Jeff Silver
By Callie Thomas
Just as there are two sides to every coin, there are two sides to the story between organized crime and law enforcement. You can take a look at both sides for yourself in downtown Las Vegas at the new National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement, better known as the Mob Museum, where 89052 resident Jeff Silver currently holds the position of Treasurer on the Executive Committee. During the 1970s, Silver found himself smack in the middle of the mob wars being raged to disengage their ownership and influence in Vegas casinos. The 56 year Las Vegas resident became involved in the Mob Museum project at the urging of former Mayor Oscar Goodman and Ellen Knowlton because of his experiences and firsthand knowledge. Once a prosecutor in the Clark County District Attorney’s Office, Silver was appointed to the Nevada Gaming Control Board by former Governor Mike O’Callaghan, and at just twenty nine years of age, he was given the file on the gaming license application of Frank “Lefty” Rosenthal. Back then, Silver was part of the first steps taken to eradicate the Mafia from Vegas casinos, and he soon found his own life was on the line because of his efforts.
It’s been seventeen years since the highly acclaimed glamorization of the Vegas mob scene centered around Lefty Rosenthal was put on film in the movie Casino, but the memories of the mob man remain at the new museum, along with historical accounts of Al Capone, James “Whitey” Bulger, Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel, John Gotti and more. The telling twist of the museum is that it also includes the story of the law men that risked everything to bring these criminals to justice, including Eliot Ness, Joe Petrosino, Estes Kefauver and others. Jeff Silver talked with us about the public fascination with the mob, the museum, his own past in the gaming industry and how he supports the community today.
Working on the museum project must have brought up a lot of memories. What interested you most about being involved?
“I never thought organized crime should be romanticized or glorified, but the universal fascination of the mob is undeniable. Some of Las Vegas’ organized crime associates were also responsible and contributing members of society and blended into the community by getting involved in local causes. While what they did was distasteful, a few used their power and influence to build needed infrastructure for a growing community. It is the contrast of violence and volunteerism that make such a compelling story.”
So the museum tells the complete story with theater presentations, artifacts and interactive environments?
“The museum is a book that you can walk through. It is a story of a culture in our country that I think needs to be told.”
You’ve seen Henderson grow into a fabulous place to live. How has it changed since you were a kid?
‘In the 1960s, Henderson was separated from Las Vegas by ten miles of vacant desert. It was populated primarily by plant workers and their families and was strictly an industrial town with little other commerce. Now, Henderson is the second largest city in Nevada and in a recent poll was also rated as the second safest city in the country. Its parks and schools are the envy of the valley and it is truly a place to call home. I know I do.’
You also stay active in charitable organizations within the community.
“I’ve worked with the National Conference of Christians and Jews for religious and racial equality, VP of Explorer Scouts and the McCool Science Center Foundation. I was also the Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and Treasurer at the LVCVA.”
What are you most passionate about today?
“Seeing Las Vegas regain its mojo!”
Leslie Strasser Murdock
By Callie Thomas
While the spirit is willing, 89012 resident Leslie Strasser Murdock has to remind herself that she cannot always do it all, but she can still make a difference. This natural go-getter is enthusiastic about her work, family and making sure that the needs of foster children with disabilities are represented daily on everything from special education to other school related issues. Murdock has always been an active voice for her passions – teaching, children and making sure people are informed of their rights. She’s found a perfect fit for her enthusiasm with her role as a Special Education Advocate and Coordinator of the Educational Surrogate Parent Program with the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada.
Murdock has a great deal of expertise in this area, having worked as the Coordinator of the Kids’ Court School at UNLV and as a special education teacher in New York City and Seattle. She moved to Las Vegas to pursue her Juris Doctor in Law and a PhD in Educational Psychology to work in the field of Special Education and Child Advocacy Law at UNLV, which houses one of the only joint PhD/JD programs in the country. As an Advocate and Coordinator of the Educational Surrogate Parent Program, she helps train community members to become advocates for foster children with disabilities in local schools. As a wife and mother of daughters Ella and Lila, Murdock understands the hopes and dreams of other parents and wants to ensure that she lives her life as an example to her children. Murdock spoke with us about her work with child advocacy and other charitable organizations and about what being a part of the Las Vegas community has meant to this New York transplant.
What do you enjoy most about your work at the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada and the Educational Surrogate Parent Program?
