Best of the Zips – September
BEST OF THE ZIPS – September
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
- China Tango
1500 N. Green Valley Pkwy. | (702) 293-1166 and 2850 Bicentennial Pkwy | (702) 565-6002
www.chinatangohenderson.com Why You Love It: Great food and a great value.
The Extra Mile: Delivery is super fast, making it the perfect choice for a lazy dinner night.
Car Wash
- 7 Hills Hand Car Wash
2630 Sunridge Heights Pkwy.| (702) 737-9274
www.7hillshandcarwash.com Why You Love It: The service is what keeps you coming through time and again.
Squeaky Clean: Service is one thing, but a clean car is another and you gave them an A+ for detail.
Florist
- Springtime Floral
113 W Lake Mead Pkwy| (702) 938-1088
www.springtimefloral.com Why You Love It: Beautiful arrangements make the recipient as happy as can be.
Over and Above: Not just flowers here! You love the selection of other gifts, too.
Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt
- Nielsen’s Frozen Custard
9595 S. Eastern Ave. #120 | (702) 451-4711
www.nielsensfrozencustard.net Why You Love It: And we quote: “Bumbleberry is the bomb.”
Portion Control: You love the big portions, although you might want to try running there!
Veterinarian
- Oasis Animal Hospital (Dr. Fisher)
10652 S. Eastern Ave. | (702) 616-2747
http://oasisanimalhospital.aahavet.org/ Why You Love Them: From caring to informative, you say Dr. Fisher’s got it all.
Quality Time: You’re not in an assembly line. When it comes to your pet, Dr. Fisher takes the extra time.
Manicurist
- Happy Nails
11251 S Eastern Ave #130| (702) 566-0633 Why You Love It: Good moods and fun techs are the name of the game.
Extra Treat: Spring for the pedicure. It will knock your socks off…if you had any on.
Out ‘N About October 2013
October 2013
Tricks and Treats – Tips for Throwing a Killer Halloween Party
Halloween is that one holiday when it’s ok to go a little nutty, a little scary and be someone (or something) totally different than the every day “you.” That being said, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to get your costume kicks in the comfort of your own home. This year, why not consider throwing a Halloween party? We know to some it might sound a little freaky, but with the right touches, some creative flare and a bit of planning your bash could go down in Halloween history. We put together some tricks and treats to help you organize a Hallows Eve to remember:
- The verdict is in – throwing a Halloween party on the night of Halloween may not be the best idea. Try to shoot for the weekend before and get your invites out as soon as possible to avoid competing parties. (Trick: No time for paper invites? Electronic invites are a great alternative and can help the time-strapped party planner easily manage RSVPs! We think www.evite.com has awesome templates.)
- Pick a theme. From décor to music to food having a theme can make the creative juices flow and help get a party organized. Some of our favorites: Pumpkin Carving Party for the kids, Deadly Disco for a spookier vibe or Vampires and Zombies for the pop culture fanatics. (Trick: Throw in some friendly competition for a little more engagement. Check out www.spookmaster.com for ideas.)
- Now for the treats (our favorite part!), and the grosser the better. There are a slew of ideas for disgusting, revolting and downright scary appetizers that will go perfectly with your wicked bash. Your closest party store should have brain molds and ghost cookie cutters to your heart’s delight, but think outside the box! If all else fails, Pinterest (www.pinterest.com) is a great muse .(Trick: Pretty much any dip can go inside a hollowed pumpkin that you decorate for the occasion.)
Our biggest trick for a rockin’ Halloween party is inviting the right people. Get some friends together that love to have a good time, and all of your efforts are sure to be a hit!
Josh Stevens Celebration Day
In his thirteen years of life, and now in his remembrance as a child taken far too soon in a tragic accident in 2008, Josh Stevens has spread more genuine kindness than most will in their lives. The popular seventh grader, known for his random acts of kindness and laughter would most certainly be proud of the Josh Stevens Foundation started by his family to honor his unique heart, generosity and spirit. Now, five years later the foundation has encouraged kind acts in over 12,000 children, and surely countless more adults, throughout the country and the world with its “Kind Card” campaign and other initiatives to recognize and support genuine kindness in others.
