Dr. Angela Cherniawski
By Callie Thomas
“The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will interest his patients in the care of the human frame, in diet and in the cause and prevention of disease.” – Thomas Edison
Innovation continues in the medical field by combining traditional methods and expertise with alternative practices to help patients improve their health. Programs such as naturopathy, herbalism, traditional Chinese medicine, biofeedback, homeopathy, nutritional-based therapies and chiropractic medicine continue to gain momentum as a means of treating and combating health problems. Resident Dr. Angela Cherniawski is a doctor of the future. The chiropractor became a Las Vegas resident six years ago and established her own practice called Life Align Wellness Center. “Ever since I was a teen, I wanted to be a medical doctor,” says Cherniawski. “While attending Michigan State University as a pre-med student, however, I realized that drugs only cover up a problem without fixing it. It wasn’t until I became a chiropractic patient that I discovered it as a means of truly helping people improve their health.”
It was the warm weather and excitement of a new city that finally drew the doctor to Las Vegas. “I started my own practice from scratch and incorporated additional health services,” she said. Since then the start-up company has matured into a complete wellness center with the philosophy that to be healthy, the physical, bio-chemical and emotional aspects of health must be properly balanced. In addition to chiropractic, services include a weight loss program, adrenal stress testing, whole food supplementation and a recently added corporate wellness program. “I teach employees how to incorporate healthy habits in their lives to decrease overall health expenditures of local companies,” Cherniawski said.
Angela’s involvement within the community has not only increased her visibility and grown her business, it has put her in direct contact with those in need.
Through her outreach efforts, which include volunteering as one of 1,000 wellness professionals nationwide that devote time to delivering health and wellness education workshops free of charge to various community groups, clubs and organizations, she was introduced to Family Promise through a friend. “Dori told me about Family Promise and their work with homeless families in Vegas,” the doctor said. “She helped me organize a Help Us Help the Homeless event to raise money and collect items needed by the Family Promise families.”
Family Promise is a nonprofit organization that partners with the community through an interfaith collaboration to assist homeless children and parents return to stable lives with employment and affordable housing. It is an affiliate of the national program incorporating 41 states and the District of Columbia. The Las Vegas group serves an average of 54 families in their transitional shelter program and up to 20 families in their permanent housing program for homeless families with disabilities. Of the Family Promise guests last year, 57% were children, with 48% under the age of six. Over 70% of guest families are single mothers with children who stay in the shelter program for an average of 65 days, so there is always a great need for even basic supplies.
Having been blessed with a comfortable home which she shares with husband Shawn and one-year-old daughter Adriana, it felt natural for Angela to reach out to help other families. Through her fundraiser held at her office, Dr. Cherniawski was able to give back. “We got several large donations of laundry detergent. Ironically, the Director of Family Promise said that they had just run out of detergent the day before. Through our event, they will have a supply that will last for some time. Funny, how things like that work out.”
Dr. Angela Cherniawski continues to help others and share the blessings she’s been given. “I have a wonderful family and excellent health. Providing free health workshops and raising money and donating to Family Promise means others can share in some of the blessings I often take for granted.”
Keith Norman
By Callie Thomas
An attention to detail, a vast ability to match flavors, textures and aromas coupled with mad kitchen skills are the attributes of today’s culinary ninjas. Chefs have come a long way, baby–becoming an everyday fixture in our homes through our computers, smart phones, iPads and other devices that entice us with the recipe of the day. Chefs are like rockstars, filling stadiums of eager fans hungry to become wizards in their own kitchens. While there is much discussion about the culinary process, there is less discussion on how foods may be vital to one person and detrimental to another.
Resident Keith Norman is one of those culinary rockstars. Not just because he is an accomplished Las Vegas chef of over 20 years, having shared his expertise and delicious dishes at The Mirage, Treasure Island, Paris, Suncoast and South Point. Or that he imparts his knowledge as a Culinary Instructor at the Art Institute of Nevada. Keith Norman’s a culinary rockstar because he’s also trained to help save lives.
A passion for cooking began in Norman’s grandmother’s kitchen, where at a young age he learned the basics, a few tips and family recipes. He joined the Marine Corps at 18, where his duties also included cooking. “I grew up in Chagrin Falls Ohio, where community events were a way of life,” he said. “So being involved in the community and especially with groups like STOP (Stop Foodborne Illness) and FAAN (Food Allergy Anaphylaxis Network) is an honor.”
