Best of the Zips – July

The results are in from our latest round of voting, and we are overwhelmed at the phenomenal response. Once again, thanks to everyone who participated. Here are this month’s top choices:

And the Winners Are…

BEST BURGER
In-N-Out Burger (various locations)
www.in-n-out.com

That oh-so-special sauce, a variety of secret menu options (such as “animal style”) and some of the tastiest shakes around were highlights for our readers. Voter tip: ask for the fries “well done.”

BEST MOVIE THEATER
Regal Cinemas Red Rock Stadium 16 & IMAX (11011 W. Charleston Blvd.)
www.regmovies.com

Voters gave a shout out to the comfy seats, attentive staff and top notch sound quality of this west side theater at the Red Rock Casino. The presence of an IMAX screen was also a plus.

BEST DENTIST
Dr. Sam Partovi at Desert Smiles (10175 W. Twain Ave., #120)
www.desertsmilesdental.com

Dr. Partovi and his courteous staff won rave reviews from our voters for their professionalism and comfort level, even from readers who are normally apprehensive about a trip to the dentist.

BEST GROOMER
Shaggy Chic (400 S. Rampart Blvd., #140 in Tivoli Village)
www.shaggychic.com

Readers thought this groomer was top dog for fabulous customer service, great prices and comfortable atmosphere, while also highlighting additional services such as the blueberry facial.

BEST JEWELER
Jeff White Custom Jewelry (410 S. Rampart Blvd., #160 in Tivoli Village)
www.jeffreywhite.com

Voters found Jeff White to be the true jewel of Las Vegas, citing a high degree of professionalism and knowledge. Prompt service and a friendly staff also made them a favorite.

BEST SALON
9037 Salon (9037 W. Sahara Ave.)
www.9037salon.com

Smart and savvy stylists, a down to earth vibe and big customer satisfaction were selling points for our voters, who found this the perfect neighborhood place for a cut, color and highlights.

Don’t Forget to Vote…

We want to thank all of you for helping us keep our Best of the Zips feature exciting and informative. But the fun doesn’t stop here! We’ve got great new categories for you to vote on.

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT
Whether it’s enchiladas, tamales, fajitas or something with a bit more kick, where do you book your reservation when you find yourself craving all the perfect flavors from south of the border?

BEST WORKOUT PLACE
Finding time to exercise isn’t always easy, but it’s easier when you’ve got company. Which place has the perfect set up for weights, aerobics and everything else to keep you in shape?

BEST AUTO REPAIR
From a quick oil change to buffing out some dents to major body work, we can’t trust our precious vehicles to just anybody. Who’s got the skills to get you fixed up and on the road?

BEST PIZZA
Great pizza isn’t just about the toppings; it’s about quality ingredients and culinary know how coming together to create the perfect pie. What’s your first stop for a little slice of perfection?

BEST DAY CARE
Busy schedules keep us on the go, and we can’t keep an eye on our kids 24/7. When friends and family aren’t available to help, where do you turn for the right kind of care for your little ones?

BEST PET STORE
From grooming products to doggie beds to the treats and snacks that keep your four legged friends coming back for more, what’s the best place to shop for pampering your loving pet?

A Step Above – Claire Holden

Palo Verde High School
Class of 2013

John Mayer once sang, “Who says I can’t be free from all of the things that I used to be?” That idea of a life filled with promise and possibility is something Palo Verde High School senior Claire Holden holds close to her heart. Driven by a passion for everything from music to endangered animals to community fellowship, Claire approaches every situation with a positive outlook, preparing herself for the road ahead with a strong work ethic and a natural aptitude for leadership. There’s no dream beyond her reach, and that places Claire Holden – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.45

Activities/Community Service

• JROTC, 2009-10
• Marching Band, 2009-Present; Concert Band, 2009-Present
• Jazz Band, 2009-Present; Jazz Combo, 2012-Present
• Percussion Ensemble, 2009-Present; Section Leader, 2012-Present
• Steel Drum Ensemble, 2009-Present; Taiko Ensemble, 2012-Present
• Wind Ensemble, 2011-Present
• Drum Line, 2011-Present
• Band Student Leadership, 2012-Present
• Church Mission Trip to La Mission, Mexico, 2005-Present
• Walk Over to The Heights of Summerlin Mental Rehabilitation Clinic, 2012
• Campus Clean Up, 2009-Present
• Hometown Holidays, 2010-Present
• Snow Day, 2010-Present

Awards

• JROTC Commander’s Award, 2010
• Presidential Service Medal (Silver), 2010
• Marching Section of the Year (Percussion), 2010
• Most Improved Concert Percussionist, 2010
• Outstanding Concert Percussionist, 2012
• Superior and Excellent Scores in Solo & Ensemble, 2010-13
• Superior Scores in Regional Solo & Ensemble, 2010-13
• Highest Scores in Nevada, All State Solo & Ensemble, 2011 & 2013

Goals & Aspirations: “I plan on attending UNLV, then going on to continue my education in veterinary school, hoping to one day have my own clinic. I hope to graduate from veterinary school with little to no debt and set up an outreach for endangered animals.”

