Happy Birthday Luxor!
Happy Birthday Luxor!
The Luxor turned 20 years old today, and as local Southern Nevadans we are happy to celebrate it’s anniversary as one of the most unique and recognizable structures on The Strip (and that’s sayin’ something).
In it’s honor, our three favorite things about The Luxor. Cheers to 20 more!
#1 | The “Light”
Why? Because it never fails us. Looking out at the night sky, it’s a small but comforting beam that sets our city apart from all the rest. Made of not one, but 39 Xenon lamps that last an average 2,000 hours (that’s about 83 days), the Luxor light can be used as a directional guide or a bragging point (“Did you know you can see the Luxor Light from SPACE?”).
#2 | Bodies: The Exhibition
One of only three like it in the country, this exhibit is just so cool. At the same time you experience the squirmy, slightly uncomfortable feeling of walking through a room of preserved corpses, you are also taking in more knowledge about the human body than at all possible from a book. Fact: We should all be aware that human bones are five times stronger than mild steel.
#3 | Giving Back
Ok – it’s a little bigger than just The Luxor, but the MGM Mirage Foundation including The Luxor and its employees give a ton back to the community, and we like that.
Weekend Picks in the Zips – Oct. 11-13
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 11
#1 | J Crimi 4th Annual Wine & Cheese Spectacular [Henderson]
www.jcrimieyewearboutique.com
Where: J Crimi Eyewear Boutique, 10575 S. Eastern Ave.
When: 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
How Much: Free admission
Don’t Miss Out on FREE GIVEAWAYS of Prada, Oakley, Versace, and More! Fall Spectacular Sale up to 50% Off.
#2 |Nashville Unplugged – Featuring Darius Rucker and after party with Clay Mills [Summerlin]
www.redrock.sclv.com
Where: Rocks Lounge at Red Rock Resort, 11011 West Charleston Boulevard
When: Doors open at 7 p.m.
How Much: $5 cover (21 and older)
Call your babysitter and get a little country crooning for date night tonight. You can’t beat only $5 for this cool concert that gets into the depths of originals from some of the best country singer/songwriters in our history.
Saturday, October 12
#3 |Crazy Spokes [Henderson]
www.bikehenderson.org
Where: Mission Hills Park, 551 Mission Hills Drive
When: 7:30 a.m.
How Much: $15 per entry (Family Festival from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. free admission)
Gear up to and join this thirty and sixty mile organized bike ride through portions of the River Mountains Loop Trail, followed by a bike parade and family festival with live entertainment.
#4 |20th Annual Chivalry Renaissance Festival [All-Play]
www.lvrenfair.com
Where: Sunset Park, 2601 E. Sunset Rd.
When: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
How Much: $10 adults/ $5 children and seniors
Relive the days of medieval pageantry with knights in shining armor, costumed lords and ladies, arts and crafts, live entertainment, jousting and an unending parade of fascinating characters.
#5 | Flawless Silhouettes Grand Opening [Henderson]
www.flawlesssilhouettes.com
Where: 8820 Maryland Pkwy. #115
When: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
How Much: Free Admission
Support a new local business with mini massages? We’re in. This grand opening festival is family friendly, featuring body contouring, yoga, healthy smoothies and food, bounce houses, art classes and more.
#6 |Positively Kids Lucky Ducks Duck Pluck 2013 [All Play]
www.positivelykids.org
Where: Town Square
When: Noon – 4 p.m.
How Much: Free Admission
The Foundation for Positively Kids hosts its 14th annual Lucky Duck Family Festival and fundraiser in Town Square Park benefiting medically fragile children. The event will feature entertainment, games, a kid’s zone, food and drinks and the plucking of lucky ducks from the 10,000 ducks swimming in the Town Square pond.
#7 |19th Annual Summerlin Art Festival [Summerlin]
www.summerlinartfestival.com
Where: Summerlin Centre Community Park
When: 10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m
How Much: Free Admission
Talented artists and craftsmen from all over the southwest will feature their paintings, glasswork, jewelry, sculpture, mixed media, chalk art and much more, along with food, drinks, children’s activities and live entertainment.