After leaving the Marine Corps, Keith was able to bring his considerable sense of discipline and passion to his business and the culinary world. That passion has been focused on food safety and sanitation, which is an everyday part of his work as an Assistant Executive Chef for the South Point Hotel & Casino. He is also dedicated to training and educating students and culinary professionals on one of the most important facets of the food service industry. “As a Chef I can directly make a difference in the lives of every guest,” says Norman, who has the credentials to back it up.
In addition to being trained through the FDA in the area of foodborne illness investigation, special processes, agro-terrorism and food systems disasters, Keith is a certified HACCP manager, NEHA certified food trainer, NRA certified food safety trainer, a certified registered OSHA trainer and a master certified food executive. Armed with all the necessary expertise, Chef Norman became a committee member of FAAN. Through this organization, he’s been a guest speaker at the annual conference and a volunteer at their fundraising walk last fall, as well as the first to receive an award from the organization.
More than 12 million Americans have food allergies. The incidence is highest among children. An estimated three million in the U.S. have food allergies. FAAN has continued to be an influential force in providing education and support to the many parents who need help managing food allergies. The organization raises public awareness, provides advocacy and education and helps to advance research. “I’m blessed; my kids Ashley and Matthew are healthy and I don’t take that for granted,” he said. “After meeting some of the families last year, the decision to come off the sidelines and get in the game was easy.”
Chef Keith Norman continues to give back to the community by lending support to other organizations including STOP and the Children’s Heart Foundation, in memory of his god daughter who passed away from a heart condition. He is inspired by a favorite quote from his uncle who said, “Everyone has a story, and at the end of the day, it’s just a story. If you want different, change the story.” Norman has–through every workshop and every interaction. “When I share and spread awareness, that means one less person needlessly suffers.”
Sharon & Gregg Carlson
By Callie Thomas
“When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.” – Henry Ford
Never do the bonds of family become stronger than when tested by adversity. Residents Sharon and Gregg Carlson and their three children are a testament to this, having faced one of the most harrowing periods in their lives. At just three months old, their youngest daughter, Julia, was diagnosed with a serious heart condition called Cardiomyopathy, a disease which weakens and enlarges the heart muscle. While she was put on medications, she was expected to one day need a heart transplant. “After a couple of years, her heart began to function normally,” says Sharon Carlson. “Even now at age thirteen she’s still on three different meds every day, but the doctors no longer say that she’ll need a transplant.” Julia now goes to school, plays soccer and leads a normal life. But it is because of those auspicious few years that Sharon, Gregg, Julia and her siblings, Peter and Linnea, have committed themselves to the Children’s Heart Foundation. “We’ve been part of the organization from its inception in 2001 along with Julia’s cardiologist and other families of heart children,” Gregg Carlson said. “We’ve made a concerted effort to be a part of and help other families through the organization.”
Sharon and Gregg are Co-Presidents of the volunteer board of directors. They are passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of children with heart conditions throughout Nevada. “We empower heart families through emotional, educational and financial support to inspire a higher quality of life.” The foundation’s goals include educating the general public and healthcare professionals on pediatric cardiology issues, as well as supporting families as they deal with the emotional and financial stresses exacted by a child’s heart problems. To that end, they also provide a carefree camp for those children with heart conditions who might not otherwise have the chance to meet other heart kids and participate in a true camp experience.
The only medically supervised event in the state, Camp Mend-a-Heart is for children who are born with or develop heart problems, and takes place at the end of June. The camp was conceived to provide these children with the ability to run, play and banish their fears while bonding with other kids who live with the same challenges. “This will be our seventh camp and our entire family has been involved with it since the very first year,” Sharon said. “Gregg and I go as staff and help out any way we can; however, in the past couple of years I’ve been running the Craft Shack, although Julia is the crafty one in the family. She has attended camp every year and helps me out with a lot of the pre-camp preparations. Our two older kids have been teen counselors.”
Each year, the Carlson family is continually amazed by the outpouring of assistance by Las Vegas residents. “There are teenagers who volunteer as counselors, firefighters, nurses, cooks who help out in all sorts of ways,” Gregg added. “The nurses aren’t just giving medicine; they’re having water gun fights with the kids and encouraging them through the ropes course.”
