Fort Worth Date Night: Experiencing Warhol’s 15 Minutes

BY MIKE BLOOMBERG

February 26, 2010

Most of us have used or heard the expression, “their 15 minutes are up.” Never have words been more applicable than in 2010. We may know who some of the Winter Olympic stars are today, but, in a few short weeks, their names may have escaped us. What about Octomom, Balloon Boy’s dad and the couple who snuck into the White House party?

Famous artist, Andy Warhol, was spot on when he so precisely predicted, “In the future, everyone will be famous for 15 minutes.” A phrase that will be synonymous with Warhol for eternity. On a recent Saturday afternoon, I entered The Modern Museum of Fort Worth with the exuberance and excitement of a 12-year-old girl heading to a Miley Cyrus concert. It had been months since it was announced that Andy Warhol’s final 10 years of work was coming to The Modern.

My favorite way to see an exhibit is on a guided tour. When you have a great docent, so much more is learned than just by reading the little cards hanging next to a piece of art. On that day, we once again were fortunate to be led by Barb P. Having Barb as your docent is like having Bobby Flay personally cook you a dinner at his signature restaurant. Then, come out, serve you and explain the history and rationale behind each dish. I consider Barb my “Art Sommelier.”

Warhol’s last 10 years were interesting, to say the least. From him being shot, to his TV show to his fascination with celebrity, there was a never a dull moment throughout the meandering of almost the entire second floor of The Modern. There were typical Warhol works that you are familiar and it is definitely worth the trip to see some of his later works, which he experimented with non-Warholian mediums and approaches.

Another lesser known Andy Warholism goes like this, “An artist is somebody who produces things that people don’t need to have.” This shouldn’t be a shock coming from Warhol. But, I’m going to have to disagree. And, much like Jack Nicholson’s character, Col. Nathan R. Jessep’s response in a Few Good Men, when getting cross-examined, Andy Warhol, whether it be in a gallery or a home... We want you on that wall! We need you on that wall!

Andy Warhol: The Last Decade runs through May 16. Complete exhibit information can be found at www.themodern.org.

Fort Worth Date Night: On fire

BY MIKE BLOOMBERG

February 18, 2010

Are you over Valentine’s Day? Are you thinking, “If I see one more jewelry store commercial, box of chocolates or a vase of roses, I’m going to ban romance forever?” There is a lot of external pressure to be the best Valentine possible. But, it’s over now. We can all take a collective sigh.

However, it doesn’t mean you have to stop being a great partner. Isn’t it really about the small things? The “I got you this for no reason” gifts and the “Just thinking about you” text or e-mail are really what it’s all about. No one says it has to be a five-star restaurant every week. In fact, just a little time alone at a local hole-in-the-wall would suffice. A place where you can go if you two just finished a long run or are running errands. Where they didn’t care if you were in pajamas or your hair was up in a ponytail.

Have you been to Salsa Fuego yet? Put it on your list! Chances are, you’ve driven by this restaurant many times this year. Salsa Fuego is at 3520 Alta Mere. I first remember it as a Charley’s Hamburgers and then, several Mexican eateries, which I never frequented. It’s lies just right off the Traffic Circle, in-between the circle and Camp Bowie.

It wasn’t until I was on Twitter recently and saw someone tweet about it. I thought, “It’s close, it’s Mexican food and jeans and flip flops are perfectly acceptable.” Sounds perfect to me!

Salsa Fuego is not a big place. They do have an outdoor patio, but, until it stops snowing and the sun stays out for a long period of time, we are confined to the dining room. During the week at lunch, it can be busy. You may want to get there early. I first went on a Saturday at lunch and getting a table was not a problem. I’m sure as the word gets out about this place, seating may be an issue.

On my first visit, I had to try the guacamole burger. The selling point was the grilled jalapenos. YUM! Whether you get the guacamole on a dish or just as an appetizer with chips, get it! It’s made fresh. Not just that day, but as you order it. Subsequently, I’ve tried the brisket tacos, the carnitas and have my eye on many things on the menu – which, by the way, is extensive. They even serve breakfast. Again, with many items from which to choose.

