Fun in the Sun – Family Friendly Adventures in San Diego

By Susan Somers

It’s hard to think of a better vacation spot than San Diego. America’s eighth largest city is known for its miles of beaches and near perfect weather year round, particularly in the summer when the average temperature hangs around 75 degrees. But when it’s time to plan your family summer getaway, it’s also important to consider how family friendly your destination might be. While urban settings may not always be a perfect fit, San Diego stands apart from the pack by offering a wide range of exciting activities, ensuring a season full of fond memories for all involved.

Parks and Recreation

One of the city’s most famous destinations has to be Balboa Park. Situated on 1,200 acres, it’s the nation’s largest urban cultural park, offering a full complement of major museums, lush gardens, unique performing arts venues and one of the most famous zoos in the entire world.

Science and Nature

Budding scientists will want to check out the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center (www.rhfleet.org). With over one hundred interactive science exhibits in eight galleries, traveling exhibits and the world’s first giant IMAX® Dome Theater, kids and families can nurture their love of science and enjoy giant screen films and amazing planetarium shows. A motion simulator ride will thrill smaller visitors with journeys into exciting realms. Exhibitions include Origins in Space, which details the scientific accomplishments and technological spinoffs that have resulted from NASA missions, while the Tinkering Studio will spark creativity with activities such as making origami and Spirograph artwork or creating digital bling using a variety of colorful LED lights.

Nature aficionados will love the San Diego Natural History Museum (www.sdnhm.org). Bug enthusiasts can meet Madagascar hissing cockroaches, zebra tarantulas and emperor scorpions at the Dr. Entomo’s Palace of Exotic Wonders exhibition. The Dino Jaws exhibition will take you back in time to a world populated by dinosaurs, where you can even touch real fossilized dinosaur poop. The smallest dinosaur lovers can enjoy Camp-O-Saurus, a special play area that features a campground with a dinosaur’s nest to play in, robotic butterflies and a “Campfire Pit.”

Meditation Vacation

Once you’ve had your fill of the museums, you can help your little ones get their Zen on with a trip to the Japanese Friendship Garden (www.niwa.org). The Garden originated as a teahouse during the Panama-California Exposition of 1915–16 and now sits on two acres near the Spreckels Organ Pavilion. Wander the peaceful paths and take in the relaxing atmosphere as you explore a Zen garden for meditation, an exhibit house, a koi pond, a bonsai exhibit, a ceremonial gate and a beautiful Fujidana (wisteria arbor). Be sure to check out the Handcrafted Journeys exhibit, on display through July 28th, which chronicles the evolution of Japanese-American woodworking and features pieces from local collections and stories that go with them.

Wild Kingdom

For the animal lovers in your vacationing brood, carve out some dedicated time to visit the world famous San Diego Zoo (www.sandiegozoo.org). The 100 acre park is home to more than 4,000 exotic, rare and endangered animals from over 800 different species. From giant pandas from China to orangutans from Borneo and Sumatra, you and your “pack” will be transported to the most colorful habitats in the world. Africa Rocks is home to the zoo’s five big cat species: mountain lion, snow leopard, jaguar, Siberian lynx and Chinese leopard. The Asian Passage takes you through a tropical rain forest with sun bears and lion-tailed macaques. Don’t forget to ride the Skyfari tram for a bird’s eye view of the nation’s most amazing animal kingdom.

On the Waterfront

No trip to San Diego would be complete without taking in the fresh maritime air. Head south from Balboa Park to the East Village area that houses Petco Park (www.petcoparkevents.com), home of the San Diego Padres baseball team. Plan ahead, check out a game schedule and pick up your tickets so you can watch the boys of summer take the field. For the littlest fans, the adjacent Park at the Park offers playground equipment and a miniature baseball diamond fit for pint sized sluggers. Young ones can also sign up for the Jr. Padres Baseball Clinic or attend Sunday Signings to meet some of the players. True baseball addicts can go behind-the-scenes with a VIP guided tour of Petco Park, a must for any Major League Baseball fan that includes a tour of the Writer’s Row press box, the Padres dugout and the historic Western Metal Supply Company.

