Smiles for Survivors

The ripple effect of breast cancer on a person’s life, their family and loved-ones, is only masked by the severe and detrimental result it can have on the person’s overall health and appearance. The brutal truth survivors must face is that even the means to fight the disease can have terrible and lasting side effects. One of the more conspicuous, yet little discussed consequence is the degeneration of survivors’ teeth as they are taken through chemotherapy. A local non-profit is on a mission to raise awareness of this specific byproduct of chemo, and bring smiles and joy back to a cancer survivor’s life by restoring the damage.

The Smiles for Survivors Foundation ™ held its 3^rd Annual Blow Out Breast Cancer event at Square Colour Salon + Spa in Summerlin, raising over $26,000 to provide preventative and restorative dental treatment and education for cancer patients going through chemotherapy. More than 350 people attended the event sponsored by Square Colour Salon + Spa, By Dzign Furniture, Rob Jensen Company – Guard Gated Real Estate, Park Place Infiniti and Couture Dermatology and Plastic Surgery.

“Receiving the gift of a smile allows me to share my story with others who are affected by this disease,” said survivor and patient, Lilly Gill.  “I can never thank Drs. Olya Banchik, Bradley Strong and Mark Degen enough for the wonderful new smile they have provided for me.”  The team of volunteers replaced Gill’s missing teeth and restored her remaining teeth. No longer self-conscious about her mouth’s appearance, Gill explained that the dentists also restored her joyful spirit. For information on Smiles for Survivors, visit www.smilesforsurvivors.org.

A Crackin’ Success | Crab Corner Maryland Seafood House

I love it when a good thing just gets better. It started when two East Coast legit brothers expanded their wholesale Maryland blue crab distributorship by opening a tiny, nondescript (okay, the Baltimore Ravens décor isn’t exactly commonplace in the valley) strip mall restaurant and, surprise of all surprises, it brilliantly succeeded. Despite a poor economy and more than moderately priced (though worth every penny) menu items, Crab Corner Maryland Seafood House has thrived, so much so that you can now down the good stuff at a second location at 6485 So. Rainbow at the 215.

Die hard blue crab fans have known about the original Corner, located at 4161 S. Eastern, virtually since the place opened almost three years ago. News spread quickly that real deal blue crabs were crackin’, and that for about the same price you’d expect to pay for the delicate little devils if you were sitting on the shores of the Chesapeake, you could pull up a chair stateside and enjoy. The charming part is that even after all the hype, the place hasn’t been Vega-fied. You know, snazzed up and priced up to the point that only the rich and famous can indulge. Nope… there’s still a little blue bucket for the shells, gills and anything else inside you’d care not to eat, and charming brown butcher paper table “cloths” used to catch all the drippings you manage to miss. Crab that was most likely swimming in the bay just a day or so prior is still plopped unapologetically onto the table; a heap of perfectly steamed, J.O. seasoned heaven in a shell, waiting to be cracked and devoured with an ice cold beer to wash it down. Oh ya… there’s really not many simple pleasures better than this. That is, until you taste one of their crab cakes.

Having travelled to Baltimore many times, I’ve had my share of crab cakes. Some good, some full of stuff I wouldn’t recommend, but for the most part they’ve arguably got the best in the nation. Those served at Crab Corner stand up to the best. Incredibly sweet chunks of the freshest crab imaginable, patted lightly together with an undetectable binder, fried in butter and served with a lemony tartar sauce you’ll shamelessly spoon into your mouth well after the rest of the meal is finished. It’s easy to obsess about these little morsels, as they’re really that good. Order them as an appetizer if you’re planning on crab cracking, or indulge in the platter or sandwich offerings for a full meal; just don’t resist ordering them as diner’s regret will be imminent.

Crab Corner brings other down home specialties to the table, including hand battered, melt in your mouth oysters, bacon wrapped scallops with an apricot chutney sauce, and even jumbo Gulf shrimp, all flown in fresh within days of being caught. Side orders are homemade, their hushpuppies deliciously moist without being gluey, and Boardwalk style French fries seasoned aggressively with more J.O. crab seasoning and splashed with a bit of vinegar for kick. They’re not a bit oily and go well to cut the richness of beer battered Alaskan Cod (a fish Friday fav), fried sea clams or Southern style catfish. For dessert, it’s Baltimore Style Snowballs; shaved iced doused with flavors from bubblegum to egg custard and topped with chocolate or marshmallow cream if you’re so inclined.