October 13 marks a special celebration of Josh at Crazy Pita in Henderson. Josh’s favorite pita, the “Kefta” will be sold with proceeds benefitting the Josh Stevens Foundation. The annual event has garnered incredible local support and will continue to grow in Josh’s memory. As Josh’s father and creator of the foundation, Drew Stevens says, “Kindness is contagious.” The goodness that has come out of a horrible event is only a testament to this, as our community once again comes together to help our neighbors and a cause greater than our own. Visit www.joshstevensfoundation.org for more information.
El Dictador
- 1 ½ oz. Atlantico Platino Rum
- ¾ oz. Dolin Dry Vermouth
- ¾ oz. Cocchi Americano
- 1 Barspoon Bols Orange Curacao
- ½ Barspoon Bols Pomegranate
Glass: Cocktail Coupe
Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass and stir with ice to chill. Strain the mixture into a chilled 6oz Nick & Nora coupe.
Recipe courtesy of Mixologist Series at RX Boiler Room
Did You Know?
Nevada was admitted into the Union on October 31, 1864, making that day “Nevada Day” every year in the Silver State; however, within the last 20 years the holiday was changed to the last Friday of the month (although heavily debated). This year is a special one in Nevada Day history, as it is the 75th Anniversary of Carson City’s Annual Nevada Day Parade!
The Must Do List
Editor’s Picks
October 5-6
Art in the Park
Boulder City’s Art in the Park draws a crowd that is well over five times the 17,000 population in the charming town just beyond Hoover Dam, and with over 300 extraordinarily talented artists selling original work over the two day festival, we can see why there’s such excitement. In other words, the event is on to something really special. Spanning three parks: Wilbur, Bicentennial and Escalante, the art collector’s dream festival will be just as interesting and fun for the creative “newbie” who’s looking for inspiration. The free festival is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days and will also feature live music, food, activities for kids, raffles and demonstrations. Benefitting Boulder City Hospital, it’s worth the quick trip. Visit www.artinthepark.org for more information.
October 5, 12 & 19
Shakespeare in the Park
A staple in our community, Shakespeare in the Park returns this October with one of the Bard of Avon’s earliest and shortest plays, The Comedy of Errors, about two sets of twins who were accidently separated at birth. Hilarity and mayhem ensue. Sure to bring a little culture, and lots of belly laughs, this is the perfect opportunity to get the family together for something a little out of the ordinary. Complimentary shows start at 7 p.m. on Saturday, October 5 at River Mountain Park; October 12 at Discovery Park and shore side at Lake Las Vegas on October 19. Visit www.hendersonlive.com or call 267-2171 for more information.
October 18-19
Fall Beer Festival
Dust off your lederhosen and have a serious pep talk with your taste buds before embarking on this craft beer adventure. The fourth annual Fall Beer Festival at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino is sure to deliver a great time for the cicerones (that’s beer sommelier) and just plain beer lovers looking to try something new. The two-day festival will start off with an American Craft Beer Tasting. 125 beers, chef-inspired appetizers, live music…all good things. That lederhosen you’ve been holding on to will come in handy on day two at the Oktoberfest Pool Party (free admission). Visit www.goldennugget.com/lasvegas or call (866) 946-5336 for more information.
November 9
Inaugural Stroll ‘n Roll
Based on the rapidly growing Ciclovía Movement, the first ever Henderson Stroll ‘N Roll is an exciting addition to our local fall event buffet. Encouraging the community to get active and engage with one another on the streets by riding bikes, walking and roller skating, there’s only one big rule at the 3-mile long festival: no cars. Families who choose to partake in the motorless fun (free to the public) will have a number of options for activities throughout the day. Three areas including Paseo Verde Park and Discovery Park will serve as “entertainment zones” along the festival that stretches from Valle Verde Drive to the Henderson Multigenerational Center. Bikers and pedestrians can enjoy interactive demonstrations, free fitness classes, live music, children’s activities and food trucks. Visit www.bikehenderson.org or call 267-4000 for more information.
November 16
Sunset Park’d
If you haven’t gotten out to see the new and improved Sunset Park, this inaugural event would be a great chance to do it. A marriage of food trucks (over 30), classic cars, live music and activities for all ages, the free event is a definite on our list to check out. Enjoy the fall weather and colors in one of the most beautiful parks in our city, and get a taste of some fun and eclectic food trucks. While you’re at it, bring a volleyball for an old-fashioned game of bump, set, spike and make a day of it. Visit www.sunsetparkd.com for more information.
