Fort Worth Date Night: In Vetro

by Michael Bloomberg
November 3, 2010

They say that all good things must come to an end. But, what about all beautiful things? Why do those have to come to an end? For example, flowers. I've attended many weddings where tens of thousands of dollars were spent on the budded beauties. Only to know that they will soon wilt.

Or what about a Chocolate Lava Cake? Once the first cut is made, the perfectly cylindrical treat is overwhelmed and flooded by the river of chocolaty greatness. Three bites later....all gone. And, this week, it's glass that has to end.

It's time to head to Grapevine this Saturday night from 6-10 p.m. The uber cool glassblowing studio, Vetro Glassblowing Studio and Gallery, is hosting their annual holiday party. It's intriguingly dubbed, "Glass on the Tracks."

First things first, there will be wine, beer and Hors d’ouevres. Whew! Food and drink are covered. Now on to the entertainment. The "Fate Lions" will be entertaining the crowd. For those not in the know, they are described as a "lush, bright and melodic pop group that takes its listeners though landscapes of 80s riffs and 60s fillers." Sure to be a crowd favorite.

At this event, raffle tickets will be on sale for 75 one-of-a-kind handblown ornaments. This is sure to fill up your tree and then some. The retail value for this boatload of creative holiday glassyness is $1500.00. Tickets are $20.00 for 1 ticket, $30.00 for 2. The drawing will be held November 26 at 10am. The winner need not be present to win. Also, tickets may be purchased without attending the Glass on the Tracks party.

Speaking of the party, it's time to reveal the Belle of the Ball. Perhaps the real reason for attending this cool event is to witness something called the "Truth or Consequences" Auction. According to Vetro, here's how it plays out. "Everyone puts his/her name in for a drawing. If your name is chosen, David Gappa asks you a question about Vetro. If you get the question correct, it's yours for nothing. However…If you get the question wrong, it is held for ransom for 30 seconds, and the piece goes up for auction. It is awarded to the highest bidder, IF the secret reserve price is met. So what happens if the reserve price is not met? The piece is crushed in Vetro's proprietary "Glass Guillotine". That’s right…it dies. It’s intense, it’s wild, and it’s even a bit overwhelming for some."

Which leads us back to my opening sentiment about the quote, "They say that all good things must come to an end." I'm not sure who "they" is. Who "they" are. Editors, if you can take it from here.

For complete details on Vetro, please visit: www.vetroartglass.com

Fort Worth Date Night: Halloweenie

by Michael Bloomberg
October 27, 2010

This weekend could already be spoken for. It's the weekend where we throw together a costume at the last minute, try to remember what we wore last year so we don't repeat the same faux pas or try to squeeze into that superhero outfit (thank goodness for lycra). Whichever you can relate, there is no mistaking that Halloween falls on a weekend this year.

As it turns out, so does some great sporting events in the DFW area. TCU is just climbing up the polls and remains undefeated, the Texas Rangers are hosting their first-ever World Series appearance and the Dallas Cowboys are....have I mentioned that the Baylor Bears, just down the road in Waco, have cracked the Top 25 in the college football polls?

The Halloween options are endless this weekend. You may want to take in any of the many great haunted houses in the Metroplex. Or, maybe a scary movie is more your style. For those who have been keeping score, the 7th movie in the Saw series is opening this weekend. What makes this one different? It's in 3D. I may or may not have seen them all and may or may not see it on its opening weekend.

Perhaps, you have little ones or just the two of you want to get out for a bit on Sunday night. From 6-8pm, a great option is "Treat Street" hosted by the Fort Worth Stockyards. Stockyards Station has teamed up with Radio Disney to bring Fort Worth a safe, family-friendly Halloween celebration in the Historic Stockyards. Highlights of this event are trick or treating the Stockyards Station shops and free hayrides.

But, is there really anything bigger than the Texas Rangers representing the DFW area in its first World Series appearance? And, it just so happens that the 3rd, 4th and 5th home games begin on Saturday and run consecutive days through Monday. I'm excited to see what our creative home team's fans come up with for costumes on Halloween night.

