A Step Above – Jordan Savoy

Silverado High School
Class of 2013

Shoot for the moon, because even if you miss you’ll land among the stars. Those words carry particular weight for Silverado High School senior Jordan Savoy as she strives toward a career with NASA and perhaps even a trip into space like her hero Neil Armstrong. For now, she’s content to fill her time with both artistic and altruistic pursuits, putting her energy into creating music and giving back to those less fortunate, while still staying heavily involved in school activities. Poised, charming and always self assured, Jordan Savoy rises to – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.711

Activities

• Marching Band, 2009-Present; Horn Sergeant, 2012
• Wind Symphony, 2009-Present
• Jazz Band, 2010-11
• Band Council, 2010-Present; President, 2011-Present
• AP Ambassador Program, 2011-Present; President, 2011-Present
• Engineering Club, 2011-Present; President, 2012-Present
• Sun Youth Forum Selected Representative – Teen Topic, 2012
• National Honor Society, 2012-Present
• Mu Alpha Theta, 2011-Present
• Relay For Life Committee, 2011-Present
• National Society of High School Scholars, 2011-Present
• Interact Club, 2012-Present
• Class Committee, 2012-Present
• Key Club, 2011-12

Awards/Community Service

• Green Valley Rotary Club November Student of the Month, 2012
• Varsity Band Letter, 2009-13
• March Student of the Month (Music), 2011
• Academic Letter Award, 2009-11
• American Cancer Society Volunteer, 2011-Present
• Catholic Charities, 2013
• Nevada Elections Department Volunteer, 2012
• Iron Man Run Volunteer, 2012
• United Blood Service Volunteer, 2011-12
• Speedway Children’s Charity Volunteer, 2009

Goals & Aspirations: “I hope to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University or the University of California-San Diego to study aerospace engineering. One day, I hope to become an astronaut and follow in Neil Armstrong’s footsteps. In ten years, I see myself working for NASA.”

Jordan is Stronger and Wiser Because: “I received my first high school B in AP Calculus last year. I went two years with straight As, so at first I was disappointed. In the end, however, it taught me that I can’t be perfect all the time. I tried my hardest, and that was gratifying enough.”

Cause for Concern: “I would be president of the American Cancer Society. I was affected by cancer in so many ways. As part of the Relay For Life of South Youth Committee, I try to fight back in as many ways as possible. Being president would help me do so much more to create a world with more birthdays.”

A Step Above – Nicole Westover

Green Valley High School
Class of 2013

With recognition from coaches, fellow players and even big brand names like Gatorade, Green Valley High School senior Nicole Westover stands out as a true champion on the soccer field. From playing on local club teams to volunteering at youth soccer camps, she shows an all-encompassing dedication to the sport, a commitment that also shines through in her many hours of devoted charity work. Energetic, personable and fully at ease with herself, her continued perseverance bodes well for future success, both on and off the field. For all that and more, Nicole Westover stands – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 3.53

Sports/Activities/Community Service

• Women’s Soccer, 2009-13; Captain, 2013
• Player’s Soccer Club, 2012-13
• Heat FC (Club Soccer), 2010-12
• Las Vegas Premier (Club Soccer), 2009-10
• Key Club, 2009-10
• Volunteer at St. Jude’s The Crossings, 2012
• Volunteer Tutor at Estes McDoniel Elementary School, 2007-08
• Volunteer at Youth Soccer Camps, 2012
• We R Community, 2011-12

Awards

• Nevada State Champions (Soccer), 2010-11
• Nevada State Runner Up (Soccer), 2011-13
• Gatorade Player of the Year, 2013
• All American, 2013
• Defense Player of the Year, 2013
• Scholar Athlete, 2011-13
• First Team All Southern Nevada, 2010-13
• Las Vegas Review Journal Fall Athlete of the Year, 2013
• Athlete of the Month, 2011-12

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of earning All American and Gatorade Player of the Year. It is an honor to know that all of my hard work has paid off, not only from my club and high school coaches but also from coaches that I do not know.”

Nicole Looks Up To: “I have looked up to Kayla Varner since freshman year. It was good to have a leader like Kayla on the team, who was such a hard worker on the field but also a person who could have fun.”