If just being near the water isn’t enough, aqua-loving families can rent out a boat or WaveRunner or take a scenic whale watching tour, all of which can be procured through Seaforth Boat Rentals (www.seaforthboatrental.com). For a unique twist on a traditional sightseeing outing, book a seat on the fully narrated San Diego SEAL Tour (www.sealtours.com), an amphibious sea and land adventure with a “Boat on Wheels” that cruises the San Diego streets as a bus, then turns into a Hydra-Terra vessel that tours the San Diego Bay. Younger sailors will delight in learning about San Diego’s military history and ecological wonders and may even spot a California sea lion.

Shop, Snack & Sleep

It’s not a vacation if you and the family don’t take some time out to indulge yourselves. Pay a visit to Seaport Village (www.seaportvillage.com), a family friendly complex situated on the San Diego Bay. Accented by lush landscaping, Seaport Village offers over fifty boutiques and specialty shops that range from casual to quirky. All that touring around is bound to have made you hungry, so take time out to sample some homemade fish tacos while enjoying live blues, jazz, country or swing. If you like to dine alfresco, Buster’s Beach House & Longboard Bar provides a laid back menu that includes sushi, soups and chowders, sandwiches and more against a waterfront backdrop. After your meal, stroll the boardwalk with the family or wander the cobblestone paths to check out the variety of street performers and artisans that provide free roaming entertainment. The younger set will especially enjoy a ride on the historic carousel.

After a long day in the sun, you’ll be ready to rest your weary head. One of the best family friendly lodging options is the Hilton San Diego Bayfront (www.hiltonsandiegobayfront.com). Located a short walk from Seaport Village and just across a pedestrian bridge from Petco Park, the hotel recently underwent a multi-million dollar remodeling of its pool and lounge areas. Little ones will make a beeline for The Splash Zone, a kids-only pool and waterslide where youngsters can swim, slide and play with the hotel’s water toys. For more youth oriented fun, kids can also plan their own activities through the Hilton’s Kids Club, where they can spend part of their lazy summer days creating sand art by the pool, designing cupcakes and much more.

For summer destinations, San Diego has everything you could want and more. Whether you’re a grown up looking for something fun to do or a young one who’s eager to explore exciting new things, this is one vacation spot that’s got plenty of good times in store for the whole family.

Pop Goes the Easel – Warhol Out West

By Mike Sweeney

Few icons of the modern art world loom as large as the talented and eccentric Andy Warhol. His stylistic pop art masterpieces have captivated the public for decades, with colorful paintings and glittering screen prints making as indelible an impression as his shock of white hair. Las Vegas residents now have a chance to enjoy some of the master’s works at the “Warhol Out West” exhibit, now on display at the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art, which features many of Warhol’s depictions of celebrity, advertisements, brand products and other hallmarks of popular culture.

Once Upon a Time in the West

One of the most impressive parts of the exhibit is Warhol’s rarely seen “Cowboys and Indians” series, which explores the myths and folklore of the American West. Historical figures such as Annie Oakley, Geronimo and George Armstrong Custer come to life in dazzling screen prints, where brilliant colors mix with Warhol’s unique aesthetic to take them out of reality and propel them into legend. It’s fitting, then, that the series includes a portrait of John Wayne, who elevated fanciful notions of the American cowboy to new heights. The series also portrays images of Native American life in the same Warhol style. While it may seem contradictory for a pop art devotee to explore such a seminal part of American history, we must remember that Warhol brings his sensibilities to it. He’s dealing not in reality but rather our perceptions of it.

Cultural Learning

With the proliferation of advertising and social media, we are bombarded by pop culture in ways that Warhol could only dream about. Still, his remarkable skill for capturing the consumer zeitgeist is on full display here. Corporate logos for titans such as Paramount, Apple and Chanel practically explode out of their frames with stunning colors and flair. Even something as simple as a can of Campbell’s soup transforms into an artistic likeness so ingrained in our culture that it has come to stand as the defining image of its creator’s work. Warhol saw it as more than just a can of soup; he saw it as something completely emblematic of the American way of life, something we all have in common. After all, who doesn’t enjoy a hot bowl of soup on a cold night? These simple painted and framed representations of soup cans show the power of art to bring us together and connect our disparate lives through the most seemingly insignificant things.