No matter what you end up choosing, there is not a wrong answer. Just remember that if you do celebrate on Sunday night and do have a "real" job, Monday morning will arrive very quickly. So, if you choose to get completely spooked and take in a scary flick or haunted house or if you're a sports nut and passing up baseball and a hot dog is not an option, either way, you are sure to be called a "Halloweenie." *cue the crickets* Is thing on? I'll be here all week.

Happy Halloween! Go Frogs! Go Rangers!

Fort Worth Date Night: Orange you glad I didn't call you banana? Or, chicken?

by Michael Bloomberg
October 20, 2010

It has become my life's mission to find the area's best holes-in-the-wall. From the city's best unknown dessert, to the search for the tastiest Pad Thai, to a martini that has been flying under the radar. One of my favorite things in the world is to introduce friends, both old and new, to these off-the-beaten path locales.

So, when the tables were turned recently when I was taken to Bangkok House (438 S Cherry Ln.), I immediately knew I had a new best-kept secret. During the week, from 11-2, Bangkok House offers up a lunch buffet that you won't easily forget. Also, not easily forgettable is one half of the owners who is referred to as "Mama." She is worth the price of admission as she makes sure everyone is enjoying themselves and/or is making sure she is enjoying herself. It's hard to tell.

Back to the buffet. While it's not a super buffet with 100's of choices, the food is actually super. It has an interesting selection that many buffets don't cover. Some of these items are Pad Thai, Thai fried chicken and various curry dishes. However, what sold me was something that most buffets do offer.

This was the Orange Chicken. I know what you may be thinking. Orange chicken is orange chicken. And, until I went to Bangkok House, I subscribed to the same theory. This is absolutely THE best Orange Chicken in the world. To answer "why" might be difficult. It's the chicken. Or, the marinade. Or, the preparation. Or, perhaps, just the planets align and each piece is just crispy and sweet, yet, a touch spicy, but, consistent. My second visit to this buffet was pretty much an Orange Chicken-fest. If I wasn't concerned about the other patrons, I was tempted to pull a chair up to the buffet and just eat the entire dish of Orange Chicken. It's that good.

Bangkok House offers up a full menu when dining at night and on the weekends. Pad Thai,Massaman Curry and many other Thai selections are fantastic. But, how do I not cheat on the Orange Chicken? While ambiance and romance is not part of this locale, good food definitely is. And, you really know that you that you have made it when you enter the restaurant and "Mama" greets you with a slow, sultry, drawn out, "Hey, Baby..."

Fort Worth Date Night: Kiss a Frog

by Michael Bloomberg
October 13, 2010

If you live in the Dallas/Fort Worth area and have been living under a rock, then you might be the only one who hasn't heard all the buzz about TCU's football team. Ranked #4 in the country, the Horned Frogs are halfway through the season and 6 games remain. Out of those, only 3 are home games.

It's that time of year that the weather is what we in Texas call, "perfect football weather." The stadium is easily accessible with plenty of festivities going on. Whether it be a pre-game tailgate, hitting up Fuzzy's for the best tempura fish burrito or eating at the game, it's never too late to get on the Horned Frog bandwagon.

While being #4 in the country is impressive, it's become a little clearer when you truly understand the actual number four. You can now see why it's a little more fitting why TCU has that particular rating. Defining the number "four" in Numerology will shed some light.

According to Numerology, the number four "is the rock and cornerstone of an enterprise, does not give up easily, is perseverant and a hard worker." This pretty much sums up TCU football. From Coach Patterson, his staff, the players, the school and the fans. So, for the fans, there is an annual event coming up that might make going to a game even more enticing.

The weekend of October 22-23 is TCU's Homecoming. Friday evening, the 22nd, from 6-9pm, marks the return of FrogFest. A family-friendly evening, but also great for a date night, which include fun activities such as: Giant inflatables, huge slides, face painting, crafts and a live band. Food will be available and a cash bar featuring purple margaritas.