Brothers Mark and John Smolen were brave souls to start a crab restaurant in the midst of a looming recession. But what they’ve created is proof that when you serve a little piece of home and do it without compromising freshness over fear of failure, good things happen. And even with a new location coming to relieve the crowds, beware: the Ravens games are coming. Get there early if you want a seat in the house.

Deanna Konopka

Cimarron-Memorial High School
Class of 2014

It’s hard to find a person with the curiosity and bravery to start something totally new, and even more rare for that person to posses the focus and willpower to conquer the difficulties that will surely come from inexperience. This is the mindset of Deanna Konopka, Student Body President at Cimarron-Memorial High School. Embodying the maturity and patience to trust in incremental improvement along the path to success, Deanna believes that just because you’re not good at something the first time around doesn’t mean you should give up. With incredible tenacity and a positive attitude she’s sure to conquer any challenge she faces with flying colors, placing her – A Step Above.

Sports/Activities/Clubs

• Varsity Tennis, 2013-Present
• Varsity Cheerleading, 2010-2013
• Varsity Swimming, 2010-2013
• Sophomore Class Secretary, 2011-2012
• Student Body Secretary, 2012-2013
• Student Body President, 2013-Present

Scholarships/Awards/Community Service

• National Honor Society, 2012-Present
• Scholar Athlete Award, 2012-2013
• NIAA Swim Regional Finalist, 2011-2013
• National High School Cheerleading Competition, 2012-2013
• Spartan Academic Lamp, 2012-2013
• Spartan Academic Letter, 2011-2012
• St. Joseph Husband of Mary Community Service, 2010-2013
• Atria Seville Nursing Home Volunteer, 2011-2013
• Candlighter’s Run, 2010-2012
• Thanksgiving Feed for the Hungry, 2011-2012
• Catholic Charities, 2012

What accomplishment are you most most proud of?  I am most proud of winning the “Do the Write Thing” challenge, an essay contest about violence and how it affects our community.  Not only did I get to travel to Washington D.C. with my mother, I also got the chance to meet with other student delegates from around the nation.  Winning that contest made me more confident in the writing I have done since, and it also was a wonderful experience I will never forget.

We’re sure you’ve had your share of obstacles. When I swatted at my first tennis ball it looked as if I’d never have a chance to make the Varsity Tennis Team at my high school.  My boyfriend and I practiced on the courts for hours, but I was barely improving.  It seemed like I was chasing down the balls more than hitting them over the net.  However, I wanted to be a part of that tennis team, so I practiced numerous weekends making sure I’d be ready in time for tryouts. Try-outs came around and within the first week I was playing number one doubles.  It felt like such a great accomplishment and I was proud of myself.  I believe that if you want something bad enough, you will work towards it until you achieve it.

Any one thing that drives your success? My drive to be the best I can be is what makes me successful.  Every day I strive to push myself to be better than the day before.  I believe that my motivation, as well as the great support system I have behind me, is what has made me successful.

Shane Cashin

E.W. Clark High School
Class of 2014

Shane Cashin shoots for the moon…literally. Meeting the intensely ambitious senior at The Academy of Mathematics, Science and Applied Technology (AMSAT) program at E.W. Clark High School is like meeting Juggernaut from X-Men, except on the “good” team and ready to make a tangible, positive difference in our world. And we believe him. Academically he’s at the top of the district, and he’s an award-winning cross country runner and musician, but what’s most notable about Shane is his passion – for life, for positive influence and for being the best. His big dreams put him – A Step Above.

 
Sports/Music/Clubs

• Varsity Cross Country, 2011-Present
• Las Vegas Premier Soccer Club, 2010-2012
• Freshman Football, 2010
• Clark Philanthropic Orchestra, 2012-Present
• Zion Youth Orchestra (Violin), 2011
• Temple Beth Shalom Youth Group (Piano), 2010
• Forensics Club, 2011-Present; Platform Captain, 2012-2013; Captain, 2013-Present
• DECA/FBLA, 2011-Present; Vice President, 2012-2013; President, 2013-Present
• Key Club, 2011-Present
• National Honors Society, 2011-Present

Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:

• AP Scholar with Distinction, 2013
• Harvard Prize Book Winner, 2013
• National Merit Commended Scholar, 2013
• Top 25 Individual Runner – Nevada State Cross Country Championships, 2013
• Financial Services Nevada State Champion – DECA, 2012-13
• Award of Excellence Top 25 International Competition – DECA, 2012-13
• National Qualifier, Varsity Original Oratory, 2012
• La Cost Tournament of Champions in California, Champion – Varsity Original Oratory, 2012
• Gan Alonim Volunteer Day, 2012-2013
• Summerlin Hospital Volunteer, 2011-2012

You have a unique way of tackling a challenge. My ability to envision the results is what has driven me my entire life. If I am at a race, the beginning may be the toughest part, but as soon as I envision crossing the finish line I begin to work harder to improve my time. When I might not feel motivated to study for a big test, I imagine getting my test results back, and then I begin to work harder. If I want to feel successful when it’s over, I know that I need to put in the effort from the beginning.

What’s your take on our community’s youth? Young adults often find school boring and dull as opposed to what school should be viewed as: the chance to open their minds. I believe that the use of today’s technology can be implemented more closely into schools all around the globe and used to make classes more interactive and interesting to students. One day I hope to work to create a more efficient process for students to participate and learn in the classroom through the use of technology.

We see you have big plans. I have always dreamed of standing up in front of a crowd of hundreds of thousands of people and influencing them. Growing up I was always the short one, but when I stand up in front of an audience I feel bigger than ever. In the more unrealistic zone: being an actor, opening my own smoothie/sandwich shop, visiting every continent at least once, and traveling to space since I have a bet with my younger sisters on who will make it there first.

Catie Miller

Bishop Gorman High School
Class of 2014

Being comfortable in your own skin is a luxury that comes to most well after the trials and tribulations of high school. For Catie Miller, on the other hand, it’s something that has arrived much sooner as a result of hard work, adversity and a positive attitude. A flourishing swimmer with Olympic capabilities, a coach and a stellar student, Catie has a schedule that would leave most begging for mercy but she powers through with a smile and clear idea of where the hard work will leave her positioned for the future. Her energy and defined sense of self are unique and her talent is trumped only by her will to always maintain forward momentum, clearly setting her – A Step Above.

Sports/Scholarships/Awards

• Sandpipers of Nevada Swim Team, 2001-Present
• Bishop Gorman Swim Team, 2010-Present
• Bishop Gorman Swim State Champions, 2010-2013
• Academic All-America, 2011-2013
• Sandpipers of Nevada State Champions, 2011-2013
• Olympic Trial Qualifier, 2012
• 200 Individual Medley Champion for Bishop Gorman, 2012
• Sportsmanship Award, 2012

Clubs/Community Service

• National Honor Society, 2012-Present
• National Spanish Honor Society, 2012-2013
• Academic Society, 2010-2012
• Volunteer at Faith Lutheran Church, 2010-Present
• Catholic Charities, 2011-2013
• Volunteer at Carefree Senior Living, 2013

You’ve had some exciting accomplishments. One of my most proud accomplishments is when I got my Olympic Trial cut in the 400 Individual Medley during the summer of 2012. I had worked my entire life to get to that point, and after missing it by a few tenths of a second finally achieving my goal was an amazing feeling. It took a lot of hard work and dedication, many long hours of intense training and endless days of soreness, but it all had paid off, achieving my ultimate goal.

Do you have a person you look up to? The person that I look up to the most is my brother Cody. Cody has been so successful in everything he has worked for. He is a very inspirational and driven person, he knows what he wants and he goes after it. Cody is always there for me and has been a guiding light in my life. Although he is my brother, he is my greatest teacher, my role model and my best friend.

What quality makes you most successful? I think I am successful because of my capability to always see the brighter side of things, and I thrive to achieve all I can. My ambition and drive allow me to accomplish.

You’ve had to transcend difficult times. I have sailed through many storms in my life, but my ultimate storm was and still is, my father leaving. I had to become a very independent person at a very young age and I have had to make many sacrifices to be where I am now. But these waves have only made me stronger. They have sculpted me into the person that I am today and for that I am truly grateful because I wouldn’t want to be anyone other than me.

Best of the Zips – October

You voted, and the results are in! Here are your picks for Best of the Zips. If you visit any of these winning companies be sure to congratulate them, and keep going back for more. Thanks to all who voted in this month’s addition.