Famous Faces

Warhol’s fascination with celebrity is represented throughout the gallery, most notably in a series of Polaroid photographs taken of famous friends by Warhol himself. These snapshots of celebrities such as Sylvester Stallone, Truman Capote, Dennis Hopper, Princess Caroline and many more were taken against a bare backdrop with a direct flash, casting the normally luminescent stars in a somewhat unflattering, “real” light. These aren’t the polished photo portraits of Annie Leibovitz; these are pop culture candids, raw and unprocessed. It shatters our familiar airbrushed notions of celebrity and makes these cultural icons that much more relatable.

While the Polaroids may lean more toward realism, Warhol’s screen prints of figures such as Dolly Parton, Georgia O’Keefe and others (himself included) pop with his usual color and style. Even the ubiquitous Mona Lisa finds herself reworked by Warhol’s hand. With multiple images of art history’s most famous woman in various sizes, Warhol not only expresses our obsession with mass production but also our fondness for celebrities, even ones dating back to the Renaissance. One of the most famous celebrity portraits on display here has to be the renowned silkscreen print “Double Elvis” which features a bifurcated image of the King taken from a publicity still for the western film Flaming Star. Striking a cowboy pose, his six shooter pointed right at us, the image once again connects western clichés with the alluring power of celebrity.

“Warhol Out West” gives us an intimate look at one of pop art’s greatest icons and helps to further his intent to challenge our notions of consumerism, celebrity and our perceptions of the world. Warhol saw things in a unique light, and this exhibit gives us the chance to do the same.

For tickets and more information, call 693-7871 or visit www.bellagio.com/bgfa.

A Step Above – Neil Insigne

Liberty High School

Class of 2013

Liberty High School senior Neil Insigne doesn’t believe in limitations. From his impressive achievements as a pole vault champion to his desire to help others in his future career as a physical therapist, Neil keeps his goals in sharp focus and maintains a strong sense of determination and discipline to keep them within reach. Outgoing, humble and never afraid to take risks, Neil fully understands the power of a helping hand and the importance of making others feel welcome. He’s got the courage, resilience and character it takes to meet every challenge, and that sets Neil Insigne – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.285

Sports/Activities/Community Service

• • Varsity Track and Field, 2010-13
• • Orchestra, 2006-11
• • Breakdance Club, 2009-13
• • Gawad Kalinga, 2010-13
• • Key Club, 2012-13
• • National Honor Society, 2011
• • AP Club, 2013
• • Volunteer at St. Thomas Moore Church, 2011-12
• • Volunteer for Rare Artistry Dance Group, 2011-Present

Awards

• • Millennium Scholarship, 2013
• • Classical Scholar, 2013
• • Advanced Honors Diploma, 2013
• • Varsity Letterman (Track and Field), 2010-13
• • 1st Place, Southern Nevada Freshman/Sophomore Pole Vault Championship, 2010
• • 1st Place, Valley Relays Pole Vault Winners, 2012-13
• • 2nd Place, Pole Vault, Meadows Track Invitational, 2013
• • Pole Vault Regional Qualifier, 2010-13
• • Most Improved Violinist, 2010
• • Perfect Attendance, 2012-13
• • Best Hair for Senior Class, 2013

Goals & Aspirations: “My main goal is to graduate high school with advanced honors and qualify for the Nevada State Championships for pole vault in track and field. In the future, I intend on graduating college to pursue a career as a physical therapist to help those who have sustained disabilities, impairments or limitations in their overall physical function.”

Neil Looks Up To: “My sister is someone I look up to because she is one of my biggest supporters. She coaches me and encourages me to do my best in pole vaulting because she was a pole vaulter in high school as well. Even though she can be hard on me at times, I know she is pushing me to my full potential.”

Part of the Solution: “One of the biggest issues facing young adults today is bullying. Whether it is verbal or physical, criticizing another human being for who they are is completely wrong, especially when the person is contemplating taking their own life because of the harassment. I will stick up for those who feel belittled for being different and urge others to stop making teens feel judged based on who they are or what they are passionate about.”