Halloween Haunts
It’s that time of the year again when spooky spots for all ages are popping up around town. There is a plethora of terrifying haunted houses around for an all-adults night out, but what about for the kids? We’ve got the bases covered. Check out one (or all) of these not-so-freaky fests and events to give the kids their fill this Halloween season.
Zombie Run
It’s obvious from what we’ve seen on TV that the live human is akin to a delicious French dip sandwich for the constantly starving and animalistic zombie. So when we see one coming after us, we’re gunna run. Due to elaborate costumes, this run could be a little frightening for the tiniest tots, so bring kids 12 or older. Hosted by community organization Generation Vegas on October 27th at Sunset Park Trails, Zombie Run will feature an after party with food and music that is sure to bring you back to life. Visit www.lasvegaszombierun.com for more information.
HallOVeen
The always-popular Magical Forest in Opportunity Village is taking on some new décor this year, with its first ever HallOVeen. Open every weekend in October, this is a kid-friendly spookfest featuring an “Enchanted Carousel,” monster parade and a pumpkin patch. Visit www.opportunityvillage.org for more information.
Town SCARY
If you’re neighborhood is a bit of a dud when it comes to passing out candy, or if the kids just can’t get enough, Town SCARY is calling your name. Don your costume and grab your pillowcases to trick-or-treat from store to store in Town Square on October 31st. Features include a haunted hayride, terrorizing game zone and more. Visit www.mytownsquarelasvegas.com for more information.
Haunted Harvest
Moms, dads and kids can trick or treat, play carnival games, pet animals at the petting zoo and even brave a haunted house at the Springs Preserve Haunted Harvest, weekends in October starting October 12. In addition to getting goodies, kids will also have an opportunity to give back through a candy donation station. In association with Operation Gratitude, all donated candy will go to troops serving overseas. Visit www.springspreserve.org for more information.
Adopt a Duck
We’ve heard of adopting a dog, but why not try adopting a duck or two this October? Don’t worry, you won’t have to dig a lake in your backyard – we’re talking about ducks of the rubber nature – and it’s for a good cause.
Positively Kids of Las Vegas brings its annual Lucky Duck Festival back to Town Square this year, with proceeds benefitting local children who are medically fragile or terminally ill and in need of comprehensive long term care. The 14th annual festival on October 12 offers food, games and entertainment along with the “Lucky Duck Pluck” from a sea of 10,000 rubber ducks bobbing in the Town Square pond. And, of course, cheer along your favorite duck in the annual Derby Duck® Race. Visit www.duckrace.com/lasvegas for more information.
Walking the Walk
If you’re going to exercise, why not make it count for more than just calories? With cooler weather right around the corner, there are some awesome charity walks and runs that will leave you feeling good in more ways than one.
Danny Gans Memorial Champions Run for Life – October 19
Benefitting the Childhood Cancer Foundation, this annual 5K run and 1-mile walk is inspiring and will leave you and your family feeling remarkable as you cross the finish line. Hosted by Donny Osmond, the race also includes the touching Champions Run for Life where you can cheer on children with life-threatening illnesses as they run, walk or wheel across the finish line for a special medal. Visit www.active.com to register or call 735-8434 for more information.
The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s – October 26
Alzheimer’s effects more than five million people in the United States, and many more families and loved ones who are caring for those living with the disease. The annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s raises money for The Alzheimer’s Association and brings the community together around a cause that has most certainly touched every person at some point in time. Starting at the Fashion Show Mall, the 2-mile run/walk asks for personal donations. Visit act.alz.org or call 248-2770 for more information.
FARE Walk – November 2
Raise awareness and join the fight against life threatening food allergies at this annual 1.5-mile walk starting from The District at Green Valley Ranch in Henderson. Thousands of locals gather each year for the walk that raises money for Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE), a non-profit organization dedicated to providing inclusion and safety to nearly 15 million Americans suffering from potentially life-threatening food allergies. Visit www.foodallergywalk.org for more information.
Looking for more runs? Check out websites like www.active.com or www.runningintheusa.com for comprehensive list!