Pick a game, get your tickets, pull out your purple attire and be prepared for football greatness. Equally impressive is the energy of not only TCU coming together, but the whole Fort Worth community uniting for a great cause. It's been exciting the last few seasons watching our Horned Frogs rise to the elite of college football.

It was French politician and philosopher, Charles de Montesquieu, who said, "To become truly great, one has to stand with people, not above them." Go be with the Frogs and cheer them on to greatness. Not to mention, another undefeated season. Followed by a bid to an exciting bowl game. Fingers crossed.

Fort Worth Date Night: The Art of Date Night

by Michael Bloomberg
October 6, 2010

"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder" is often used to describe that no one can truly define what is beautiful. It is a definition that only lies within ourselves. This term is most widely familiar with art.

Unless you are an artist, the thought of creating a masterpiece might seem unattainable. Picture a canvas marked up only by the tip of your brush hanging on your wall like it belonged in a gallery. It might even seem laughable that a house guest would ask when looking at said artwork, "Who is the artist of that piece?" Such joy you'll have in replying, "That would be ME!"

A stone's throw off of Camp Bowie at 5714 Locke Ave. lies a Date Night locale that is sure to inspire you both. It recently opened and is appropriately called, "A Piece of Work." To give you an idea, they say it's "where Merlot meets Masterpiece." You two will be creating the art. What makes it "datey?" Wine, of course.

Actually, you bring the beverage of your choice. Food or snacks are even allowed. They will supply wine openers, ice buckets and cups. Complimentary water and soft drinks are always available. Do remember you must be 21 years old to consume alcoholic beverages.

The obvious "datey" part is the actual creation of your work of art. When you register, you will know beforehand what you will be creating. Their website has a picture which correlates to a particular day on the calendar. However, no artistic experience is required. A local artist will guide you step-by-step to create your own masterpiece to take home at the end of class.

This would make a great first date. Equally impressive would be for an anniversary. Here are the pros: Quality time together, meeting new and other fun couples like yourselves, having something to show for your time and energy, laughing, creating and just being. The cons: There are none. You might think getting paint on your clothes might be one. They've got you covered. Literally. Aprons are provided. So, get online and check out A Piece of Work. If you think you can't do this or won't be very good, think about what Ralph Waldo Emersonsaid, "Every artist was first an amateur."

For complete details on A Piece of Work, please visit: www.apieceofworkonline.com

Fort Worth Date Night: Getting out of the Downward Dog House

by Michael Bloomberg
September 29, 2010

It is often said that those who experience excitement and adrenaline together as a couple, keep an emotional bond for longer periods of time than those who don't. Not every twosome is going to jump out of a plane, run a marathon or enjoy skiing. What about the couples who just love each other without the frills? Perhaps, they just need some time away, but with a quiet, peaceful, more solemn approach.

Friday evening, October 22, you will have the opportunity to become one with yourself, one with nature and, as a bonus, become one with each other. How can it be possible to become one with yourself and with another at the same time? If you have never experienced yoga in an outdoor setting, this will be your opportunity.

You might be asking, "What if we've never tried yoga before?" Perfect! This evening is for the inexperienced to the most advanced. Miranda Davis, of PerfectFit studio, in Fort Worth, is finally making a vision she's had for years come to fruition with a workshop so aptly dubbed, "Full Moon Yoga." An outdoor yoga workshop held during, from a weather point-of-view, one of the most amazing times of the year.

According to Davis, "I feel it is going to be a very intimate, creative, and celebratory time of Yoga practice. Every detail is very important from the playlist, to the mood, to the setting, aromatherapy used, type of tea served…etcetera. I want my participants to feel completely cared for in all aspects."

Here's how the evening will go for you two. Pre-registration is required and beginning promptly at 6:15pm, class will begin. All that is required is to wear comfortable clothing, a yoga mat, a large towel and water, if desired. This workshop is open to the public, but, is limited to 35 participants. While I personally think this will make a great date night, individuals are also welcome.

