Catie Miller

Bishop Gorman High School
Class of 2014

Being comfortable in your own skin is a luxury that comes to most well after the trials and tribulations of high school. For Catie Miller, on the other hand, it’s something that has arrived much sooner as a result of hard work, adversity and a positive attitude. A flourishing swimmer with Olympic capabilities, a coach and a stellar student, Catie has a schedule that would leave most begging for mercy but she powers through with a smile and clear idea of where the hard work will leave her positioned for the future. Her energy and defined sense of self are unique and her talent is trumped only by her will to always maintain forward momentum, clearly setting her – A Step Above.

Sports/Scholarships/Awards

• Sandpipers of Nevada Swim Team, 2001-Present
• Bishop Gorman Swim Team, 2010-Present
• Bishop Gorman Swim State Champions, 2010-2013
• Academic All-America, 2011-2013
• Sandpipers of Nevada State Champions, 2011-2013
• Olympic Trial Qualifier, 2012
• 200 Individual Medley Champion for Bishop Gorman, 2012
• Sportsmanship Award, 2012

Clubs/Community Service

• National Honor Society, 2012-Present
• National Spanish Honor Society, 2012-2013
• Academic Society, 2010-2012
• Volunteer at Faith Lutheran Church, 2010-Present
• Catholic Charities, 2011-2013
• Volunteer at Carefree Senior Living, 2013

You’ve had some exciting accomplishments. One of my most proud accomplishments is when I got my Olympic Trial cut in the 400 Individual Medley during the summer of 2012. I had worked my entire life to get to that point, and after missing it by a few tenths of a second finally achieving my goal was an amazing feeling. It took a lot of hard work and dedication, many long hours of intense training and endless days of soreness, but it all had paid off, achieving my ultimate goal.

Do you have a person you look up to? The person that I look up to the most is my brother Cody. Cody has been so successful in everything he has worked for. He is a very inspirational and driven person, he knows what he wants and he goes after it. Cody is always there for me and has been a guiding light in my life. Although he is my brother, he is my greatest teacher, my role model and my best friend.

What quality makes you most successful? I think I am successful because of my capability to always see the brighter side of things, and I thrive to achieve all I can. My ambition and drive allow me to accomplish.

You’ve had to transcend difficult times. I have sailed through many storms in my life, but my ultimate storm was and still is, my father leaving. I had to become a very independent person at a very young age and I have had to make many sacrifices to be where I am now. But these waves have only made me stronger. They have sculpted me into the person that I am today and for that I am truly grateful because I wouldn’t want to be anyone other than me.

Best of the Zips – October

You voted, and the results are in! Here are your picks for Best of the Zips. If you visit any of these winning companies be sure to congratulate them, and keep going back for more. Thanks to all who voted in this month’s addition.

Winners:

• Chinese Restaurant

HK Star
3400 S. Jones Blvd. | (702) 220-3388
www.hkstarlasvegas.com   

Why You Love It: That’s easy – great tasting food at reasonable prices.  
Where It’s At: Lunch specials are popular at this Chinese hot spot.

• Bakery

La Belle Terre Bread | French Bakery & Café
8390 W. Sahara Ave. | (702) 685-7712
www.labelleterrebread.com

Why You Love It: You find the best breads and desserts at this authentic French bakery.
L’ambiance: It’s not just about the food. You love the atmosphere and genuine feel of this café.

• Veterinarian

Siena Animal Hospital (Dr. Keeney)
5625 S. Grand Canyon Dr. | (702) 258-0006
www.sienaanimalhospital.com

Why You Love It: You’re sure Dr. Keeney loves your 4-legged family just like they were her own!
Over and Above: Knowledgeable staff helps you with all your animal questions, even from home.

• Poker Bar

Off the Strip
9837 W Tropicana Ave | (702) 876-3080
www.offthestripbistro.com

Why You Love It: Locals love the friendly staff mixed with the choice of bar food or something a little nicer.
Gotta Have It: Do some research on the “Secret Menu” and enjoy!

• Ice Cream

U-Swirl
7595 W. Washington Ave. | (702) 476-1479
9360 W. Flamingo Rd. | (702) 982-2700
9795 W. Charleston Blvd. | (702) 479-1352
www.u-swirl.com

Why You Love Them: The toppings…all the wonderful toppings!
Mix ‘N Match: Peanut Butter, Red Velvet and Cookies ‘N Cream, oh my.  

• Manicurist

Alexus Nail Bar (Lucy Le)  
3645 S. Town Center Dr. | (702) 254-2378

Why You Love Her: Lucy goes out of her way to accommodate your schedule.  
Extra Treat: Nail polish color selection is out of this world.