Making A Difference: Yellow Checker Star
Members of the police and fire department as well as first responders put themselves in danger on a regular basis to protect and serve their fellow citizens. Some brave men and women are even tragically killed in the line of duty, never hesitating to provide service despite the most dangerous conditions. On July 22, Metro Police Officer David Vanbuskirk made the ultimate sacrifice while performing a search and rescue mission to retrieve a missing hiker in Mount Charleston. A local taxi service sought to help the family of the officer and honor others who have left behind loved ones in the name of a greater cause.
Yellow Checker Star (YCS) recently announced it would donate $5,000 to the widow of fallen Officer Vanbuskirk. As part of an industry that frequents the streets and roads of the city, YCS drivers and employees felt an obligation to venerate the officer and all those who strive to keep those same avenues safe for locals and visitors alike. “We see the work that Metro police officers perform day after day,” said YCS Director Jonathan Schwartz. “Metro officers keep our communities and our streets safe. Yellow Checker Star wants to recognize and honor Vanbuskirk’s sacrifice, along with the efforts of all Metro officers.”
YCS donated through a non-profit organization, Injured Police Officers Fund, whose goal is to reduce the financial burden suffered by police officers and their families in the event of a line of duty injury or death. Others who desire to help the Vanbuskirk family can do so by visiting www.injuredpoliceofficers.com.
Making A Difference: Rio Spa and Salon Annual Cut-a-Thon for Locks of Love
Surviving the normal trials and tribulations of childhood is hard enough, but dealing with every day pressures while also managing an illness that causes complete hair loss can be almost too much to bear. Locks of Love, a national non-profit organization that collects donated hair to create custom high-end hairpieces, seeks to add hope and confidence into the lives of those children suffering from hair loss. A local spa, touched by the mission, went above and beyond to collect hair for this worthy cause.
The Rio Spa & Salon in August collected over 50 ponytails at its Fourth Annual Cut-A-Thon to benefit Locks of Love. Smiling and visibly excited to donate their luscious locks, more than 20 guests young and old turned up for the event. As if this beautiful display of generosity wasn’t enough an additional donor, heartened by the contribution of the other participants, was moved to visit the salon the next day, donating 29 inches of hair. The majority of recipients of the donated hair are children suffering from cancer in addition to other disorders, the most common being alopecia areata, which has no known cause or cure.
“The annual Locks of Love cut-a-thon is our team’s favorite day of the year,” said Sparkle Drebert, Rio Spa & Salon manager. “It’s amazing to see all the participants donating their hair to such a great cause as well as to watch how excited they are about their new looks.” For more information on Locks of Love, visit www.locksoflove.org.
Making a Difference – Citibank and United Way of Southern Nevada
We tend to think of health in terms of nutrition, exercising and general physical wellness. United Way of Southern Nevada thinks of health in terms of community, and places a much broader definition on what makes our community a “healthy” one. The building blocks of United Way’s quest for communal health? Solid educational foundation, financial stability and healthy lives.
Most recently, Citibank contributed to the bold mission of United Way by presenting United Way of Southern Nevada President and CEO Cass Palmer a $60,000 check to assist local families in their quests for financial security. These funds were earmarked to forward the wellbeing of the local community through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Las Vegas Healthy Communities Coalition (LVHCC) initiatives, projects spearheaded by United Way. The newest of the two programs, LVHCC, focuses on the most vulnerable children and families in our neighborhoods and is based on a model that calls for cross-community participation rather than individual efforts to achieve maximum results. With a goal to provide services to children from infancy through to adulthood, ultimately leading to future jobs and by default a healthier local economy, LVHCC holds a panorama of resources to aid the community.
“Citi values our partnership with the United Way and has been a long-time supporter of their initiatives to strengthen our community,” said a Citibank representative. “We are especially proud to be funding programs that ensure financial stability such as the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program that helps low to moderate income families save money and plan for their future.” For more information on United Way of Southern Nevada visit www.uwsn.org.
Making a Difference – Project 150 Adds New Inspiration
As anyone with a teenager can confirm, it’s much easier to get kids to listen and talk to kids their own age rather than…well…you (or any other adult for that matter). This reality is what Project 150, a local program dedicated to offering supportive services, encouragement and guidance to homeless high school students throughout Clark County, is banking on with the addition of its newest spokesperson, Kayli Barker.
