Please Don’t Go…Soothing Your Pet’s Separation Anxiety

By Ashlee Verba

The end of summer marks a return to “normal” life when families now must stretch their time between school, work and social schedules. Daily routines become a mad dash to make sure everyone is fed, bathed and in bed at a reasonable hour. For your pet, however, this usually translates into seeing less of you and your family, which can often lead to separation anxiety. For some pets (and owners) this can be a troubling scenario, but when you know what signs to watch for and what you can do to help fix the problem, you’ll find it’s easy to keep your pet relaxed and relieved while you’re otherwise occupied.

Watch for Signs

According to the ASPCA, a change in the normal schedule or routine can trigger separation anxiety in pets that are used to having the company and companionship of their owners on a consistent basis. Animals that are stressed and feeling separation anxiety may act out through destroying things in the house. Other pets may show their displeasure by going to the bathroom inside or through pacing, digging, barking or howling. If the distress occurs when they know you are getting ready to leave, this could be a good indication of separation anxiety. However, it’s important to know that some of these symptoms may have other explanations such as incontinence, submissive urination or diabetes, so consult with a veterinarian first to rule out any other possible reasoning.

Finding Your Solution

Once you’ve ruled out medical problems, it’s important for you to take the proper steps as a responsible pet owner to find some relief for both of you. Most animals learn through association, and you can begin the process by learning to recognize your own signals.

Desensitization

Pets are creatures of habit; as such, they are often quick to pick up on our own routines. Whether it’s putting on your shoes or picking up your keys, a sensitive pet will learn to know when you are leaving and start to become anxious right away. Learning to lessen the impact of your departure and arrival can help through good suggestions such as the “twenty minute rule” which says to withhold from interacting with your pet twenty minutes before you leave and twenty minutes after you come home. It can be difficult because we love them so much, but by not engulfing your pet in hugs and kisses on every departure and arrival, we can help signal to them that being home alone is not a big deal.

The next step is teaching them to ignore your departure cues. As anything with pets goes, this is a gradual process. Start by picking up your keys, jingling them and setting them back down. After a week of “false alarms,” your keys will no longer be an indication of you leaving. Next, grab your keys and put on your coat every couple of days for no reason until they stop associating your coat with departing. After that, grab your keys, put on your coat and open the door. From there, step outside for a couple of minutes. As your pet progresses, change variables and time intervals. Practice as a family so your pooch doesn’t focus on other people’s signals such as kids grabbing backpacks or lunch bags.

Positive Reinforcement

If your pet still seems anxious when you shake up your departure routine, the solution may be giving them something to keep them occupied while you’re gone. Try giving them a treat on your way out the door and make sure there are plenty of bones or toys around for them to pass time with. Interactive feeders help stimulate your pet mentally and keep them busy while they figure out simple puzzles. Pets can get their reward through pawing, nibbling, shaking or rolling the toy around – but be sure to make the reward fairly easy to obtain or your animals will become frustrated or disinterested. You can also make a game of hiding treats in appropriate areas throughout the house to send your pets on little scavenger hunts that will keep them away from ripping up the carpet.

You don’t have to spend a lot of money on fancy toys, either; there are simple ones you can make yourself at home that should still keep your doggie distracted. Try wrapping a water bottle or two liter soda bottle in an old shirt. The crinkling noise is oh so satisfying as they chew, and your smell on the shirt may also relieve some of their separation issues. You can also create your own puzzle with a muffin tin, tennis balls and treats. Put treats in a few of the holes and fill most of them with tennis balls. Your pet will have to move the balls around to get to their treat. For other awesome at-home toy ideas, head online and visit http://thebarkpost.com/3-dog-toys-you-can-make-from-things-around-the-house.

Expending Energy

Regular exercise is an important part of any pet’s health, but it can also help relieve animals who are dealing with separation anxiety. Since domesticated dogs no longer have to scavenge for food, they need to find other ways to release pent up energy that would normally be spent hunting. A long walk before or after work or a short trip to the dog park should do the trick. Teaching your dog to fetch and letting him romp around with the kids can provide both great exercise and a fun bonding experience. You can even schedule play dates with friends or family members. For indoor cats, firing up a laser pointer or dragging a bit of string behind them can get them tired out. Having more than one animal is also helpful as pets will have a companion to burn up their energy with.

Crate Training

When toys, treats or exercise don’t do the trick, you may wonder if crate training is an effective alternative. There’s no direct yes or no answer here. While it can help prevent destruction and give your pet a relaxing space of their own, animals with extreme anxiety can end up feeling confined and may hurt themselves trying to escape. If you are going to crate train, it’s more important than ever to downplay excitement when you return home so that your pet isn’t constantly anticipating your return. As stated above, showing that your departure and return isn’t something to get overly anxious about will help your pet learn to accept it as part of a normal routine and should prevent any crate related injuries.

The best solution for making your pet less anxious is making them feel truly loved. Pets want to feel like a part of the “pack” so it’s important to include them in as many family activities as possible. Your days can easily become demanding, but time away from your pet can make them feel unnecessarily nervous as well. By keeping them close when you’re at home and making them feel comfortable when you’re away, you can lessen the problem of separation anxiety and have a more fulfilling life with your furry friend.