The Value of Print in Your Media Mix

“Print is ‘dying’ and online is taking over.”

The sentence above is what we have been hearing lately. What we are seeing, however, tells a different story. What we are seeing, as a 10-year-old print magazine with a 100% advertising-based revenue model, is that those who consider their media mix to leverage print and online in tandem are having far more success than those willing to throw all their eggs into the “online” basket. The article below explains why print, and more importantly targeted print advertising, is still a very important piece in your marketing puzzle. 

The Value of Print in Your Media Mix

By Amy Hansen, MPA Media Marketing Services Coordinator

In today’s new media landscape and challenging economic times, companies are undoubtedly feeling pressure to justify how their media budget is allocated. With marketing budgets shrinking and new media platforms emerging every day, the decision to continue to invest in traditional media such as print is being challenged to prove its value and impact on sales. The time has come to evaluate your media mix to make certain you are successfully reaching your target audience, building brand awareness and effectively communicating the value of your products. Print advertising can help you do just that.

In recent times, some marketers have dismissed print as an “outdated” medium no longer relevant to today’s marketing efforts, but market research suggests that print is not dead. In fact, data from Mediamark Research & Intelligence (MRI) shows magazine readership has actually risen 4.3 percent over the past five years. This same data also tells us that four out of five adults are currently reading magazines. These statistics tell us print is very much “alive and well” and reinforces the idea that print media is still a very viable advertising medium.

Another recent study by Yankelovich proved print ads are “much more likely” to make a positive impact on people than ads in digital media. Why? Readers of print media are more immersed in the content and tend to be more receptive to the publication’s print ads. In today’s world of email overload, a well-designed print ad can easily stand out, grab attention and cut through the overwhelming amount of online clutter we are exposed to on a daily basis.

Even online advertisers are starting to recognize the value and impact print can bring to their marketing initiatives. They are finding print is especially powerful when it is effectively combined with other media elements as part of an integrated marketing program. Online advertisers are catching on to print media’s ability to target a specific audience where they “live.” While online advertising can effectively reach large numbers of people, the audience reached is much less targeted then it is with print advertising.

In addition to targeting a specific audience, print advertising also has the power to boost web traffic and spur online purchasing as shown in studies by Marketing Evolution, JupiterResearch and the Online Publishers Association. Print is the number one driver of purchase intent with more than half of all readers acting on magazine ads, according to a study by Affinity Research. In fact, a study from BIGresearch in 2008 shows that magazines lead newer media channels in influencing customers to start an online search. A study by McPfeters & Company, Conde Nast and CBS Vision also revealed that print builds more brand awareness than other mediums. In the study, magazine ad recall was three times that of online banner ads, yet again reinforcing the power of print and the tremendous value it brings as part of your marketing approach.

I’m not advocating you abandon any of your online tactics, but rather combine multiple media platforms to reach more of your target audience and achieve greater marketing impact. The growing use of new media channels, combined with the power of print can move you closer to achieving sales and branding goals. Print can drive your customers and prospects to your website where you can convert clicks into sales. It can raise your brand awareness and push people to your Facebook and Twitter pages where you can connect deeper with your customers and communicate your brand and product values. The key to any successful marketing campaign is the ability to engage your target audience with compelling content that prompts them to take action. Print advertising, when used as part of an integrated, multichannel marketing strategy, can do just that by reaching your customers and prospects where they are to build your brand and drive your sales.

21 Ways to Fail in Advertising

Are you thinking about starting an advertising campaign? Our expert account representatives have years of experience helping businesses to be as successful as possible with their advertising. To help you in your planning stages, we compiled a list of the major advertising offenses we’ve seen over the years that can throw your campaign off track:

#1 – Don’t write a marketing or business advertising plan
Please think about this. Marketing is probably your company’s only source of income. In turn, your marketing plan is probably the most important document you have.

#2 – Make the wrong offer of advertise the wrong merchandise
Your customer’s opinion is the only that one that ultimately counts. Your offer should match their needs and wants. Ask for their opinion, and tailor your offer to their desires. Feature well-known, branded products in your business advertising that are in high demand. This will bring in the customers.

#3 – Don’t advertise with correct frequency
You will waste more money in business advertising by running ads too infrequently than by funning them too often. Don’t try to save money by reducing advertising frequency. You must stay in contact with your customers.

#4 – Don’t advertise the benefits your customers want
Everything must be relevant to your customers. Always talk customer benefits, not product features. For example: “Saves three hours” is a feature. “Three hours to spend with your kids” is a benefit. “Three hours to pay your bills” is not exactly the benefit your customers want. Ask them what they want. Talk to them about the benefits they want with your business advertising, not about the features that you have.