Fifteen-year-old Kayli isn’t your ordinary teen. In fact, as a licensed NASCAR driver and racecar driver from the age of 8, she’s far from it. In August, at 15 years and 24-days-old she set a new NASCAR record, becoming the youngest woman ever to win a NASCAR Whelen All-American series feature race. In addition to making dreams come true on the racetrack, Kayli understands the importance of education, maintaining straight A’s and never missing classes. Most importantly, Kayli realizes that we all need help to succeed in the face of adversity. “Project 150 means a lot to me,” Kayli said. “I can see the help that they’re giving these teens, just to make the next day go a little bit smoother and to help them graduate.”
With a mission to support over 6,300 homeless youth in our area to graduate high school in the midst of severe personal struggles, Kayli could be just what Project 150 needs to resonate with a group that may feel hopeless or alone. For more information about Project 150 visit www.Project150.org.
Meet the Neighbor: Sonia McTaggart-Anderson
By: Callie Thomas
From an early age, resident Sonia McTaggart-Anderson has upheld the belief passed on from her mother that “to whom much is given, much is expected.” Those words of wisdom do not come from a woman who has led a privileged life but rather, one that has overcome much–some would say more than one could possibly endure—to give her children a good life. Sonia is the sixth child of eight who were all raised in British Guiana, now Guyana South America. She grew up in a village with no running water or electricity. Everyone in the family worked in the farms and rice fields to put food on the table. Her father was relentlessly abusive to her mother as well as the children. One by one, her brothers and sisters were sent off to live with other members of the family so that they could go to school and escape the horrors of their daily life.
Sonia recalls her mother scrimping and saving enough to buy school supplies, books, uniforms and bus fare so that they could get an education. Even with extreme challenges, Sonia excelled at school and got her first job at 16 with the Royal Bank of Canada. With the help of relatives she came to the United States at the age of 17, finding work in the garment district, and in the years following married, had a son and obtained scholarships to enroll in a college in New York. She graduated with honors and embarked on a career in finance which she enjoyed for nearly twenty years. For over two decades, inspired by her own struggles and triumphs, Sonia has been donating her time and resources to help improve the lives of children in addition to working and raising her family. She founded the Andson Foundation, which currently assists thousands of children and youths at organizations throughout the valley to give them a better life. Sonia talks of her extraordinary story and why ensuring others are afforded a good life means everything.
You led an incredibly challenging life as a youth—what do you think helped you through it all?
“My drive and self-confidence that was bestowed upon me by my mother, (without whom I would not have survived) and caring strangers who saw the potential in me [helped me through it all]. I believe that I am here today for a purpose. There were so many reasons and situations that I should not have survived, but here I am. I utilize each day to achieve something new and touch another life.”
What does giving back mean to you?
“My mother (who did not have a first grade education) was instrumental in making sure I had an education. Looking back, I realize I was given an opportunity for a tremendously blessed life that I now so proudly enjoy, and to which much has been given. I joyfully give back as much as I can to my siblings, my extended family, staff and to thousands of non-related kids on a daily basis.”
You’ve assisted many charitable organizations but tell us about the Andson Foundation.
“My happiness comes from changing the lives of anyone in need. What I enjoy most is making a difference in the lives of children and helping them excel. Along with my son and my husband, we do just that on a daily basis through the Andson Foundation. Our belief is that by delivering both financial and educational support to students, we will aid not only in their academic careers, but also in their personal development. Our programs develop and empower students to achieve sound and promising futures.
Our goal is to install a lifelong love of learning in every child through academic assistance and to provide social mobility by way of financial education. We’ve provided tens of thousands of hours of lessons and tutoring through partnerships with the Boys and Girls Clubs, St. Jude’s Ranch for Children, Communities in Schools, Bracken Elementary School and Bridger Middle School, Chaparral High School and Desert Oasis High School. Several other centers and elementary schools are scheduled to launch in the coming weeks. It is so important to change attitudes and behaviors and instill a lifelong love of learning. Education will end the cycle of poverty and lack of confidence for the disadvantaged. It did for me.”
Do you have any inspiration to give others?
“Success doesn’t come without hard work. Opportunities only knock once so seize them eagerly. Always remember the people that helped you along the way, and a sibling will always be the best friend you will ever have.”