On my first visit, I happened to sit next to what appeared to be the owners’ son. He seemed like a good, well-behaved kid, just reading a book. His dad brought him a dish that looked so scrumptious. The Honey Chipotle Shrimp tacos. These are tender shrimp topped with mango sauce, pico de gallo and cilantro oil. The son seemed to be more interested in the book. It was truly one of those moments where I wanted to lean over, give him a light elbow and say, “Hey Kid, you gonna eat all that?”

Valentine's Day: Romantic enough for a woman, but, made for a man

Do you dread this time of year? Do you find yourself downplaying Valentine's Day? Always making excuses for the lack of planning or creativity on your significant other's behalf? OK, not all men are incompetent and completely clueless when it comes to being romantic. But, some of us definitely belong in this category and deservedly so.

My grandmother used to say, "if you want something done right, you have to do it yourself." This year, Valentine's Day may fall in that category. Or, perhaps, last year, your man overdid himself and this year you want to return the favor. If you are of the female gender and are in charge of being Cupid this year, here are few tips that the both of you will really enjoy. It's time to say "goodbye" to the typical reservations, chocolates and candles. These should have your guy bragging about your "Cupidness" Monday morning at the water cooler, as well as, to his buddies on the golf course or at the gym.

1. Rock Climbing: Talk about killing two birds with one stone. Whether you choose outdoor or indoor, this date will get you two going with a great workout. If you opt for indoor, you can be assured that this is the perfect "sporty" date for the beginner to the experienced. Want to make it more competitive? Race to the top and whoever loses...gives the first massage.

2. Winery/Brewery: Many towns now have wineries, breweries or microbreweries. This is a date that both men and women will enjoy. If you do have a brewery or winery near, make sure you go on the tour to learn the process. Learning something new is always fun to include in a date. Afterwards, a wine or beer tasting is equally fun to end on.

3. Bed & Breakfast (Man style): Often, when you use the word "bed and breakfast," the picture of French Country or doilies might pop into your head. A night away is not only fun for Valentine's Day, but, all throughout the year. To not exclude the more masculine tastes, some "B&B's" are built like log cabins. Another option is a stay at a ranch. Some ranches have rustic housing and activities that will be a blast for you two. One in my area offers up a "Cowboy for a Day" excursion that includes learning to ride, rope and wrangle cattle.

4. Cook Dinner: Two of my least favorite days to eat out are Valentine's Day and New Year's Eve. Many times, the restaurants are far too busy and understaffed. The food is not always the best and prices can be inflated since it's a special day. Take Valentine's Day this year to try out that new recipe. Or, perhaps, try out your kitchen for the first time. Even better, cook as a couple. The internet is saturated with very easy meals to the most complex. My suggestion: Do a search for "easy romantic meals." See where that leads you.

5. Manicure/Pedicure: I know what you my be thinking. "A mani/pedi for a guy's Valentine's Day???" Trust me on this one. And, this may be one you don't tell him where you are going first. But, this is so fun to do as a couple. It's also very relaxing and the perfect "mood setter" for the rest of the evening. Speaking of "mood setter," have you ever wondered why a foot massage is often referred to as "better than sex" or "orgasmic?" Apparently, the part of the brain that is connected to the feet lies right next to the part of the brain that is connected to the reproductive organs. I'm just sayin'...

Of course, it's not always the girl's job to plan everything. Especially, a romantic day like Valentine's Day. Perhaps, the Golden Rule, "Do unto others as you would have done unto yourself" applies here. By creating this amazing Valentine's Day, you might be setting the tone for future ones to come. And, by including yourself in the festivities, you are guaranteeing a great Valentine's. No matter who plans it. Enjoy!

Michael Bloomberg, a marriage proposal, dating and romance consultant, is better known as "The Romance CEO" (www.TheRomanceCEO.com) and author of the Romance Rocks! monthly newsletter. Bloomberg has been seen on The Learning Channel, might have been photographed with a Supermodel and definitely writes a weekly column, Date Night, for the Fort Worth Business Press. @TheRomanceCEO is where you can follow him on Twitter.