#5 – Set unrealistic expectations for your ads
Consistent, long-term advertising builds a clientele. Running a few ads will not bury  you in new customers. You need patience and determination. As a general rule, look for your advertising to impact your business after six months. This is reality. Business advertising is an investment, not a miracle. 

#6 – Advertise to a non-existent market
A little research can go a long way in determining the actual demand for your products or services. If there is no demand, advertising cannot create it. Business advertising can make people aware of solutions to their problems, but people will not buy solutions for problems they don’t have, no matter how much you advertise.

#7 – Think of advertising and selling as unimportant or undignified
You probably wouldn’t be reading this if you thought selling was unimportant, but let’s say it anyway: all of the business advertising in the world won’t help you if you don’t close the sale. You must sell, you must be good at it, and you must respect it.

#8 – Miss your target audience
This is targeting and media selection and planning. A vital question is where do your clients get their information? What do they read? What do they find believable and influential? It could be the newspaper, or the mail, or their friends. Match what your customers tell you with the demographic information your media company provides.

#9 – Design bad advertisements
Your ad represents your company to the customer. It is all they have to judge you by. Your ad is the first, and maybe the las impression you make. It’s simple: poorly designed ads make you look bad. Professionally designed ads make you look…professional. 

#10 – Advertise merchandise that you don’t have enough of
Your advertising expenditure will be wasted if you don’t have the products people came in for. And, you get unhappy customers.

#11 – Write bad copy
Avoid copy that is too obscure, witty, technical, or fully of jargon. Don’t hide your benefits in your copy. Write copy that sells, and ask for the sale. Remember that professional copy writers get paid for a reason.

#12 – Select the wrong media
It is true that the media IS the message. In addition to your ad, the form of media you choose also represents your company. It should be a good fit. your choice of media should make you look professional. [This does not mean to go and buy television time.] You want to match your advertising to your clients. Where do your customers go to get information? Don’t guess — ask them. 

#13 – Don’t copy your competitors’ business advertising
As a general rule, you need to match your competitors’ level of business advertising as a percentage of gross sales in order to maintain your current level of business. If you want your business to grow, you need to advertise more than, or more effectively than, your competitors. If you are up against much larger competitors, you will need to spend proportionately more than they do to grow your sales.

#14 – Feature yourself in your ads
In general, this is a bad idea. Seldom is the owner of a company the most effective advertising spokesperson for that company. Advertising is about getting the best results possible. This is also a consideration when you choose the name of your company. Your name should reflect the business you are in. Saying “Johnson & Sons” says nothing about what it is you do. Stick to “Johnson’s Construction Company,” or better, “Dream Home Construction.” 

#15 – Fail to close the sale after your business advertisement brings in prospects
The job of an advertisement is to get a potential customer to call you or to walk in the door. It is the job of your staff and customer service representatives, and you, to close the deal.

#16 – Advertise to new prospects and not to your existing customers
Marketing experts claim that is costs five to eight times the amount of money to get a new customer than it does to keep an existing customer. And, it takes at least three exposures to your business advertising just to get a new customer to notice you. Your existing customers already know and trust you. They are your best, first prospects. Direct your business advertising to them first.

#17 – Don’t do any advertising or promotions at all
Business advertising is expensive, and it can be scary. The truth is that some advertising doesn’t work. However, if you’re careful, and you advertise in the most professional way you can, the odds are with you. If you don’t advertise at all, the odds of financial success are a million to one. You could give away your services, and your reputation will grow like wildfire. But if you want to earn a profit in a competitive marketplace, you need to advertise.

#18 – Look for a business advertising miracle with a one-shot advertising program
Business advertising is a long-term process of building recognition and trust with the public. Miracles rarely happen, and one-shot ads are just a waste of money. Expect to stick with an advertising program for at least six months just to measure the initial impact.

#19 – Change your business advertising too frequently
You and everyone around you and close to the business will get tired of your ads. But only the customer counts. It takes a long, long time for your customers to get tired of your ads. Many companies never change their business advertising. Create professional advertisements that really work, and then stick to them until they no longer generate the sales response you want. Don’t change the ads that are working. 

#20 – Slow down or stop your business advertising when the economy slows down
The Golden Rule of business advertising, if there is such a thing: Stay in touch with your customers. If you are inconsistent, they won’t trust you. If they can’t find you, they will go to your competitor. And, if they forget who you are, you have to start all over again.

#21 – Don’t tell the truth
The Federal Trade Commission monitors business advertising in the United States. If ads are misleading or untruthful, penalties can be very severe. Please read this: http://www.business.ftc.gov/documents/bus35-advertising-faqs-guide-small-business for more information.