A Blank Canvas – Drop Cloth Home Décor

By DeDee Birdsall

We tend to think of drop cloths as not being good for much but catching spilled paint, but they can actually serve another purpose as a versatile, inexpensive and trendy decorating fabric. Whether paint stained or fresh out of the package, the amount of project possibilities that drop cloths provide are virtually endless. Although it’s not a new trend on the home décor scene, it’s still a great, inexpensive method for sprucing up your home at minimal cost.

As a decorating fabric, drop cloths provide limitless potential. You can craft just about anything with a textured look for a lot less than standard fabric. Drop cloths complement a multitude of design styles, from traditional and country to cottage and shabby chic.

 Size, Style and Cost

Drop cloths come in a variety of sizes, fabric and weight, so make sure that you’re purchasing the correct size and type that you’ll need for your particular project. One of the best things about the drop cloth is that its width is greater than your average fifty-four to sixty inch wide decorator fabric, making it an excellent, stand out choice for large projects.

For our projects, we used the 6 x 9 Blue Hawk 8-ounce canvas drop cloths from Lowe’s. This option offers an oatmeal shade with a great texture and weight while also being washable and resistant to water and mildew; an excellent choice for outdoor projects.

So what’s a drop cloth cost? Standard cloths come in a range of sizes and prices including:

• 4 x 5 ($5.98)
• 6 x 9 ($10.98)
• 9 x 12, available in 8-ounce ($18.47) or 10-ounce ($26.98)

We estimate the cost per yard to be less than $2.00, which is practically a steal for decorator fabric. Fabric in the same weight and durability can often cost more than $25.00 per yard. At that price, there’s no reason any DIY decorator shouldn’t pick some up on the next trip to the home improvement store. All come machine hemmed and can be easily transformed without a great deal of artistic talent or seamstress skills. It just takes a small dash of crafty creativity.

Project Possibilities

The projects we’ve chosen include outdoor curtains, embroidered throw pillows and a sassy half apron. But don’t let your imagination stop there! Other fun ideas include bedspreads, tablecloths and totes. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even reupholster an old chair to give it that high class Pottery Barn or West Elm look that comes complete with the fabric’s “character adding” flaws. Inspiration is merely a click away. You can check out project resources at www.onlyfromscratch.blogspot.com, www.houzz.com/drop-cloths or Pinterest.

Once you’ve chosen a project, all you need to do is purchase your drop cloth(s), then make sure to wash, dry and press them to remove sizing and rid the fabric of that “drop cloth smell.” When that’s all said and done, you’re ready to start on these fabulous creations.

Drop Cloth Pillows

These ruffled, stenciled, and embroidered throw pillows can add flair to any living space. All pillow covers are envelope style, easy as cutting three pieces of fabric and some straight stitching, which doesn’t require a lot of time or talent in the sewing department. If you can sew a straight line, you can make these covers. For simple instructions on making these envelope cases, visit www.ehow.com/how_4425862_make-envelope-pillow-case.html.

Stenciling the pillow front before sewing is a simple task that adds a lot of character. It only took minutes to apply and dry, and with the help of a friend’s embroidery machine, we turned an otherwise mundane throw pillow into a show piece that’s sure to catch any visitor’s eye. Comfiness is key for any place you’re going to rest your head, but the unique factor and artistic design help make these pillows one of a kind.

Even ruffles are a snap. Cut strips of fabric twice as long as the pillow width and set your machine stitch length to the highest number, also known as the basting stitch. Center stitching on the strip and sew a straight line from the top to the bottom of the fabric. Cut threads and pull the bobbin (bottom) thread until the gathers form. Slide to position the gathers evenly. Change your stitch length back to a normal setting, then lay the strip on the front of the pillow fabric, pin in place and stitch along the gather line using a regular stitch. Once the ruffles have been added, stitch the front and back pieces together, turn it right side out and slide your pillow inside. If you need to clean the cover, remove the pillow and wash.

Drop Cloth Curtains

Finding ready-made curtains or drapes for large or tall windows can be a costly endeavor, and searching for affordable outdoor curtains is next to impossible. With drop cloths, you can create a panel for your home or porch for under $10.00. For our curtain, we purchased paint samples ($2.98 each) in the latest decorating colors and used a flower wall stencil to create this trendy looking outdoor curtain. Additional supplies also included the rings for hanging.

Fun and reusable stencils can be found at www.cuttingedgestencils.com, but if stenciling isn’t your favorite thing, you can hand paint a design or add fabric, ribbon or other embellishments instead. Contrasting fabric sewn on the top or bottom can add great color. You can also change the color of the fabric by bleaching or dyeing as we’ve done with our stencil. For extra protection, spray curtains with Scotchgard Outdoor Water Shield.

Drop Cloth Kitchen Couture

Now that you’ve spruced up the living space, it’s time introduce a little drop cloth style into your kitchen routine. A pretty half apron can be crafted using about a half yard for drop cloth fabric. Drop cloths are excellent fabric for aprons and they stand up to the pressure with their durability and they’re maintenance friendly; a quick toss into the washer and dryer and they look like new again. It’s a great gift for a “foodie” or gardener friend and it can be personalized by embroidery, hand painting or fabric markers. A little rick rack and contrasting fabric and you’ve got a sassy little number that’s as affordable as it is functional.