“I’m lucky to work at the Center as the work we do that gives people access to justice they might not have otherwise. I get to use both my advocacy and teaching skills to ensure that foster children with disabilities have their special education needs met by their schools. I am so fortunate to support and work with more than 80 volunteers who dedicate a great deal of time to their advocacy children.”
What’s a day in the life like at the Center?
“I spend a lot of time attending school-based meetings for parents and with my volunteers advocating for their children. I think it takes a team based approach to working with the kids. Having the necessary educational and emotional support in their school and home lives can make all the difference in the world.”
Even with your busy schedule, you also find time to be involved in the Jewish Community Center.
“Yes, I am on the Board of Directors and excited that we now have a JCC location open right in this zip code. As a Jew, I want my children to grow up in the community and revel in the Jewish religion and culture like I did when I was growing up.”
Seven years ago, when you first came to Las Vegas, did you find it hard to acclimate to the Vegas life?
“As soon as I arrived, there were so many incredible local people that made it easy to get involved in the community. Moving from New York, where it is hard to get involved due to the sheer numbers of people and well established institutions, I was surprised how people were open to meeting others here.”
Tell us something you think others in the community would be surprised to know about you.
“Believe it or not, I have never seen a Godfather or Raiders of the Lost Ark movie. I just recently saw my first James Bond film. Apparently, I have lived a sheltered life!”
Todd-Avery Lenahan
By Callie Thomas
There are two very distinct philosophies when it comes to life. Some believe their destiny is a foregone conclusion, that no matter which road one chooses it will ultimately lead to a predetermined fate. Others believe that we are the architects of our lives and that each of us designs our own distinct destiny. Resident Todd-Avery Lenahan is a firm believer in the latter, and he’s done quite an amazing job using his creativity and know how to not only create his own happiness but to inspire the lives of others through his innate design skills, passion for learning and generous spirit.
One might say that Todd-Avery was “destined” to be an architectural designer, given that his mother was a designer and his grandfather was a mechanical engineer, but nothing is a fait accompli in Lenahan’s world. While his interest in the field may have been influenced by other factors, his decision to make it his life’s passion was purely his own. As Principal of ABA Design Studio, Lenahan has made an impression and impact on Las Vegas through his works for Wynn Las Vegas and Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group USA. The extent of his expertise and projects around the globe are nothing short of awe-inspiring. The only thing that could possibly top his passion for design is his interest in academics and sharing his knowledge with the youth of our community. As an appointee to the UNLV Foundation, Lenahan motivates students as an adjunct professor at the UNLV School of Architecture and serves on its Dean’s Advisory Board. He has also recently been added to the board of directors for Communities in Schools (CIS), a non-profit local affiliate of the nation’s leading dropout prevention organizations.
Why did you choose to support the Communities in Schools organization?
“CIS is fighting Nevada’s epidemic of having the worst graduation rate in America. Our mission is to surround students with a community of support that empowers them to succeed in schools and achieve in life.”
In other words, you’re giving them the tools to become the masters of their own lives that they wouldn’t have been afforded by dropping out?
“Right. Our state and city are facing a student crisis that impacts the quality of life for not only each student but for everyone in the community. The impact of CIS’s accomplishments is profound.”
CIS programs are supporting nearly 25,000 students over 29 school sites in Southern Nevada and Northeastern Nevada by connecting them with critical services and counseling. That’s a pretty impressive means of giving back to the community.
“Giving back on any level is important in making a place a little bit better than it was when we arrived. We must support any efforts towards improving the quality of life and sense of place, even if the result of our contribution isn’t anything that will be realized in our lifetime. It has to be done with hope, optimism and a view to the future.”
You’re also leaving quite a mark for the future through your design works.
“I suppose I’m proud of creating environments that excite the mind, provoke thought, create memories and elevate the human condition through sensory pleasure. Design is a powerful means of positively affecting people all over the world, and I’m proud and exhilarated to be able to do so every day.”
What do you think moves you every day?
“Beauty in any form and my family and friends.”
You travel a great deal for your work. Is it hard to stay connected to friends and family?
“I’m single and I have amazing family and friends that want to ensure that I won’t be single forever. I’m fortunate to meet incredible people wherever I go and enjoy each new unanticipated introduction. Whichever city I’m in, I’ll always be with friends. The more the better.”