Nicole is Stronger and Wiser Because: “One obstacle that has made me a stronger person was growing up in a single parent household. While other children had more time to play, I had more responsibilities. As I look back, it influenced my life drastically. It made me work harder for things and be more responsible with household duties.”

Cause for Concern: “If I could be the president of any nonprofit organization, I would choose Nevada’s Coalition of Suicide Prevention, because during “We R Community” I got the chance to work with Linda Flatt, the founder of the organization, and it was an amazing experience to make people aware of this issue.”

A Step Above – Troy Nguyen

Coronado High School
Class of 2013

With big dreams, a competitive spirit and a passion for the great outdoors, Coronado High School senior Troy Nguyen is dead set on staying active and achieving great things. Always humble yet full of pride in his many endeavors, Troy credits his success to hard work, intense focus and a strong network of support. Whether it’s helping his tennis team win the state championship or hitting the books to help achieve his ultimate goal of a career in medicine, he’s turning opportunities into accomplishments, and that helps place Troy Nguyen – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.7

Sports/Activities

• Volleyball, 2011
• Track, 2010
• Tennis, 2010-2012; Team Captain, 2012
• Coronado Student Council, 2012-13; Student Body Treasurer, 2012-Present
• Coronado Key Club, 2009-11
• Coronado National Honor Society, 2011; Chair Club Treasurer, 2012-Present
• Lumberjack’s Club, 2012-Present

Awards/Community Service

• Men’s Varsity Tennis State Champions, 2012; State Runner Up, 2010-11
• Men’s Varsity Tennis Regional Champions, 2010-12
• Scholar Athlete (Men’s Varsity Tennis), 2010-12
• All State Academic Team (Men’s Varsity Tennis), 2010-12
• Men’s JV Volleyball State Champions, 2011
• Nevada Math Prize Exam Award Winner, 2012
• AP Scholar with Honor Award, 2012
• AP Scholar with Distinction Award, 2013
• St. Rose Hospital Volunteer, 2012-Present
• Tutoring, 2009-Present
• Church Group Volunteer, 2010-Present

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of our whole tennis team for finally bringing back that State Champions trophy. For the past few years we have consistently made it to the finals, but year after year we would fall just short. This year, we went up to Reno with a dead mindset that nothing short of first place was good enough. After a hard-fought battle in the finals which was forced into an extra tiebreaker, our team was finally able to come out on top.”

Troy is Successful Because: “I attribute my success to the people around me. I’ve got such a strong support system from family and friends that help me with everything I do. If I ever wanted to try and do something, I can always count on them to support me. My family and friends are the reason I’m where I’m at, and without them, I wouldn’t be half the person I am today.”

Troy Looks Up To: “My dad came to the United States with literally nothing after escaping from communist Vietnam as a child, and through hard work and commitment, he has become a successful doctor and business owner here in Henderson. He really exemplifies the possibilities that can be achieved when you focus your efforts into a goal and act upon it.”

A Step Above – Sofia Cruz

Coronado High School
Class of 2013

The trials we face in our past give us the strength we need to face the future. Coronado High School senior Sofia Cruz didn’t have an easy childhood, but she has emerged from her early struggles as a strong, confident and determined young woman. With a bright smile, a positive attitude and tireless energy, she’s emerged as a superstar on the basketball court, a leader in the classroom and a champion for the less fortunate, staying optimistic and productive each and every day. She’s working hard and happy to be living life, and that sets Sofia Cruz – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.655

Sports/Activities/Community Service

• Varsity Women’s Basketball, 2010-13
• Homecoming Court Member, 2012
• Best Buddies, 2011-12
• Best Buddies Santa Run, 2010-12
• Every 15 Minutes Program, 2012\

Awards

• Las Vegas Super 7, 2012-13
• MVP of Sunrise Southeast Division, 2012-13
• All State Team, 2011-13
• February Athlete of the Month, 2011-13
• All Conference Sunrise SE Division Team, 2011-12
• Most Valuable Offensive Player, 2010-11
• Most Valuable Player, 2012-13
• All State Academic Team, 2010-13
• Scholar Athlete Award, 2010-13
• Honor Roll Student, 2010-13
• Dean’s List, 2010-13
• October Student of the Month, 2011

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of my academic and athletic track record. Even with a fully loaded honors schedule and basketball schedule, I was able to maintain exceptional grades in school and continue to improve my basketball skills as well. As an adolescent, it can be difficult to concentrate when so many other things are happening, but I have always had the mind-set of separating myself from the average teenager.”