Decorating and crafting with drop cloths might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of arts and crafts, but you’ll quickly find that it’s a unique and easy way to bring a clever sense of fun and flair to your home. “Drop” what you’re doing and get into it today!

Out N About

Parent Participation

Now that summer is winding down, it’s almost time to get the little ones back to school. Parents often spend many hours trying to make sure everyone has the right supplies, new clothes, new shoes and whatever else they need to start the year off right. Once they’re off to school, the learning can begin, but it’s still important for parents to take an active role in their child’s academic and social world. Here are some short tips you can follow to stay more involved:

• Visit the school and familiarize yourself with the grounds and level of supervision.
• Stop by the classroom and introduce yourself to your child’s teachers and administrators.
• Help out in the office, library or as a chaperone on school trips.
• Volunteer to help with after-school or extracurricular activities – or start your own!
• Coordinate with your child’s teacher on homework to make sure it’s being done properly.
• Offer to start a carpool. It’s a great way to meet your child’s friends and classmates.

Staying more involved at school doesn’t mean having to keep an eye on your child 24/7. It’s more about volunteering your time to help better understand what your young one’s life is like away from home, bringing the two of you closer together and helping out others in the process.

Born to Run

After a battle with cancer in the 1990s, local nurse and fitness coach Helene Neville decided to start running seriously… and she hasn’t stopped since. She’s participated in marathons as close as Boston and as far away as London, even going so far as to start her own in Des Moines, Iowa. But even that pales in comparison to her record-breaking distance runs that have taken her across different parts of the country in a dynamic demonstration of how one woman can defy the odds.

Helene’s recent book One on the Run: 93 Days Across America captures both her feats of athletic skill and her indomitable spirit, proving that nothing can stand in the way of big dreams and undying conviction. Just one of her impressive exploits took her on foot from the Pacific to the Atlantic, covering 2,520 miles in 93 days. Along the way, she stopped to speak with doctors, nurses and health care providers about how exercise can improve one’s life and well being. Even after being diagnosed with T-cell lymphoma in 2011, the four time cancer survivor’s drive to keep running just seemed to grow as she took on another epic journey from Vancouver to Tijuana. Her character, leadership skills and social conscience serve as an inspiration to us all.

1 strawberry, muddled
1 ½ oz. Ciroc red berry vodka
½ oz. lemon juice
½ oz. simply syrup
2 ½ oz. Sprite
3 ½ oz. lager beer

Pour Sprite and beer into highball glass. Fill glass halfway with ice. In a cocktail shaker, muddle strawberry then add simple syrup, lemon juice and vodka. Add ice and shake, then pour into the highball as a float. Garnish with fresh strawberry.

Recipe courtesy of Hyde Bellagio

Did You Know?

Julius Caesar’s grandnephew Augustus was the first Emperor of the Roman Empire and ushered in an era of peace known as the Pax Romana. As with his great uncle, the Roman Senate decided to name a month in the Julian calendar after him, which become the month of August.

The Must Do List
Editor’s Picks

August 7-24 & September 5-21
Super Summer Theatre
Spring Mountain Ranch continues its annual summer tradition of providing big name Broadway entertainment under the evening stars for the whole family. During the month of August, audiences can experience Legally Blonde: The Musical. Based on the hit movie, this production follows California sorority girl Elle Woods and her quest to make a name for herself at Harvard Law while still maintaining her signature style. The following month brings Mel Brooks’s award winning musical The Producers, delighting audiences with the tale of a down on his luck producer and a milquetoast accountant who concoct a scheme to bilk investors by staging a notorious Broadway flop. Visit www.supersummertheatre.org for tickets and more information.

Saturday Nights through November 2
Jazz on the Lake
The smooth sounds of jazz add just the right amount of spice to a summer evening by the water as MonteLago Village at Lake Las Vegas continues its Jazz on the Lake concert series. The free concerts take place every Saturday evening from 7pm – 10pm and feature supremely talented jazz artists taking the stage. Scheduled performers include Tommy Thompson, Everett B. Walters, Rocky Gordon and Anthony James Baker, with Gordon and Baker respectively performing during the village’s New Vista Wine Walks on September 21^st and October 12^th. It’s the perfect way to relax and unwind on a summer evening, with good music and scenic views under the stars. Visit www.montelagovillage.com for a full schedule and more information.

August 3
Andson’s Back 2 Class Bash
The Andson Foundation believes in the importance of learning and shows it by educating, informing and inspiring children and young adults through innovative programs in academics, financial literacy and mentoring. As summer winds to a close, the Foundation will also be helping students celebrate education and community togetherness with one final bash before school starts. Join them at Goett Family Park in Southern Highlands for a day filled with music, games, bounce houses, balloon art, face painting and more. Following the event, attendees will be invited to stay for a free movie at the park. Visit www.andson.org for more information.