Winners:

• Chinese Restaurant

HK Star
3400 S. Jones Blvd. | (702) 220-3388
www.hkstarlasvegas.com   

Why You Love It: That’s easy – great tasting food at reasonable prices.  
Where It’s At: Lunch specials are popular at this Chinese hot spot.

• Bakery

La Belle Terre Bread | French Bakery & Café
8390 W. Sahara Ave. | (702) 685-7712
www.labelleterrebread.com

Why You Love It: You find the best breads and desserts at this authentic French bakery.
L’ambiance: It’s not just about the food. You love the atmosphere and genuine feel of this café.

• Veterinarian

Siena Animal Hospital (Dr. Keeney)
5625 S. Grand Canyon Dr. | (702) 258-0006
www.sienaanimalhospital.com

Why You Love It: You’re sure Dr. Keeney loves your 4-legged family just like they were her own!
Over and Above: Knowledgeable staff helps you with all your animal questions, even from home.

• Poker Bar

Off the Strip
9837 W Tropicana Ave | (702) 876-3080
www.offthestripbistro.com

Why You Love It: Locals love the friendly staff mixed with the choice of bar food or something a little nicer.
Gotta Have It: Do some research on the “Secret Menu” and enjoy!

• Ice Cream

U-Swirl
7595 W. Washington Ave. | (702) 476-1479
9360 W. Flamingo Rd. | (702) 982-2700
9795 W. Charleston Blvd. | (702) 479-1352
www.u-swirl.com

Why You Love Them: The toppings…all the wonderful toppings!
Mix ‘N Match: Peanut Butter, Red Velvet and Cookies ‘N Cream, oh my.  

• Manicurist

Alexus Nail Bar (Lucy Le)  
3645 S. Town Center Dr. | (702) 254-2378

Why You Love Her: Lucy goes out of her way to accommodate your schedule.  
Extra Treat: Nail polish color selection is out of this world.

The Value of Print in Your Media Mix

“Print is ‘dying’ and online is taking over.”

The sentence above is what we have been hearing lately. What we are seeing, however, tells a different story. What we are seeing, as a 10-year-old print magazine with a 100% advertising-based revenue model, is that those who consider their media mix to leverage print and online in tandem are having far more success than those willing to throw all their eggs into the “online” basket. The article below explains why print, and more importantly targeted print advertising, is still a very important piece in your marketing puzzle. 

The Value of Print in Your Media Mix

By Amy Hansen, MPA Media Marketing Services Coordinator

In today’s new media landscape and challenging economic times, companies are undoubtedly feeling pressure to justify how their media budget is allocated. With marketing budgets shrinking and new media platforms emerging every day, the decision to continue to invest in traditional media such as print is being challenged to prove its value and impact on sales. The time has come to evaluate your media mix to make certain you are successfully reaching your target audience, building brand awareness and effectively communicating the value of your products. Print advertising can help you do just that.

In recent times, some marketers have dismissed print as an “outdated” medium no longer relevant to today’s marketing efforts, but market research suggests that print is not dead. In fact, data from Mediamark Research & Intelligence (MRI) shows magazine readership has actually risen 4.3 percent over the past five years. This same data also tells us that four out of five adults are currently reading magazines. These statistics tell us print is very much “alive and well” and reinforces the idea that print media is still a very viable advertising medium.

Another recent study by Yankelovich proved print ads are “much more likely” to make a positive impact on people than ads in digital media. Why? Readers of print media are more immersed in the content and tend to be more receptive to the publication’s print ads. In today’s world of email overload, a well-designed print ad can easily stand out, grab attention and cut through the overwhelming amount of online clutter we are exposed to on a daily basis.

Even online advertisers are starting to recognize the value and impact print can bring to their marketing initiatives. They are finding print is especially powerful when it is effectively combined with other media elements as part of an integrated marketing program. Online advertisers are catching on to print media’s ability to target a specific audience where they “live.” While online advertising can effectively reach large numbers of people, the audience reached is much less targeted then it is with print advertising.

In addition to targeting a specific audience, print advertising also has the power to boost web traffic and spur online purchasing as shown in studies by Marketing Evolution, JupiterResearch and the Online Publishers Association. Print is the number one driver of purchase intent with more than half of all readers acting on magazine ads, according to a study by Affinity Research. In fact, a study from BIGresearch in 2008 shows that magazines lead newer media channels in influencing customers to start an online search. A study by McPfeters & Company, Conde Nast and CBS Vision also revealed that print builds more brand awareness than other mediums. In the study, magazine ad recall was three times that of online banner ads, yet again reinforcing the power of print and the tremendous value it brings as part of your marketing approach.