#8 | Trilogy of Terror [Summerlin]
www.freaklinghaunt.com
Where: 2321 North Rainbow Blvd (AMC Theaters Parking Lot)
When: 7 p.m. – Midnight
How Much: Prices vary ($30 for all-pass)
Freakling Bros. presents this triple shot of terrifying haunted house attractions: Castle Vampyre, Circus of Horrors and the R-rated Gates of Hell
Sunday, October 13
#9 Josh Stevens Day at Crazy Pita [Henderson]
www.joshstevensfoundation.org
Where: The District @ Green Valley Ranch
When: All Day
How Much: Purchase price of a “Kefta” pita
Enjoy some good food and help benefit a good cause as Crazy Pita will donate all sales of its Kefta Pita to the Josh Stevens Foundation, which seeks to promote kind acts in memory of Josh’s’ legacy of kindness.
#10 | Haunted Harvest [All-play]
www.springspreserve.org
Where: Springs Preserve, 333 S. Valley View Blvd.
When: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
How Much: $8 adults/ $5 children
Spooktacular fun awaits at this annual family friendly event featuring a haunted house, trick or treat stations, carnival games, haunted hayrides, live entertainment and more.
5 Ways to Support Breast Cancer Awareness and Honor Survivors in Your Neighborhood This Month
Most likely you’ve been affected one way or another by breast cancer. During October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, here are some ways for you to honor those who have battled the disease and contribute to finding a cure right in your zip code.
#1 |Winder Farms is “Passionately Pink”
www.winderfarms.com
- Where: Online at www.WinderFarms.com
- When: Now through October 31st
Local grocery home delivery company Winder Farms will donate proceeds from all Strawberry Milk sales to the local Susan G. Komen for the Cure® through the month of October. If you’re not a Winder Farms customer, just log on to winderfarms.com and sign up using the promotional “KOMENSN13” and Winder Farms will donate an additional $25 to the charity.
#2 |Hard Rock “Pinktober”
www.hardrocklasvegas.com
- Where: Hard Rock Café (both locations)
- When: Now through October 31st
In celebration of Hard Rock International’s 14th annual PINKTOBER™ campaign, both Hard Rock Cafe locations in Las Vegas will host a series of special events to raise awareness and funds for a cause that affects millions of people around the world. In addition, guests can visit Hard Rock’s Rock Shop throughout the month of October to customize Hard Rock’s classic t-shirt and make it pink for the cause. All events at Hard Rock Cafes in Las Vegas benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure®.
#3 |UNLV “Pink” Games
www.unlvtickets.com
- Where: Sam Boyd Stadium (and various locations)
- When: Saturday, October 12 (and various games throughout the month) at 5 p.m.
The UNLV vs. University of Hawaii Football game will benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure® and breast cancer survivors will be honored during halftime. Other sports evens throughout the month will also benefit the fight against breast cancer.
#4 |Pink in the Park Benefit Concert – Send Me On Vacation
www.sendmeonvacation.org
- Where: Fashion Village at Boca Park
- When: Saturday, October 19
Starring Jack Walker and Rhayne Thomas, this half-day concert with surprise guests from Las Vegas entertainment community will benefit local breast cancer organizations and Send Me On Vacation, a local non-profit that sends cancer patients undergoing treatment on vacation.
#5 |Southern Highlands Pink Tee Golf Tournament
www.southernhighlands.com
- Where: Southern Highlands Golf Course
- When: Monday, October 21st
The Pink Tee is annual ladies only giggle golf and social event established to raise money for local breast cancer organizations in Southern Nevada. Contact Stephanie Karkabi, Social Events Coordinator at 702.220.6565.
BONUS: Cabo Wabo
www.cabowabocantina.com
Cabo Wabo Cantina located inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino will offer pink wristbands and cocktails throughout October in honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, donating a portion of proceeds to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
Weekend Picks in the Zips (10.4 – 10.6)
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 4
#1 |Henderson Symphony Orchestra Concert [Green Valley]
www.hsorch.org
- Where: Henderson Pavilion, 200 South Green Valley Parkway
- When: Concert starts at 8 p.m.
- How Much: Free admission ($10 donation appreciated)
Chill out with some beautiful music under the stars at the Henderson Pavilion. With a $10 donation there’s no better way to spend Friday evening.
#2 |Nashville Unplugged – Featuring Bridgette Tatum & Heather Little [Summerlin]
www.redrock.sclv.com
- Where: Rocks Lounge at Red Rock Resort, 11011 West Charleston Boulevard
- When: Doors open at 7 p.m.