Sophia is Stronger and Wiser Because: “At the age of seven, my parents were divorced. I was moving in and out of houses constantly, and I had no stable home environment. My parents struggled to maintain a civil relationship, so mediation went through my brother and I, having to deal with adult issues as young children. The obstacles I had to overcome at a young age have shaped me into the strong woman I am today.”

Cause for Concern: “I would be president of a charitable organization that benefits the physically and mentally disabled. I have always had a special place in my heart for people who are disabled. I am so blessed to have 100% physical ability; however, not every child is born with that privilege. I would raise money to provide a recreational center specifically for people with disabilities that would include classes, games and many social gatherings.”

Meet The Neighbor – Erika Pike Turner

By Callie Thomas

Imagine what life would be like without passion. It’s what spurs athletes to win, doctors to find a cure and men and women to do what’s right – whether it be for their fellow neighbor or for their own families. Living without passion is simply not an option for 89123 resident Erika Pike Turner. It’s evident in her passion as a wife and mother, in her job as a partner and litigator at Gordon Silver and in her work advocating for abused and neglected children in Nevada’s foster care system. In fact, Turner has been awarded many times over for her passion for giving a voice to those that do not have one. She’s received the Myra Williams Award for Pro Bono Services for Children, a Senator Harry Reid Commendation for Pro Bono Services and a United States Commendation for Pro Bono Service. She’s also regularly recognized by the Pro Bono Project for services that qualify her for the 50 Hours Club and 100 Hours Club.

The fourth generation Las Vegan is proud to be making a difference within the community and happily raising a fifth generation of caring, passionate people: her children Alexander and Cassandra with husband Brad. For the past fifteen years, Turner has helped her clients as a commercial litigator by aggressively pursuing their goals in court or through arbitration and mediation. Throughout the last decade she’s also provided her extensive knowledge and expertise free of charge to ensure that the children in the system know that the court and the “system” care about their wants, needs and dreams. Erika talks with us about what drives her, working with the Clark County foster care system and how success comes with perseverance and grit.

Why is giving back to the community so important to you?

“There are people that come in and out of Las Vegas, but the core that lives here with an intention to stay need to do something to help make the community better. This is my home and I am happy to volunteer my time.”

How did you become interested in working with the Clark County foster care system?

“My sister is a social worker. She works day in and day out with Nevada’s abused and neglected children and the frustrations of trying to get them the services or homes they need in the context of our broken and under-funded system. Hearing her stories, I resolved to help. I don’t think there is anything as important as helping a child, and the pro bono work I do for the Children’s Attorney Project is certainly the most important legal work I do.”

Any experiences that you could share?

“There are so many stories, but as a result of my obligation to keep communications with the kids confidential, I can never paint a complete enough picture for people to really appreciate the experience. Suffice it to say, people do horrible things to children, and despite some wonderful people opening up their hearts and homes, there is an enormous need for advocacy to ensure that these children have a chance at a better life.”

What accomplishments make you proud?

“I have many accomplishments in my career, most of them involving a client resolving a dispute, but there’s no accomplishment better than seeing my kids succeed.”

As a fourth generation Las Vegan, do you have a favorite Las Vegas moment?

“I can’t pick just one. April 4, 1998 at the top of the Rio (the VooDoo Lounge) when my husband clumsily asked me to marry him; going to Alpine Village restaurant when I was a kid and to Red Rock with my family for a Sunday morning hike and marveling at the beauty.”

You have said that with success comes laundry. Care to explain?

“Working so many hours and with a full house, I do an enormous amount of laundry. While it isn’t a hobby, it has certainly become a longstanding pastime.”