Meet the Neighbor: Elizabeth Trosper
By: Callie Thomas
There’s a saying, “If you want to make God laugh, make plans.” Even when you think you’ve got your destiny mapped out, life throws curve balls. Sometimes, it works out to be a blessing in disguise, leading you to a different course with new adventures, new people, new skills and even a new lifelong passion. 89074 resident Elizabeth Trosper moved to town from Burbank, California in 1995. Although she had dreams of becoming a film actress after graduating from high school, attending Valley College where she was a theatre major and eventually studying at the Films Actors Workshop, it was a temp job that would open the door to an entirely new obsession.
Like many “starving artists” Trosper took a position to make ends meet as a receptionist at a public relations firm and she was hooked. She went back to school and began her new career as an account coordinator at Manning Selvedge & Lee in Los Angeles. There she worked with some of the best talent in the industry as well as national accounts including Sega, Mattel Toys and Blockbuster Entertainment. She continued to hone her skills here, becoming the partner of a Las Vegas public relations agency and has since opened her own company, Trosper Communications, LLC. in 2010.
Trosper has immersed herself within the community and is a current trustee, and past president, of the Board of Trustees of the Henderson Development Association and an alumnus of Leadership Henderson. She is a member of the national and Southern Nevada chapter of the Public Relations Society. She is also involved in a number of charitable organizations, providing her services on a pro-bono basis. Trosper talks about her work, her family and her inspiration for a life well led.
What was it like discovering a new career path?
“At Manning Selvedge & Lee in LA I discovered I liked being behind the camera more, and became skilled at providing direction for those who liked being in front of it. My mom told me when I was growing up that I could do anything in the world that I wanted to do. I still believe that today.”
As part of your PR work, you also give back to many organizations in the community?
“As a PR professional, I do pro-bono work for many organizations to raise awareness of their charitable efforts and further their cause. I also provide financial donations when I have the means to do so.”
What organizations do you support?
“I’ve been involved in the Henderson Boys & Girls Club, Easter Seals, Hopelink, Marion Residence and Regina Hall. I’ve also served on the board of S.A.F.E. House. Right now I am assisting the Henderson Salvation Army and Honor Flight of Southern Nevada.”
That’s quite a list! Any experiences you’d like to share?
“Any time you work with a non-profit you get a glimpse into the challenges of others and I continuously thank God for his blessings on my family.”
Of all your accomplishments, what makes you most proud?
“Being a mom to my son Jeremy and daughter Brooke.”
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not on the job?
“I enjoy spending time with those that matter the most in my life –my kids, my good friends–whether it’s at an event or at home. I like to entertain for my family as well as plan events both personally and professionally.”
What life inspiration would you offer to others?
“Be kind to one another. Be honest in all aspects of your life, especially the difficult ones. Enjoy the journey.”
Meet the Neighbor: Paula Naegle
By: Callie Thomas
“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” – William Butler Yeats
The very essence of what a good teacher does is to motivate, inspire and engage children in the excitement and joy of learning. That passion for education is at the very heart of what motivates Paula Naegle, Principal of Del Webb Middle School. She not only uses her enormous talent and enthusiasm for teaching to make a difference through education, but also to improve the health and welfare of children in the community. Naegle has played an instrumental role in establishing and implementing an awareness campaign and new procedures and guidelines within her school and beyond to protect children from food allergens.
When Naegle’s own children were young, she began teaching English in high school. She also served as a faculty advisor for a number of extracurricular activities, which introduced her to community service projects that integrated her students. Considered an innovator within the industry, Naegle launched an internship program with KLVX Channel 10. Her students at Chaparral High School were exposed to television production and later were some of the first to use that technology to televise morning announcements across campus. Naegle would be an innovator again after meeting Scott Gordin, a sixth grade student with severe food allergies. As food allergens are a life threatening disease, Gordin’s parents met with Naegle to talk about their son and how best to protect him. It was through her meetings with the Gordins that she first became introduced to and involved with the Food Allergy Research Education (FARE) organization. Paula talks about her support of FARE, her love of teaching and why it will always be a part of life as a native Las Vegan.
As a principal, how do you stay connected with students today?
“Beyond the administrative duties and paperwork I lead monthly book chats, participate in classroom discussions and mentor struggling students. For example, I try to show students that service to the community and school is fun and rewarding, whether it’s fundraising with our faculty to raise money for Nevada Childhood Cancer Camp Cartwheel or serving on the committee for the Las Vegas FARE Walk for Food Allergy, I try to give back wherever I can.”