Weekend Picks in the Zips Oct. 25-27

Weekend Picks in the Zips

It’s been a long week! How about getting out this weekend and discovering fun events in your neighborhood? We’ve got your Top 10 events around town this week in our Picks in the Zips.

Friday, October 25

#1 |Haunted at the Ranch [Henderson]
www.cityofhenderson.com/parks

Where: Whitney Ranch Aquatic Complex
When: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
How Much: $5

There’s something spooky happening at Whitney Ranch. Join The City of Henderson for an evening of haunted fun with games, bounce house, and a haunted house tour. Bring a blank pillowcase and make bag decorating extra frightening. Children must be accompanied by an adult. All ages welcome.

#2 | Natalie Cole at The Orleans Showroom [West]
www.orleanscasino.com

Where: Orleans Casino
When: 8 p.m.
How Much: Start at $64.95

Listen as Natalie Cole brings her timeless classics, and new Latin flavored sound. Cole rose to stardom in 1975 after releasing her album, “Inseparable,” which included her first No. 1 single, “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love).” The album garnered Cole two Grammy^® Awards – “Best New Artist, and “Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.” On the current release — her first studio album in five years — Cole revisits the rich repertoire of ageless Latin standards that once opened new vistas for her father.

Saturday, October 26

#3 |Walk to End Alzheimer’s [All-Play]
www.alz.org/dsw

Where: Fashion Show Mall, 3200 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
When: 9 a.m.
How Much: Donation

Join the Alzheimer’s Association for this fun and inspiring event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer care, support and research

#4 |Life is Beautiful Festival [All-Play]
www.lifeisbeautifulfestival.com

Where:  Entrance at 6^th Street and Carson Ave.
When: Noon to Midnight
How Much: Varies (All-day pass for Saturday is $95)

Music, food and fun abound at the Life is Beautiful Festival downtown. Lineups and events run through Sunday including culinary parties, concerts, art shows, an Alchemy garden and more. Event runs Oct. 25-27.   

#5 |The District Fall Festival [Green Valley]
www.shopthedistrictgvr.com

Where: 2240 Village Walk Drive
When: (October 25-27) All Day
How Much: Free Admission

Celebrate the reopening of The District at Green Valley Ranch with cooking demos, food sampling, fashion shows, concerts and more. Event runs all day on Saturday, including a concert with America’s Got Talent Season 5 winner Michael Grimm at 6:30 p.m. Saturday night.

#6 |Great American Classic Halloween Car Show [Summerlin]
www.tivolivillagelv.com

Where: Tivoli Village, 440 S. Rampart Blvd.
When: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
How Much: Free Admission

Hosted by Mustang and Classic Club of Las Vegas, this car show features live music, all makes and models of classic cars, candy for kids, and plaques for winners in each category.

#7 |Paramount’s LaserSpectacular Presents the Music of Pink Floyd “Live” [Green Valley]
www.hendersonlive.com 

Where: Henderson Pavilion, 200 S. Green Valley Parkway
When: 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
How Much: Starts at $15

Experience the music of Pink Floyd performed live by Brody Dolyniuk of Symphonic Rock Show and Yellow Brick Road fame, accompanied by a sonic and visual odyssey of special effects, state-of-the-art laser technology, multimedia, glowing displays and 100,000 watts of precision sound.

#8 |BOO-Ling at Station Casinos [All-Play]
www.stationcasinoslanes.com

Where: Various Station Casino Locations
When: Times Vary
How Much: Prices Vary

Station Casinos’ bowling centers are offering a wide variety of fun indoor Halloween activities for kids, families and adults. Costumes are encouraged, although face paint, masks and weapons (toys included) are not permitted. Visit www.stationcasinoslanes.com for information on a Station Casino near you!

Sunday, October 27

#9 |Las Vegas Zombie Run [All-Play]
www.lasvegaszombierun.com  

Where: Sunset Trails Park, 2601 East Sunset Road
When: 9 a.m.
How Much: 

Walk or run with the undead at the annual Las Vegas Zombie Run! This exhilarating 5k and 1-mile fun run/walk requires runner to use strategy and speed to escape the zombies dispersed throughout the course. During the run, the zombies will attempt to grab flags from participants. Enjoy an after-race party featuring delicious food, drink, entertainment and activities. The race will once again benefit Generation Vegas, an organization committed to making Las Vegas a better place to live for future generations by promoting education, community and leadership.

