Chris Bezsylko

It’s safe to say that no parent would intentionally put their child in front of a shark…or would they?  Parents and teachers alike were thrilled to let their 5^th graders from Henderson International School present to a group of judges affectionately known as the “Shark Tank” as part of a fundraising activity to decrease poverty and combat childhood diseases in the community.  Their efforts were in conjunction with a national organization called Change for Change, under the direction of 89052 resident Chris Bezsylko, who happens to be both their middle school principal and preschool through eighth grade curriculum director.  The organization’s mission is to help empower young adults to create big changes.  In this case, students created real-life business concepts designed to fight poverty and disease and presented them to the “tank” of investors for a possible total of $750, which was invested in the winning businesses as start-up capital.

By: Callie Thomas

Bezsylko began his education career as a teacher in inner city Philadelphia and later left to become a full-time educational consultant.  Although he spent four years traveling across the country and working with many educators, he missed being part of a school community and seeing his students grow.  He went back to teaching and earned a Master of Arts in private school leadership through the Klingenstein Center Teachers College at Columbia University.  He began his career as an administrator and later moved to Las Vegas. His mission for Henderson International School is not a common one.  Their goal is to develop and nurture life-long learners who are prepared to work and support others, making service the primary purpose of education. Bezsylko talks about the school’s efforts with a variety of charitable organizations, his personal experiences through their support of Change for Change and unplugging after a busy day.

Tell us about the mission of the Henderson International Schools.

“Henderson International School is dedicated to nurturing great learners and responsible global citizens. The idea of community service is not novel, however, it is not common to make service a primary purpose of education. This resonates with who I am as an individual, as a father and as an educator.  I believe that as a community of learners, schools have a responsibility to engage and be active members of a community.”

How was the school involved with Change for Change?

“This is the first year that Henderson International School has participated in the initiative.  Our fifth graders engaged in a year-long study of poverty where they met with guest speakers, exchanged research and opinions with peers at our Meritas sister schools, and participated in a variety of community-service projects.  The project challenges our students to apply what they have learned in the classroom to a real-life issue.”

How does the “Change Project” work?

“Students worked as individuals or in small groups to turn a modest financial investment into greater change.  They created one-page business proposals, met with project coaches and finally pitched their proposals to a panel of judges called the “Shark Tank.”  The judges awarded start-up funds to viablestudent projects that aid local, national and global causesand organizations.”

Any experiences you’d like to share?

“I spoke with a parent who witnessed her son’s change over the course of the Change for Change project.  She said he thinks of others and wants to find more ways to help.  I’ve also heard from students who thought they were going to hate working on the project but ended up loving it.”

 What other organizations does the school support?

“We’ve partnered with the American Heart Association’s Hoops for Heart and Jump Rope for Heart, the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree holiday project and the Las Vegas Rescue Mission’s Holiday Food Drive.”

What are you most proud to have accomplished?

“My wife Marta and I have two boys, Max and Luca, who are by far my greatest accomplishments, but fatherhood is a work in progress that I cannot consider something I have accomplished just yet.”

How do you de-stress after a busy day?

“A bicycle ride home and cooking for my family.”  

Jim Brock

How long have you had your computer?  According to the folks at the Encyclopedia of Earth, the average life expectancy of a desktop today is around 3-5 years, depending on use, and the amount of computer waste increases annually as electronic systems play a progressively more important role in all aspects of technology. So, the question arises, what exactly should you do with your old computer? Resident Jim Brock has the answer: give it to him.  More specifically, give it to Computers4Cause, Brock’s nonprofit organization, which fixes computers, wipes the hard drives and restores factory settings in order to give them to those in need.

By: Callie Thomas

Brock knows a thing or two about computers. He “officially” retired at the age of 38 after selling one of his telecommunications businesses to Nextel.  Being too young and restless to settle into retirement, he started Simple Computer Repair to fill a void in the marketplace.  He created a neighborhood repair store dedicated to three principals:  No speculation, no opinions and no geek speak – just a flat rate repair model with a free diagnosis.  By creating an alternative to the big box stores, Brock put himself in direct contact with the community and has provided a real service for individuals and neighboring businesses.  Through his simple repair business he recognized the need to provide technology to individuals, businesses and charitable organizations who couldn’t afford it, but also to help customers who just didn’t know what to do with their old models. With microchip development becoming so rapid, users are able to purchase computers that are twice as powerful at the same price as those currently available about every 18-months, hence, a more rapid turnover of used computers.  Brock talks about creating Computers4Cause and how it’s making a difference.