- How Much: $5 cover (21 and older)
Call your babysitter and get a little country crooning for date night tonight. You can’t beat only $5 for this cool concert that gets into the depths of originals from some of the best country singer/songwriters in our history.
Saturday, October 5
#3 |Shakespeare in the Park [Green Valley]
www.hendersonlive.com
- Where: River Mountain Park, 1941 Appaloosa Dr.
- When: Show starts at 7 p.m.
- How Much: Free Admission
“The Comedy of Errors” is on this year’s slate for the popular Shakespeare in the Park series. Pack a picnic dinner and head out for some hilarity and wholesome fun. Kid-friendly.
#4 |Grapes & Hops Festival [All Play]
www.springspreserve.org
- Where: Springs Preserve, 333 South Valley View Boulevard
- When: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
- How Much: $40 advance ticket/ $70 advance pair (Benefits Par for the Cure)
Sample unlimited wine, beer and food from some of the best restaurants in town. As a kickoff to Breast Cancer Awareness Month this event is a great time for the foodie in you.
#5 |Outdoor Picture Show [Green Valley]
www.shopthedistrictgvr.com
- Where: The District at Green Valley Ranch, 2240 Village Walk Drive
- When: Movie starts at 7 p.m.
- How Much: Free Admission
Hotel Translyvania is tonight’s showing at the popular outdoor movie series in Henderson. Popcorn, blanket and box ‘o [insert favorite chewy candy here]…check.
#6 |Tivoli Rocks Fall Concert Series [Summerlin]
www.tivolivillagelv.com
- Where: Tivoli Village, 440 South Rampart
- When: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
- How Much: Free Admission
The Arroyo Cuban Jazz Band headlines this week’s Tivoli Village Fall Concert Series. While you’re dancing away, Madagascar 3 plays at 7:30 p.m. just down the way if the kids are old enough to entertain themselves.
#7 |Southern Nevada Trails Day Celebration [Green Valley]
www.cityofhenderson.com/parks
- Where: Cornerstone Park, 1600 Wigwam Parkway
- When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- How Much: Free Admission
All you need to know about trails, trails and more trails is promised for this family friendly daytime event. Bring your bike for a free checkup by REI and get in some exercise before your cheat dinner.
#8 |Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk [Summerlin]
www.makingstrideswalk.org
- Where: JW Marriot Las Vegas Resort at Summerlin, 221 North Rampart
- When: 8 a.m. to noon
- How Much: Donation
Get a group together for a good cause this Saturday by walking in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk. You can even bring Fido for a $10 fee.
Sunday, October 6
#9 |51st Annual Art in the Park [All Play – Boulder City]
www.artinthepark.org
- Where: Wilbur, Bicentennial and Escalante Parks in Boulder City
- When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- How Much: Free Admission (Proceeds benefit Boulder City Hospital)
Over 100,000 visitors don’t lie. It’s obvious Art in the Park is something special and worth the trip out the Boulder City for a relaxing Sunday of art and culture. The government shutdown has not affected the event.
#10 |Pahrump Valley Winery Grape Stomp [All Play – Pahrump]
www.pahrumpwinery.com
- Where: Pahrump Valley Winery, 3810 Winery Road
- When: 11 a.m. (Stomp starts at noon)
- How Much: Free Admission (Fee to stomp with reservation)
Huge wine sale, wine tasting, food and live music? Sold. Take the hour trip out for this annual event and make it a great Sunday. Kids are allowed.
Looking for more? Check out our Circle the Date events calendar!
Best of the Zips – September
BEST OF THE ZIPS – September
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
- China Tango
1500 N. Green Valley Pkwy. | (702) 293-1166 and 2850 Bicentennial Pkwy | (702) 565-6002
www.chinatangohenderson.com Why You Love It: Great food and a great value.
The Extra Mile: Delivery is super fast, making it the perfect choice for a lazy dinner night.
Car Wash
- 7 Hills Hand Car Wash
2630 Sunridge Heights Pkwy.| (702) 737-9274
www.7hillshandcarwash.com Why You Love It: The service is what keeps you coming through time and again.
Squeaky Clean: Service is one thing, but a clean car is another and you gave them an A+ for detail.