Susie Lee
By Callie Thomas
We could all use a little help every now and again, but there are times when it only takes a singular action to get the ball rolling in the right direction. How often has someone said, “If you want something done right, do it yourself.” Resident Susie Lee draws inspiration from this phrase, taking to heart those same powerful words of wisdom she once heard from her mother. Lee’s passion for finding new ways to improve the Las Vegas and Nevada communities could be the result of having the courage to take matters into her own hands and inspire others to make a difference.
As one of eight children growing up in a single income family in Ohio, Susie Lee was often the recipient of a helping hand from educators and those that would become her mentors. These experiences spurred a desire to “pay it forward” by offering her support to others in need. This 19-year resident immersed herself in the community and first utilized her skills as a research director for a gubernatorial campaign, where she drafted several proposals that are now state policy. She was also the founding Executive Director of Mobilized Assistance and Shelter for the Homeless (MASH) Crisis Intervention Unit, which provides multiple services for homeless clients all under one roof.
Lee’s lengthy list of community support includes becoming the founding director and a 10 year board member of the Inner City Games (now the After School All Stars program), which provides more than 5,000 kids with after school activities and educational programs. In addition, she serves as President Emeritus of the Nevada Women’s Philanthropy (NWP), which awards grants to several nonprofits within the community, and she has also been named board president of Communities in Schools of Nevada. Lee took some time out to share her insight into the organization, herself and her life in the city.
Communities in Schools of Nevada is a new undertaking for you?
“Yes, our organization helps to build awareness and develop strategies to address the dropout epidemic in Nevada. CIS works within the public school system and determines student needs and establishes relationships with local businesses, social service organizations, health care providers and parents as well as volunteers.”
News reports have indicated Nevada as having the highest dropout rate in the nation.
“The numbers have been staggering; 133 students drop out each school day and only 43% of Nevada’s high school students graduate, which is why I’m so committed to doing what I can through Communities in Schools.”
You created CIS’s First Annual Scarecrow Festival fundraiser. What can you tell us about the event?
“Our inaugural event was incredibly successful thanks to the generosity of sponsors and our volunteers. We raised over $220,000 for our most at risk students. It’s a night of food and family fun. We just held our second annual event this past fall.”
What experiences with these organizations inspire you?
“As the Executive Director for the Inner City Games, I accompanied two Youth Ambassadors to the Olympics in Atlanta. My husband and I took an interest in helping an extraordinary young woman named Sue Owens from the group, who showed incredible drive and commitment. Fifteen years later, I was at a support event at Wendell Williams School and recognized one of the young teachers – it was Sue. I was so proud of her accomplishment.”
Tell us something you don’t think others in the community know about you.
“I was a synchronized swimmer as a youngster.”
With all that you do, what keeps you sane?
“My family. My husband Dan and our kids Nevada and Cody and our dogs Lizzie and Scooter. I think the key is focus and hard work and the ability to laugh – at myself primarily.”
Joe Tasby
By Callie Thomas
Starting over is never easy, but that’s exactly what 89117 resident Joe Tasby has done several times. Not that he’s complaining. Instead, Joe has embraced new opportunities to thrive and make a difference each and every day. After retiring from the military, he moved into another career working for the post office, but soon shifted to a career as a graphic designer and provided his artistic skills to clients for 20 years… until another change took place. Joe began to lose his eyesight. He decided to get involved with community service work in his hometown of San Francisco, but yet another lifestyle change would bring him to Las Vegas, not only to help his children start a new life but to continue assisting people throughout the community. For the past 12 years, that’s exactly what Joe has done, helping veterans and others who are vision impaired through the American Legion, Blind Veterans Association and Center for the Blind. But when his own sight deteriorated to the point he was pronounced legally blind, Tasby turned to another source of inspiration and assistance—Easter Seals Nevada.
Since 1950, Easter Seals Nevada has been advocating for and working with infants, children, youth and adults who have disabilities and face other challenges. It is one of Nevada’s largest community disability agencies, serving nearly 6,000 people and their families each year. An associated resource of the Veterans Association, the organization provides technology assistance by teaching computer skills such as how to correspond with family as well as important life skills such as paying bills and researching information. With his sight failing, Joe found the assistance he needed to utilize the computer so he could continue to help others with disabilities.
Would you say that Easter Seals has given you another opportunity to start over?