August 11
World Hip Hop Dance Championships
Whether you think you can dance or not, you’re sure to have a blast at this electric competition as thousands of the world’s best dancers come together to show off their moves. Dance crews from almost forty different nations go head to head for the world title and the chance to claim international bragging rights, while hip hop artists, icons and celebrities add to the fun. When the music starts, the excitement doesn’t stop until the winner is crowned. With this kind of talent on display, there’s no doubt you’ll be witnessing the future legends of the hip hop dance scene. Call 284-7777 or visit www.orleansarena.com for tickets and more information.

September 8
Iron Man 70.3 World Championship
Kicking off at one of the most picturesque venues in town, this middle distance triathlon starts with a 1.2 mile swim in beautiful Lake Las Vegas. From there, participants will engage in a 56 mile bike race through the steep climbs of Lake Mead National Recreation Area, while the final stage involves a 13.1 mile run through the scenic neighborhoods of Henderson with great views of the Las Vegas Strip. Whether you want to participate, volunteer or just watch the fun, it’s a great way to celebrate the spirit of competition and enjoy an energetic day against a gorgeous Southern Nevada backdrop. Visit www.ironman.com for registration and more information.

Worldwide Celebrations

If you want to celebrate the sights, sounds and feel of different cultures from around the globe, there’s no need to reach for your passport and a plane ticket. We’ve got plenty of exciting international festivals being held across the valley to help celebrate the flavors of the world.

Brazilian Outdoor Festival

Experience a taste of South America and help celebrate Brazilian Independence Day on September 8^th with this vibrant family festival at Via Brasil Steakhouse on Fort Apache. The event features live music, food and drink, samba dancers, fire breathers, capoeira performances, games and much more. Visit www.viabrasilsteakhouse.com for more information.

San Gennaro Feast

This traditional Italian food and music festival arrives at 4245 S. Grand Canyon Drive from September 10^th – 15^th. Indulge in chicken parmesan, linguini and clams, sausage and peppers and much more as you enjoy family friendly entertainment, including live music, amusement rides, games and more. Visit www.sangennarofeast.com for more information.

23^rd Annual Ho’olaule’a Festival

The Water Street District in downtown Henderson plays host to this celebration of Pacific Island culture on September 14^th – 15^th where you can experience Hawaiian song, dance and food with live entertainment, arts and crafts, a health fair and much more. Stop by to say “Mahalo” and you won’t want to leave! Call 267-2171 or visit www.hendersonlive.com for more information.

41^st Annual Greek Food Festival

Eat, drink and be merry at this family celebration of the Mediterranean life, held from September 27^th – 29^th at St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church. Sample delicious Greek food and pastries, tour the magnificent Byzantine church and enjoy live music and dancing. Opa! Visit www.lasvegasgreekfestival.com for more information.

Going for the Gold

Just about any resident of Henderson will not hesitate to tell you that it’s a great place to enjoy the great outdoors, and now the city’s got a shot at winning a medal to prove it. For the second year in a row, the Henderson Parks and Recreation Department has been named a finalist for the national Gold Medal Award, a prestigious honor that recognizes excellence in parks and recreation management and the department’s ability to meet the needs of the public through their staff, elected officials and residents. Henderson Parks and Recreation will be competing against other finalists from California, Texas and Maryland with the winner slated to be announced this October at the National Recreation and Park Association’s annual congress in Houston, Texas.

“It’s a tremendous honor to be recognized as a finalist for what is known throughout the nation as the highest honor in parks and recreation,” said Mayor Andy Hafen. “We are fortunate to have one of the finest parks and recreation systems in the nation, but we continually strive to improve and find ways to better serve our residents. That is what being a premier community is all about.” Henderson residents are sure to agree and would certainly concede that it’s an honor just to be nominated. Call 267-4000 or visit www.cityofhenderson.com for more information.

Art on Wheels

The Super Run Classic Car show is the largest event of its kind in Southern Nevada, attracting more than 100,000 people to the Henderson Events Plaza. This year’s event from September 26^th – 29^th is sure to live up to the hype once again, especially with the inclusion of the Super Run Hubcap Art Gallery. The city is seeking enthusiastic artists of all ages and skill levels to participate by turning old hubcaps into brilliant works of expression. Hubcaps will cost $5 and can be picked up now through August 28^th at the Henderson Convention Center on Water Street.

Hubcap art will be on display at the convention center throughout the show and artists may also donate their work for the Hubcap Art Gallery Silent Auction with proceeds from the fundraiser benefitting the City Lights Youth Scholarship Fund, a college scholarship for Henderson high school graduates seeking a fine arts degree. Local metal artist Chris O’Rourke will be this year’s featured artist and will unveil an abstract metal sculpture made of hubcaps and other materials at the show. Get creative, open up your artistic side and translate your vision onto a unique canvas for everyone to enjoy! Call 267-2171 or visit www.hendersonlive.com for more information.

Meet The Neighbor – Jeffrey R. Gordon

By Callie Thomas

“In this life we cannot always do great things. We can only do small things with great love.”