Meet The Neighbor – Susan Deems Roske

 By Callie Thomas

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world.  Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead

What began as a few people with a common goal of protecting abused and neglected children has grown into a state-wide resource that has made an enduring difference. April is Child Abuse Prevention Month and there is no better example of the commitment to serving the public and instituting preventative initiatives then the dedication of 89074 resident Susan Deems Roske.

The forty year resident has seen much throughout her career, which has compelled her to help those who cannot help themselves. She’s been a social worker with the State of Nevada, and after attending law school in California, Roske was hired by the Public Defender’s Office and has been representing children in the juvenile delinquency court for over twenty-five years. After seeing children who are victims of sexual exploitation being prosecuted, Roske joined with an influential group of people including Juvenile Court Judge William Voy, Assistant District Attorney Teresa Lowry and UNLV Professor Alexis Kennedy to create a nonprofit foundation to help young victims and keep them out of the delinquency system. Thus, the PSEC (Protecting Sexually Exploited Children) Nevada Foundation was formed.

PSEC’s mission was later expanded to include all sexually abused and sexually exploited children, and the name became the Sojourn Foundation. Roske is the current chair and also serves on the Advisory Board for the National Juvenile Defender Center (NJDC) and as Co-Chair of the Western Region. The compassionate public servant, wife and mother of four talks about starting a nonprofit, affecting change and protecting the rights of our youth.

What was it like starting a nonprofit from scratch?

“We found out it is not a simple task and realized that we needed to be educated as to how to be an effective board. We were very fortunate to have received a federal grant which allowed us to retain a consultant to educate us and help expand our board and reshape our mission. Sojourn Foundation has started to lay out a clear vision for what the organization will grow to be…the leader and voice in our community for children who have been sexually abused and exploited.”

How is the Sojourn Foundation assisting these children?

“Sojourn Foundation is in its start up phase and is developing a very strong Board of Directors and leadership team. Sojourn Foundation will introduce a centralized point of entry for all child victims of sexual abuse and their families and provide high quality, evidence informed care and treatment for these children, regardless of their involvement with traditional systems of care. Sojourn will improve the care for and treatment of children who are affected by sexual exploitation in Southern Nevada by creating a ‘safe house.’ Our website is www.sojournfoundation.org.”

Congratulations on being recognized for your achievements in juvenile justice.

“Thank you. It was a great honor to be acknowledged by the Clark County Public Defender, Philip Kohn. He selected me for his annual Scott H. Waitt Award for excellence in criminal defense.”

What do you do when you’re not busy with the Foundation or your work with the juvenile justice system?

“I love spending time with my family. I’ve been married to my husband Randall for thirty years, and we’ve raised four children. I like physical activity and we have always enjoyed the outdoors, camping, hiking, biking and spending time at our cabin in Brian Head, Utah. I’m also a member of Developing Gardens and Family Farming, a nonprofit started by my daughters and their friends to create a community garden in the southeast part of the valley.”

If you could do any other job in the world, what would it be?

“I can’t see myself in any other job. I love what I do.”

Meet The Neighbor – Robert Shiroff, M.D.

By Callie Thomas

It seems apropos that accomplished cardiologist and 89052 resident Robert Shiroff was also a recipient of the American Heart Association’s Heart of Gold Award. If you’re going to trust your heart to any doctor, it should be someone with experience, compassion and a whole lot of heart.

Although born and raised in Philadelphia, Dr. Shiroff has been a Henderson resident for the past thirty-five years, and he fills the bill and then some. Along with Dr. Michael Sawaya, he created one of the largest cardiology practices in Nevada (then known as Cardiovascular Consultants of Nevada) and he has also served as the former Affiliate President of the American Heart Association on both a local and national level. Now retired, his current focus and passion is serving as a volunteer cardiologist and a board member of Volunteers in Medicine of Southern Nevada (VMSN), a non-profit group that provides free quality health clinic services to the uninsured and unemployed in the community. Shiroff’s compassionate nature fits well with the culture at VMSN, which is built on caring for the neglected and unseen. It is estimated that one out of seven people are uninsured in America, and there are approximately 580,000 uninsured in Nevada alone. The volunteer medical team at VMSN provides preventative health care which reduces overall hospital costs and assists in ultimately decreasing taxpayer burden.