Tell us about Computers4Cause and how it helps others.

“I founded our nonprofit organization in 2010 out of market demand.  We heard it continually, ‘Is there anywhere I can donate my old computer?’ We heard it so often, I thought, why not do something good for the community?  So now we fix up and recycle working desktops, laptops, keyboards, flat screen monitors and mice by wiping the hard drives and giving them to people and organizations in need.”

Any experiences through Computers4Cause you’d like to share?

“I’ve seen people cry when we give them a computer.  It’s very rewarding when the mom, dad and kids come in so excited and they’re hugging you because they’re so happy.  Often it can mean the difference between employment and unemployment for them.”

How can people or organizations apply for computers?

“If you or someone you know is in need, you can fill out an application on our website (www.computers4cause.com) and apply.  Applications can be mailed, faxed or hand delivered.”

What does giving back to the community mean to you?

“Everything.  I’m blessed to be in a position to help.  Other than raising my kids Stephanie and James, it’s the most rewarding thing I do.  I’d hope someone would do the same for me if the tables were turned.”

What do you think makes you successful?

“Fear of failure and a narrow focus.”

Of all your accomplishments, what are you most proud to have achieved?

“Being a father…to my kids and to many successful businesses I have founded.”

Any life inspirations or a favorite quote that you’d like to share with others?

“That would be a quote by Napoleon Hill:  What the mind can conceive and believe it can achieve.” 

Miguel Garcia

Southeast Career & Technical Academy
Class of 2014
G.P.A.: 4.7

Science continues to inform us that a deep sense of gratitude and thoughtful understanding of how those around us can affect our lives may be one of the key foundations to a lifetime of success and, more importantly, happiness. It’s a mindset many are constantly working to build. For Miguel Garcia, graciousness and humility came with the package. A senior at Southeast Career and Technical Academy, Miguel excels in sports and academics, but it’s his natural inclination to construct deep, human connections that really sets him apart. His presence of mind and understanding of the world around him place him – A Step Above.  

Sports/Scholarships/Awards

• Las Vegas Track Club, 2008-2014; Scholarship Recipient, 2013-2014
• Varsity Cross Country 2010-2014; Captain, 2012-2014
• Varsity Volleyball 2011-2014; Captain 2012-2014
• Four Time State Qualifier Cross Country, 2010-2014
• Scholar Athlete Cross Country and Volleyball, 2011-2014
• Team Cross Country Division & Region Champions D1A, 2012-2014
• Volleyball Academic State Champion, 2012-2013
• Volleyball Nevada D1A State Champion, 2012-2013
• Nevada D1A First Team Volleyball, 2012-2013
• Team Cross Country State Runner up D1A, 2012-2013

Clubs/Community Service

• Student Organization of Latinos, 2010-2014
• National Honor Society, 2012-2014
• Color Run, 2014
• Hit and Run 5k, 2014
• Black Light Run 5k, 2014
• Civic Engagement Las Vegas Rescue Mission
• School Beautification Volunteer
• Haunted House Volunteer
• Cashman Middle School Volunteer Judge

First State, Then The World? “As of now, one of my short term goals is to win another state championship for my school and graduate with an advanced honors diploma. My long-term goal is to continue my education and get my Associate Degree in Pre-Med. Ten years from now I see myself at a hospital, assisting in surgeries and founding programs to help give back to my community.”

Winning State Championships is a big deal! “I am most proud of winning the D1A Volleyball State Championship. Not only was this proof that hard work and determination pays off, but it also brought pride to our school and was the first volleyball state championship ever. In fact, this is one of my greatest accomplishments.”