Florist
- Springtime Floral
113 W Lake Mead Pkwy| (702) 938-1088
www.springtimefloral.com Why You Love It: Beautiful arrangements make the recipient as happy as can be.
Over and Above: Not just flowers here! You love the selection of other gifts, too.
Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt
- Nielsen’s Frozen Custard
9595 S. Eastern Ave. #120 | (702) 451-4711
www.nielsensfrozencustard.net Why You Love It: And we quote: “Bumbleberry is the bomb.”
Portion Control: You love the big portions, although you might want to try running there!
Veterinarian
- Oasis Animal Hospital (Dr. Fisher)
10652 S. Eastern Ave. | (702) 616-2747
http://oasisanimalhospital.aahavet.org/ Why You Love Them: From caring to informative, you say Dr. Fisher’s got it all.
Quality Time: You’re not in an assembly line. When it comes to your pet, Dr. Fisher takes the extra time.
Manicurist
- Happy Nails
11251 S Eastern Ave #130| (702) 566-0633 Why You Love It: Good moods and fun techs are the name of the game.
Extra Treat: Spring for the pedicure. It will knock your socks off…if you had any on.
Out ‘N About October 2013
October 2013
Tricks and Treats – Tips for Throwing a Killer Halloween Party
Halloween is that one holiday when it’s ok to go a little nutty, a little scary and be someone (or something) totally different than the every day “you.” That being said, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to get your costume kicks in the comfort of your own home. This year, why not consider throwing a Halloween party? We know to some it might sound a little freaky, but with the right touches, some creative flare and a bit of planning your bash could go down in Halloween history. We put together some tricks and treats to help you organize a Hallows Eve to remember:
- The verdict is in – throwing a Halloween party on the night of Halloween may not be the best idea. Try to shoot for the weekend before and get your invites out as soon as possible to avoid competing parties. (Trick: No time for paper invites? Electronic invites are a great alternative and can help the time-strapped party planner easily manage RSVPs! We think www.evite.com has awesome templates.)
- Pick a theme. From décor to music to food having a theme can make the creative juices flow and help get a party organized. Some of our favorites: Pumpkin Carving Party for the kids, Deadly Disco for a spookier vibe or Vampires and Zombies for the pop culture fanatics. (Trick: Throw in some friendly competition for a little more engagement. Check out www.spookmaster.com for ideas.)
- Now for the treats (our favorite part!), and the grosser the better. There are a slew of ideas for disgusting, revolting and downright scary appetizers that will go perfectly with your wicked bash. Your closest party store should have brain molds and ghost cookie cutters to your heart’s delight, but think outside the box! If all else fails, Pinterest (www.pinterest.com) is a great muse .(Trick: Pretty much any dip can go inside a hollowed pumpkin that you decorate for the occasion.)
Our biggest trick for a rockin’ Halloween party is inviting the right people. Get some friends together that love to have a good time, and all of your efforts are sure to be a hit!
Josh Stevens Celebration Day
In his thirteen years of life, and now in his remembrance as a child taken far too soon in a tragic accident in 2008, Josh Stevens has spread more genuine kindness than most will in their lives. The popular seventh grader, known for his random acts of kindness and laughter would most certainly be proud of the Josh Stevens Foundation started by his family to honor his unique heart, generosity and spirit. Now, five years later the foundation has encouraged kind acts in over 12,000 children, and surely countless more adults, throughout the country and the world with its “Kind Card” campaign and other initiatives to recognize and support genuine kindness in others.
October 13 marks a special celebration of Josh at Crazy Pita in Henderson. Josh’s favorite pita, the “Kefta” will be sold with proceeds benefitting the Josh Stevens Foundation. The annual event has garnered incredible local support and will continue to grow in Josh’s memory. As Josh’s father and creator of the foundation, Drew Stevens says, “Kindness is contagious.” The goodness that has come out of a horrible event is only a testament to this, as our community once again comes together to help our neighbors and a cause greater than our own. Visit www.joshstevensfoundation.org for more information.
El Dictador
- 1 ½ oz. Atlantico Platino Rum
- ¾ oz. Dolin Dry Vermouth
- ¾ oz. Cocchi Americano
- 1 Barspoon Bols Orange Curacao
- ½ Barspoon Bols Pomegranate
Glass: Cocktail Coupe
Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass and stir with ice to chill. Strain the mixture into a chilled 6oz Nick & Nora coupe.