A Step Above – Erica Pereszlenyi

Green Valley High School

Class of 2013

Success isn’t something that’s just given to us; it’s something we have to earn. Green Valley High School senior Erica Pereszlenyi knows what it takes to get there, and she’s put in years of focus, diligence and hard work to reach the top. Sharp minded, resolute and bolstered by support from her family, she can already visualize her future career path in the medical field, and that’s just the start of the big plans she has lined up for her future. That special combination of foresight and willpower keeps her standing tall, proving that Erica Pereszlenyi is – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.3

Sports/Activities/Awards

• • Volleyball, 2009-10
• • Bowling, 2009-13
• • Scholar Athlete, 2009-13
• • Four Year Letterman (Bowling), 2009-13
• • Most Improved (Bowling), 2013
• • Student Council, 2009-13
• • Junior Class Treasurer, 2011-12
• • Student Body Treasurer, 2012-13
• • Class Committee, 2009-12
• • National Honor Society, 2011-13
• • Psychology Club, 2010-13

Community Service

• • Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, 2009-13
• • PB&J, 2009-13
• • Feeding the Homeless, 2010-13
• • Santa Run, 2011
• • L.I.G.H.T. Work Camp, 2010 & 2012
• • Suicide Prevention Walk, 2013
• • Volunteer Religious Education Teacher, St. Thomas More Church, 2009-13

Goals & Aspirations: “My goal is to graduate in four years from the University of Nevada Reno and then move on to medical school to later become a physical therapist or pharmacist. I hope to be on track to having a successful career.”

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “An accomplishment I am most proud of is being able to graduate with an Advanced Honors diploma. Receiving this diploma helps me reflect on all the effort I have put forth throughout my four years of high school.”

Erica Looks Up To: “I look up to my big brother Alex. Alex always knows how to motivate me and keep me on the right path. He is able to show me ways to not give up on anything, even though I may not succeed at first. He not only shows me how to do better in school, but how to be an all around better person as well.”

Erica is Stronger and Wiser Because: “High school as a whole has made me into a stronger person. I have overcome the thought of always wanting to fit in and realizing in the end that it doesn’t matter. Instead of worrying about always fitting in, you can focus on what is going to benefit you in the future.”

A Step Above – Riley Lawrence

Coronado High School

Class of 2013

Finding the bright side in any situation isn’t hard for Coronado High School senior Riley Lawrence. With a winning smile and a positive attitude, she values the strong connections to friends, family and community that keep her spirits high and her willpower strong. Volleyball has long been her sport of choice, and she’s grateful to have the opportunity to play at the collegiate level when she attends the University of Puget Sound this fall. Whatever comes her way, she’s determined to face the road ahead with the same poise, grace and personal pride that’s led her this far, and that’s what places Riley Lawrence – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.78

Sports/Activities

• • Women’s Varsity Volleyball, 2011-12
• • Women’s JV Volleyball, 2010; Captain, 2010
• • Women’s Freshman Volleyball, 2009
• • Encore Volleyball Club, 2009-11
• • CSA Volleyball Club, 2011-13
• • Coronado Orchestra, 2009-10
• • National Honor Society, 2011-12
• • Student Council Junior Class Representative, 2011-12
• • Student Council Student Body Historian, 2012-13

Awards/Community Service

• • 2nd Team All Region, Women’s Varsity Volleyball, 2012
• • Scholar Athlete, 2009-12
• • Most Valuable Defensive Player Award, 2009-13
• • Southern Star Award for Student Council, 2012
• • Silver Star Award for Student Council, 2013
• • Sun Youth Forum Scholarship Winner ($1000), 2012
• • Vance Scholarship ($82,000), 2013
• • Trustee Scholarship ($76,000), 2013
• • Habitat for Humanity, 2011-12

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of my admittance into the highly selective University of Puget Sound and being recruited to play volleyball at the collegiate level. I have spent the past five years playing volleyball year round, and I am so glad that I can continue to play a sport that I love. Volleyball is my passion, and I am ecstatic that all of the time and effort, travel, and sacrifice have paid off.”

Riley is Stronger and Wiser Because: “I have always been the shortest person on all my volleyball teams. Most people dismissed my chances to play volleyball at a competitive level, but being 5’5” only made me more determined. I practiced, played year round and kept my grades up so I could increase my chances to play at the collegiate level. I’ve learned firsthand that it’s not just what you have that matters, it’s what you do with what you have that counts.”