#10 | Jewish Community Center of Southern Nevada BBQ Cook-Off and Festival [Summerlin]
www.jccbbq.com

Where: Temple Beth Sholom, 10700 Havenwood Ln.   
When: Noon to 4 p.m.
How Much: $10 for kids (under 18) and seniors (over 65) / $15 for adults

The festival is a community wide event featuring a kosher BBQ Cook-Off, Minecraft Tournament, three-on-three basketball tournament, raffle prizes and more than 25 vendors ready to entertain all ages. The event is open to the public.

For those effected by pancreatic cancer city wide:

#11 |PurpleLight Las Vegas
Email: rshanahan@pancanvolunteer.org

Where: The District at Green Valley Ranch
When: 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
How Much: Free

Join people around the country to raise awareness and honor those who have battled pancreatic cancer. Family and friends of those touched by pancreatic cancer come together to gain both comfort and encouragement by illuminating glowsticks as they hear their loved ones’ name read aloud, helping to light the night purple. Last fall, in communities across the country, thousands of people participated in one of over fifty PurpleLight Vigil for Hope events.

Weekend Picks in the Zips – Oct. 18-20

Weekend Picks in the Zips

It’s been a long week! How about getting out this weekend and discovering fun events in your neighborhood? We’ve got your Top 10 events around town this week in our Picks in the Zips.

Friday, October 18

#1 |ArtBeat presented by Target feat. Ruth Moody of the Wailin’ Jennys [Henderson]
www.hendersonlive.com

Where: Henderson Events Plaza, 200 S. Water Street
When: Concert starts at 8 p.m.
How Much: Free

A member of the folk darlings The Wailin’ Jennys, award-winning singer/songwriter Ruth Moody visits Henderson in support of her sophomore solo album, These Wilder Things. Moody’s clear soprano adds a timeless, dreamlike quality to her roots-inspired folk songs.

#2 | Las Vegas Foodie Fest [All Play]
www.lasvegasfoodiefest.com

Where: Silverton Hotel & Casino, 3333 Blue Diamond Road
When: 4 p.m. to Midnight
How Much: $10 (Kids under 54” Free) 

The three-day festival returns with over 30 vendors from across the country, including the popular White Castle, at this food aficionado’s heaven. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Epicurean Charitable Foundation.

Saturday, October 19

#3 |Las Vegas Wranglers Opening Game [All Play]
www.lasvegaswranglers.com

Where: Orleans Arena, 4500 W Tropicana Ave
When: 7:05 p.m.
How Much: Tickets start at $19.75

Support Vegas’ hardest working hockey squad as they battle the Utah Grizzlies for their first game of the season! Call (702) 284-7777 or visit www.orleansarena.com for tickets and info.

#4 |4^th Annual Fall Beer Festival [All Play]
www.goldennugget.com/lasvegas

Where: Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino, 129 Fremont Street
When: 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
How Much: Free Admission to Oktoberfest Pool Party

Beer lovers rejoice while sampling over 125 craft beers and chef-inspired appetizers, listening to live music and mingling with some of America’s hottest award-winning brew masters. Round out the festival with an Oktoberfest pool party. 

#5 |Anthem Highlands Art Walk [Green Valley]
www.vegasartwalk.com

Where: Anthem Highlands Shopping Center, Bicentennial Parkway
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
How Much: Free Admission

Take a stroll through beautiful local art at the second ArtWalk in the Henderson area. In its 16^th year in Nevada, the ArtWalk started in Summerlin and due to its popularity spread to other locations in the valley. Visit www.vegasartwalk.com for more information.  

#6 |Sunglass Optic Studio 7^th Anniversary Italian Party [Summerlin]
www.sunglassopticstudio.com

Where: Sunglass Optic Studio, 10300 W Charleston Blvd #26
When: Noon to 4 p.m.
How Much: Free Admission

Light Hors d’Oeuvres courtesy of due Forni, cookies from Leopolds Bakery and a glass of Prosecco along with amazing 20% off sales of in stock items. A raffle will be held at 4 p.m. and we’re positive someone will walk away with some cool stuff. Go celebrate and support a local business!

#7 |Danny Gans Memorial Champions Run for Life  [All Play]

Where: Town Square Las Vegas, 6605 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
When: 7:30 a.m. run followed by live music and entertainment
How Much: Early registration Oct. 18 (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) at Staples in Town Square

Hosted by Donny Osmond, this charity event will include a 5K run and 1 mile walk, along with live entertainment and lots of family fun. Proceeds benefit the Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation.