You’ve dealt with tough loss in a really inspiring way: “Over the year I had close people pass away. My former Coach passed away this summer and she had a huge influence on my volleyball career. She made me believe in not only myself, but my team as well. In January, I lost my AP Calculus teacher, Mrs. Bzinak. She was one of my favorite teachers and had a great influence on my academic career. After hearing the news, I was devastated with both losses and I felt as if those who have impacted my life in a positive way were slowly passing away. I overcame these challenges by changing my perspective on life and continuing to bring honor to their legacy. In fact, the views they had on life, I have implemented into mine.”

You also find inspiration through your parents? “I look up to my parents; not only do they support me in everything I do, but they are extremely hardworking and want the very best for me. Growing up they didn’t have much, but through hard work they managed to get by and now give me the life they always wanted. I am extremely grateful and words can’t describe how lucky I am to have them.”

Favorite Quote to Live By: “To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift.” –Steve Prefontaine 

Cassidy Pappas

Silverado High School
Class of 2015
G.P.A.: 4.25

To have a voice is a gift that should never be squandered. In the case of Cassidy Pappas – this means through music and through representing her classmates as Student Body President. The incoming senior at Silverado High School uses her voice for good – whether it’s in song, or to speak out in defense of those who can’t necessarily defend themselves. With a wide spectrum of talents, and a decidedly kind disposition, Cassidy defies the omnipresent culture lines that echo through the high schools halls. Her ability to maintain a positive leadership style, regardless of the task at hand, as well as to live in the moment place Cassidy – A Step Above.  

Sports/Music/Drama

• Silverado Soccer Team, 2011-2015; Junior Varsity, 2011-2012; Varsity, 2012-2015
• Varsity Flag Football, 2012-2015; Captain, 2013-2015
• Club Soccer, 2011-2012
• Silverado Volleyball, 2011
• Women’s Madrigal Singers, 2012-2015
• 1st Vice President of Choir Program, 2013-2015
• Concert Choir, 2012
• Advanced Women’s Chorus, 2011

Clubs/Scholarships/Awards

• Class Committee, 2013-2015
• Student Council, 2015; Student Body President, 2015
• Division Champions, Flag Football, 2014
• State Runner-up, Flag Football, 2013

What are your goals for this year? “Some goals I have for the upcoming year include trying my best to create an even more positive environment at Silverado and creating wonderful memories of my senior year.”

You’ve had a lot of help in your journey through high school: “My family is the reason I am successful. My parents have taught me so much in my 17 years and I can never thank them enough for creating such a wonderful life for my siblings and me. Knowing I have such a strong support system between my family and closest friends motivates me to do my best in everything I do.”

One member of your support system is especially inspirational:  “Of course my parents are two people that I will always look up to, but my sister is one person I respect and idolize more than anyone. I have watched her go through high school, college and now most recently medical school halfway across the world and she has taught me that if I want something, I should never let anything or anyone get in my way.”

Treating people right and creating happiness is very important to you: “Bullying has become a major issue amongst young adults especially with the increase of social media. I always try to keep positive and hope that this positivity transfers to the people around me. It is very important that as people we choose our words carefully and respect others. Try and go out of your way to make someone smile instead of spreading  negativity amongst others.”

If you could be the president of any type of nonprofit or charitable organization: “My best friend has been a part of my life since 2nd grade and her family has also become my second family. Her younger sister is diagnosed with a form or autism, and since we have been friends I have learned a lot about this disability. F.E.A.T. (Families for Effective Autism Treatment) is an organization that is dear to me and has grown immensely since it has started. It has changed countless lives and has inspired me in every way possible.”

Michael Tatalovich

Coronado High School
Class of 2014
G.P.A.: 4.7

Think back to your high school days. Managing the daily struggles of homework, social pressures and what to do on a Friday night is normally stressful enough. Now, add hospital visits, surgeries and sickness to the mix and you’ll understand the Junior year of Michael Tatalovich. A graduating senior at Coronado High School, at his young age Michael has added “cancer” to his list of battles conquered. Alone, the journey Michael has been through places him in a league apart from many of his peers, but that’s not nearly all that defines that him. On the contrary, it’s his deep and thoughtful intelligence, the unwavering smile on his face and the kindness in his heart, regardless of his situation, that truly raises Michael – A Step Above. 

