Robin Intemann

1 week ago | gazette.com | Robin Intemann

Sizzling sounds and enticing aromas account for positive first impressions about Kura Japanese Restaurant, but there’s much more to appreciate here than hibachi-prepared foods. The eatery is divided into two sections depending on whether you come for the hibachi show — after all, there’s an element of showmanship associated with the knife- and spatula-wielding chef — or if it’s more traditional Japanese fare you’re after. We went for the latter.

1 week ago | gazette.com | Robin Intemann

A relative’s influence can never be underestimated and for Mabel Kim, it has been a driving force in much of what she has undertaken and accomplished. When Mabel was a young child, her grandmother, from South Korea, became a substitute maternal figure. Initially, it was difficult for the pair to communicate relying on broken English, limited Korean vocabulary and clumsy hand gestures. However, as Mabel’s Korean improved, she came to appreciate her grandmother’s strong will and loving personality.

2 weeks ago | gazette.com | Robin Intemann

There’s nothing like dealing with inner conflict when faced with the array of pies that greets diners when walking into 3.14 Pi Bar: to begin a meal with dessert or resist temptation and start with the savory. After all, on display are whole sweet pies, mini pies (called cutie) and slices, often as many as a dozen varieties. Nonetheless, tradition won out on a recent visit. Crispy fried (not greasy) Brussel sprouts ($9.99) are among the appetizers, but also available as a side.

2 weeks ago | gazette.com | Robin Intemann

As a freshman entering Pine Creek High School, Jack Clawson described himself as shy and lacking confidence, never one to share his opinion, let alone open his mouth. Four years later, thanks to his determination to come out of his shell and overcome his inclination toward introversion, he’s not only found his voice but works to help others find theirs. “I went from introverted to highly extroverted,” he wrote in his Best & Brightest application.

3 weeks ago | gazette.com | Robin Intemann

Relocating from Kuwait two years ago was more than a cultural shock for Habiba Soliman, now a senior at Thomas Maclaren School, and it has served as a test of her adaptability and tenacity. Before the move, all of her education was taught in Arabic. As with most high school graduation prerequisites, a foreign language class was required at Maclaren. Habiba not only worked to improve her English, but she also signed up to learn German.