Think about this. You've had a long week. Maybe you haven't seen much of each other. It's time to reconnect. A quick change into some comfortable clothes and off you two go. And, according to the PerfectFit website, you will "allow nature to be a source of inspiration as we breathe, move and connect under the glowing gaze of the stars and a full moon. Invoke breathing techniques to slow down the mind, enhance awareness, and de-stress the body. This Viniyoga (therapeutic) practice will focus on opening our major muscles and joints via twists, bends, binds, deep holds, and soft flows. Our meditation time will include star gazing and positive visualizations. We wrap up our time with refreshing warm towel therapy and a calming cup of Zen tea."

Now, picture yourself after. Fully relaxed. Completely simpatico with one another. All in the world is good. Absolutely no reason for arguments or disagreements. Because, according to one of my favorite philosophers, Anonymous, "Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not be bent out of shape."

For complete details on Full Moon Yoga and PerfectFit, click on: http://www.1perfectfit.com or contact Miranda at miranda@1perfectfit.com.

Fort Worth Date Night: Taking Flight on Date Night

by Michael Bloomberg
September 22, 2010

When you think of Fort Worth and art, there are a few names that might immediately come to mind. Sid Richardson and Amon Carter are sure to be in the top tier. What about Cyrus Rowlett Smith? C.R. Smith? Not ringing a bell?

American Airlines, with so much history, has a great flight museum. The name of the museum? The American Airlines C.R. Smith Museum. This is definitely an experiential locale that will reach out to all of your senses. But, it's the name that dons the museum that is so interesting.

According to the museum's website, "On May 13, 1934, Cyrus Rowlett Smith was elected president of American and, except for a period during World War II when he served asDeputy Commander of the Air Transport Command, continued as chief executive officer until 1968 when he was named Secretary of Commerce by President Johnson." Smith was also an avid art collector like his contemporaries, Sid Richardson and Amon Carter.

This collection has been housed at the Blanton Museum of Art at the University of Texas at Austin. The AA Museum has borrowed 15 selected works from this collection of western art and will be open to the public from October 2 through November 13. It's being called "The American West: A Collection of Western Art from a Man who Loved to Fly."

In honor of this exhibit, The AA C.R. Smith Museum is hosting a very special preview on Friday evening, October 1 at 7pm. Not only is the art motivation enough to attend, the museum has brought in wines from 10 different wineries from around the world. Selected hors d'oeuvres and live music will definitely go beautifully with the vino.

If you are a member of the museum, tickets are $25 each or $40 per couples. Non-member tickets are $30 each or $50 per couple. The C.R. Smith Collection of Western Art, as we say in Texas, is "rarely in our neck of the woods." This special event will be a great way to see the exhibit before everyone else. While you are there, you can learn everything you've ever wanted to know about American Airlines and it's history. Throw in food, wine and music, and this Date Night is sure to take your relationship to new heights.

For complete information on this event and the American Airlines C.R. Smith Museum, please visit: www.crsmithmuseum.org

Fort Worth Date Night: Just a Taste

by Michael Bloomberg
September 16, 2010

One of my favorite memories of my childhood was my grandmother. We called her "Nanny." A sweet, caring woman whom I also considered a dear friend. She taught me my love of cooking and simply being in the kitchen.

I can clearly recall spending countless hours sitting on the counter in our kitchen watching her bake. And, as soon as the electric mixer was done with its job, I knew my work would kick in. "Fine....I'll lick the bowl." It was usually something chocolatey.

One important lesson I learned from her was taking time to smell the roses. From an early, age, I would go to nice restaurants with Nanny. Unlike most meals eaten with family, these dinners lasted a while. Sometimes up to three hours. It always started off with a cocktail (or two), an appetizer, the entree and, of course, dessert and coffee. To this day, one of my favorite things in the world is to be with friends and partake in long dinners with wonderful food, great wine and tons of laughs.

My grandmother had a saying that often cracked up the rest of the family. If my parents were cooking at home or we were eating out and someone offered her some of their dish, she would simply say, "Oh, just a taste." Often, the "taste" ended up being multiple bites. Much like when offering your partner a "bite" of dessert when he or she didn't want their own and, the next thing you know, half of it is gone and you weren't the culprit.