-Mother Teresa

 Life can take you in many directions. Take 89074 resident Jeffrey Gordon, for instance. He’s been in leadership roles throughout his career, from being the General Manager of a local radio station to the President and CEO of an outdoor advertising company. He’s also been at the helm of a professional basketball team both in Wyoming and in Las Vegas, and for the past fifteen years he has been serving as the President and CEO of the Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation (NCCF). In each of these positions, he has had an opportunity to meet and work with many people throughout the community, including industry leaders, politicians, athletes, parents, students and others. But it’s his work with the Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation that has made the most profound impression of all. What he’s learned and has since shared with those around him is that real courage does not always roar. It takes courage to continually take the path least taken to make a difference, and it’s quite another form of courage to do it with grace, dignity and selflessness.

Jeffrey Gordon has served on a number of boards and supported many charities including Big Brothers Big Sisters and Special Olympics. He continues to be drawn to organizations that assist special needs children, so the Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation was an inspired choice. This husband and father of five children is passionate about helping others that have not been able to help themselves. He believes strongly that a positive attitude can be the catalyst in creating positive outcomes and encourages that mantra in others. Gordon talks about his indelible experiences through the Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation, his cherished accomplishments and why there’s always time for a ride on his Harley.

What is the most influential experience you can recall at the Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation?

“I’ve been involved for over fifteen years, so I could share hundreds of experiences. Like the young man who struggled for the first ten years of his life not knowing a truly healthy day. He wanted to come one more day to Camp Cartwheel, our three night camp experience designed to help children with cancer or other critical illnesses, as well as their siblings, enjoy time away from the stress and hospitals they endure on an ongoing basis. I had the privilege of driving him to camp even in his much weakened state. We talked about his life and love and gratitude for his parents and all those who loved him. When I drove him home, he said he had the greatest day of his life. At that moment, it reminded me of the heartfelt quote that courage is a quiet voice at the end of the day that says I will try again tomorrow. The young boy passed just two weeks later and I will never forget the lesson that I learned that day.”

What drives you to succeed in life?

“I feel every experience we go through is to prepare us to help someone else. I also strongly believe in maintaining a positive attitude. A positive outlook can cause a chain reaction of events that can create extraordinary results.”

You have received many distinguished honors for your efforts in the community.

“I am very proud of the awards which have been a team effort in helping to make things happen. The Citizen of Distinction Award was presented by the Mayor. I have also received the Philanthropist of the Year Award, the Toastmaster International Award for Leadership and Service and recently the key to the city, which was presented by Mayor Carolyn Goodman.”

What makes you most proud?

“Being a good father, helping others and living a healthy lifestyle.”

Does that include de-stressing with your Harley?

“I love to ride my bike and go on long trips. I continually surprise others when they see me in my leathers.”

Meet The Neighbor – Amy Rossetti

By Callie Thomas

Have you ever heard of someone described as a great “closer?” They’re the type of person that has super powers when it comes to persuading and motivating others to “seal the deal.” Meet Amy Rossetti, who may possess the many talents of a good closer but is better known as a great opener. Rossetti has put her super skills to the test and played an influential role as part of many “opening teams” that have launched some of the community’s most recognizable businesses.

Throughout her career, Amy has opened ten restaurants and casino resorts including the Bellagio, Wynn, Encore and The Cosmopolitan, while also securing valuable partnerships in conjunction with these properties such as the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, New York City Wine & Food Festival and Top Chef Masters. She currently serves as The Cosmopolitan’s Vice President of Public Relations and has earned acclaim for cultivating relationships with top media outlets. Her successful efforts have earned her a Gold Adrian Award from the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International, and she’s also been a recipient of Vegas Inc’s 40 Under 40, which annually recognizes influential local individuals in the business community.

While Rossetti has experienced much success in her career, she is passionate about donating time and resources to community organizations such as Communities in Schools of Nevada as a member of the Board of Trustees, and she participates in the Mentor Program at her alma mater, UNLV. She has also worked alongside organizations such as The Today Show’s Lend a Hand Project benefitting the Culinary Training Academy of Las Vegas, Three Square Food Bank, Meals on Wheels and the James Beard Foundation. Amy Rossetti talks about making a difference in the community and why travel and adventure are in her blood.

Tell us about your experiences with Communities in Schools of Nevada.

“The philanthropy group is comprised of diverse, influential, like-minded individuals with a common goal to make a difference in the dropout crisis in Nevada. We determine student needs and establish relationships with local businesses, social service agencies, health care providers, and parent and volunteer organizations to provide needed resources to keep kids in school. We recently launched another facet of the program called The Community.”

Tell us about “The Community.”

“Co-chairs Alyssa Anderson, Courtney Schorr and myself helped to launch The Community this past April to give young philanthropists in Las Vegas the opportunity to meet others with a common purpose. Our goal is to develop a platform to create education advocates while making giving accessible and social through a series of events created for our members, by our members.”

What or whom has inspired you to get involved in philanthropic efforts within the community?

“Throughout the course of my career, I’ve been fortunate enough to have four inspirational mentors: Elizabeth Blau, Lisa Marchese, Susie Lee and Elaine Wynn. I always think about how their time, dedication and commitment made such an impact on me both professionally and personally. Collectively, they introduced me to many opportunities within the community and my heart led me to what I was passionate about.”