Part of the Solution: “Many young adults are not exposed to interpersonal communication. Technology encourages texting instead of talking and that may prove to be a huge disadvantage in their future endeavors. I am majoring in Business Leadership, and I hope I can help develop a verbally challenged generation into effective communicators, team players, and more altruistic members of society.”

Meet The Neighbor – Michael Clift, David Scott & Wayne Hosking a.k.a. The Australian Bee Gees

By Callie Thomas

It’s the music that has become legendary. The unforgettable harmonies and indelible dance rhythms of the one and only Bee Gees are re-created six nights a week at the Excalibur by the multi-talented Michael Clift (a.k.a. Barry Gibb), David Scott (a.k.a. Robin Gibb) and Wayne Hosking (a.k.a. Maurice Gibb). Not only are they exceptional musicians and performers who have entertained audiences from all over the world with their uncanny resemblance and similar sound to the original group, they’re also local 89123 residents who have become our neighbors, entrenched within the Las Vegas community as they enjoy the local lifestyle, send their children to school and help give back through many local nonprofit organizations.

Originally from Australia, the trio formed the Bee Gees tribute group in 1996, because “nobody else was doing it” and they had been touring together for fifteen years before landing in Vegas in 2011. Since that time, they’ve not only had to adjust to the welcome opportunity of going to work in the same showroom every night, but they have also put down roots for their families, building a life within the community in the process.

Each member of the Australian Bee Gees is passionate about supporting local organizations that have special meaning to them, including nonprofits such as Shade Tree, Four Square, Partee Fore Kids Event, Supply Our Students Drive, many local blood drives, Clean the World and other charities. The three gave us an inside look at the personalities behind the performances, making the move from Australia to Las Vegas and becoming part of the community.

How did you all meet?

MC: “My band Red Tape won Battle of the Bands for two years and secured a record deal and released several singles before becoming a part of Australian Bee Gees.”

DS: “I played guitar in a small town at an early age. In high school, I met others who could play songs by ear and we put together a band. Our parents were members of local clubs and got us gigs. We didn’t get paid, but we got free soda! Years later, I auditioned and was welcomed into a tribute group to the Eagles, which soon became the Australian Bee Gees.”

WH: “I started as a solo pianist in bars around Melbourne, Australia. I then worked with an Australian playwright named Craig Christie, with whom I composed a rock opera called “Crusade” which won a lot of critical acclaim in Australia and Europe. I was invited to the Bee Gees tribute company in 1996.”

What’s it been like becoming a part of the Vegas community?

MC: “We had been touring for many years, so there was some adjusting to this lifestyle. It’s probably the closest thing to a normal job that I’ve ever had. My family moved over in 2012 and both my kids started going to school. That’s the point where you start to meet people out of the circle of your industry and feel like you’re living here rather than just working here. This year, my wife is the vice president of the PTA at our kid’s school!”

Tell us about the local charitable organizations you support.

WH: “We feel very privileged to be able to live and work here in Las Vegas and give back. Clean the World provides hygiene packs for local homeless people made of the amenity packs from the hotels and casinos here.”

DS: “I support the Shade Tree charity that provides food and shelter to women, children and vets.”

MC: “World Vision and Medicine Sans Frontiers are long term commitments of me and my family, and since arriving in Las Vegas, we’ve been involved in many local charities including Shade Tree.”

Anything about yourselves others might be surprised to know?

MC: “I’m a nerd. Wait, I think they already know that.”

DS: “My friends are never surprised about anything I do, but others might not know that I’m quite different from the character I play on stage.”

WH: “Most people are surprised that I am shy offstage.”

Meet The Neighbor – Dr. Navin Twarakavi

By Callie Thomas

“Imagination is more important than knowledge.” – Albert Einstein

As children, it’s easy for us to become fascinated by the smallest of things, like tossing a stone into the water and watching as the rings ripple and fade into infinity. 89074 resident Dr. Navin Twarakavi has taken his fascination with water into adulthood and his career to become the Associate Professor at the Desert Research Institute. His research focuses on understanding how water, nutrients and energy move between plants, soil and atmosphere. He is particularly keen on developing sustainable solutions for agriculture in arid regions.