Fort Worth Date Night: Built-in Tuxedo

BY MIKE BLOOMBERG

February 05, 2010

Do the names Burt Ward and Adam West ring a bell? When I was a child, I could not wait to get home from school so I could watch these caped crusaders fight crime every afternoon. These were the actors who portrayed Batman and Robin in the TV series.

Several movies have been made based on these comic book characters throughout the years. Often fighting evil wrongdoers such as Mr. Freeze, The Joker, The Riddler and, one of my personal favorites, The Penguin, played brilliantly by Burgess Meredith.

The Penguin was just cool. He had a little bit of swagger to him. Always carrying a sort of calm and laid back confidence while wearing a formal tuxedo. Much like that of a real penguin. Fortunately, for real penguins, they arrive donning the formal attire.

I'd be remiss if I didn't start talking about Valentine's Day. It's one week from this weekend. Sure, there are still reservations available at some great eateries around town. Or, you could opt to stay in an celebrate in a more private manner and cook for the just the two of you. Or, you could celebrate by giving her a penguin. Yep, I said it. A penguin.

Not only a penguin, but, an entire zoo. Well, you won't exactly get to keep a penguin, but, you can adopt one. This year, the Fort Worth Zoo is offering up some great packages for Valentine's Day. Four different packages, two of which include two very hip parties, one on Saturday, the 13th, and one on Sunday, Valentine's night, the 14th. Here are how the packages are broken down.

Penguin Pals - $40

This package includes $25 "advocate" level adoption benefits, plus photo - Personalized Adoption Certificate - Animal Fact Sheet - One Zoo publication - 4x6 color photo11" African black-footed penguin plush animal Gummy penguins from Dylan's Candy BarWrapped up in a red gable box and tied with grosgrain pink ribbon and penguin scallop-edged sticker

Love Birds - $75

$50 "sponsor" level adoption benefits - Personalized Adoption Certificate - Animal Fact Sheet - One-year subscription to Zoo publications - 4x6 color photo11" African black-footed penguin plush animal Gummy penguins from Dylan's Candy BarTwo general admission Zoo passes to visit the penguins! Wrapped up in a red gable box and tied with grosgrain pink ribbon and penguin scallop-edged sticker

Penguin Party - $175

February 13, 2010 at 7 p.m.$50 "sponsor" level adoption benefits - Personalized Adoption Certificate - Animal Fact Sheet - One-year subscription to Zoo publications - 4x6 color photo - 11" African black-footed penguin plush animal - Milk chocolate penguin from Schakolad Chocolate FactoryWrapped up in a red gable box and tied with pink grosgrain ribbon and scallop-edged penguin sticker Invitation for two to the February 13 Penguin Party, which includes: - Passed Hors d'Oeuvres and seated dinner - Open bar - Interactive game - we'll need audience participation! - Meet and greet with our penguins - Photo with one of our penguins by photographer Jill JohnsonPlus, each couple will get to take home from the party: - A bottle of "Little Penguin" wine - An African black-footed penguin favor box filled with gummy penguins from Dylan's Candy Bar

Tux Club - $250

February 14, 2010 6 p.m.$50 "sponsor" level adoption benefits - Personalized Adoption Certificate - Animal Fact Sheet - One-year subscription to Zoo publications - 4x6 color photo - 11" African black-footed penguin plush animal - Milk chocolate penguin from Schakolad Chocolate FactoryWrapped up in a red gable box and tied with pink grosgrain ribbon and scallop-edged penguin sticker Invitation for two to the February 14 Penguin Party, which includes: - Seating for two at your own table - Passed Hors d'Oeuvres and seated dinner - Open bar - Interactive game - we'll need audience participation! - Meet and greet with our penguins - Photo with one of our penguins by photographer Jill Johnson Plus, each couple will get to take home from the party: - A bottle of "Little Penguin" wine - An African black-footed penguin favor box filled with gummy penguins from Dylan's Candy Bar - A keepsake Valentine's Day ceramic plate with hand-painted penguins

The Valentine’s Penguin Party and Tux Club invitations are for two adults, 21 and over only. No exceptions. The parties have limited availability and historically sell out quickly, so don’t wait to order.

