching you the practical and essential lessons that helped you become an independent adult. But it's nice to know that if you need him, he'll still help you change your oil or fix your flat tire.

He is the first man you learned to trustTrust is a powerful thing, and as you were growing up, you could always count on Dad. Need we say more?He provided for you the best he couldWhether you had a brand-new sportscar, sputtered along in an old jalopy or shared a family car at 16, Dad saw that you had wheels to drive, even if he insisted you get a job to help pay for it.

He took you to your first ball game, camping trip and Girl Scout meetingLook back on some of your "firsts." Do they include your dad? Dads are the perfect tour guides through some of life's most exciting and memorable first experiences.

He talked to you about the birds and the beesSure, there were some "uncomfortable" moments with Dad, but they were well-intended lessons. And as awkward as they were, aren't you thankful for those embarrassing heart-to-hearts?

He knows everything about you -- and loves you for who you areDad knows exactly how you got that scar on your left elbow; he remembers patching it up and drying your tears. He knows about your first bad grade, your worst breakup and even the time you lost your job. But he also knows that all these experiences have made you who you are today -- the person he loves regardless of your mistakes.

He's showing you how to be a great parentWithout even trying, Dad taught you the greatest lesson of all: How to be a wonderful parent in your own right. Whether you do things just like him or in your own special way, he has given you more insight than you'll ever need... just by setting an example.

Long before you even had your license, you were fantasizing about the perfect road trip. It would be spontaneous, cool and enlightening; like Easy Rider and Into the Wild combined. When you finally embarked on your trip without a care or a plan, though, you were more Clark Griswold than Peter Fonda.

This time around, be a better man by devising and following a road trip checklist. We already know you’ll bring music, your camera and let someone know your plans. The point of this road trip checklist is to cover the functional and mechanical bases to better the odds of you and your car getting there and back home as planned.

No.10 - Pick up a GPSYour father always found it emasculating to ask for directions. The old man isn’t too keen on GPS either, preferring the emergency-only concession of hand-drawn maps. If your itinerary begins and ends within the same calendar year, get a GPS. With most of these gadgets, you can adjust for shortest time or shortest distance suggestions. If you already have a GPS or your car has built-in navigation, check for system updates before you hit the road

No.9 - Pick up a mapWait. We just suggested GPS on the road trip checklist, so why pack a map? A GPS is good, but it likely isn't perfect. Occasionally, even the best of them give some ill communication, can’t seem to pinpoint your location or the signal gets twitchy. Have an updated atlas or state map on your road trip checklist as a low-tech savior for high-tech moodiness.

No.8 - Phone chargerWe’re not about to suggest you talk the whole drive. Depending on where you travel, talking on a cell phone could be against the law, at least without a hands-free device. Besides, too much time on the phone in your everyday life could explain why you need a road trip in the first place. Shutting your phone off is liberating; keeping it charged is cautionary

No.7 - Proof of insurance and roadside assistanceThey say most accidents happen close to home, but you’re not magically immune once you’re far away. Check your car insurance policy before you leave, making sure you have adequate coverage in case of a crash. Be sure you have valid proof of insurance in the car with you, too. And if your policy doesn’t include roadside assistance, consider adding it through your carrier or through a motor club like AAA.

Road Trip ChecklistTop 10:

Are We There Yet?

I’m Hungry!

No.4 - Flashlight“I don’t need a flashlight, I have an app for that.” Famous last words, we say. Your phone and lighter perform best when used as intended, not as sources of light when trying to change a tire. In the middle of the night, in a downpour or even if you follow your granddad’s advice and don’t drive after 6 p.m., sun glare and shadows rarely cooperate when you're trying to peer under the hood. You don’t need a zillion-candlepower spotlight, just a basic but sturdy flashlight and fresh batteries.

No.6 - Wheel rotation and alignmentIt’s a shame tires so rarely get the attention they deserve. At any given time, four small patches of rubber are keeping you in contact with the road. Do you really want to shrug off their importance? Even when you’re not making your road trip checklist, check tire pressure regularly (preferably before driving, while they’re cold). Go by the manufacturer’s recommended settings in the owner’s manual, door sticker or what’s stamped on the tire. Finally, have the wheels aligned for better handling, tire wear and safety.

No.5 - Drinking water and non-perishable foodNot to be confused with the road-trip staples of Mountain Dew and beef jerky, this is for emergency sustenance. Some snow-belt drivers remember bottled water and granola bars on their winter road trip checklists, rightly so. Don’t let warmer temperatures and climates fool you, though: If you’re stranded on a remote stretch of desert highway, even with a cell phone signal and successful call for help, you could still have to wait several hours.

No.3 - First aid kitLet’s say you have a crash or injure yourself somehow during your road trip. Unless Dr. House is riding shotgun with you, you could need basic first aid supplies until help arrives. As with the other road trip checklist items, you don’t have to overdo it. Choose one sensibly sized, with enough essentials to temporarily address minor injuries at the scene

No.2 - Check for detours along your routeIn northern climates, locals say there are two seasons: winter and road construction. Even though the orange cones and detours can spring up at just about any time and place, summer is their peak season. Your GPS may not be capable of real-time information like this or offer enough warning until you’re already moored in a sea of brake lights. Motor clubs like AAA can alert you to potential delays, either before you leave or on your smartphone while traveling.

No.1 - Change your car's oil and filterYour car likes oil. Your car needs oil. If you like and need your car, you’ll change its oil and filter regularly, not just when you’re formulating a road trip checklist. Whether you do it yourself or have it done by a shop, stick with the manufacturer’s prescribed oil formula and use a quality oil filter. It’s a quick, inexpensive process that can literally add years and thousands of miles to the efficient service life of your engine. While you’re at it, address any other needed service before you hit the road.

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The Internet is exhilarating. Magazines are enveloping. The Internet grabs you. Magazines embrace you. The Internet is fleeting. Magazines are immersive. And both media are growing.

Barely noticed amidst the thunderous Internet clamor is the simple fact that magazine readership has risen over the past five years. Even in the age of the Internet, even among the groups one would assume are most singularly hooked on digital media, the appeal of magazines is growing.

Think of it this way: during the 12-year life of Google, Magazine readership actually increased 11 percent.

What it proves, once again, is that a new medium doesn’t necessarily displace an existing one. Just as movies didn’t kill radio. Just as TV didn’t kill movies. An established medium can continue to flourish so long as it continues to offer a unique experience. And, as reader loyalty and growth demonstrate, magazines do.

Which is why people aren’t giving up swimming, just so they can enjoy surfing.

We surf the Internet.We swim in magazines.