Navin’s strong belief in education, particularly with children, is essential to building a productive and aware society that collectively make decisions for generations to come while facing changing environments and limited resources. Navin has taken his quest to the elementary level grade school children in the valley to educate them on the value of water resources.

The Farm Lab is a social network based learning module that Navin runs and has taken to the students in the community to become “virtual farmers” that grow food (vegetables and fruits) based on decisions that are made among a student group. They get advice from the pros (local agricultural professionals and Desert Research Institute scientists) to develop their parcels of the virtual farm. Their decisions are communicated through a web interface and the virtual farmers are able to see changes in their plants above and below ground. Navin is also an active participant in the Desert Research Institute’s Green Power Program, which promotes and supports the education of Nevada’s K-12 students to encourage advancements in hydroponics. The busy professor took a few minutes to talk about his passion for research, his vision for a sustainable future and his other loves: his wife and two year old daughter.

What do you believe inspired you to become passionate about water and sustaining this integral resource?

“I was inspired as a kid to study the movement of water in the global water cycle while growing up in India, living on an island with water resources that were stressed to adequately serve the community. I find that same stress in the Las Vegas Valley, which motivates me to find solutions for efficient and optimal usage and conservation of available water resources.”

Tell us about the Desert Research Institute’s Green Power Program.

“Its mission is to promote the advancement of hydroponics – the method of growing plants using mineral nutrient solutions, in water, without soil. I have participated in a Skype lesson with Sandy Miller Elementary School students to help guide their hydroponics project. They then showcased the “fruits” of their labor to the medalist, Dr. Nina Fedoroff, a leading geneticist and molecular biologist who is a pioneering researcher in the field of plant genetics.”

What is it like working with the children in the programs?

“I always find that children can come up with seemingly simple questions but are actually very profound and tough to answer! Children have an inherent appreciation of the value of natural resources that seems to fade away as they grow up. As educators and the current torch bearers for our planet, we need to put in a better effort to nurture this intrinsic quality.”

You instill this appreciation for nature in your own daughter?

“Yes. Everything that my two year old daughter learns from me is one of my proudest and most gratifying accomplishments. My wife and my daughter are the most important to me.”

After a long day, how do you unwind?

“I enjoy playing with my daughter and playing guitars.”

Any other hobbies?

“I love running, brewing beer and listening to TED Talks.”

What does giving back mean to you?

“Giving back to the community is a responsibility and not an option. We are what we are because of the community in which we live.”

Meet The Neighbor – John Holmstrom

By Callie Thomas

Is there an unsung hero in your life? When you think back, there was probably a math teacher, football coach or perhaps a scout leader that made a difference or supported a meaningful event that you’ll remember throughout your life. Resident John Holmstrom is one of those heroes, and the students, athletes and scouts that have been under his tutelage have the memories and trophies to help illustrate his influence on their lives.

Holmstrom has shared his talents throughout the community in a variety of ways, which has included evaluating challenges and providing flexible solutions that he developed as a project engineer while working with Tronox. In that position, he was responsible for every phase of capital construction projects, from conceptual planning to detailed design, budgeting and permitting, all the way through construction and start up, all for a variety of projects that went beyond the responsibilities of an electrical engineer. Currently, Holmstrom serves as the Maintenance Manager for the Tronox Henderson plant and is responsible for maintenance and repair of all plant operations. As a part of the Tronox company culture, Holmstrom also lends his expertise to Mannion Middle School’s Tech Program, which introduces students to engineering fields. In fact, his “official” capacity with the class is Engineer Mentor.

Another title that Holmstrom has earned is that of Assistant Scoutmaster with the Boy Scouts of America Troop 95. He has had an influence on countless kids in the program. In fact, all three of his own children have come up through the organization, and his two sons earned their Eagle rank. He has also volunteered his efforts with the City of Henderson Recreation Department, adding the title of “Coach” to the list. The multi-talented Holmstrom has inspired youth through baseball, softball, basketball and soccer programs. Even years later, former team and troop members and students enjoy recalling those memories. The active resident shares his experiences and the unexpected rewards of being a mentor to so many.

Tell us about your role as “Engineer Mentor” at Mannion Middle School.