I’m not advocating you abandon any of your online tactics, but rather combine multiple media platforms to reach more of your target audience and achieve greater marketing impact. The growing use of new media channels, combined with the power of print can move you closer to achieving sales and branding goals. Print can drive your customers and prospects to your website where you can convert clicks into sales. It can raise your brand awareness and push people to your Facebook and Twitter pages where you can connect deeper with your customers and communicate your brand and product values. The key to any successful marketing campaign is the ability to engage your target audience with compelling content that prompts them to take action. Print advertising, when used as part of an integrated, multichannel marketing strategy, can do just that by reaching your customers and prospects where they are to build your brand and drive your sales.

21 Ways to Fail in Advertising

Are you thinking about starting an advertising campaign? Our expert account representatives have years of experience helping businesses to be as successful as possible with their advertising. To help you in your planning stages, we compiled a list of the major advertising offenses we’ve seen over the years that can throw your campaign off track:

#1 – Don’t write a marketing or business advertising plan
Please think about this. Marketing is probably your company’s only source of income. In turn, your marketing plan is probably the most important document you have.

#2 – Make the wrong offer of advertise the wrong merchandise
Your customer’s opinion is the only that one that ultimately counts. Your offer should match their needs and wants. Ask for their opinion, and tailor your offer to their desires. Feature well-known, branded products in your business advertising that are in high demand. This will bring in the customers.

#3 – Don’t advertise with correct frequency
You will waste more money in business advertising by running ads too infrequently than by funning them too often. Don’t try to save money by reducing advertising frequency. You must stay in contact with your customers.

#4 – Don’t advertise the benefits your customers want
Everything must be relevant to your customers. Always talk customer benefits, not product features. For example: “Saves three hours” is a feature. “Three hours to spend with your kids” is a benefit. “Three hours to pay your bills” is not exactly the benefit your customers want. Ask them what they want. Talk to them about the benefits they want with your business advertising, not about the features that you have.

#5 – Set unrealistic expectations for your ads
Consistent, long-term advertising builds a clientele. Running a few ads will not bury  you in new customers. You need patience and determination. As a general rule, look for your advertising to impact your business after six months. This is reality. Business advertising is an investment, not a miracle. 

#6 – Advertise to a non-existent market
A little research can go a long way in determining the actual demand for your products or services. If there is no demand, advertising cannot create it. Business advertising can make people aware of solutions to their problems, but people will not buy solutions for problems they don’t have, no matter how much you advertise.

#7 – Think of advertising and selling as unimportant or undignified
You probably wouldn’t be reading this if you thought selling was unimportant, but let’s say it anyway: all of the business advertising in the world won’t help you if you don’t close the sale. You must sell, you must be good at it, and you must respect it.

#8 – Miss your target audience
This is targeting and media selection and planning. A vital question is where do your clients get their information? What do they read? What do they find believable and influential? It could be the newspaper, or the mail, or their friends. Match what your customers tell you with the demographic information your media company provides.

#9 – Design bad advertisements
Your ad represents your company to the customer. It is all they have to judge you by. Your ad is the first, and maybe the las impression you make. It’s simple: poorly designed ads make you look bad. Professionally designed ads make you look…professional. 

#10 – Advertise merchandise that you don’t have enough of
Your advertising expenditure will be wasted if you don’t have the products people came in for. And, you get unhappy customers.

#11 – Write bad copy
Avoid copy that is too obscure, witty, technical, or fully of jargon. Don’t hide your benefits in your copy. Write copy that sells, and ask for the sale. Remember that professional copy writers get paid for a reason.

#12 – Select the wrong media
It is true that the media IS the message. In addition to your ad, the form of media you choose also represents your company. It should be a good fit. your choice of media should make you look professional. [This does not mean to go and buy television time.] You want to match your advertising to your clients. Where do your customers go to get information? Don’t guess — ask them. 