Nanny would be all about this week's Date Night recommendation. Mainly because it would involve many tastes. This coming Saturday night, September 18, from 5pm - 8pm, you may want to head south on 35 for the 2010 Taste of Burleson. Tickets bought in advance are $15 and $20 at the door.

Since the Burleson H-E-B grocery store is about to open, they are proudly taking on the role of the title sponsor. With that, H-E-B will be heavily involved in this event. They'll have several tents, give out great food and prizes and are even providing some special guests. H-E-B's nutritionist and culinary specialist, Chef Rosie, will be on hand. Also, from H-E-B's Cooking Connection, Chef Justin will be in attendance.

Taste of Burleson is hosted by the Burleson Area Chamber of Commerce and will take place at the RE/MAX complex at Renfro Square, 133 S. Scott St. Organizers are shooting for 25 restaurants, wineries and vendors to participate. So, in honor of Nanny, I ask that if you decide to utilize this Date Night recommendation, you stop by each vendor and just "have a taste."

For complete details on the 2010 Taste of Burleson, please call 817.295.6121 or visit www.burlesonareachamber.com

Fort Worth Date Night: Road Trip!

by Michael Bloomberg
September 9, 2010

Growing up, if your family was anything like mine, you know that traveling with four children can be tough. For weddings, celebrations and vacations, we didn't often fly. Rather, my parents would load us four kids in the car and down the highway we went. It didn't matter if it was to Austin, Missouri or somewhere in the middle, automobile was their transportation of choice.

This is a great time to throw in that I was the third of three boys. Then, just to mess up my perfect role of being the baby, the parents had a girl. Move forward to the family trips. For whatever the duration we were in the car, it meant being tortured by my two older brothers. Either physically, mentally or both. Seriously, who wouldn't enjoy ten hours of continuous Wet Willies? (Google it)

Fortunately, there is a different kind of road trip coming up that is much more exciting. It starts in one of my favorite cities (Austin), involves one of my favorite foods (BBQ) and includes one of my favorite beverages (cold beer). For this event only, Date Night is being changed to Date Weekend.

The lovely ladies over at Texas Toast Culinary Tours are at it again. You might know them from their local "Feeding Frenzy" progressive dinners. As famous chef, Emeril Lagasse, would say, they are "kickin' up a notch" with their next installment in the "BBQ & Brew Tour." All you have to do is get to Austin. They've taken care of the rest. According to their website, the trip is as follows:

Friday, Sept. 17, noon
* We'll depart Austin from the Holiday Inn Austin Town Lake, right off I-35, south of downtown. It's free parking and if you're spending the night in Austin, it's extremely convenient! We'll be in a luxury motorcoach, so get ready to kick back and be chauffeured.
* First stop: Southside Market in Elgin. This smokehouse makes some of the best sausage in Central Texas.
* Next: Pointing the bus toward Shiner, Texas. We'll tour Spoetzl Brewery where deliciousShiner Bock comes from. You'll get to taste test their whole family of beers. We're a little partial to Shiner Black right now.
* Final: We're off to Gonzales for sublime lamb ribs, fresh tortillas, avocado and a dash of hot sauce from Gonzales Market. Once back in Austin, you can enjoy the city’s legendary live music.

Saturday, Sept. 18, 9 a.m.
* You better wake up hungry because we're headed to Lexington for brisket at Snow's, ratedTexas Monthly's No. 1 Barbecue. Snow's is only open on Saturday and only as long as they have meat!
* Next: Louie Mueller in Taylor has some of the best peppered brisket. This joint has been featured in one of our favorite movies "The Rookie" and also was where Stevie Ray Vaughanwas photographed for "Family Style."
* We're off to Lockhart for Smitty's BBQ. You get to wind through building and see the open fire pits. We're partial to the Blue Bell ice cream cones they serve. We'll stop by Kreuz Market, as well.
* We'll finish up the afternoon with some homemade pie from Pies Galore in Bastrop. Our return to Austin gets you back in time to rest up for an evening out. We can recommend a number of distractions for those in search of music and dancing.