What do you enjoy doing in the free time that you have?

“I am a collector of vintage cookbooks, specifically from the 1940s. I love the way the books were written during that time. Women were learning to cook for their men as they were returning home from the war. My grandfather was a spy and later recognized as a World War II hero. I know that’s why this era truly resonates with me.”

So maybe that’s why you’re always ready for a bit of adventure?

“My bags are always packed, so there is always a good chance I’ll be traveling!”

Meet The Neighbor – Daniele Dreitzer

By Callie Thomas

How many times have we used the words “if only”? If only I had chosen a different road, taken a friend’s advice, remembered someone’s birthday, paid more attention to my children, made someone else’s life a little easier… if only. We’ve all thought it at some point or another, but we would do well to take a page from 89012 resident Daniele Dreitzer, who strives to make every moment count. It’s not easy, but Dreitzer is willing to look at things from a different perspective, forge new territory and take risks to make a difference every day.

Truth be told, what Dreitzer does every day would be considered difficult by any circumstance. In her role as Executive Director for the Rape Crisis Center in Las Vegas, maintaining a positive, motivational outlook would be considered a gift. Each day she and the many volunteers and staff of the organization reach out to people who are at one of the lowest, most challenging points in their lives. Dreitzer is no stranger to nonprofit work. Her entire career has been spent in the field, starting back in high school when she volunteered at a soup kitchen in her hometown of Chicago. Since then, she has honed her talents working with other charitable organizations and has been recognized for bringing people and organizations together to make a difference.

When she’s away from the office, Dreitzer is a proud mom of thirteen year old daughter Julia, in whom she hopes she has instilled her sense of community and “do it now” attitude. We had an opportunity to talk to Dreitzer about her work with the Crisis Center, her influence on those in the community (including her daughter) and about her unique way of unwinding after a busy day.

What drew you to pursuing a career in the nonprofit sector?

“When I was volunteering at a soup kitchen just before going away to college, I realized that for what it was going to cost for me to go to school for one year, several of the people in that soup kitchen could have a place to live, food, etc. In that moment, I realized how fortunate I was and decided that I would use my education to try and make the world a better place, and that’s what I’ve continued to want to do every day.”

Tell us about your experiences with the Rape Crisis Center.

“We are there to offer hope and support. Every single person that I’ve had contact with touches my heart. Whether it’s a victim who calls on the hotline because it’s the first time since the assault that they’ve been alone and need a friendly voice on the other end of the line, or a parent who has just learned that a child was sexually abused and is trying to get them help, or an older victim who just didn’t think things like this could happen to someone their age, each story is uniquely impactful.”

What do you think makes you successful?

“I am not usually daunted by the fact that something has never been done before. I love to problem solve and believe in bringing people and organizations together.”

How have your philosophies influenced your daughter?

“I am so proud of my daughter. The amount of confidence she has as a thirteen year old girl is amazing. I hope I’ve had something to do with that. She hates injustice and unfairness of any sort because she has grown up seeing a lot in the community and helping at different organizations.”

We understand you have a unique way of unwinding?

“I don’t think of myself as a violent person at all but I take body combat at the gym once a week. I think of some of the perpetrators I hear about at the Center and when we’re punching and kicking during the class I visualize them and it releases a lot of stress!”

Why is it important for you to give back?

“In the end, I never want to look back and say if only I had done that it would have made such an impact. I just want to do it!”

Meet The Neighbor – Dr. Todd Newton, DDS, Dr. Robert Nisson, DDS, Dr. Corry Timpson, DDS

By Callie Thomas

You’ve probably heard of the term “band of brothers” used to refer to those that have shared a camaraderie and kinship while serving together in the military. Residents Doctors Nisson, Timpson and Newton have created a band of dentists that are committed to paying homage to the veterans in our community while also initiating a special program called Freedom Fridays that provides unemployed vets in the greater Las Vegas area with free dental services.

Warm Springs Dental was established in 1990 by Dr. Nisson. After the practice began to grow, Nisson convinced his dental school roommate Dr. Timpson to join him. Soon the small office was overwhelmed with patients seeking treatment, during which time Dr. Newton joined the practice. In just a few short months, it was clear that the team of three dentists and their staff needed a bigger office, so the practice was developed at Warm Springs and Stephanie across from Green Valley High School. In 2002, the three dentists joined forces again to open a second (satellite) location called Anthem Village Dental, located in the Vons center of the Anthem community.

Since the doctors have enjoyed the support of the Henderson and Las Vegas communities for the past twenty-two years, they decided to give back in a way that shows their appreciation for the men and women that fought for our freedom, particularly in these tough economic times.  This band of dentists understands that tough times can be even harder for veterans who have fought for our country and been unable to find consistent employment to support themselves and/or their families after returning home. The doctors talk about the Freedom Fridays program that provides comprehensive dental care to vets and about their own lives and aspirations.

Tell us about Freedom Fridays and why it’s such an important program.