The couple of 25 years has looked back at their journey through their daughter’s crisis and at how it has drawn the family closer together. “Even through it all, we’ve been given something that we’re passionate about and that’s a wonderful thing.”
Alexandria & Anthony Pearl
By Callie Thomas
“It’s not the load that breaks you down, it’s the way you carry it.” – Lena Horne
What do you get when you combine a high-powered general counsel for one of the newest mega resorts on the Las Vegas Strip with a wife and mother whose day consists of school, neighborhood and charitable events? You get residents Alexandria and Anthony Pearl, the epitome of “busy.” Yet, they seem to do it with style and a passion that extends beyond themselves and towards helping others, particularly children in our community. “We’re no different than anyone else in that we and our children are sometimes guilty of taking everything we have for granted, but we try very hard to remember where we came from, how lucky we are and how important it is to give back,” Anthony said.
Anthony is the general counsel for the Cosmopolitan Resort Casino and a Board Member of the Goodie Two Shoes Foundation, while Alexandria (Alex) not only juggles the lives of their two children but is the co-chair of the charity’s annual Heart n’ Sole event. “Everywhere we’ve lived, we do our best to get involved in local charities,” says Alex. “We seem to gravitate to organizations that support children’s causes, both because we have two wonderful, beautiful, boys of our own and because we want our children to have some understanding and appreciation of how tough it is out there for so many kids.” The Goodie Two Shoes Foundation (GTSF) was exactly the type of organization where the Pearls could feel like they were making a difference.
The nonprofit organization provides disadvantaged children and children in crisis from newborn to age 21 with new shoes and socks as well as other essential items for good health and positive development. In many cases this is the first pair of new shoes these children have ever received. Goodie Two Shoes doesn’t stop at just providing a child with a new pair of shoes; they measure their feet to ensure proper fit and they pair each child with their own community volunteer who walks them through the process. Every child is given the ultimate attention and they are empowered to select any pair of shoes from a large inventory of high-quality athletic shoes, just like the ones their friends at school are wearing.
“Perhaps the most poignant experiences we have are when we encounter kids who aren’t able to attend school every day because they have to share a single pair of shoes with their siblings, or whose feet are cramped into shoes that are three sizes too small,” says Alex.
In an effort to raise funds to help more children receive appropriate footwear, Alex has been busy helping to plan the foundation’s biggest fundraiser of the year. The Third Annual Evening of Heart n’ Sole takes place on June 4th at the M Hotel and Resort. This is not your typical charitable affair. It’s a totally fun event held both in and outdoors by the pool with fabulous food, lively libations, live entertainment, silent and live auctions and one-of-a-kind items and experiences. Plus, the dress code is fashionably casual.
The Pearls can also be found volunteering their time to other outreach programs through the GTSF, including distribution events, Rockin’ Walk and the Charley Hoffman Pro Am Tournament which also benefits other charitable groups in the valley.
Giving back to the community is important to the Pearls, not just because it makes them feel good to volunteer. “We both recognize how fortunate we are to live in this great environment and be able to provide a great life for our family, but we also know that there are many others struggling to support their families. We are proud to give back, because it’s just the right thing to do.” For additional information on the Heart n’ Sole event, visit www.goodietwoshoes.org.
Dan Pentkowski
By Callie Thomas
It’s one of those professions that have been a favorite among young children for decades. In fact, it was as a child that resident Dan Pentkowski became passionate about becoming a firefighter. “My father was a volunteer firefighter in a small town,” says Pentkowski. “Some of my earliest memories are of being on the front seat of the engine and wearing his helmet.” By high school Dan knew what he wanted to do with his life. While other students pondered the endless choices on career day, Dan made a beeline to talk with the firefighters. Pentkowski became a firefighter paramedic at 21, and since moving to Henderson seven years ago by way of Scottsdale, Arizona, he has served the City of Henderson not only as a fireman and paramedic, but as President of the Henderson Professional Firefighters. Pentkowski represents 186 members of the department and is responsible for ensuring the success of their staffing model, hazard training, as well as numerous community outreach efforts. “Through my work in the department and as the President of Henderson Professional Firefighters, I am very involved in our community through our charities. Our service doesn’t stop when we go off duty.”