Trip cost: $225 per person, which includes transportation, food and beer on Friday and Saturday; gratuities; and tour guides.
Friday only - $100
Saturday only - $175

For complete details and registration info on this road trip and all of the Texas Toast Culinary Tours, please visit: http://www.texastoastculinarytours.com

Fort Worth Date Night: Stirring the Pot

by Michael Bloomberg
September 2, 2010

A few summers ago, on a trip across Colorado, we randomly happened upon a local metal fair going on. Many artists creating the most amazing works out of steel, iron, aluminum and all other metals. Even better, since it was a fair, this meant that fair food was not far away.

It was here that I discovered the greatness of Kettle Corn. This is popcorn attentively cooked with both the predictable required salt, but, paired with the sweetness of sugar. A big bag was purchased followed immediately by a big bag of this amazing concoction disappearing. Equally impressive as the taste was the sheer size of what the Kettle Corn was prepared in.

I'm guessing it was a cast iron bowl with a diameter somewhere between three and four feet. I had never seen anything like it. Until recently, when I attended a paella party. The paella pan was easily three feet across. They say in Texas that "bigger is better." When it comes to food, I tend to think that "better is better."

On Friday night, September 10, there will be a paella party that only you are invited. Shhhh!!! Don't tell anyone. It's being held at D'Vine Wine in Grapevine. They refer to it as "Paella Night." Others simply call is "YUM!"

What exactly is paella? Most definitions describe it as "a saffron-flavored Spanish dish made with varying combinations of rice, vegetables, meat, chicken, and seafood." The paella pansin which this tasty dish is prepared run the gamut as to sizes.

A good rule of thumb is for a home stovetop, the maximum size is usually 20 or 22 inches. In an oven, the largest is usually 17 or 18 inches. A large outdoor grill can usually handle up to a 26 inch pan. If you're looking for precise control over the heat and maximum flexibility, a gas paella burner is ideal, which can be used with any size pan up to 40 inches.

On the night of September 10, expect D'Vine Wine to impress you with their paella prowess. Planned for the evening is Paella Valenciana. A paella medley of chicken and a variety of seafood (shrimp, calamari, mussels, clams, scallops, crab and fish), vegetables and, of course, saffron. A fresh green salad will accompany this tasty dish. And, please don't forget where this is being held. There will be wine.

D'Vine is great because of their selection of wines, their knowledgeable (and super friendly) staff and reasonable and generous wine tastings. When you find one you like and just a glass won't suffice, full bottles are available for purchase and can be enjoyed at their location or taken home for consumption at a later date.

You can expect this Date Night to cover all the senses:

Taste: Have I mentioned it's paella?

Sight: Watch as the paella is prepared right in front of you by their official "Paella Chef."

Sound: Listen as everyone in attendance will be laughing, drinking, eating and enjoying a perfect evening.

Touch: Sitting next to your culinary partner in crime, holding hands, lost in your surroundings.

Smell: Have I mentioned it's paella?

D'Vine Wine is located in Grapevine at 409 S. Main St. To make reservations for Paella Night, please call 817.329.1011. Their website is: http://grapevine.dvinewineusa.com

Fort Worth Date Night: Night at the Museum

by Michael Bloomberg
August 26, 2010

When you hear the name "Leo," who do you think of? What about "Leonardo?" Gotcha! Your first thought was Leonardo DiCaprio. Admit it. In actuality, I was talking about the one and only, Leonardo da Vinci.

Da Vinci is most well-known for the creation of some of the greatest art in history, particularly,Mona Lisa and The Last Supper. He was a man before his time. Living most of his life in the 1400's, he was considered technologically advanced as his designs foresaw the helicopter, the tank, a calculator and many other inventions that later came to fruition hundreds of years later. Being a painter, sculptor, architect, musician, scientist, mathematician, inventor, botanist and so much more, to say he was a Renaissance man would be an understatement.