Part of the Solution: “The biggest issue facing students today is the general lack of world knowledge and involvement in the community. A lot of people are just not aware of what is going on around the world and how it affects our lives and the future of our country. I believe that history and government class should spend a portion of class time reviewing current events and holding class discussions.”

Cause for Concern: “I would choose to be president of a charity that continues to support our veterans wounded in war. Most of my family are currently serving or veterans of the military, though I am lucky enough that none of them were injured during war. I would like to support our troops as much as I can.”

A Step Above – Lindsey Flangas

Faith Lutheran High School
Class of 2013

Faith Lutheran High School senior Lindsey Flangas has built her strength of character through hard work, strong values and a clear vision for her future. The University of Texas at Austin will welcome her with open arms this fall, where she plans to study mechanical engineering in hopes of forging new paths and bringing innovation to the forefront. The bonds of family play a key role in this volleyball superstar’s world, with years of supportive encouragement helping her to develop the poise, grace and will to succeed that she shows in everyday life. For always embracing her full potential no matter the obstacles, Lindsey Flangas stands – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.01

Sports/Activities/Community Service

• Freshmen Volleyball, 2009-10
• Varsity Volleyball, 2010-13
• Club Volleyball, 2009-12
• Lip Sync, 2012-13
• National Junior Honor Society, 2009-10
• National Honor Society, 2010-13
• Opportunity Village Kids, 2009-13
• Service Leadership Class, 2012-13
• Mark 10:14 Class, 2012-13

Awards

• Valedictorian, 2013
• Scholar Athlete, 2009-13
• Crusader Award (Volleyball), 2012-13
• 2^nd Team All State (Volleyball), 2012-13
• 1^st Team All Conference (Volleyball), 2012-13
• 1^st Team All Division (Volleyball), 2012-13
• Conference Champions (Volleyball), 2012-13
• Division Champions (Volleyball), 2012-13
• Freshmen Volleyball MVP, 2009-10

Lindsey is Successful Because: “I believe I am successful because I always give my best effort in whatever I set my mind to. It’s easy to rush through homework or only put in half effort at practices, but you won’t see any results that way. Putting in a little hard work can go a long way.”

Lindsey Looks Up To: “I look up to both my parents because they’ve worked hard to accomplish everything they have and have made sure I have the same values. I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it wasn’t for them always encouraging me.”

Lindsey is Stronger and Wiser Because: “My freshman year of volleyball, I did not make the team I was hoping to make. After that, I trained twice as hard, played club and was able to make the varsity team the following year. It helped me learn that if things don’t go your way you can either get mad and quit or take the actions to improve your circumstances.”

Part of the Solution: “I think an issue facing young adults today is a lack of identity. High school is a time where a lot of students are still trying to find their place and it’s easy to be persuaded to make the wrong choices. I think young adults should stick to their morals and key beliefs and not let others change who they are.”

A Step Above – Laura Brodkin

Bishop Gorman High School
Class of 2013

Knowledge is truth, and Bishop Gorman High School senior Laura Brodkin hopes to have a career and a future where she consistently seeks more of both. Eloquent, personable and passionate about what she believes in, Laura hopes to shape public policy and influence the political sphere on issues that matter the most to her. By staying engaged and informed on every level, she’s always working hard to be the best, a quality that she hopes to continue at the University of Michigan this fall. Her passion helps keep her motivated to create the change she would like to see in the world, and that’s what helps Laura Brodkin rise to – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 3.87

Activities

• Freshman Cheer, 2009-10; Junior Varsity Cheer, 2010-11
• BGHS Competition Cheer Team, 2010-11
• Sophomore Class President, 2010-11; Junior Class Treasurer, 2011-12
• Executive Board Senator, 2012-13
• Varsity Public Forum and Domestic Extemporaneous, 2012-13
• U.S. Senate Page, 2012-13
• We the People Unit Leader, 2012-13
• Mock Trial, 2012-13
• Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society, 2012-13
• National Honor Society, 2011-13
• Micro Bank, 2010-11

Awards/Community Service

• Nevada State Mock Trial Champions, 2012-13
• AP Scholar, 2012-13
• 1^st Place, Unit 6 We the People – District 3, Region 1, NV, 2012-13
• 1^st Place, Varsity Public Forum, 2011-13
• BGHS Academic Society, 2009-11
• Scholar Athlete Award, 2009-11
• St. Vincent Lied Dining Facility/Catholic Charities, 2011
• Three Square Food Bank, 2010-12
• Opportunity Village, 2010-12
• Habitat for Humanity, 2012

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of my mock trial team placing fourth at the national level. The team was a group of amazing students that really worked hard to be the best. It is the best any team from Nevada has ever done and I will always remember the fun I had with some great friends.”

Laura is Stronger and Wiser Because: “My most important experiences have come from my failures rather than from my successes. Losing my student council election senior year taught me that you can’t win at everything. It also showed me that winning with grace is one thing, but losing with grace can be even more important.”

Part of the Solution: “A key issue that young adults face today is being severely underestimated by leaders and by the media. I think that many would be surprised how many truly engaged and informed young adults there are, especially on issues that matter to us. To solve this, my fellow classmates and I need to involve ourselves more deeply in social movements and community activism to make sure our demographic is properly represented.”

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