Dr. Newton: “Warm Springs Dental and the specialists and contributors of the program provide highly detailed and comprehensive treatment without restrictions of cost and barriers of insurance to a growing number of vets in the area.”

Dr. Timpson: “Treating our unemployed veterans shows our gratitude and appreciation for our vets and their service to our country.”

Dr. Nisson: “The program offers a luxury that many vets can’t afford, which affects their health and self confidence. It also affects their ability to get back into the workplace. Your smile plays an important role in that process.”

How do vets get into the program?

Dr. Newton: “Vets living in Clark County, Nevada who are unemployed and in need of dental care should contact Angela Alegna at American Helping Heroes or Karen Lewis at the Las Vegas Urban League. You must qualify through one of these two organizations to get into the program. Visit FreedomFriday.org for additional information.”

What does giving back mean to you?

Dr. Nisson: “We, along with our staff, give up our Fridays to do this pro bono work. It’s a great feeling and makes us less selfish. We all need to realize the importance of giving back.”

Dr. Timpson: “I was never in the military, but Freedom Friday gives me a sense of giving back to our country a little.”

Dr. Newton: “My personal reward is attached to the deep emotions provided as I sit with a deserving vet and become aware that we are both fighting back the impulse to simply let the tears fall. If the reward is measured in goose bumps, I have been paid in millions.”

Any personal aspirations?

Dr. Nisson: “Provide dental services to third world countries!”

Dr. Newton: “Expand Freedom Fridays to cities across the United States.”

How do you relax after a busy day?

Dr. Timpson: “I do yard work at my home. That’s where I do my best thinking. I also enjoy spending time with my family.”

Dr. Nisson: “I’m home with my wife and family, playing with the kids. I also like to fix things.”

Dr. Newton: “Stop moving for ten minutes, then work out. Otherwise, enjoying my USC season football tickets.”

Mood, Metabolism and Math – The Benefits of a Good Breakfast

By Michelle Vessel

Don’t swim for thirty minutes after eating. Eat spicy foods and you’ll get ulcers. Feed a cold, starve a fever. Some of the sage bits of food-related wisdom that our mothers and grandmothers passed down haven’t stood the test of time. But if they constantly implored you to enjoy a hearty, well-balanced breakfast before dashing out the door each day, the women who raised you were absolutely right – and there are plenty of good benefits that can come from heeding their advice.

The Most Important Meal of the Day

For most of us, breakfast is the first meal of the day after a stretch of at least eight to ten hours with little or no food; we are literally “breaking our fast.” Starting off any machine with the right kind of fuel is important to keep it functioning properly, and recent research has linked an astounding array of health and wellness benefits to the regular consumption of breakfast.

When eaten within an hour of waking, a healthy meal brings your blood sugar back into check, fires up your metabolism, kick-starts your cognitive processes and regulates your mood. Both adults and kids who eat breakfast tend to perform better at certain types of tasks, such as memory recall, visual perception, spatial analysis, problem solving and basic math. Adults who fuel up on healthy foods in the morning tend to have a healthier body weight, better hunger regulation throughout the day and make healthier food choices. Kids who report eating a healthy breakfast tend to have higher standardized test scores, higher levels of motivation and academic performance, fewer health complaints during the day and are also at lower risk for obesity.

On the other side of the issue, if you make a habit of skipping or skimping on your morning meal, you could be setting yourself up for a plethora of health problems. The rate of breakfast skipping has increased among many groups in recent years with about thirty-one million Americans in all age groups passing on breakfast every day – and the consequences can be severe. Breakfast deprived adults tend to have higher LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, higher levels of insulin resistance and may be at greater risk of heart disease. Sadly, one in five kids also reports regularly skipping breakfast with female teens at a staggering number of 34%, putting young people more at risk for poor memory and concentration, behavioral problems, nausea and more.

The Morning Menu

So what’s the best type of food to include in your morning meal? That depends on your family’s preferences, lifestyle and dietary needs, but you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen whipping up Belgian waffles and eggs Benedict. Here are a few of the building blocks of a healthy breakfast, as well as brief rundown of the nutritional benefits that each one provides.

Protein

When it comes to a satisfying morning meal that will keep you feeling your best for hours on end, protein fits the bill. According to a slew of recent reports, a protein-rich breakfast is tops in terms of satiety (long-lasting fullness), mental alertness, brain activity and concentration, as well as stabilizing mood and blood sugar. And if you think that eating a high-protein breakfast entails preparing and shoveling down a bunch of processed meats like bacon or slapping a T-bone steak alongside your fried eggs, think again. Yogurt, hard-boiled eggs, cottage cheese and smoothies made with protein powder can all provide the same benefits without all of the greasy, fatty bulk.

Complex Carbohydrates

Many traditional breakfast staples such as sugary cereals, toaster pastries, white-bread toast and pancakes laden with syrup are primarily made of simple carbohydrates. These sweet treats may taste good and make you feel full temporarily, but you’ll likely be hungry, cranky and dragging within an hour or two as the sugar is quickly processed when it hits your bloodstream. Remember that not all carbohydrates are created equal. Complex carbs such as whole grains and fruits take longer for your body to digest, so they leave you feeling full for longer and tend to keep you on a more even keel throughout the day. Choices like hearty steel cut oats, whole grain breads or bagels, and high fiber fruits like apples won’t leave you reeling after a sugar crash.