Each day Dan responds to hazardous calls where his extensive training ensures effective response and an exceptional level of service. He prides himself on his involvement in local and national charities and nonprofit organizations. These include the Muscular Dystrophy Association, American Red Cross, Safe Kids Clark County, Safe Nest, Boys and Girls Club of Henderson, Public Education Foundation and Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth. Dan is also one of the founding members of the Henderson Firefighters Benevolent Association, which is open to all members of the department. The group identifies charities that have impact in the community and look to partner or participate with them. “I serve as a liaison with these charities and am directly involved in fundraising and delivery of service,” he said.
Perhaps one of the most influential organizations that Dan has been involved with is the Safe Kids Clark County and American Red Cross organizations that help prevent injury and child fatality. They work to help prevent drowning, provide car seats and car installations, raise awareness about leaving children in hot cars and teach CPR to help prevent these tragedies from happening. “These are not only the hardest calls to deal with and the most painful to families and responders, but they are mostly preventable.”
Before Dan and his wife Jill had their children, seven year old son Keagan and five year old daughter Graecyn, he had a summer with numerous drowning and near drowning incidents. “I was incredibly impacted by the pain that I had witnessed with the families,” he recalled. “Every firefighter has experienced these calls and, to an extent, these same emotions.”
The Henderson Firefighters Benevolent Association produced and aired a drowning prevention PSA that was an especially personal experience for Pentkowski. His baby daughter Graecyn was the star. “It was chilling to see her participate in a mock drowning (she did great by the way), but it was incredible to watch my co-workers who were participating in the video rush in and save her as we do every day. Knowing that we may have prevented a tragedy is one of the most important community outreach memories I have,” he said.
Dan Pentkowski is proud to call Henderson his home and to serve and give back to the community he loves. “As a firefighter we respond to the emergencies in our neighborhoods. Our charitable work allows us to reach far beyond an emergency and help those in need in their everyday life. We actively try to prevent injury to children, and work to make our community, our home, a better place.”
Ken Henderson
By Callie Thomas
Think back and try to remember–who was your first role model? Was it the current singing sensation? A superstar athlete? Or perhaps it was someone closer to home like an influential teacher or even a big brother? Resident Ken Henderson is best described as the grown-up role model for the community. In fact, not only is he CEO of one of the most well-known modeling agencies in the city, through his on-going support of the Junior Diabetes Research Foundation as well as other organizations that help those in need, he is truly someone to look up to.
The native Las Vegan has been the CEO of the BEST Agency, a full service model, production, event and entertainment company for the past 13 years. You could say he represents the best of both worlds. The BEST Agency is a mix of glamour and talent with a heavy dose of charitable spirit. “I am proud to say that our stellar reputation for creating entertainment concepts and events in Vegas has also enabled us to work with and contribute to many major charitable organizations,” says Henderson. “Our spectacular team all have the same giving attitude.”
Ken Henderson sits on the board of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) as the Vice President of Events and newly appointed President-elect. The focus of the group is to find a cure for diabetes and its complications by supporting research. JDRF helps to move research from the laboratory to the patient’s bedside, which translates medical advances into longer, healthier lives for those with diabetes. The local Nevada chapter provides educational information and support for newly diagnosed individuals and their families. “I am passionate about JDRF for many reasons,” he said. “First and foremost, it’s about kids…also our dedicated board and the fact that over 80% of JDRF’s expenditures directly support research and research education.”
Each spring, Henderson chairs the annual Hope Gala in Las Vegas. At the black-tie event, a local member of the community is honored for their consistent dedication and commitment in the search for a cure. The fundraiser includes an exclusive live and silent auction. “I have the honor every year to work with children and young adults who have this terrible disease,” Ken said. “They never cease to amaze me with their strength and confidence while enduring the disease, as well as their dedication and optimism that a cure will be found soon.” Henderson produces a very special video that features young diabetics and their stories. “The video serves as a key component to our event and there is nothing I do all year that is more fulfilling.”
Ken Henderson hopes to be a role model for his own daughter, 18 year old Paige. “I look at her every day and am grateful for her health,” he said. This desire is also the reason Henderson devotes time to other organizations and events, including one called Holiday Magic, which he created along with another neighbor, Tom Carroll, to showcase the many organizations that help others in the community. “In 2004 we created a 13-day event which was held on the grounds of the JW Marriott to create a platform for a charity each night to share their information and purpose in the community,” says Henderson. The event supported such organizations as Homeless Babies, Nevada Childhood Cancer, Candelighters for Children’s Cancer, St. Jude Ranch for Children, UMC, Ronald McDonald House, Child Haven and more.