“Easter Seals has been invaluable to me. When my ability to do graphic design ended, I felt like, wow, it’s over. There’s nothing else I can do. LaaRee Drawantz and Paul Rice from the Veterans Administration showed me that I could do it and I’ve learned that I can through computer programs like Magic.”
Learning new computer skills was like Magic?
“Yes, actually, it is a program that helps to magnify verbiage as well as read verbiage to you. I was once again able to input information and assist charitable organizations including Easter Seals in ways that I never thought I could. I am able to assist with newsletters, bulletins and fliers to the groups.”
You’re assisting Easter Seals Nevada with their biggest fundraiser, Walk with Me.
“This is the first year I will be participating in the event and will be an Honorary Ambassador and paired up with another participant. It’s a two mile walk on April 7th at W. Wayne Bunker Family Park (visit www.walkwithme.org/lasvegas for info). Proceeds from the event benefit Easter Seals Nevada and will help them continue to provide services to Nevadans with disabilities. If I can show encouragement to others that are blind by walking, I will. It’s the first year for me but definitely not my last! I hope to do much more in the future!”
As a retired military man, you have also reached out to other vets in the area.
“I chose to work with Veterans American Legion because it is about veterans helping veterans. There are so many vets that are homeless and needing help. Working with the Blind Veterans Association has been invigorating and encouraging to me. If they can do it, I can do it!”
Your children and grandchildren must be proud of your efforts.
“They mean the world to me, my son and daughter, and I have three grandchildren.”
It is easy to see that giving back is very important to you.
“So many people are out there that need help and don’t know where to get it. They feel isolated and deserted. If I can give them even a little encouragement, I do!”
Dr. Paul Wilkes
By Callie Thomas
Having a baby is one of the most precious, joyful experiences in a woman’s life. Having a doctor that provides support, encouragement and a sense of humor throughout the process is indispensible. If he was a character on the popular medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, they’d probably call 89144 resident Dr. Paul Wilkes “Doctor McCheery,” given his ability to put new moms at ease the instant he walks into the room. It’s an innate ability for Wilkes, who’s been hooked on obstetrics from the moment he delivered his first baby.
The nearly native Las Vegan practices maternal-fetal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology at Desert Perinatal Associates. He’s also a published physician, having authored several papers on perinatal topics in esteemed medical journals. His awe of the daily miracles of life and profound respect for motherhood and childcare has driven the good doctor to extend his expertise throughout the community. In addition to caring for patients within his practice, Dr. Wilkes donates medical care, time and money to charities that help the most vulnerable members of our community.
The list of organizations and contributions includes sitting on the board for the Pat Kelley Youth Foundation, which encourages underprivileged youth to pursue an education, gain self-confidence through sports and participate in after-school activities. Jump for Joy, another of the doctor’s favorite charities, is an effort to fight childhood obesity by motivating and educating children to take control of their health. Wilkes is also a board member and oversees a program to provide free fitness camps for local youths, an ideal position for such an avid participant in sports activities. He also donates funds to provide necessary items for Family and Children Treatment of Southern Nevada. But the organization that has most captured the heart and spirit of Dr. Wilkes is Safe Nest, which provides emergency shelter for abused women.
We hear that you’ve been called “an angel without wings” by the recreation coordinator at Safe Nest for your efforts at the center.
“Wow, not sure I’m an angel, but I have been able to connect with the women and children from Safe Nest and show them that there are good men in the world that want nothing from them except for them to be safe and happy and whole. It means a lot to both me and the entire staff at Desert Perinatal Associates.”
You have a unique way of greeting your patients and putting them at ease on their initial visit. Care to share?
“Well, it’s an ice breaker. I usually say ‘Hi, I’m Dr. Wilkes. Thank you for letting me have your baby.’ By the time the women leave, they’re smiling and laughing.”
You are really passionate about your work. Would you say you love your job?
“I am way too lazy to have a ‘job.’ I love what I do, and even with the long hours and emotional demands, I wouldn’t trade my life for anybody else’s. I’m passionate about pretty much everything I do. If I am not passionate about it, I stop doing it.”
You have firsthand knowledge about raising and caring for children outside of your practice. You’re a dad of three?
“Yes, I share three amazing kids – Katie, Ryan and Charlotte – with my ex-wife Megan, who is still the most amazing thing that has happened to me, and she makes me laugh every day. They know that I love them unconditionally, and all I want is for them to be happy.”
Giving back and being an influence for your children is a big deal to you.