#8 |Easter Seals of Nevada Cheers to Chocolate [Summerlin]
www.cheerstochocolate.com

Where: Tivoli Village, 440 S. Rampart Blvd.
When: 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
How Much: $45 at the door

An evening of wine tasting with Total Wine & More, paired with some of the valley’s most decadent chocolate. Earl Turner as well as Frankie Moreno’s headliner Tommy Ward will perform on the main stage, silent auction, Chocolate Diamond ring raffle, and more. Proceeds benefit children and adults in Nevada with disabilities.

Sunday, October 20

#9 |Jason Aldean [All Play]
www.ticketmaster.com 

Where: MGM Grand Arena, 3799 S Las Vegas Blvd
When: 7:30 p.m.
How Much: Tickets start at $31

Get into the mood for next week with a little country twang from Jason Aldean, Jake Owen and Thomas Rhett. This one night only show is sure to put you in a great mood!

#10 |Fight for Air Walk [All-Play]
www.fightforairwalk.org

Where: Floyd Lamb Park, 9200 Tule Springs Road
When: Noon to 3 p.m.
How Much: $10 for individual runner

Presented by Kindred Hospital Las Vegas, American Lung Association (ALA) will hold its annual Fight for Air Walk to raise funds for those who suffer from lung cancer, asthma, COPD and other lung diseases. The event will consist of a 5k beginning at noon and will be followed with a Fall-themed festival complete with food and spirits, craft vendors, and live music by bluegrass band, “Stuck in Review.”                   

Happy Birthday Luxor!

Happy Birthday Luxor!

The Luxor turned 20 years old today, and as local Southern Nevadans we are happy to celebrate it’s anniversary as one of the most unique and recognizable structures on The Strip (and that’s sayin’ something).

In it’s honor, our three favorite things about The Luxor. Cheers to 20 more!

#1 | The “Light”

Why? Because it never fails us. Looking out at the night sky, it’s a small but comforting beam that sets our city apart from all the rest. Made of not one, but 39 Xenon lamps that last an average 2,000 hours (that’s about 83 days), the Luxor light can be used as a directional guide or a bragging point (“Did you know you can see the Luxor Light from SPACE?”).

#2 | Bodies: The Exhibition   

One of only three like it in the country, this exhibit is just so cool. At the same time you experience the squirmy, slightly uncomfortable feeling of walking through a room of preserved corpses, you are also taking in more knowledge about the human body than at all possible from a book. Fact: We should all be aware that human bones are five times stronger than mild steel.

#3 | Giving Back

Ok – it’s a little bigger than just The Luxor, but the MGM Mirage Foundation including The Luxor and its employees give a ton back to the community, and we like that.

Weekend Picks in the Zips – Oct. 11-13

Weekend Picks in the Zips

It’s been a long week! How about getting out this weekend and discovering fun events in your neighborhood? We’ve got your Top 10 events around town this week in our Picks in the Zips.

Friday, October 11

#1 | J Crimi 4^th Annual Wine & Cheese Spectacular [Henderson]
www.jcrimieyewearboutique.com

Where: J Crimi Eyewear Boutique, 10575 S. Eastern Ave.
When: 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
How Much: Free admission

Don’t Miss Out on FREE GIVEAWAYS of Prada, Oakley, Versace, and More! Fall Spectacular Sale up to 50% Off.

#2 |Nashville Unplugged – Featuring Darius Rucker and after party with Clay Mills [Summerlin]
www.redrock.sclv.com

Where: Rocks Lounge at Red Rock Resort, 11011 West Charleston Boulevard
When: Doors open at 7 p.m.
How Much: $5 cover (21 and older)

Call your babysitter and get a little country crooning for date night tonight. You can’t beat only $5 for this cool concert that gets into the depths of originals from some of the best country singer/songwriters in our history.

Saturday, October 12

#3 |Crazy Spokes [Henderson]
www.bikehenderson.org 

Where: Mission Hills Park, 551 Mission Hills Drive
When: 7:30 a.m.
How Much: $15 per entry (Family Festival from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. free admission)

Gear up to and join this thirty and sixty mile organized bike ride through portions of the River Mountains Loop Trail, followed by a bike parade and family festival with live entertainment.

#4 |20^th Annual Chivalry Renaissance Festival [All-Play]
www.lvrenfair.com 

Where: Sunset Park, 2601 E. Sunset Rd.
When: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
How Much: $10 adults/ $5 children and seniors

Relive the days of medieval pageantry with knights in shining armor, costumed lords and ladies, arts and crafts, live entertainment, jousting and an unending parade of fascinating characters.

#5 | Flawless Silhouettes Grand Opening  [Henderson]
www.flawlesssilhouettes.com

Where: 8820 Maryland Pkwy. #115
When: 10 a.m.  – 3 p.m.
How Much: Free Admission

Support a new local business with mini massages? We’re in. This grand opening festival is family friendly, featuring body contouring, yoga, healthy smoothies and food, bounce houses, art classes and more.