Want to do something outside-the-box this year for the most romantic weekend of the year? Do you want to be just the average couple or do you want to be the pair that your friends refer to as the "cool ones?" Do you want to be arrested for committing a relationship crime and not planning a great Valentine's? If so, and you see the Bat Signal in the sky next weekend, you know who they are looking for.

For complete details on the Fort Worth Zoo's Valentine's packages, please visit: www.fortworthzoo.org

Fort Worth Date Night: In the air tonight

BY MIKE BLOOMBERG

January 28, 2010

Can you smell it? February is already here. What is that smell? Valentine's Day is quickly approaching. Could it be? Could it be that love is in the air? No, not yet. I know what that smells like. This smell is a little earthier. Got it! The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo is back in town.

If you have never experienced a rodeo, Fort Worth is so lucky to have a great one. It's not just the rodeo, but all the other "side shows" that will keep you amused and entertained. And, it's not just for kids. In fact, I've got a good friend who has a young child.

Said friend will take her young son to see the exhibits and walk through the midway for a couple of hours. Then, it's home to drop him off to the babysitter and she and hubby head back to play games, eat funnel cakes and enjoy all that the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo provides.

You might be reading this and think, "that's horrible." My take is a little different. She and hubby don't get much alone time. She is combining the best of both worlds. They go as a family and then, in the afternoon, this is their "Date Night." Shift your paradigm of thinking and for lack of a better term, let's just call it "good time management."

The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo is so much more than just a rodeo. From walking through the stalls, checking out all the vendors, seeing live auctions take place, eating all the great food, there is something for everyone. Remember to bring your camera.

A big kudos to the team of the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo this year. They have really jumped on board the social media train. If you are a twitter user (and you should be), the up-to-the-minute "goings on" can be tracked at http://twitter.com/fwssandr.

However, the actual rodeo is what this three-week extravaganza is all about. All the seats are great, but, there is nothing like sitting in a box seat. Until you have a bull and a cowboy headed directly toward you full-steam, you haven't lived. And, let's not forget the scented dirt that you end up wearing. Of course, by "scented," you will not find this particular one at Bath & Body Works.

The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo runs through Feb. 7 and complete information can be found at: www.fwssr.com.

Fort Worth Date Night: July at Christmas

BY MIKE BLOOMBERG

January 21, 2010

You’ve heard of Christmas in July? The time of year that is normally slow for retailers so they have big sales in July to get rid of merchandise. Texas is experiencing the opposite of that this week. But, it’s more like July at Christmas. Or, better yet, spring just after Christmas.

The weather recently has been unseasonably beautiful. Much like that of a perfect spring day. Ideal to take your “Date Night” activities outdoors. Growing up in Texas and knowing how difficult the weather is to predict, we may not see it like this for two more months.

The Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge is the place to be when the weather cooperates this time of year. According to their Web site, with “over 3,600 acres, the FWNC&R is one of the largest city-owned nature centers in the United States and offers residents and visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural history of north central Texas. More than 20 miles of hiking trails provide easy access to a myriad of natural wonders to be found on the Refuge.”

You two can mosey around and be on your own. Or, take a guided tour. For example, from 10 a.m. to noon every Saturday a guided nature hike is offered. These hikes “feature current natural history events such as blooming wildflowers, commonly seen insects, birds and other animals and current projects on the Refuge.”

There is so much more to explore and experience at the Fort Worth Nature Center. Check out their online calendar to see all of the offerings. Speaking of offerings, George Washington Carver might have summed it up best when he said, “I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station, through which God speaks to us every hour, if we only will tune in.”

www.fwnaturecenter.org

Fort Worth Date Night: How ‘bout them Cowboys?!?!

BY MIKE BLOOMBERG

January 14, 2010

As a lifelong Texan and, more importantly, Fort Worthian the last couple of weeks have made me proud. Sure, a win by my alma mater, Texas Christian University, would have been sweet. But, the year they had was outstanding. That left me to root for UT in the “big” game. And, of course, they came up short, as well. Nonetheless, I’m still proud that our great state was prominently represented on the national football scene.