“I’ve been a resident for over 40 years and still have friends here from kindergarten. Giving back to a community that has given so much to my family and me is an honor.”
Annie Lindsay
By Callie Thomas
It’s been a month since you made your New Year’s resolution to finally get down to that dress or pant size you’ve always dreamed about. Fitness experts say that you should focus on your goal and “visualize” what you want to achieve. But one expert, 89123 resident and exercise psychologist Annie Lindsay, advises it’s not the result you should concentrate on but the changes in behavior you need to reach your goals.
Through the University of Nevada-Reno Cooperative Extension, which puts university research into action in our homes, workplaces and community, Annie Lindsay helps many in Southern Nevada stay health conscious. Her work involves developing education and applied research programs in physical activity and exercise science to curb obesity and other health related issues. With a focus on youth and hard-to-reach adults, she targets childhood obesity prevention in preschool-aged children, residents in rural areas and young women and mothers who are in substance abuse treatment and correctional programs. For the past 30 years, she’s published research and educational material to promote jobsite health and has worked with firefighters, security forces, prisons, mental health agencies and court-ordered drug treatment facilities.
Lindsay practices what she preaches and stays active by competing in surfing, wakeboarding, triathlons and soccer matches. She also makes time to assist local charitable organizations, and there are two that she is especially passionate about: ChickBand Ministries, Inc. (for which she serves as president) and the Alzheimer’s Association. Annie gave us a few insights on these special organizations that help make her heart healthy.
What is ChickBand Ministries and how did it get started?
“It’s a faith-based, non-profit group that provides musical entertainment and outreach efforts to inspire and encourage women in need. The band is made up of all female musicians and ministers to women suffering from abuse and addiction to help them bring restoration back to their lives.”
As a band member, do you sing or play an instrument?
“I love writing music and I play guitar in the band.”
What do you enjoy most about being in ChickBand?
“Offering a welcome distraction to incarcerated moms on Mother’s Day, who recognize their shortcomings and failures while hoping to hear ‘Happy Mother’s Day’ when making that collect call home. Or drinking hot cider and singing Christmas carols while taking first family portraits with moms living in treatment centers with their children.”
Have you ever recorded any of your performances?
“I’ve written and recorded two albums with the ChickBand which are on iTunes as well as the All 4 Kids© CD/DVD.”
It must be exciting to see the impact of your efforts on so many people.
“I think when you combine mercy and compassion with tenacity and perseverance, you get success.”
You’ve also persevered in helping to promote brain health for the Alzheimer’s Association. It’s a very personal experience for you. Would you share?
“My father was a brilliant Air Force officer who built rockets to put America into space and directed more than a dozen Space Shuttle missions. Today, the only thing he can recall about the military is that his father served in World War I. He doesn’t know he was in uniform for 34 years, that his son is an officer, that he’s still married to his high school sweetheart of 54 years and he doesn’t know my name. Every day is one more new challenge and one more long goodbye.”
You continue to help others in so many ways. What accomplishments are you most proud of?
“I would say the data I collected for publication of the national YMCA Adult Fitness Standards; the University of Nevada’s All 4 Kids© evidence-based, preschool healthy lifestyle program that I co-authored; my published research and Healthy Steps to Freedom, which promotes the importance of body image and health education for women in substance abuse programs.”
If you weren’t in your present career, what other job would you like to do?
“Go on tour with Keith Urban, play guitar and sing back up!”
Rick Stater
By Callie Thomas
Perseverance and a buckle-down, never-give-up attitude are alive and well in 89074 resident Rick Stater, who not only strives to dedicate himself to his own profession, but also applies that same resolve to his work with local school children and the wounded warriors in our community.
Stater served in the military during Vietnam, where he became a chemical engineer and honed his skills in science, math and chemistry. His drive to succeed was encouraged not only in the armed forces, but also through his Midwestern upbringing, where parents and siblings stressed the value of good education and the importance of overcoming obstacles rather than letting them get the best of you. Stater seeks to instill that same strength in his team as Henderson Plant Manager of Tronox LLC, which produces electrolytic chemicals and high strength boron fibers used to create products such as alkaline batteries, sporting equipment and aircraft parts, along with other chemicals used in the pharmaceutical and semiconductor industries
Rick makes every effort to stay involved in the community, both in his personal and professional lives. His support of underprivileged schools includes programs such as a robotics club, student mentoring, the Boys and Girls Club and several children’s athletic teams, not to mention his committed work with the Juvenile Diabetes organization. And if that doesn’t keep him busy enough, Rick also takes time out to lend a hand to his fellow veterans in the area. Stater feels that success in his work and the success of the community both depend on strong volunteer efforts. He took time out to talk with us about some of those endeavors and experiences.