#13 – Don’t copy your competitors’ business advertising
As a general rule, you need to match your competitors’ level of business advertising as a percentage of gross sales in order to maintain your current level of business. If you want your business to grow, you need to advertise more than, or more effectively than, your competitors. If you are up against much larger competitors, you will need to spend proportionately more than they do to grow your sales.

#14 – Feature yourself in your ads
In general, this is a bad idea. Seldom is the owner of a company the most effective advertising spokesperson for that company. Advertising is about getting the best results possible. This is also a consideration when you choose the name of your company. Your name should reflect the business you are in. Saying “Johnson & Sons” says nothing about what it is you do. Stick to “Johnson’s Construction Company,” or better, “Dream Home Construction.” 

#15 – Fail to close the sale after your business advertisement brings in prospects
The job of an advertisement is to get a potential customer to call you or to walk in the door. It is the job of your staff and customer service representatives, and you, to close the deal.

#16 – Advertise to new prospects and not to your existing customers
Marketing experts claim that is costs five to eight times the amount of money to get a new customer than it does to keep an existing customer. And, it takes at least three exposures to your business advertising just to get a new customer to notice you. Your existing customers already know and trust you. They are your best, first prospects. Direct your business advertising to them first.

#17 – Don’t do any advertising or promotions at all
Business advertising is expensive, and it can be scary. The truth is that some advertising doesn’t work. However, if you’re careful, and you advertise in the most professional way you can, the odds are with you. If you don’t advertise at all, the odds of financial success are a million to one. You could give away your services, and your reputation will grow like wildfire. But if you want to earn a profit in a competitive marketplace, you need to advertise.

#18 – Look for a business advertising miracle with a one-shot advertising program
Business advertising is a long-term process of building recognition and trust with the public. Miracles rarely happen, and one-shot ads are just a waste of money. Expect to stick with an advertising program for at least six months just to measure the initial impact.

#19 – Change your business advertising too frequently
You and everyone around you and close to the business will get tired of your ads. But only the customer counts. It takes a long, long time for your customers to get tired of your ads. Many companies never change their business advertising. Create professional advertisements that really work, and then stick to them until they no longer generate the sales response you want. Don’t change the ads that are working. 

#20 – Slow down or stop your business advertising when the economy slows down
The Golden Rule of business advertising, if there is such a thing: Stay in touch with your customers. If you are inconsistent, they won’t trust you. If they can’t find you, they will go to your competitor. And, if they forget who you are, you have to start all over again.

#21 – Don’t tell the truth
The Federal Trade Commission monitors business advertising in the United States. If ads are misleading or untruthful, penalties can be very severe. Please read this: http://www.business.ftc.gov/documents/bus35-advertising-faqs-guide-small-business for more information.

Weekend Picks in the Zips Oct. 25-27

Weekend Picks in the Zips

It’s been a long week! How about getting out this weekend and discovering fun events in your neighborhood? We’ve got your Top 10 events around town this week in our Picks in the Zips.

Friday, October 25

#1 |Haunted at the Ranch [Henderson]
www.cityofhenderson.com/parks

Where: Whitney Ranch Aquatic Complex
When: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
How Much: $5

There’s something spooky happening at Whitney Ranch. Join The City of Henderson for an evening of haunted fun with games, bounce house, and a haunted house tour. Bring a blank pillowcase and make bag decorating extra frightening. Children must be accompanied by an adult. All ages welcome.

#2 | Natalie Cole at The Orleans Showroom [West]
www.orleanscasino.com

Where: Orleans Casino
When: 8 p.m.
How Much: Start at $64.95

Listen as Natalie Cole brings her timeless classics, and new Latin flavored sound. Cole rose to stardom in 1975 after releasing her album, “Inseparable,” which included her first No. 1 single, “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love).” The album garnered Cole two Grammy^® Awards – “Best New Artist, and “Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.” On the current release — her first studio album in five years — Cole revisits the rich repertoire of ageless Latin standards that once opened new vistas for her father.

Saturday, October 26

#3 |Walk to End Alzheimer’s [All-Play]
www.alz.org/dsw

Where: Fashion Show Mall, 3200 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
When: 9 a.m.
How Much: Donation

Join the Alzheimer’s Association for this fun and inspiring event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer care, support and research

#4 |Life is Beautiful Festival [All-Play]
www.lifeisbeautifulfestival.com

Where:  Entrance at 6^th Street and Carson Ave.
When: Noon to Midnight
How Much: Varies (All-day pass for Saturday is $95)

Music, food and fun abound at the Life is Beautiful Festival downtown. Lineups and events run through Sunday including culinary parties, concerts, art shows, an Alchemy garden and more. Event runs Oct. 25-27.   