Ken’s successes in life may be attributed to his passion for his work, his integrity and his desire to help others. “I believe it is our obligation as a human being. Raising money for charities is essential but there are so many other ways to help…your time, resources and connections are all very important. You don’t have to be wealthy to make a difference.”
Dr. Matthew Brooks
By Callie Thomas
“If we could talk to the animals, learn their languages, think of all the things we could discuss; if we could walk with the animals, talk with the animals, grunt and squeak and squawk with the animals, and they could squeak and squawk and speak and talk to us.”
– Rex Harrison as Dr. Dolittle
As animal lovers, there are many times when we wish we could read our pet’s minds. Sometimes it seems we can–although it is more likely just knowing our beloved animal’s distinct expressions or feeling their playful nudge at precisely the right time that gives us hope that we truly can communicate with our furry family members. A little boy in Tampa, Florida was convinced that he had that gift. That child eventually grew up, became a veterinarian, moved to Las Vegas and, in the process, has helped a great many of our four-legged friends throughout the community.
“I used to think I could speak with the animals when I was little,” says 89135 resident Dr. Matthew Brooks. “After I figured out that it was impossible, I decided that I wanted to help them in any way I could.” Brooks began his career working for a zoo veterinarian and then a small animal veterinarian in Tampa. “One of the greatest personal rewards is to help my clients understand and treat the illness of their animal family members,” he said.
After earning his veterinary degree at Colorado State University in 2004, he moved to Las Vegas. Since then he has continued to grow his practice in addition to acquiring Benjamin, a Golden Retriever, Mason, an English Labrador, and Walter, a Burmese cat. This year he also married his “best friend” Ashley who will soon become a veterinarian at Sun City Animal Hospital.
Brooks’ passion for helping animals led him to co-found and chair an organization called the Funny Bones Foundation. While this caring vet does have a sense of humor, the group’s mission is to provide financial support to abandoned animals in need of advanced medical and surgical care that are being attended to by nonprofit rescue organizations in Clark County. Funds are generated through comedy events and fundraising. “I began to understand the emotional and financial burden among all the wonderful people that devote their time and resources to rescuing abandoned pets,” said Brooks. The idea originally came about while Matthew competed in a triathlon to raise money. “There were many animals that needed extensive medical care, and the rescue organizations had to make difficult decisions to determine if the costs were justified. It was an ideal time for Brooks and his close friends and clients Sammy and Suzanne Shore to get together and create Funny Bones.
This past January, Funny Bones held its annual Comedy Jam event which was emceed by Sammy Shore and co-hosted by Bobby Slatton. Comedians and funny friends Vinnie Favorito, George Wallace, Pauly Shore, Dennis Blair, Geechy Guy, James P. Connolly and Doug Starks had the audience rolling in the aisles. “Even in this economy, people are still willing to help one another and donate to wonderful causes that work so hard to help those in need. I am inspired by these people every day.”
Dr. Brooks and his team at Town Center Animal Hospital work closely with other nonprofit animal rescue organizations by providing discounted surgical and medical services. They also assist two-legged creatures by supporting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation annually. “I absolutely love what I do,” says Brooks. “I am excited to come to work each day knowing that I get to help these animals that I love and owners that love them.”
Shannon Bilbray-Axelrod
By Callie Thomas
“You must be the change you wish to see in the world.”
-Mahatma Gandhi
It’s all about family, or so they say. But in the case of resident Shannon Bilbray-Axelrod, it all runs in the family. The third generation Las Vegan has strong ties to not only her family but to the city where she grew up. She’s the daughter of former Congressman Jim Bilbray and shares her family’s enthusiasm about the community and the residents that make it so special. “My dad was born in 1938. There were just 5,000 people in the Vegas Valley back then. While I moved around a bit, I always knew I would settle down here,” says Bilbray-Axelrod. “My family had a very strong sense of Vegas pride and I find myself attracted to opportunities that highlight how great this city is as well as the people who live in it.”