What was your catalyst to become involved in charitable organizations within the community?
“My involvement in Leadership Henderson, where participants learn through interactive experiences such as simulations and panel discussions with experts and established community leaders, emphasizing personal responsibility, commitment, vision and leadership. That experience influenced me to do more than just donate. I first started by helping to create a Student Mentor Program for C.T. Sewell Elementary School because of my interest in education and emphasis on learning at a young age.”
What makes the Robotics Club at Robert L. Taylor Elementary School so special?
“They learn math, science and engineering by exploring and building robots as well as having some fun. Through Tronox LLC, we’ve made contributions to the school for the last three years to fund its robotics club, a program volunteer-run by the school”s former science teacher. In the program, children begin to understand mechanical engineering, software development, electronics concepts and robotics principles. Students learn that a large part of science is figuring out what doesn’t work. They learn that it’s part of the process and not to give up. ”
How have you assisted other kids in the community?
“We’ve provided equipment to the McCaw School of Mines, which was set up to help educate children in Nevada about mining and issues surrounding abandoned mine entrances. We also donate to the Boys and Girls Club and sponsor several little league and high school sports programs as well as semi-pro football leagues that several of our employees have been involved in.”
You’ve also made an effort to support other servicemen and women in the community. Tell us about “One Hero at a Time.”
“Tronox LLC has been involved in the program, which is put on by Motorcycle Trike Toys and helps wounded warriors who live in the community. We have been a proud sponsor for the past few years and have helped construct stages and structures needed to hold the event. Each year, one wounded warrior is chosen. Being a veteran myself, it is always an impactful, memorable experience and I personally enjoy being involved.”
What would you say are your proudest achievements?
“I’m most proud of my children and their successes as individuals. I’m proud of my diverse background, both my military and engineering experience. The military provided me with leadership opportunities at an early age and I enjoy taking the lead and being involved in all the charity events.”
Rissa Gunderson
By Callie Thomas
“Once upon a time…” Those words are heard around the globe every night as bedtime stories unfold and weave a tale of fantasy, romance and a gorgeous wedding that leads to “happily ever after.” As an owner of Scheme Events, one of the hottest new wedding and event planning companies in Las Vegas, you might say that makes 89052 resident Rissa Gunderson a fairy godmother of sorts. Even the story of opening Scheme Events seems like a fairy tale. After graduating from UNLV in Meeting and Event Management, Rissa attended the International School of Hospitality, where she earned a certificate in Wedding Coordination and Design. It was there that she met three other ladies: Jacqueline Emamzadeh, Tara Cox and Traci McMaster. These talented women combined their collective skills to devise Scheme Events, whose claim to fame is matching a wedding couple’s personality and style to their event.
But beyond the typical happy endings, there are those couples who struggle with everyday life, let alone being able to plan the perfect wedding. Rissa’s skills for granting wishes are put to the test in other ways through her role with a non-profit organization called Wish Upon a Wedding Las Vegas, the world’s first non-profit dedicated to making wedding dreams come true for couples facing terminal illness or other life altering circumstances. The group reaches out to vendors who donate goods, resources and services to help these special couples forget their troubles for one day and celebrate their union with family and friends. As the Public Relations Chair for the Las Vegas chapter, Rissa gave us a little more insight into Wish Upon a Wedding and talked about the many other ways she’s touched the lives of people in our community.
The Las Vegas chapter of Wish Upon A Wedding is fairly new. How many weddings has the organization granted so far?
“So far, we’ve granted two wedding wishes and are in the process of granting our third wish. Our first couple, Nick and Robin, have cerebral palsy, so special needs had to be addressed such as easy wheelchair access at the ceremony and the reception, along with specialized transportation. It was a learning experience for both the couple and Wish Upon A Wedding.”
It has to make an impact on you, knowing that you’ve helped to create an unforgettable memory for these couples by helping them tie the knot.
“It’s been wonderful to be part of the weddings and touch the lives of these couples, their family and friends. They are so appreciative of the local vendors who provide the goods and services to create their weddings. I have learned much about prioritizing, gratitude and humility through my work with the organization.”