#6 |Positively Kids Lucky Ducks Duck Pluck 2013 [All Play]
www.positivelykids.org 

Where: Town Square
When: Noon – 4 p.m.
How Much: Free Admission

The Foundation for Positively Kids hosts its 14th annual Lucky Duck Family Festival and fundraiser in Town Square Park benefiting medically fragile children. The event will feature entertainment, games, a kid’s zone, food and drinks and the plucking of lucky ducks from the 10,000 ducks swimming in the Town Square pond.

#7 |19^th Annual Summerlin Art Festival [Summerlin]
www.summerlinartfestival.com

Where: Summerlin Centre Community Park
When: 10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m
How Much: Free Admission

Talented artists and craftsmen from all over the southwest will feature their paintings, glasswork, jewelry, sculpture, mixed media, chalk art and much more, along with food, drinks, children’s activities and live entertainment.

#8 | Trilogy of Terror [Summerlin]
www.freaklinghaunt.com

Where: 2321 North Rainbow Blvd (AMC Theaters Parking Lot)
When: 7 p.m. – Midnight
How Much: Prices vary ($30 for all-pass)

Freakling Bros. presents this triple shot of terrifying haunted house attractions: Castle Vampyre, Circus of Horrors and the R-rated Gates of Hell

Sunday, October 13

#9 Josh Stevens Day at Crazy Pita [Henderson]
www.joshstevensfoundation.org

Where: The District @ Green Valley Ranch
When: All Day
How Much: Purchase price of a “Kefta” pita

Enjoy some good food and help benefit a good cause as Crazy Pita will donate all sales of its Kefta Pita to the Josh Stevens Foundation, which seeks to promote kind acts in memory of Josh’s’ legacy of kindness.

#10 | Haunted Harvest [All-play]
www.springspreserve.org 

Where: Springs Preserve, 333 S. Valley View Blvd.
When: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
How Much: $8 adults/ $5 children

Spooktacular fun awaits at this annual family friendly event featuring a haunted house, trick or treat stations, carnival games, haunted hayrides, live entertainment and more.

5 Ways to Support Breast Cancer Awareness and Honor Survivors in Your Neighborhood This Month

Most likely you’ve been affected one way or another by breast cancer. During October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, here are some ways for you to honor those who have battled the disease and contribute to finding a cure right in your zip code.

#1 |Winder Farms is “Passionately Pink”
www.winderfarms.com

•  Where: Online at www.WinderFarms.com
• When: Now through October 31^st

Local grocery home delivery company Winder Farms will donate proceeds from all Strawberry Milk sales to the local Susan G. Komen for the Cure® through the month of October. If you’re not a Winder Farms customer, just log on to winderfarms.com and sign up using the promotional “KOMENSN13” and Winder Farms will donate an additional $25 to the charity.

#2 |Hard Rock “Pinktober”
www.hardrocklasvegas.com

• Where: Hard Rock Café (both locations)
• When: Now through October 31^st

In celebration of Hard Rock International’s 14^th annual PINKTOBER™ campaign, both Hard Rock Cafe locations in Las Vegas will host a series of special events to raise awareness and funds for a cause that affects millions of people around the world. In addition, guests can visit Hard Rock’s Rock Shop throughout the month of October to customize Hard Rock’s classic t-shirt and make it pink for the cause. All events at Hard Rock Cafes in Las Vegas benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure^®.

#3 |UNLV “Pink” Games
www.unlvtickets.com

• Where: Sam Boyd Stadium (and various locations)
• When:  Saturday, October 12 (and various games throughout the month) at 5 p.m.

The UNLV vs. University of Hawaii Football game will benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure^® and breast cancer survivors will be honored during halftime. Other sports evens throughout the month will also benefit the fight against breast cancer.

#4 |Pink in the Park Benefit Concert – Send Me On Vacation
www.sendmeonvacation.org

• Where: Fashion Village at Boca Park
• When: Saturday, October 19

Starring Jack Walker and Rhayne Thomas, this half-day concert with surprise guests from Las Vegas entertainment community will benefit local breast cancer organizations and Send Me On Vacation, a local non-profit that sends cancer patients undergoing treatment on vacation.

#5 |Southern Highlands Pink Tee Golf Tournament
www.southernhighlands.com

• Where: Southern Highlands Golf Course
• When: Monday, October 21^st

The Pink Tee is annual ladies only giggle golf and social event established to raise money for local breast cancer organizations in Southern Nevada. Contact Stephanie Karkabi, Social Events Coordinator at 702.220.6565.