Sports/Scholarships/Awards

• Coronado Volleyball Team, 2011-2014; Junior Varsity Captain, 2012
• Club Volleyball (Vegas Volleyball), 2011-2014
• Coronado Football, 2010
• Skills USA: 1^st Place – Nevada State Photo Competition, 2012
• Skills USA: 6^th Place – National Photo Competition, 2012
• Las Vegas Review Journal: 1^st Place “Best News Photo”, 2011

Clubs/Community Service

• WWD Magic Volunteer, 2012
• NV Wildfest, 2011
• Hopelink, 2011
• Key Club, 2010-2011 

You are very focused on what you want for your future: “A life goal of mine is to get my PhD in Environmental Chemistry and help to stop rapid climate change. In 10 years, I see myself living in Germany, working in a laboratory trying to improve industrial processes for the least environmental impact.”

You have overcome a very serious struggle recently: “Last year I was diagnosed with cancer and through the experience of going through 4 surgeries, 32 weeks of chemotherapy and countless hospitalizations, I found an inner strength and determination that I didn’t know I had. I think I am successful because I am able to take one day at a time in order to get through long periods of hardship.”

Your mom has helped you throughout your journey:  “I look up to my mother because she is so understanding and can maintain a cool temper well.  She also balances so many things with such ease and I really respect that.”

If you could be the president of any type of nonprofit or charitable organization, what would it be and why?“I would want to be President of the Teenage Cancer Trust because I would love to oversee those expenditures and the delegation of funds for maximum impact.”

Your Favorite Quote to Live By: “Keep on keeping on” 

Jole Nikac

Anyone who has lived in our city for even a short period of time has had a breath or two stolen away by our sunsets. They are a work of true art that bring with them a powerful and humbling feeling.  Local artist, Jole, seeks to capture this brilliant amalgamation of color in our desert in his abstract paintings –from the ground to the lines of the horizon.

Zip Code Magazines Local Artisan – Jole 
“I am an Abstract Impressionist Artist with painting on canvas sizes ranging from 8ft – 16ft that I stretch myself. My love for nature is the passion behind my paintings. It comes from deep inside of my heart and soul. I express myself best on a large canvas with explosive vibrant colors of nature. I allow viewers to see and connect with what the painting says to them personally. Everyone sees something different. This is what is so unique about my paintings and that is why I refuse to name them. I feel complimented when someone asks me, ‘What is it?'” 

Website: www.jolenikac.com

Q. Tell us a little about yourself
A. I was born in Yugoslavia, Albania in a family of seven children. I loved to play soccer, and thought that one day I would become a famous soccer player. When I was 9 years old, I painted a portrait of president Kennedy and won a local kids art show. I never thought that Art would be my true destiny.  

Q. What made you interested in painting? How did your childhood in Yugoslavia affect your interest in art?
A. My beautiful hometown was surrounded by mountains, lakes, forest and flowers. I would sit next to the lake and draw pictures of nature but my paper was always too small to capture the scenery of the whole lake. My brother would point out to me that I was missing parts of the scene. That was when I knew I needed a large surface to paint on.

Q. What does your average day look like, and when do you find time to create your art? Do you have a process for creativity that you can share or is it something more impulsive?
A. I usually start my day by taking a walk and checking out our backyard, to see how the trees and flowers are doing. Sometimes I go to my friend’s café, TrufflesNBacon, for breakfast. Cooking is one of my hobbies and I love to invite friends over to dine at our home. There is never a set time to create my art, it starts with a feeling to paint, whenever that is…

Q. What (or who) inspires you?
A. I see everything in nature, especially color.

Q. Do you have other artistic outlets besides painting?
A. Gardening, painting, cooking and playing soccer.

Q. What do you do for fun around town? What’s your favorite part about living in Las Vegas?
A. I love wide-open spaces, warm weather, mountains and city views that I see from our backyard, which is very peaceful. Las Vegas has fantastic entertainment, like the Smith Center, one of my favorite places and also great restaurants. Most everything is open 24 hours, this reminds me of living in New York City.

Q. Does living in Las Vegas have an impact on your craft? If so, how?
A. The vibrant colors capturing the essence and beauty of the desert make for an inspiring canvas.