Mix and Match

So what’s the perfect combination of proteins and complex carbs for your plate? It depends on your preferences and palate. USDA recommendations call for roughly a 2-to-1 ratio of carbs to protein, but feel free to tinker and experiment until you find a proportion that feels right for you.

The easiest way to make sure your breakfast is providing the nutrients you need to power your daily activities is to combine elements of complex carbs and protein in each morning meal. Try spreading nut butter on apple or banana slices, adding berries and nuts to a bowl of cottage cheese or Greek yogurt or stirring nuts or unsweetened coconut shreds into a bowl of steel cut oats. Voila! In minutes, you’ve got a balanced breakfast that hits all the right nutritional notes.

Thinking Out of the (Cereal) Box

When it comes to building the perfect breakfast that will fill you up and provide the most health benefits, sometimes it’s essential to break away from what’s considered “normal” breakfast food.

Soup and salad may form the cornerstone of many chain restaurant lunch specials, but both can make quick and easy breakfast meals as well. Salads are a perfect way to combine protein and complex carbohydrates, and for those who exercise in the morning, it’s less likely to upset your stomach during a big workout. Soup has been a breakfast fixture in other cultures for years, and it can be a real timesaver for your family. You can make a large batch once or twice a week and heat up individual portions in seconds during your hectic morning routine. Pair up some lean protein such as chicken with plenty of veggies and you’ll be hitting a nutritional home run.

Pizza may seem like an unusual choice for breakfast food, but if you get images of Pizza Hut and Domino’s out of your head, it can be a healthy, homemade alternative. Using premade whole grain crust from the grocery store, it cooks up in minutes and it’s easy to get just the right mix of proteins and healthy carbs for a good start to your busy day. Use traditional Italian inspired toppings or go for a more breakfast savvy mix of things like Canadian bacon and Swiss cheese.

If all else fails, there’s always leftovers. Don’t let the detritus of dinner linger inside the back of your fridge for weeks. Throw your notions about proper breakfast foods to the wind and nosh on veggie lasagna, turkey meatloaf or broccoli-quinoa casserole the morning after. You can even plan ahead and put a breakfast portion aside while you’re enjoying your previous night’s dinner.

There’s no doubt that making a healthy breakfast a non-negotiable part of your life will yield major benefits. With a few simple tweaks to your routine and a unique bit of brainstorming, it’s easy to ensure that you and your family can reap the big rewards of a well balanced breakfast.

Professional Firefighters of Nevada & The Public Education Foundation

Education is one of the most worthy causes in Southern Nevada, particularly when we are facing a drastic high school dropout rate. Fortunately, we have generous organizations such as the Professional Firefighters of Nevada (PFFN) whose recent donation to the Public Education Foundation will help foster their continuing mission to improve classroom life across the board.

PFFN’s recent donation of $10,000 will help provide scholarships for Nevada students thanks to the organization’s longstanding partnership with the Public Education Foundation. They weren’t the only ones feeling generous, either. The North Las Vegas Professional Fire Fighters, the Las Vegas Professional Fire Fighters, and Henderson Professional Firefighters all made donations as well, bringing the grand total to $19,000 in scholarships. Working with teachers, administrators, community organizations and local citizens, the Public Education Foundation will use the scholarships to help get students back on the right track and help our schools find better standing.

Rusty McAllister, president of the PFFN, is proud of the donations. “It is a great feeling knowing the money we have raised is going back to such a worthy organization and cause,” McAllister said. “Education is so important, and it is through scholarships like these that many students are able to go on to college.” Those opportunities may be few and far between for some kids, but the Public Education Foundation and its firefighter partners are striving to help improve those odds.

For more information on the Public Education Foundation, visit www.ccpef.org.

Chapman Chrysler Jeep Ram & Lights 4 Love

In any emergency medical situation, a quick response time can mean the difference between life and death. Lights 4 Love is hoping to make that response time faster by donating special red light bulbs that can help signal paramedics and other first responders. Thanks to a generous gift from Chapman Chrysler Jeep Ram, those lights of hope will keep on shining for those who need them.

Lights 4 Love founder James Bryant was inspired to create the nonprofit when he was diagnosed with late stage emphysema and COPD and forced to rely on hospice care at home. His caregivers were able to find his condo complex but often unable to find his unit, forcing James to have to flag them down in his weakened condition. Then he had a (literally) bright idea. He placed a bright red light bulb in his patio light fixture as a means of signaling his caregivers. Since then, Lights 4 Love has donated red light bulbs to heart and cancer patients, hospice patients, first responders, EMTs, firefighters and more to help ensure a timely response for emergency care.

Chapman Chrysler Jeep Dodge has helped to further the cause through a generous gift. Henderson Mayor Andy Hafen and members of the Henderson Fire Department were on hand when the car dealership presented Lights 4 Love with a $2,000 donation to help keep the program going, giving peace of mind to critical care patients throughout our entire community.

For more information on Lights 4 Love, visit www.lights4love.org.