Shiroff is not only foremost in his field, he’s a loving husband to wife Angie, father to five children and grandfather to their soon-to-be nine grandchildren. He’s proud to give back to the community where he’s made his life. Shiroff talks about his experiences with the organization, his five rules for living and his love of theatre, particularly The King and I.

What prompted you to become involved with Volunteers in Medicine?

“You always hear that if you work hard, you will bear the fruits of your labor. Yet, there are so many people who are working hard and have found themselves struggling. They may have been laid off or experienced a medical emergency. I’m glad to lend a helping hand.”

You treated patients every day at your former practice. What is different about VMSN?

“No one said life is easy, and it’s not. Our patients just need that extra helping hand. I can feel their sincere appreciation when I see them and they know that someone really cares.”

The group recently had its annual star-studded fundraising ball. Were your efforts successful?

“More than $380,000 in donations was raised during the Fourth Annual Ball this past October. Over 500 guests attended and the event was emceed by Wayne Newton and featured other entertainment performances. With this support, we can improve the lives of so many of Southern Nevada’s working families as they persevere through difficult times.”

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

“I am most proud of my children and their accomplishments – even more important, the kind of people they have become!”

As a father of five and grandfather of almost nine, you must have some words of advice?

“I have developed a few rules for living along the way:

1.  You are responsible for your actions and      the consequences of your actions.
2. You cannot control the actions of      others; you CAN control your responses (back to rule 1).
3. He who has the gold rules; if you      pay for it, you decide how it goes!
4. Pick the hill you are going to      die on – in other words, pick your fights.
5. As a parent, you have the right      and responsibility to give advice to your children; they should listen      with respect; they can do what they choose, unless rule #3 applies.”

So, if you weren’t a doctor, you’d be on Broadway as the King of Siam?

“I would love a career in theatre – singing, dancing and acting – if I had the talent!”

Meet The Neighbor – Cheryl Ruettiger

By Callie Thomas

As parents, we want to give our children every opportunity to fulfill their deepest dreams, whether that is becoming a baseball or football player, a pop singing sensation, the next great chef or even a movie or Broadway star. With a great deal of support and determination, anything is possible when you have someone like 89012 resident Cheryl Ruettiger making a difference in the community. Ruettiger has dedicated herself to helping youth fulfill their dreams as Executive Director of the Rudy Foundation, which she co-founded with her then husband, Rudy Ruettiger, the inspiration behind the blockbuster film Rudy. The Rudy Foundation is a nonprofit organization that recognizes those who aspire to fulfill their dreams through character, courage, contribution and commitment. Ruettiger has developed a series of scholarship showcases to benefit students and sports teams as well as theater and dance groups.

To meet Cheryl Ruettiger is to become immediately drawn by her genuine optimism, passion and enthusiasm for building helpful relationships, focusing on the good in people and creating experiences that positively impact the community. As a self-proclaimed night person, she works tirelessly into the later hours, creating and promoting programs for the foundation. This includes the upcoming Master of the House Showcase of ensemble musical theater talent that will feature productions performed by local high schools and theater groups in a competition to earn scholarship funds. Her own dream for this year is to build a theater where Las Vegas youth can come together to rehearse, perform and put on great shows for the community. Ruettiger talks about her passion for rewarding and encouraging young people for their accomplishments and the inspiration she draws from her own children.

This year, you are focusing on the performing arts through the Rudy Foundation?

“I am blessed to have had the opportunity to produce events for the Rudy Foundation and to work with so many influential performing arts leaders over the years. The experience I have acquired is a valuable part of my continued journey with talented youth and adults in America. It has greatly contributed to expanding my vision to realize my dream of funding a performing arts theater in Vegas and provide them with an opportunity to live their dreams.”

Tell us about the Master of the House Showcase.