“When my daughter was a student at Burkholder Middle School, she took the class and asked for my help when they had to design a city of the future and build parts of the city. In the course of this, I got to be good friends with the teacher, Jackie Welch-Doubeck, and I have been volunteering with the class for about twelve years, first at Burkholder and now at Mannion. Tronox, my employer, also encourages staff to be involved in educational efforts, specifically involving engineering and robotics. It is a huge part of our company culture.”

How did you become involved with the Boy Scouts of America?

“I’m a fan of the skills and abilities that they teach kids and young adults. All of my kids came up through the Boy Scouts; my daughter was the first president of Crew 95, a high adventure Venture Crew unit that backpacked, climbed, rappelled, rafted and more. My two boys were active in both the Troop and Crew.”

Were your children involved in your decision to work with the City of Henderson Recreation Department?

“Yes. When my kids were in elementary and middle school, I volunteered as a coach. The city’s year-round program keeps kids active with an emphasis on fun and participation.”

Any experiences with these groups you could share?

“Occasionally, I bump into one of the kids and we talk about a basketball game we had or the moving parts we built for their city model, white water rafting at summer camp or how much weight their bridge model held before it crushed. It’s nice to know that we can have a positive, lasting impact while doing something fun.”

What accomplishments are you most proud to have achieved?

“My family with the love of my life, my wife Kristy. My two Eagle Scouts and the dozen or so others I got to work with on their path to Eagle, a valedictorian, two Tech Pro class teams that made it to national competitions in Washington, D.C., a hallway lined with team pictures and a pot shelf crammed with team trophies and memorabilia. I am also proud of my position as the Maintenance Manager of Tronox and hope that my civic efforts encourage the staff to remain involved in community service.”

Any advice or life inspiration you’d like to share?

“Do good work and do your best. We all get knocked down sometimes, but we need to get back up, help our neighbors up, dust off and move on.”

A Step Above – Brianna Ballard

Coronado High School
Class of 2013

Making a difference in the world isn’t something that Coronado High School senior Brianna Ballard takes lightly. Whether it’s through friends, community, or her future career as a chemical engineer, this confident and enterprising young woman hopes to bring us all closer together and make tomorrow brighter for the less fortunate. With strong faith, unyieldingresolve and a firm sense of personal accountability, Brianna refuses to let herself be defined by other’s perceptions; she’s comfortable and self assured just being who she is, and she knows exactly what she wants out of life. For all that and more, Brianna Ballard stands – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.75

Sports/Activities

·       Varsity Volleyball, 2010-11; JV Volleyball, 2010-11
·       Madrigal Choir, 2011-13
·       Coronado Production of Godspell, 2012
·       Coronado Production of Beauty and the Beast, 2013
·       Directed “Awesome 80s Prom” in Student Directed Play Festival, 2013
·       Drama Club, 2012-13
·       National Honor Society, 2011-13
·       Coronado Choir Secretary, 2012-13
·       Student Council, 2011-13
·       Junior Class VP, 2011-12; Senior Class Secretary, 2012-13

Awards/Community Service

·       Scholar Athlete, 2012
·       Sportsmanship Award, 2010 & 2012
·       Team MVP, 2011
·       Nevada All State Academic Team, 2012
·       Varsity Letter, 2012
·       AP Scholar Award, 2012
·       Young Womanhood Medallion, 2013
·       St. Timothy’s Church Thanksgiving Volunteer, 2007-Present
·       Chemistry Tutor, 2011-12
·       Volunteer for Construction of Foothills Montessori School, 2008

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am proud of my diligence in school. While most of my friends gave up on math and their grades, they were important to me. I studied every night to get into classes where others often had challenges. I was able to accomplish this while doing all my extra-curricular activities throughout the year, which was very hard.”

Brianna Looks Up To: “I look up to my mom. She is kind, humorous, and strong. She works so hard for us every day just to make sure we are taken care of. She doesn’t let social norms define her. She is her own person, and I admire her for that. She always encouraged me when I was down, and she’s the reason why I know I can succeed in whatever I try.”

Part of the Solution: “I think one big issue with our generation of young adults is the lack of true self-confidence. We seem to put on a veil of self-assurance, but in reality, most young people are not sure of themselves at all. I would create a positive self-image campaign to convince the youth, especially young girls, that they are beautiful inside and out. Everyone deserves to feel accepted and loved.”