You assist residents in our community in other ways, too. Are there a few you’d care to share?
“I’ve been involved with Special Olympics and Best Buddies, which assists handicapped children. I’m extremely supportive of the armed forces with two brothers and numerous relatives serving in the military. I help contribute to various sources, sending provisions to soldiers and their families. My business partners and I are looking to spend time as camp counselors during the summer for children affected by cancer, and I’m also active in my religious community.”
Of your many accomplishments, what are you most proud of?
“I’d have to say first with graduating Magna Cum Laude from UNLV, opening my own business and being named Most Inspirational Member of the National Association of Catering Executives in 2010.”
If we bumped into you over the weekend, where might we find you?
“My husband and I live close to the Paseo Verde Library/Multigen Center/Henderson Pavilion and we attend concerts, festivals and farmers markets. When I get a little down time, I love interior design, traveling, reading, spending time on the lake and just being with my family!”
Julie Downs & Francine Sanchez
By Callie Thomas
“Soul Sisters” comes to mind when describing the friendship of 89012 residents Julie Downs and Francine Sanchez. While they are not blood relatives, they have found an uncanny number of similarities in their lives that have bonded them together to help children in our community.
Both ladies were born and raised in New Jersey, moved to Las Vegas in the early nineties, were students at UNLV and ended up in the same sorority pledge class. That’s a good start, but the connections persisted. They live one street away from each other in the same community and had their daughters almost exactly one month apart. Both Julie and Francine landed in the pharmaceutical industry, working for competing companies selling cardiac drugs. Sadly, the coincidences didn’t end there but continued as Julie’s daughter Miah and Francine’s daughter Soleil both became heart patients of the Children’s Heart Center of Nevada.
As a result, Julie and Francine became board members of the Children’s Heart Foundation, whose mission is to improve the care and quality of life for children in Nevada that are born with or develop heart problems. The board includes a unique and passionate group of parents who have gained firsthand knowledge of the emotional and financial toll exacted by a child’s heart conditions. The dynamic duo of Julie and Francine founded Operation HeartReach to fund the “Backpack Program,” an outreach effort to aid families in the hospital as well as Pediatric Heart Research. Both agree that they didn’t choose this charity – it chose them. The two were eager to talk with us about their families, their zest for life in the face of difficulty and their passion for moving mountains even when challenges are placed squarely in front of them.
The launch of Operation HeartReach began with an exciting silent auction affair. What were some of the unique offerings?
Sanchez: “Some of the auction items included Judith Ripka canary Eclipse earrings (featured on Oprah’s Favorite Things), a Los Angeles package that includes a ‘Dancing with the Stars’ experience featuring brothers Maksim and Valentin Chmerkovskiy and a New York City experience offering the winner’s choice of tickets to many of Manhattan”s premier TV show tapings. Proceeds from the event went to funding for congenital heart disease research in Nevada, and a portion of the funds helped launch the Family Backpacks program, which provides fully loaded backpacks with essential items for families who have a heart-afflicted child in the hospital.”
What other events have you participated in to raise funds for the Children’s Heart Foundation?
Downs: “Both our families have participated in Walk with the Heart of a Child by honoring Team Soleil (Francine’s daughter) and helped raise over $60,000 for the Foundation. This year, we will become Team HeartReach and welcome any new walkers!”
What do you hope to achieve through these organizations?
Sanchez: “I will do absolutely anything to raise public awareness for this under-resourced and under-recognized cause.”
Downs: “It means making sure no family ever feels alone in their journey with a sick child.”
There are many similarities between you. What are your differences?
Sanchez: “Well, I have three children and I remarried the love of my life (my husband Mario) at the Elvis Chapel for our fifth anniversary! I am also the reigning Mrs. Las Vegas-America and am competing in an adult beauty pageant (at age 37) to help bring awareness to Children’s Heart Foundation.”
Downs: “My husband Michael and I have been married for ten years and have our four year old daughter Miah. I did bungee jump in the Thomas and Mack parking lot as a freshman at UNLV, and I love trying out for game shows and actually won $6,000 on Press Your Luck!”
If given the opportunity, what would you say to inspire others?
Sanchez: “Live life in the moment and have no regrets!”
Downs: ‘Discover what is truly important in your life and focus on that. Be joyful and try to live in the present.’