“I’ve teamed with Erik Ball, the multi-talented director, producer, teacher, actor, singer and radio personality, to bring about this exciting production this month at Faith Lutheran. The competition provides local high schools and theater groups with an opportunity to earn scholarship funds. The show will be emceed by Maggie Wheeler, best known for her role as “Janice” on the hit TV show Friends. A professional panel will review the performances and award the top three groups, with the top honor of Master of the House going to the school earning the highest score. It’s fast-paced musical theater with a competitive edge and an element of surprise!”

What is the accomplishment you are most proud to have achieved?

“I will never forget giving birth to my kids, Danny and Jessica, right here in Vegas and creating the Rudy Foundation.”

What inspires you every day?

“My kids inspire me all the time. My son Danny loves soccer and hockey, and you can also catch him singing on the stage from time to time. My daughter Jessica loves the performing arts. Every day, you will find her singing, dancing or doing both performing in a show.”

Do you sing or dance?

“I like singing in the car! I’ve also enjoyed producing a short film called This is My Dream to share positive messages that help others believe in themselves and build character and confidence and overcome struggles on the journey to their dreams.”

Do you have a favorite life inspiration or quote you’d like to share?

“Let the rhythm of your heartbeat drive you toward your dreams.”

Out N About

Spring Forward, Help Out

The weather is growing warmer, but the searing temperatures have not yet arrived to keep us hidden away indoors. With such gorgeous days ahead of us, it’s a great time to get outside, enjoy some exercise and help a good cause at the same time with some of these amazing events.

MDA Muscle Walk

Put your heart and “sole” into this 1.5 mile charity walk at Town Square on March 16^th with all proceeds benefitting the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Visit www.musclewalkmda.org/lasvegas for registration and info.

Easter Seals Nevada’s 5^th Annual Walk With Me

Help raise awareness for those living with disabilities by heading to W. Wayne Bunker Family Park on March 23^rd for an energetic walk, followed by an Easter carnival filled with games and fun. Visit www.easterseals.com for registration and info.

23^rd Annual AIDS Walk Las Vegas

Get your blood pumping with a stroll around UNLV on April 14^th at this walk to benefit Aid for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN), a group that offers support and advocacy for those living with HIV and AIDS. Visit www.afanlv.org for registration and info.

Grant a Gift Autism 5K Walk/Run for Hope

This charity run and fun walk at Town Square on April 27^th also features lots of great activities and live entertainment. Proceeds benefit the Grant a Gift Autism Foundation. Visit www.grantagiftautismfoundation.org for registration and info.

March for Babies Las Vegas

UNLV hosts this 3 mile walk on April 27^th to benefit programs at the March of Dimes, which supports research, advocacy, community services and education to help babies get a healthy start. Visit www.marchofdimes.com for registration and info.

All Aboard!

Thomas the Tank Engine has long been one of the most beloved children’s characters in storybooks and television, and now your preschoolers can take the ride of their lives along with their favorite train when Thomas pulls into the station at the Nevada State Railroad Museum on April 6^th – 7^th and 13^th – 14^th for Day Out With Thomas, a fun filled event for the whole family.

Day Out With Thomas invites little engineers on a 25-minute ride behind their favorite engine, where they can meet Sir Topham Hatt, Controller of the Railway and enjoy a day of Thomas & Friends themed activities that includes arts and crafts, storytelling and much more. The museum also plans to offer fun games and activities, model train layouts and more. Proceeds from the event will help improve and add infrastructure to the museum and help maintain and restore old railroad equipment. Thomas the Tank Engine rides depart every 45 minutes, rain or shine, so gather your young ones and hop aboard for a ride they’re sure to remember for years to come! Call (866) 468-7630 or visit www.thomasandfriends.com/dowt for tickets and more information.

Chocolate Chocolate

1 oz. Bailey’s Irish Cream
½ oz. Absolut Vanilla
½ oz. Godiva white chocolate liqueur
½ oz. Kahlua
½ oz. Frangelico
½ oz. half & half
¼ oz. chocolate syrup
Cadbury Flake chocolate

Fill martini glass with ice. Top off with water and set aside to chill. Fill shaker halfway with ice. Add spirits and half & half. Shake vigorously. Empty ice water from glass. Rim glass with Cadbury Flake. Drizzle chocolate syrup into glass. Strain ingredients into glass. Shave Cadbury Flake over top.