On Saturday evening, September 4, the two of you will get to experience da Vinci at his finest. And, believe or not, this will all take place while you are on a date with a whole host of other cool adults at the new Fort Worth Museum of Science and History. The event has an alluring, seductive title, "Da Vinci After Dark." Sounds inviting, right?

One of the cool elements of this after-hours evening is that from 6 - 10pm, all attendees will have the museum to themselves. When is the last time you had a museum to yourself? “Da Vinci After Dark” will include live music by Invicible Czars and a DJ, as well as a roving juggler and other “renaissance” performers throughout the night. A wine tasting featuring fine Italian wines will be held in the Museum’s Heritage Courtyard. A cash bar and snacks will be available.

Texas Sky Tonight Live; Fragile Planet: Searching for Other Earths; and Black Holes: The Other Side of Infinity will be shown in the Noble Planetarium every half hour from 6:30 to 9 p.m. The Omni IMAX^® Theater will present Van Gogh: Brush With Genius at 7:30 p.m., and Adrenaline Rush at 6:25 and 8:35 p.m.

In addition to physics demonstrations, the Museum’s Innovations Studios will offer hands-on creative activities including sketchbook creation, catapult construction, mask making, and mirror writing.

Current exhibitions to be enjoyed include the following:

§ Leonardo da Vinci: Man, Inventor, Genius is a spectacular exhibition that reveals the ingenuity and brilliance of a man ahead of his time.

§ Let’s Take the Streetcar: Journeying Through Fort Worth’s Past, follows the rise and decline of city and interurban rail travel in Fort Worth from the mid-1870s to the mid-1930s.

§ DinoLabs is a 3,700-square-foot-gallery where guests can experience the immensity of the State Dinosaur of Texas for the very first time: Paluxysaurusjonesi.

§ The Cattle Raisers Museum is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the vital history and science of the cattle industry.

§ Energy Blast brings physics, technology, and innovative thinking to life as guests are asked to explore geophysical formations, calculate drilling depths and directions, and to experiment with new resources.

§ The Native American Gallery features items ranging from beaded dresses and vests, to beaded moccasins from the far corners of the country, weapons, musical instruments, and important examples of basketry and pottery of the Southwest.

The da Vinci exhibition closes Monday, Sept. 6, 2010. To say that it will be leaving in style is an understatement. On Saturday night, the 4th. the FWMSH will be the place to see and beseen. Another little known fact about Leonardo (we're now on a first-name basis) is that he is often quoted. He once said that, "Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." Can you think of anything more simple than showing up at a museum with your Date Night already lined out for you? And what could be more sophisticated than hanging out in Fort Worth's great cultural district studying one of our greatest minds in history. Simplicity. Check. Sophistication. Check. Date Night. Check.

“Da Vinci After Dark” is free for Museum members. Cost for nonmembers is $10. Planetarium costs are $5 per adult and Omni film prices are $7 per person. Tickets can be purchased in advance online at www.fortworthmuseum.org, by calling 817-255-9540, or at the door.

Fort Worth Date Night: Don't Brush off Date Night

by Michael Bloomberg
August 19, 2010

When you were a young child, did you ever get to take a Crayola to a coloring book? Were you a "stay-in-the-lines" kind of a person? Or, did your parents know you were going to be a rebel when you drew outside the lines?

Jules Feiffer once wrote, "Artists can color the sky red because they know it's blue. Those of us who aren't artists must color things the way they really are or people might think we're stupid." This week's Date Night will put you in with a group of "want-to-be" artists (read "ar-teests") and, under the instruction of your fearless leader, stupid will be the last thing you feel. You will leave feeling inspired, artistic and, since adult beverages are allowed, perhaps, carefree.

Have you heard of a Brush and a Beverage? This is the brainchild of Stacey L. King, photographer/artist who owns Shutter Muse Studio in Burleson. Almost every Friday evening, Stacey opens up her studio for a weekly series she has dubbed, "A Brush and a Beverage." It's actually quite brilliant.