A New York State of Mind | Truffles n Bacon Café

If you’ve ever been to NYC, you’ve seen your share of teeny tiny café’s that, while nothing fancy to look at, serve up big, bold food that speaks for itself.  Small, 30-seat establishments found in the strangest nooks and crannies of the neighborhood, plating decadent mac ‘n’ cheese, homemade corned beef Rueben’s, and signature burgers loaded with addictive accompaniments you wouldn’t expect to find in a restaurant devoid of celebrity chef involvement.  Here on the west coast, small restaurants like these generally have wheels beneath their kitchens, opting for a ride on the food truck band wagon rather than finding a storefront that’s manageable and makes sense for a lunch-only customer base.  This is what makes Truffles n Bacon Café, located at 6665 S. Eastern Ave., a unique addition to the local food scene.   They’re bringing an east coast attitude to the west and, in the process, sending a lot of hungry diners to hog heaven.

By: Aly Wagonseller

Frustrated by the high rents and competition of the Manhattan market place, co-owner Magnolia Magat and company decided to uproot to Vegas. With a dream to open a small café, they enlisted the help of veteran chef Jacqueline Lim.  No slouch in the success department, Lim has garnered numerous awards in the culinary industry, working alongside celebrity chefs including Lydia Bastianich and Wolfgang Puck at various charitable and Academy Award Night events.  With belongings in tow, Magat found a quaint, albeit unlikely home inside the Antiques at the Market facility across from Sunset Park, and TNB was born.

Although you might expect everything to have some form of bacon or truffle flavor in its ingredient list, this isn’t the case.  Sure… there’s that outstanding, homemade bacon jam that could (and should) accompany EVERYTHING on the plate, but Lim brings a refined, umami sensibility to more casual, deli style food that doesn’t necessarily need the crutch of pig fat to make it successful.  We started with the Pimp My Bruschetta. Mix and match toppings makes this great for sharing, our group choosing Minty Peas with Bacon Jam (of course), Grilled Haloumi Cheese with Sautéed Grapes and Babaganoush.  The toast was thicker and softer than most bruschetta, a really good thing considering the toppings, all of which were incredibly flavorful.  Babaganoush had a lovely, lemony and light consistency, while the crusty, caramelized Haloumi cheese with savory and sweet grapes was a personal favorite. 

Next came some of the best sandwiches this side of the Hudson.  The Rueben (one of many “Specials” of the day that also included Chicken and Waffles and a Cuban Burger) was absolute perfection.  Homemade corned beef is lean and juicy, cut slightly thicker than usual and served with the subtle crispness of sauerkraut that somehow doesn’t overpower the sandwich like it so often can. House made Thousand Island was creamy and less sweet than cheaper versions commercially made, making for a legit balance of flavors.   Mmm.  Simply Jessie, a smoked salmon and egg salad sandwich on marble rye might sound odd, but you’d be missing out on one of the tastiest sandwiches I’ve ever eaten if you balk!  Why anyone would mix these two is a cute story in itself (just ask Magnolia for the lowdown) but it’s sheer genius the way the smoky fish tones down the richness of the mayo-based egg. Really, really good.  And the crème de la crème show stopper?  The TNB Café Signature Hamburger.  GUT BUSTER, can’t miss it, must have again! A juicy patty is topped with a hunky square of fried mac ‘n’ cheese that somehow remains creamy,  smokysweet bacon jam, spicy Sriracha ketchup or mayo (your choice) all on a lightly toasted brioche bun.  Patent pending as a surefire cure for late night alcohol overindulgence?  You bet.  All sandwiches are served with your choice of house made sweet potato or Yukon gold potato chips, fries or tator tots lightly tossed in truffle oil (hence the truffle in the name of the establishment that’s, thankfully, not overdone).  

Truffles n Bacon Café is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mon.-Sat. and 12 p.m.  to 4 p.m. on Sunday. They also deliver within a limited radius, but why miss out on the eclectic array of antiques you’ll see as you walk through the market to the restaurant?   It is, after all, very NYC to shop and eat in the neighborhood.  For takeout or questions on catering, call them at 917-697-7170.   

Fruit Salad with Minted Sugar

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Mediterranean Lettuce Wraps

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Thai Quinoa Chicken Salad

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