Recipe courtesy of Rí Rá Irish Pub

Did You Know?

St. Patrick has long been a national hero in Ireland. Nearly sixty churches and cathedrals are named for him in Ireland alone, one of the most famous cathedrals being St. Patrick’s in Dublin, which bears the mark of the exact spot where St. Patrick baptized his converts.

The Must Do List

Editor’s Picks

March 14-17
47^th Annual Sons of Erin St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival
Celebrate the luck of the Irish with this time honored tradition in downtown Henderson that draws thousands of visitors each year. This year’s parade theme is “The Harp and the Shamrock,” and the grand march will start on Ocean Avenue, then travel down along Water Street to Victory Road with glorious fanfare. The accompanying festival features a carnival midway, food booths, souvenir and merchandise vendors, an Irish beer garden and much more. You can also enjoy live entertainment, including Irish music and dance, swing, jazz and Broadway show tunes. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a true “Son of Erin” or just pretending! Call 267-2171 or visit www.hendersonlive.com for more information.

March through December
Boyz II Men
One of the most iconic acts in R&B music history takes to the stage at The Mirage as Boyz II Men begin a nearly yearlong residency at the world famous hotel and casino. Having just celebrated their 20^th anniversary, the band has performed some of the most renowned hits of the last two decades, winning four Grammy Awards and selling sixty million albums. Band members Nathan Morris, Wanya Morris and Shawn Stockman will be sure to entertain long time fans and new crowds alike with classics such as “End of the Road” and “Motownphilly” along with plenty of original material. For an evening full of smooth sounds and great music, Boyz II Men has got it all. Call 792-7777 or visit www.themirage.com for tickets and more information.  

March 16-17
Big League Weekend
The boys of summer will be in full swing once again at Cashman Field for a great weekend of Major League Baseball. The Chicago Cubs will make their ninth straight appearance in Las Vegas for two games against the two time American League Champion Texas Rangers. Bring the whole family and join both local and out of town fans for some great sports action that has become a Las Vegas tradition. The games fall on St. Patrick’s Day weekend, so why not come celebrate at the ballpark! Call 798-7825 or visit www.milb.com for tickets and information.

April 11-14
Clark County Fair & Rodeo
It’s time to blaze a trail out to Logandale for this annual extravaganza, where you can experience the thrills of a traditional rural Nevada fair. Festivities include carnival rides, a junior livestock show, horticulture exhibits and an endless parade of arts and crafts that cover everything from ceramics to furniture to photography. Over 500 of the nation’s top rodeo athletes will compete in steer wrestling, team roping, barrel racing and more as they battle it out for cash prizes. You’ll also find plenty of food, drinks and live entertainment, so dust off your boots and saddle up for this Wild West adventure! Call (888) 876-FAIR or visit www.ccfair.com for more information.

April 16-21
Beauty and the Beast
The smash hit Broadway musical of Disney’s classic animated movie comes alive at The Smith Center, bringing together the creators of the original production. A magical tale of timeless romance, this story of Belle, the Beast and their undying love is sure to enchant young and old alike. Along with the whimsical antics of Cogsworth and Lumiere and the sneering villainy of Gaston, it’s truly a fable for the ages with wonderful music by original composer Alan Menken. Now’s your chance to experience the international sensation that has thrilled audiences worldwide. Call 982-7805 or visit www.thesmithcenter.com for tickets and more information.

Dog Days

There’s no doubt about it; we love our four legged friends. Between getting out to the park, exploring the canine community or even enjoying a fun and unique dog show, there are plenty of pooch themed festivities happening this season to entice animal lovers of all ages.

Wag-A-Tail Walk-A-Thon

Sponsored by the Las Vegas Valley Humane Society, this fun filled event takes place at Centennial Hills Park on March 24^th and features one and two mile walks, vendors, food and games, special exhibits and giveaways, dog contests and much more. Come out and show your support for homeless, abused and abandoned animals and spend some quality time with your own furry pal. Call 257-9668 or visit www.lvvhumane.org for registration and info.