BONUS: Cabo Wabo
www.cabowabocantina.com

Cabo Wabo Cantina located inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino will offer pink wristbands and cocktails throughout October in honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, donating a portion of proceeds to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Weekend Picks in the Zips (10.4 – 10.6)

It’s been a long week! How about getting out this weekend and discovering fun events in your neighborhood? We’ve got your Top 10 events around town this week in our Picks in the Zips.

Friday, October 4

#1 |Henderson Symphony Orchestra Concert [Green Valley]
www.hsorch.org

• Where: Henderson Pavilion, 200 South Green Valley Parkway
• When: Concert starts at 8 p.m.
• How Much: Free admission ($10 donation appreciated)

Chill out with some beautiful music under the stars at the Henderson Pavilion. With a $10 donation there’s no better way to spend Friday evening.

#2 |Nashville Unplugged – Featuring Bridgette Tatum & Heather Little [Summerlin]
www.redrock.sclv.com

• Where: Rocks Lounge at Red Rock Resort, 11011 West Charleston Boulevard
• When: Doors open at 7 p.m.
• How Much: $5 cover (21 and older)

Call your babysitter and get a little country crooning for date night tonight. You can’t beat only $5 for this cool concert that gets into the depths of originals from some of the best country singer/songwriters in our history.

Saturday, October 5

#3 |Shakespeare in the Park [Green Valley]
www.hendersonlive.com

• Where: River Mountain Park, 1941 Appaloosa Dr.
• When: Show starts at 7 p.m.
• How Much: Free Admission

“The Comedy of Errors” is on this year’s slate for the popular Shakespeare in the Park series. Pack a picnic dinner and head out for some hilarity and wholesome fun. Kid-friendly.

#4 |Grapes & Hops Festival [All Play]
www.springspreserve.org

• Where: Springs Preserve, 333 South Valley View Boulevard
• When: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
• How Much: $40 advance ticket/ $70 advance pair (Benefits Par for the Cure)

Sample unlimited wine, beer and food from some of the best restaurants in town. As a kickoff to Breast Cancer Awareness Month this event is a great time for the foodie in you.

#5 |Outdoor Picture Show [Green Valley]
www.shopthedistrictgvr.com

• Where: The District at Green Valley Ranch, 2240 Village Walk Drive
• When: Movie starts at 7 p.m.
• How Much: Free Admission

Hotel Translyvania is tonight’s showing at the popular outdoor movie series in Henderson. Popcorn, blanket and box ‘o [insert favorite chewy candy here]…check. 

#6 |Tivoli Rocks Fall Concert Series [Summerlin]
www.tivolivillagelv.com

• Where: Tivoli Village, 440 South Rampart
• When: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
• How Much: Free Admission

The Arroyo Cuban Jazz Band headlines this week’s Tivoli Village Fall Concert Series. While you’re dancing away, Madagascar 3 plays at 7:30 p.m. just down the way if the kids are old enough to entertain themselves.

#7 |Southern Nevada Trails Day Celebration [Green Valley]
www.cityofhenderson.com/parks

• Where: Cornerstone Park, 1600 Wigwam Parkway
• When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• How Much: Free Admission

All you need to know about trails, trails and more trails is promised for this family friendly daytime event. Bring your bike for a free checkup by REI and get in some exercise before your cheat dinner.

#8 |Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk [Summerlin]
www.makingstrideswalk.org

• Where: JW Marriot Las Vegas Resort at Summerlin, 221 North Rampart
• When: 8 a.m. to noon
• How Much: Donation

Get a group together for a good cause this Saturday by walking in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk. You can even bring Fido for a $10 fee.

Sunday, October 6

#9 |51^st Annual Art in the Park [All Play – Boulder City]
www.artinthepark.org

• Where: Wilbur, Bicentennial and Escalante Parks in Boulder City
• When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• How Much: Free Admission (Proceeds benefit Boulder City Hospital)

Over 100,000 visitors don’t lie. It’s obvious Art in the Park is something special and worth the trip out the Boulder City for a relaxing Sunday of art and culture. The government shutdown has not affected the event.

#10 |Pahrump Valley Winery Grape Stomp [All Play – Pahrump]
www.pahrumpwinery.com 

• Where: Pahrump Valley Winery, 3810 Winery Road
• When: 11 a.m. (Stomp starts at noon)
• How Much: Free Admission (Fee to stomp with reservation)

Huge wine sale, wine tasting, food and live music? Sold. Take the hour trip out for this annual event and make it a great Sunday. Kids are allowed. 

Looking for more? Check out our Circle the Date events calendar!