Shannon is wife to husband Danny, who works for Clark County Parks and Recreation, and a mom to their daughter Molly Ann, who turned four on Valentine’s Day. While her devotion to her own family takes top priority, her passion for giving back to the community comes in a close second. “My career has always been focused on the community,” she said. “I serve on a few boards,” Bilbray-Axelrod says modestly. In fact, she is the Nominating Chair for the Nevada chapter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and a board Vice President for Family to Family Connection West, and Co-Chair of Las Vegas Prom Closet. She also lends a hand in fundraising for Clinics in Schools, which was founded by her brother-in-law Noah. Each of the organizations she supports has had a personal affect on Shannon.
The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation is focused on finding a cure for diabetes and its complications by supporting research. “I lost my brother Kevin to Juvenile Diabetes when I was nine years old,” she said. “He was only 14 months when he was diagnosed. So many kids are forced to grow up way too fast because of this disease and a cure is so close.” Shannon is continually in awe of the board members she has worked with who are adept at thinking outside of the box to engage the people of Las Vegas. “It always seems that the busiest people are the ones who never say no when asked for help,” she noted.
Family to Family West offers a variety of free groups and services for parents and children up to 4 years old. It is an integral resource for new parents. Family to Family offers a new baby center, library, car seat safety as well as hospital visitation and classes. “I got involved with Family to Family after the birth of our daughter,” she said. “It is such a wonderful organization that helps so many families on a shoe-string budget.” While recent budget cuts completely slashed the funding for this organization, it still managed to have the most successful Touch-a-Truck event in its seven year history. The fundraiser gives kids an opportunity to get behind the wheel and rub elbows with their hometown heroes.
Bilbray-Axelrod also lends her magic touch to Las Vegas Prom Closet, an organization that makes dreams come true for young girls who want to go to prom but don’t have the money. They provide gently used dresses and accessories just like the perfect fairy godmother. “This past March we had our 9th Annual Prom Closet and we gave out more than 200 dresses to girls in need,” says Shannon.
Shannon Bilbray-Axelrod is a family member of our community and continues to invest her time and talents in making it the best it can be. “I encourage everyone to give back in whatever way is right for you. In turn, you’ll leave a positive mark on everything around you.”
Bob Ansara
By Callie Thomas
Have you ever noticed that there seems to be a direct correlation between families and sharing some of our most meaningful moments over food? For the past 31 years, families in the community have been sharing special meals and celebrations at Ricardo’s Mexican Restaurant and Catering. Resident Bob Ansara, co-owner and operator of the famous Las Vegas eatery, is proud to be a part of so many of Las Vegas’ cherished occasions. “We’re indebted to the community that has supported us for so many years,” says Ansara. “Restaurants have a way of weaving through families and generations. Ricardo’s has been fortunate to play a minor role in thousands of family celebrations, each of which ties us closer to the community.”
Ansara grew up in the restaurant business. His family has a long history of being food and beverage people, so it wasn’t unusual for Bob’s first jobs to be–where else–in restaurants. After completing school he welcomed the opportunity to move to Las Vegas. “It’s been a wonderful place to plant roots, get married and have a family,” Ansara said.
It was only natural to feel the need to give back to the city that has provided so much to Ansara’s life. As a result, Bob has served on the board of many associations, including the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce as a Trustee, the Nevada Restaurant Association and the National Restaurant Association as Director Emeritus and Valley High School Tour and Travel. In continued support of these organizations, as well as local charities, Ricardo’s has served as host to many influential events that ultimately change the lives of those in the community.
As host restaurant for Nevada Cancer Institute’s annual “Dine for the Cure” event, Ricardo’s provides the opportunity for residents to eat, drink and make a difference. In addition to showcasing some of the restaurant’s signature fare, 30% of all sales for the evening go to the institute so that it may continue to offer cutting-edge cancer treatment and research services to support the fight against the disease. “We are thrilled, especially in these times, to be able to support Nevada Cancer Institute and raise much needed funds for their state-of-the-art medical center that continues to provide hope to those battling cancer in our community,” said Ansara. The restaurant and its generous service team have also hosted other local events where proceeds help those in need within the community. One such event is a happy hour to benefit The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Las Vegas, where 50% of all proceeds have gone to the organization. Ricardo’s has also been the location of several signature Taco Eating Contests that have benefitted the Helen J. Stewart School that caters to special needs students.