So, what is this Date Night all about? Starting about 7pm, you will show with only one important element. Wait. If it's a date night, you will show up with two important elements. The first being your date. The second is what Stacey refers to as "your creative juice." On the streets, this would be referred to as wine, beer or whatever libation might inspire you.

When you register, you will already know what you will be painting that evening. And, based on the pics on the website from previous participants, people might not believe it when you tell them you created this masterpiece hanging on your wall. The real beauty of the evening is that you just have to show up.

King has covered all of the bases. She says, "we'll supply brushes, paint, canvas, AND step-by-step instruction, so that at the end of the evening, you'll take home an original piece of art, a tremendous sense of accomplishment, and a huge smile. We'll do a different painting in each class, and NO ARTISTIC TALENT IS REQUIRED."

I used to subscribe to the theory that famed author, Fran Lebowitz, often proclaimed. "Very few people possess true artistic ability. It is therefore both unseemly and unproductive to irritate the situation by making an effort. If you have a burning, restless urge to write or paint, simply eat something sweet and the feeling will pass." Very soon, I am going to trade my Tiramisu in for a bottle of Pinot Noir and head to Shutter Muse Studio in Burleson for a night of sipping, painting and laughing. And, don't fret, I will continue to canvas the Fort Worth area for more perfect Date Nights. Pun intended.

For complete info on A Brush and a Beverage, please visit:

http://www.abrushandabeverage.com/

Fort Worth Date Night: Double-Header

by Michael Bloomberg
August 12, 2010

When applied to sports, the dictionary defines a "double-header" as "two games or events held in succession on the same program, especially in baseball." As we head toward mid-August in North Texas, perhaps a double-header of baseball is not the ideal Date Night.

What if there were a double-header held indoors and it involved food? Would that make your ears perk up? On Friday night, August 20 and Saturday morning, August 21, Fort Worth's Central Market is holding a major league double-header fit for athletes and foodies alike. Friday will cover the quintessential "Date Night" theme with a cooking class called "Couples: Perfect Picnic Basket."

Nothing says romance like a picnic. In this couples class, you will learn how to "pack for a romantic picnic for two." On the agenda, you will learn how to prepare Thomas Keller's Fried Chicken; Blue Cheese Bacon Potato Salad; Deviled Eggs; Black-eyed Pea Salad; and Peanut Butter Brownies. (Note: At the time of writing, there were only a handful of spots still available).

Perhaps, Friday nights are difficult for you guys. What about 10am on the following Saturday morning? This might be the greatest class ever with the most stellar subject matter ever. You might not have thought about it, but, who wouldn't love to attend "Death By Doughnuts?"

Brilliant. A class dedicated to the sweet science of doughnuts. You might have a guy who would never consider a cooking class. This is the perfect way to introduce him. And, when you two discover what doughy, sugary delicacies on are on the menu, you may want to head straight to their website and click on the "register" button.

Death By Doughnuts, according to Central Market's website, was "inspired by the recent doughnut craze that is spreading across the country." The very first doughnut in the description floored me in two words. Bacon Maple. Seriously? Bacon and maple somehow paired with a doughnut. I'm not really sure life gets any better than that. Then, I kept reading. NY Cheesecake; Not-so-Average Glazed; Boston Cream-filled; and Cherry Buttermilk Cake Doughnuts. If it's possible to gain wait simply by typing about doughnuts, then, bring on Jenny Craig. Every virtual calorie is so worth it!

These two classes are sure to fill up fast. If, by the time you decide to register, these classes are full, please explore the other offerings. It is seriously one of the best dates you two can share. If you are the romantic type or just need a little romance, the Picnic Basket will be perfect. If you are a Saturday morning, roll out of bed and want to indulge in the sweeter things in life, the Doughnuts class is for you. After all, it was the articulate Homer Simpsonwho so eloquently stated, "Is there nothing doughnuts can't do?"

For a complete list of all of Central Markets cooking classes, please visit:

http://www.centralmarket.com