14^th Annual Pet-A-Palooza

MIX 94.1 FM invites you out to the Star Nursery Fields at Sam Boyd Stadium on April 21^st for an exciting day packed with live music, food and exhibits of all kinds. A staple on the Las Vegas scene for over a decade, the event helps create awareness about local animals in need while offering a relaxing and memorable day out for pet lovers of all stripes. Visit www.mix941fm.radio.com for info.

10^th Annual Best in Show

The Animal Foundation’s premier fundraising event helps benefit lost, unwanted and abandoned animals. Join the fun at the Orleans Arena on April 28^th for an American Kennel Club style dog show featuring more than fifty amazing contestants from The Animal Foundation shelter. All dogs will be available for adoption at the end of the show, so you can take home a new friend after enjoying all the fun! Call 384-3333 or visit www.animalfoundation.com for info.
E Bunny Gives Baskets of Hope

Beyond the bright lights of the Las Vegas Strip, there are thousands of children living in temporary homes and shelters, many struggling to survive from day to day. Just one basket can make all the difference in any such child’s day, so E Bunny is asking local residents to help bring a smile to a child this Easter. All you need to do is pick up an Easter basket at any major retailer by March 25^th and deliver it to the E Bunny warehouse at Nevada Foreign Trade Zone, located at 6650 Spencer Street, Suite 110. Basket giveaways will take place a few days later on March 29^th.

Over the last 23 years, E Bunny has delivered thousands of baskets with help from Las Vegas Rescue Mission, Safe House, Family Promise and many more. In 2012 alone, 2,800 children received baskets. Now you can take part to help spread a message of hope and joy to disadvantaged children throughout Las Vegas and show that we are a community that cares. For more information on what you can do to help, call 498-9808 or email ebunnylv@gmail.com.

Arts in the Park

For almost 30 years, the Boulder City Fine Arts Festival has been gathering artists in all media together for an amazing display of creativity and self expression, and you can experience the wonder and artistry for yourself on April 20^th – 21^st at Bicentennial Park in Boulder City. This two day show brings artists from across the southwest together for a dynamic festival that is sure to engage and enchant the senses. Browse the park at your leisure, taking in work from hundreds of artists and craftsmen that include painting, glasswork, handcrafted jewelry and much more.

When the festival began in 1985 as the Clark County Artists’ Show, there were few such showcases for artists in the community. Since then, things have grown exponentially, with over 130 artists and over 15,000 people in attendance last year. The event also serves as a fundraiser for the Boulder City Art Guild, a nonprofit that uses proceeds from the show to fund scholarships for art students. Come out to support a good cause, enjoy the great weather and uncover some hidden treasures! Call 293-2138 or visit www.bcfineartsfestival.com for more information.

Making A Difference – HealthCare Partners Medical Group

The flu has been going around this season, and it’s important to stay vaccinated to insure that all of us stay healthy. Unfortunately, many valley residents are without health insurance and cannot afford this simple treatment. That’s where HealthCare Partners Medical Group is stepping in.

A leading physician-run group that provides primary, specialty and urgent care services in Southern Nevada, HealthCare Partners donated a supply of flu vaccine this past January to Volunteers in Medicine of Southern Nevada (VMSN), a nonprofit organization dedicated to treating uninsured patients who do not qualify for government assistance programs. The donated vaccines are expected to have a significant impact for VMSN, which manages approximately 6,000 patient visits each year. “With all signs pointing to a severe flu season in Southern Nevada, HealthCare Partners recognizes the importance of providing vaccines to community members in need,” said Dr. Amir Bacchus, chief medical officer of HealthCare Partners Medical Group. “Preventative medicine is a top priority for HealthCare Partners, and we have a responsibility to keep people healthy, regardless of whether they visit our company’s clinics.”

With the wellness of the community in mind, insured or otherwise, HealthCare Partners Medical Group has taken that extra step to help keep all Southern Nevada residents healthy and happy, proving that if a small group of people care enough then all of us can heal a little bit together.

For more information on HealthCare Partners Medical Group, visit www.hcpnv.com.