Recipe courtesy of Mixologist Series at RX Boiler Room
Did You Know?
Nevada was admitted into the Union on October 31, 1864, making that day “Nevada Day” every year in the Silver State; however, within the last 20 years the holiday was changed to the last Friday of the month (although heavily debated). This year is a special one in Nevada Day history, as it is the 75th Anniversary of Carson City’s Annual Nevada Day Parade!
The Must Do List
Editor’s Picks
October 5-6
Art in the Park
Boulder City’s Art in the Park draws a crowd that is well over five times the 17,000 population in the charming town just beyond Hoover Dam, and with over 300 extraordinarily talented artists selling original work over the two day festival, we can see why there’s such excitement. In other words, the event is on to something really special. Spanning three parks: Wilbur, Bicentennial and Escalante, the art collector’s dream festival will be just as interesting and fun for the creative “newbie” who’s looking for inspiration. The free festival is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days and will also feature live music, food, activities for kids, raffles and demonstrations. Benefitting Boulder City Hospital, it’s worth the quick trip. Visit www.artinthepark.org for more information.
October 5, 12 & 19
Shakespeare in the Park
A staple in our community, Shakespeare in the Park returns this October with one of the Bard of Avon’s earliest and shortest plays, The Comedy of Errors, about two sets of twins who were accidently separated at birth. Hilarity and mayhem ensue. Sure to bring a little culture, and lots of belly laughs, this is the perfect opportunity to get the family together for something a little out of the ordinary. Complimentary shows start at 7 p.m. on Saturday, October 5 at River Mountain Park; October 12 at Discovery Park and shore side at Lake Las Vegas on October 19. Visit www.hendersonlive.com or call 267-2171 for more information.
October 18-19
Fall Beer Festival
Dust off your lederhosen and have a serious pep talk with your taste buds before embarking on this craft beer adventure. The fourth annual Fall Beer Festival at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino is sure to deliver a great time for the cicerones (that’s beer sommelier) and just plain beer lovers looking to try something new. The two-day festival will start off with an American Craft Beer Tasting. 125 beers, chef-inspired appetizers, live music…all good things. That lederhosen you’ve been holding on to will come in handy on day two at the Oktoberfest Pool Party (free admission). Visit www.goldennugget.com/lasvegas or call (866) 946-5336 for more information.
November 9
Inaugural Stroll ‘n Roll
Based on the rapidly growing Ciclovía Movement, the first ever Henderson Stroll ‘N Roll is an exciting addition to our local fall event buffet. Encouraging the community to get active and engage with one another on the streets by riding bikes, walking and roller skating, there’s only one big rule at the 3-mile long festival: no cars. Families who choose to partake in the motorless fun (free to the public) will have a number of options for activities throughout the day. Three areas including Paseo Verde Park and Discovery Park will serve as “entertainment zones” along the festival that stretches from Valle Verde Drive to the Henderson Multigenerational Center. Bikers and pedestrians can enjoy interactive demonstrations, free fitness classes, live music, children’s activities and food trucks. Visit www.bikehenderson.org or call 267-4000 for more information.
November 16
Sunset Park’d
If you haven’t gotten out to see the new and improved Sunset Park, this inaugural event would be a great chance to do it. A marriage of food trucks (over 30), classic cars, live music and activities for all ages, the free event is a definite on our list to check out. Enjoy the fall weather and colors in one of the most beautiful parks in our city, and get a taste of some fun and eclectic food trucks. While you’re at it, bring a volleyball for an old-fashioned game of bump, set, spike and make a day of it. Visit www.sunsetparkd.com for more information.
Halloween Haunts
It’s that time of the year again when spooky spots for all ages are popping up around town. There is a plethora of terrifying haunted houses around for an all-adults night out, but what about for the kids? We’ve got the bases covered. Check out one (or all) of these not-so-freaky fests and events to give the kids their fill this Halloween season.
Zombie Run
It’s obvious from what we’ve seen on TV that the live human is akin to a delicious French dip sandwich for the constantly starving and animalistic zombie. So when we see one coming after us, we’re gunna run. Due to elaborate costumes, this run could be a little frightening for the tiniest tots, so bring kids 12 or older. Hosted by community organization Generation Vegas on October 27th at Sunset Park Trails, Zombie Run will feature an after party with food and music that is sure to bring you back to life. Visit www.lasvegaszombierun.com for more information.