#5 |The District Fall Festival [Green Valley]
www.shopthedistrictgvr.com

Where: 2240 Village Walk Drive
When: (October 25-27) All Day
How Much: Free Admission

Celebrate the reopening of The District at Green Valley Ranch with cooking demos, food sampling, fashion shows, concerts and more. Event runs all day on Saturday, including a concert with America’s Got Talent Season 5 winner Michael Grimm at 6:30 p.m. Saturday night.

#6 |Great American Classic Halloween Car Show [Summerlin]
www.tivolivillagelv.com

Where: Tivoli Village, 440 S. Rampart Blvd.
When: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
How Much: Free Admission

Hosted by Mustang and Classic Club of Las Vegas, this car show features live music, all makes and models of classic cars, candy for kids, and plaques for winners in each category.

#7 |Paramount’s LaserSpectacular Presents the Music of Pink Floyd “Live” [Green Valley]
www.hendersonlive.com 

Where: Henderson Pavilion, 200 S. Green Valley Parkway
When: 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
How Much: Starts at $15

Experience the music of Pink Floyd performed live by Brody Dolyniuk of Symphonic Rock Show and Yellow Brick Road fame, accompanied by a sonic and visual odyssey of special effects, state-of-the-art laser technology, multimedia, glowing displays and 100,000 watts of precision sound.

#8 |BOO-Ling at Station Casinos [All-Play]
www.stationcasinoslanes.com

Where: Various Station Casino Locations
When: Times Vary
How Much: Prices Vary

Station Casinos’ bowling centers are offering a wide variety of fun indoor Halloween activities for kids, families and adults. Costumes are encouraged, although face paint, masks and weapons (toys included) are not permitted. Visit www.stationcasinoslanes.com for information on a Station Casino near you!

Sunday, October 27

#9 |Las Vegas Zombie Run [All-Play]
www.lasvegaszombierun.com  

Where: Sunset Trails Park, 2601 East Sunset Road
When: 9 a.m.
How Much: 

Walk or run with the undead at the annual Las Vegas Zombie Run! This exhilarating 5k and 1-mile fun run/walk requires runner to use strategy and speed to escape the zombies dispersed throughout the course. During the run, the zombies will attempt to grab flags from participants. Enjoy an after-race party featuring delicious food, drink, entertainment and activities. The race will once again benefit Generation Vegas, an organization committed to making Las Vegas a better place to live for future generations by promoting education, community and leadership.

#10 | Jewish Community Center of Southern Nevada BBQ Cook-Off and Festival [Summerlin]
www.jccbbq.com

Where: Temple Beth Sholom, 10700 Havenwood Ln.   
When: Noon to 4 p.m.
How Much: $10 for kids (under 18) and seniors (over 65) / $15 for adults

The festival is a community wide event featuring a kosher BBQ Cook-Off, Minecraft Tournament, three-on-three basketball tournament, raffle prizes and more than 25 vendors ready to entertain all ages. The event is open to the public.

For those effected by pancreatic cancer city wide:

#11 |PurpleLight Las Vegas
Email: rshanahan@pancanvolunteer.org

Where: The District at Green Valley Ranch
When: 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
How Much: Free

Join people around the country to raise awareness and honor those who have battled pancreatic cancer. Family and friends of those touched by pancreatic cancer come together to gain both comfort and encouragement by illuminating glowsticks as they hear their loved ones’ name read aloud, helping to light the night purple. Last fall, in communities across the country, thousands of people participated in one of over fifty PurpleLight Vigil for Hope events.

Weekend Picks in the Zips – Oct. 18-20

Weekend Picks in the Zips

It’s been a long week! How about getting out this weekend and discovering fun events in your neighborhood? We’ve got your Top 10 events around town this week in our Picks in the Zips.

Friday, October 18

#1 |ArtBeat presented by Target feat. Ruth Moody of the Wailin’ Jennys [Henderson]
www.hendersonlive.com

Where: Henderson Events Plaza, 200 S. Water Street
When: Concert starts at 8 p.m.
How Much: Free

A member of the folk darlings The Wailin’ Jennys, award-winning singer/songwriter Ruth Moody visits Henderson in support of her sophomore solo album, These Wilder Things. Moody’s clear soprano adds a timeless, dreamlike quality to her roots-inspired folk songs.