Which leads us to this week. For the first time in a while, the Dallas Cowboys have won a playoff game and are in the second round. Whether you are a fan or not, it’s time to get on the bandwagon. But, not at the expense of foregoing “Date Night.” How about combining the two?

The ‘boys play at noon on Sunday. Fortunately, Fort Worth has a few options where you can get tasty food, a cool ambiance and enjoy the game.

The recently reopened Pour House (2725 W. Seventh St., suite 101) is a great option. They offer up a great brunch menu. I’m most fascinated with the Eggs Benedict Mexicana. As the caloric count may not be conducive to your recent New Year’s resolution, you will have to check the menu out for yourself if you are so interested. What I can tell you about is one of highlights of this brunch: $5 Bottomless Mimosas or Poinsettias. All this while watching the Cowboys take on the Packers. The perfect date!

Another great option in Fort Worth is Buttons (4701 W. Freeway). Known for their upscale southern/soul food, Buttons also offers an amazing brunch buffet on Sundays. While there, you can’t forget about their famous Mimosas and Bloody Marys. Normally, with this brunch, you can enjoy the greatness of the food along with live Blues, Gospel or Jazz. However, this Sunday, there will be no music. But, with their multiple TV’s, you can enjoy the sweet sound of the Cowboys (hopefully, keeping my fingers crossed) winning.

Just because you call it “Date Night,” does not mean it has to be romantic. Or, that is has to happen at night. It can take place in the morning, in a relaxed atmosphere, eating comforting food, sipping your favorite beverage, all while rooting on your favorite sports team. Which, this week, is the Dallas Cowboys. Because I said so.

www.pourhousefw.com
www.buttonsrestaurant.com

Fort Worth Date Night: Getting schooled

BY MIKE BLOOMBERG

January 07, 2010

There are a lot of pressures with the purchase of a new calendar. First and foremost, the back-to-back, long holidays are a year away. Sure, there's a Monday in May if you don't get President's Day off in February. July 4 falls on a Sunday this year, so, hopefully, your boss will let you have the following Monday off, as well. Seriously, are you really going to be productive that day?

Another great pressure is this whole "New Year's Resolutions" movement. Why do we have to make these life-altering decisions every year at the same time? Why can't these decisions be made on Arbor Day? Not much is happening then. Or, Groundhog's Day? The excitement is over by 7 a.m. It's pretty slow after that.

Actually, I am huge proponent of goals. If it takes the year starting over to make these dreams become a reality, then so be it. Think of it as a "life reboot." So, what are your resolutions? The popular ones are usually to get in shape, to be a better person, to volunteer more, to make more money and so on. Hopefully, whether it be any of the above or ones that are not listed, you can see your resolutions come to fruition this year.

For those in relationships, do you make a "couples" resolution? This is great for two reasons. You have a built-in accountability partner. The other is simple. A happy couple makes a happy home. One of my resolutions in 2010 is to help more couples get closer and become more "couple-ish." I want to make 2010 the year that it's cool to be romantic. Here is my first contribution.

Education is so important. We all know this. It helps us advance in our careers. It keeps us younger by stimulating our brains. And it could be your very first couple's resolution for this year.

Our beloved Texas Christian University offers many classes through its Extended Education Program. These are open to the community and are offered at times that are convenient for those who have real jobs and families, primarily, nights and weekends. The classes are a blast to take as a couple.

Extended Ed offers a large variety of choices for just about anyone. Some of the choices have to do with art, dance, photography, wine, jewelry making, history, gardening, yoga and so much more. You can even take trips with experts. The classes usually run one night or day, or just a handful of times, so you are not committed for a full semester.

Talk to your significant other and finally pick out something to, not only do together, but, learn together. This might be the most important Date Night you guys go on this year. As someone once joked, please don't let this year be the year that your "New Year resolutions go in one year and out the other."

www.lifelong.tcu.edu