HallOVeen
The always-popular Magical Forest in Opportunity Village is taking on some new décor this year, with its first ever HallOVeen. Open every weekend in October, this is a kid-friendly spookfest featuring an “Enchanted Carousel,” monster parade and a pumpkin patch. Visit www.opportunityvillage.org for more information.
Town SCARY
If you’re neighborhood is a bit of a dud when it comes to passing out candy, or if the kids just can’t get enough, Town SCARY is calling your name. Don your costume and grab your pillowcases to trick-or-treat from store to store in Town Square on October 31st. Features include a haunted hayride, terrorizing game zone and more. Visit www.mytownsquarelasvegas.com for more information.
Haunted Harvest
Moms, dads and kids can trick or treat, play carnival games, pet animals at the petting zoo and even brave a haunted house at the Springs Preserve Haunted Harvest, weekends in October starting October 12. In addition to getting goodies, kids will also have an opportunity to give back through a candy donation station. In association with Operation Gratitude, all donated candy will go to troops serving overseas. Visit www.springspreserve.org for more information.
Adopt a Duck
We’ve heard of adopting a dog, but why not try adopting a duck or two this October? Don’t worry, you won’t have to dig a lake in your backyard – we’re talking about ducks of the rubber nature – and it’s for a good cause.
Positively Kids of Las Vegas brings its annual Lucky Duck Festival back to Town Square this year, with proceeds benefitting local children who are medically fragile or terminally ill and in need of comprehensive long term care. The 14th annual festival on October 12 offers food, games and entertainment along with the “Lucky Duck Pluck” from a sea of 10,000 rubber ducks bobbing in the Town Square pond. And, of course, cheer along your favorite duck in the annual Derby Duck® Race. Visit www.duckrace.com/lasvegas for more information.
Walking the Walk
If you’re going to exercise, why not make it count for more than just calories? With cooler weather right around the corner, there are some awesome charity walks and runs that will leave you feeling good in more ways than one.
Danny Gans Memorial Champions Run for Life – October 19
Benefitting the Childhood Cancer Foundation, this annual 5K run and 1-mile walk is inspiring and will leave you and your family feeling remarkable as you cross the finish line. Hosted by Donny Osmond, the race also includes the touching Champions Run for Life where you can cheer on children with life-threatening illnesses as they run, walk or wheel across the finish line for a special medal. Visit www.active.com to register or call 735-8434 for more information.
The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s – October 26
Alzheimer’s effects more than five million people in the United States, and many more families and loved ones who are caring for those living with the disease. The annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s raises money for The Alzheimer’s Association and brings the community together around a cause that has most certainly touched every person at some point in time. Starting at the Fashion Show Mall, the 2-mile run/walk asks for personal donations. Visit act.alz.org or call 248-2770 for more information.
FARE Walk – November 2
Raise awareness and join the fight against life threatening food allergies at this annual 1.5-mile walk starting from The District at Green Valley Ranch in Henderson. Thousands of locals gather each year for the walk that raises money for Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE), a non-profit organization dedicated to providing inclusion and safety to nearly 15 million Americans suffering from potentially life-threatening food allergies. Visit www.foodallergywalk.org for more information.
Looking for more runs? Check out websites like www.active.com or www.runningintheusa.com for comprehensive list!
Making A Difference: Yellow Checker Star
Members of the police and fire department as well as first responders put themselves in danger on a regular basis to protect and serve their fellow citizens. Some brave men and women are even tragically killed in the line of duty, never hesitating to provide service despite the most dangerous conditions. On July 22, Metro Police Officer David Vanbuskirk made the ultimate sacrifice while performing a search and rescue mission to retrieve a missing hiker in Mount Charleston. A local taxi service sought to help the family of the officer and honor others who have left behind loved ones in the name of a greater cause.
Yellow Checker Star (YCS) recently announced it would donate $5,000 to the widow of fallen Officer Vanbuskirk. As part of an industry that frequents the streets and roads of the city, YCS drivers and employees felt an obligation to venerate the officer and all those who strive to keep those same avenues safe for locals and visitors alike. “We see the work that Metro police officers perform day after day,” said YCS Director Jonathan Schwartz. “Metro officers keep our communities and our streets safe. Yellow Checker Star wants to recognize and honor Vanbuskirk’s sacrifice, along with the efforts of all Metro officers.”