#2 | Las Vegas Foodie Fest [All Play]
www.lasvegasfoodiefest.com

Where: Silverton Hotel & Casino, 3333 Blue Diamond Road
When: 4 p.m. to Midnight
How Much: $10 (Kids under 54” Free) 

The three-day festival returns with over 30 vendors from across the country, including the popular White Castle, at this food aficionado’s heaven. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Epicurean Charitable Foundation.

Saturday, October 19

#3 |Las Vegas Wranglers Opening Game [All Play]
www.lasvegaswranglers.com

Where: Orleans Arena, 4500 W Tropicana Ave
When: 7:05 p.m.
How Much: Tickets start at $19.75

Support Vegas’ hardest working hockey squad as they battle the Utah Grizzlies for their first game of the season! Call (702) 284-7777 or visit www.orleansarena.com for tickets and info.

#4 |4^th Annual Fall Beer Festival [All Play]
www.goldennugget.com/lasvegas

Where: Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino, 129 Fremont Street
When: 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
How Much: Free Admission to Oktoberfest Pool Party

Beer lovers rejoice while sampling over 125 craft beers and chef-inspired appetizers, listening to live music and mingling with some of America’s hottest award-winning brew masters. Round out the festival with an Oktoberfest pool party. 

#5 |Anthem Highlands Art Walk [Green Valley]
www.vegasartwalk.com

Where: Anthem Highlands Shopping Center, Bicentennial Parkway
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
How Much: Free Admission

Take a stroll through beautiful local art at the second ArtWalk in the Henderson area. In its 16^th year in Nevada, the ArtWalk started in Summerlin and due to its popularity spread to other locations in the valley. Visit www.vegasartwalk.com for more information.  

#6 |Sunglass Optic Studio 7^th Anniversary Italian Party [Summerlin]
www.sunglassopticstudio.com

Where: Sunglass Optic Studio, 10300 W Charleston Blvd #26
When: Noon to 4 p.m.
How Much: Free Admission

Light Hors d’Oeuvres courtesy of due Forni, cookies from Leopolds Bakery and a glass of Prosecco along with amazing 20% off sales of in stock items. A raffle will be held at 4 p.m. and we’re positive someone will walk away with some cool stuff. Go celebrate and support a local business!

#7 |Danny Gans Memorial Champions Run for Life  [All Play]

Where: Town Square Las Vegas, 6605 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
When: 7:30 a.m. run followed by live music and entertainment
How Much: Early registration Oct. 18 (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) at Staples in Town Square

Hosted by Donny Osmond, this charity event will include a 5K run and 1 mile walk, along with live entertainment and lots of family fun. Proceeds benefit the Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation.

#8 |Easter Seals of Nevada Cheers to Chocolate [Summerlin]
www.cheerstochocolate.com

Where: Tivoli Village, 440 S. Rampart Blvd.
When: 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
How Much: $45 at the door

An evening of wine tasting with Total Wine & More, paired with some of the valley’s most decadent chocolate. Earl Turner as well as Frankie Moreno’s headliner Tommy Ward will perform on the main stage, silent auction, Chocolate Diamond ring raffle, and more. Proceeds benefit children and adults in Nevada with disabilities.

Sunday, October 20

#9 |Jason Aldean [All Play]
www.ticketmaster.com 

Where: MGM Grand Arena, 3799 S Las Vegas Blvd
When: 7:30 p.m.
How Much: Tickets start at $31

Get into the mood for next week with a little country twang from Jason Aldean, Jake Owen and Thomas Rhett. This one night only show is sure to put you in a great mood!

#10 |Fight for Air Walk [All-Play]
www.fightforairwalk.org

Where: Floyd Lamb Park, 9200 Tule Springs Road
When: Noon to 3 p.m.
How Much: $10 for individual runner

Presented by Kindred Hospital Las Vegas, American Lung Association (ALA) will hold its annual Fight for Air Walk to raise funds for those who suffer from lung cancer, asthma, COPD and other lung diseases. The event will consist of a 5k beginning at noon and will be followed with a Fall-themed festival complete with food and spirits, craft vendors, and live music by bluegrass band, “Stuck in Review.”