Perhaps the most extraordinary show of support occurred at the restaurant’s 31st anniversary celebration, which culminated in breaking the world record for the largest margarita. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the number to beat was 7,039 U.S. gallons. Ricardo’s mixed their record-breaking drink with hibiscus-infused Rosangel tequila, which gave the margarita a pink hue; a perfect libation for honoring Susan G. Komen for the Cure, to which proceeds from the sale of the colossal margarita were donated. “We are grateful for the continued support from the Las Vegas community, so creating an anniversary celebration of more than 30 years into a fundraising event was a great way for us to say thank you,” he said.
Hard work, dedication and giving back to the community are an everyday part of Bob Ansara’s life. “It’s a way to keep our city strong and to help those who are helping others. Our efforts provide the less fortunate with critical assistance at a time when they may have run out of options. We are proud to create a warm and loving atmosphere for our community.”
Doug Bradford
By Callie Thomas
“No man is an island, entire of itself…any man’s death diminishes me, because I am involved in Mankind; and therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee.” – John Donne
In 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt formed the United Service Organization, more commonly known as the USO, which unified several support organizations that had mobilized to assist the growing U.S. military that was heading into World War II. The objective was to provide the emotional sustenance and recreational opportunities needed by our troops.
The USO has evolved since the days of Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, Jack Benny and scores of others who have entertained our service men and women. And while it remains steadfast to its original mission, developing new programs that meet the ever-changing needs of the troops and their families is also very important. Today, the USO continues to lift the spirits of America’s troops and their families and serves as America’s support link.
Resident Doug Bradford knows what it’s like to be in the military, having served in the Navy himself. In fact, it seems to be a family tradition; his father, two brothers and father-in-law are all Navy, and Bradford’s eldest son recently graduated as a Navy Seal. So it is easy to understand the passion and dedication Bradford has in his current position as the Center Director for the new USO Las Vegas Center at McCarran Airport.
Bradford was not only the right choice for his role with the USO Las Vegas because of his personal experiences in the military, but also because of his natural talents as a communicator. The 25-year resident was a general assignment reporter for KLAS-TV8 and his reporting beat was cops and courts. After about three years he was hired as Public Information Officer for the City of Las Vegas where he was responsible for all media relations for the Mayor and City Council. Doug has also worked as Director of Public Communication for Clark County and as a Government Affairs Consultant for both Nevada Power and Science Applications International, specifically on the Yucca Mountain Nuclear Waste Project. “I believe in the power of information and making a difference in the community,” says Bradford. “Every job I’ve had in Las Vegas has revolved around informing people about the community in which they live.”
His enthusiasm is evident when describing the USO Las Vegas Center at McCarran Airport, which opened on Veteran’s Day, November 11, 2010. “In just 82 days the center was operating and providing a variety of services for our men and women in the military,” he said. The 2,830 square foot USO Lounge includes desktop and laptop computers, video gaming systems, 12 lounge chairs in the movie theater/sports lounge as well as cell phone use and a fully stocked snack bar. “Everything in the center is provided for the troops free of charge. The mission of the USO Las Vegas is to provide our service men and women with a bit of home and to say thank you for their sacrifices as they fight for the freedoms we enjoy.”
The USO is a private, nonprofit organization which relies on the generosity of its donors. They provide services at airports and military bases around the world and even send celebrity entertainers, snacks, sports equipment and the like to the forward-deployed troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. Aside from the entertainment function, the USO also helps wounded warriors, as well as the families of fallen soldiers. “I have an affinity for helping my brothers-in-arms by doing what I can,” Bradford said. “I am honored to serve our Armed Forces and their families.”
Doug has also been involved with many local charities including Spread the Word Nevada Kids to Kids, a literacy organization, and the Las Vegas Natural History Museum, where he served as Chairman of the Board. And then there’s Operation Godspeed, a group which raised over $1.2 million to build a non-denominational chapel at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery. He is as proud to help others as he is in sharing his experiences with his family, which includes wife Lauren and sons Mark and Chase. “I have worked with and met some outstanding people who share the same joy I get when working with charities. I encourage everyone to find a way to help their fellow Las Vegans. Giving back to your community is the least you can do.” For information on donating to the center, email Doug at DBradford@uso.org.