YCS donated through a non-profit organization, Injured Police Officers Fund, whose goal is to reduce the financial burden suffered by police officers and their families in the event of a line of duty injury or death. Others who desire to help the Vanbuskirk family can do so by visiting www.injuredpoliceofficers.com.
Making A Difference: Rio Spa and Salon Annual Cut-a-Thon for Locks of Love
Surviving the normal trials and tribulations of childhood is hard enough, but dealing with every day pressures while also managing an illness that causes complete hair loss can be almost too much to bear. Locks of Love, a national non-profit organization that collects donated hair to create custom high-end hairpieces, seeks to add hope and confidence into the lives of those children suffering from hair loss. A local spa, touched by the mission, went above and beyond to collect hair for this worthy cause.
The Rio Spa & Salon in August collected over 50 ponytails at its Fourth Annual Cut-A-Thon to benefit Locks of Love. Smiling and visibly excited to donate their luscious locks, more than 20 guests young and old turned up for the event. As if this beautiful display of generosity wasn’t enough an additional donor, heartened by the contribution of the other participants, was moved to visit the salon the next day, donating 29 inches of hair. The majority of recipients of the donated hair are children suffering from cancer in addition to other disorders, the most common being alopecia areata, which has no known cause or cure.
“The annual Locks of Love cut-a-thon is our team’s favorite day of the year,” said Sparkle Drebert, Rio Spa & Salon manager. “It’s amazing to see all the participants donating their hair to such a great cause as well as to watch how excited they are about their new looks.” For more information on Locks of Love, visit www.locksoflove.org.
Making a Difference – Citibank and United Way of Southern Nevada
We tend to think of health in terms of nutrition, exercising and general physical wellness. United Way of Southern Nevada thinks of health in terms of community, and places a much broader definition on what makes our community a “healthy” one. The building blocks of United Way’s quest for communal health? Solid educational foundation, financial stability and healthy lives.
Most recently, Citibank contributed to the bold mission of United Way by presenting United Way of Southern Nevada President and CEO Cass Palmer a $60,000 check to assist local families in their quests for financial security. These funds were earmarked to forward the wellbeing of the local community through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Las Vegas Healthy Communities Coalition (LVHCC) initiatives, projects spearheaded by United Way. The newest of the two programs, LVHCC, focuses on the most vulnerable children and families in our neighborhoods and is based on a model that calls for cross-community participation rather than individual efforts to achieve maximum results. With a goal to provide services to children from infancy through to adulthood, ultimately leading to future jobs and by default a healthier local economy, LVHCC holds a panorama of resources to aid the community.
“Citi values our partnership with the United Way and has been a long-time supporter of their initiatives to strengthen our community,” said a Citibank representative. “We are especially proud to be funding programs that ensure financial stability such as the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program that helps low to moderate income families save money and plan for their future.” For more information on United Way of Southern Nevada visit www.uwsn.org.
Making a Difference – Project 150 Adds New Inspiration
As anyone with a teenager can confirm, it’s much easier to get kids to listen and talk to kids their own age rather than…well…you (or any other adult for that matter). This reality is what Project 150, a local program dedicated to offering supportive services, encouragement and guidance to homeless high school students throughout Clark County, is banking on with the addition of its newest spokesperson, Kayli Barker.
Fifteen-year-old Kayli isn’t your ordinary teen. In fact, as a licensed NASCAR driver and racecar driver from the age of 8, she’s far from it. In August, at 15 years and 24-days-old she set a new NASCAR record, becoming the youngest woman ever to win a NASCAR Whelen All-American series feature race. In addition to making dreams come true on the racetrack, Kayli understands the importance of education, maintaining straight A’s and never missing classes. Most importantly, Kayli realizes that we all need help to succeed in the face of adversity. “Project 150 means a lot to me,” Kayli said. “I can see the help that they’re giving these teens, just to make the next day go a little bit smoother and to help them graduate.”
With a mission to support over 6,300 homeless youth in our area to graduate high school in the midst of severe personal struggles, Kayli could be just what Project 150 needs to resonate with a group that may feel hopeless or alone. For more information about Project 150 visit www.Project150.org.