You were introduced to FARE through one of your students?
“I met with the Gordins to discuss their son Scott’s life-threatening food allergies in an effort to be pro-active in keeping him safe and ensuring that he was included in the full realm of school activities. Mr. and Mrs. Gordin were so positive and helpful in teaching me and Scott’s teachers what we could do as a school to protect the lives of children with food allergies. They introduced me to FARE, a non-profit organization that ensures the safety and inclusion of individuals with food allergies while seeking a cure.”
You’ve spread the word about food allergies throughout your school.
“At Del Webb Middle School, we began implementing new procedures and guidelines to keep students with food allergies safe. Students and staff have participated in the Las Vegas FARE Walk for the past four years. This year’s event is on November 2 at the District Green Valley Ranch. Mr. and Mrs. Gordin, Scott and I also met with former School District Superintendent Dwight Jones to discuss the need for district-wide Food Allergy Guidelines so that all schools will adopt safe practices. That meeting led to a great opportunity: working together with school district leaders to provide training for every CCSD employee on recognizing the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis and emergency procedures to help a student who is having a serious allergic reaction. These events were made possible, in part, due to the grant, ‘Educate Las Vegas,’ that CCSD received from funds raised at the Las Vegas Food Allergy Walk.”
What do you think makes you successful?
“Knowing that I can make a positive difference in the lives of students is a driving force, but mostly that I was able to raise both of my daughters, Megan and Catherine, send them off to college and watch them create beautiful families of their own, all while working hard at a job that I loved.”
Meet the Neighbor: Scott Gordin
By: Callie Thomas
Speaking up and speaking your mind has its rewards. Resident Scott Gordin found the courage to stand up and be vocal about his food allergies in front of the school district as well as his friends. In the process, he’s helped save the lives of other youth. Self-advocating has not only helped him deal with his own life-threatening affliction, but has created awareness of potentially life threatening food allergies and established the first-ever Clark County School District Food Allergy Management Guidelines which includes new regulations, policies and procedures through his efforts with non-profit organization Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE). The new guidelines are scheduled to be released this fall.
The high school senior has severe allergies to peanuts, tree nuts and shellfish. He’s experienced anaphylaxis (a potentially deadly allergic reaction), which sent him to the emergency room at an early age. Due to his illness, he and his family did a great deal of research on food allergies and the dangers they pose, subsequently leading them to become involved in FARE. His parents are volunteers for the annual fundraising Walk for Food Allergy charity as walk directors. Scott was the youth ambassador for the walk the first year. Now, he’s a member of the walk committee as the teen recruit chair. He’s also part of the Teen Advisory Group for FARE, which is a merger between Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network and Food Allergy Initiative where Scott is paired with other teens in a mentorship program. The group works on community projects to advocate and educate. He’s proud of the work his volunteer efforts have produced and is always eager to share his experiences. Scott talks about giving back at an early age, his aspirations and life as a teen in Vegas.
What should others know about food allergies?
“There is currently no cure. Fifteen million Americans struggle every day from this medical condition. One in thirteen kids has a food allergy (about three in every classroom). Kids pass away every year from eating something they thought was safe.”
Why was it important for you to volunteer?
“Other kids feel self-conscious about their food allergies, but I feel different. It has helped save my life by being vocal. My school, Coronado High School, is supportive and they are sponsors of our walk. Many students volunteer and participate in the event.”
Tell us about this year’s walk.
“I want to invite everyone in the community. You will support those directly or indirectly afflicted by this medical condition. The walk takes place Saturday morning on November 2 at the District at Green Valley Ranch. Your support will help raise funds for research to find a cure.”
You’ve been recognized for your efforts?
“Yes, by Governor Sandoval and I received the Hero Award for my charity work, and a Humanitarian Award as Food Allergy Walk Teen Recruitment Chair in Nevada. As the chair, I’ve spoken to local schools and the Art Institute of Las Vegas Culinary School about the walk and participating. I secured local sponsors, volunteers, attend monthly committee meetings, and take part in TV interviews to promote the walk.”
You’ve also done an interview on PBS and your story was featured in Today.com and made MSN.com’s top 5 stories of the day…
“(Smiles) Yes, I’m really proud of that, but also the amazing support of our community and what the Walk enabled in Nevada! Thanks to our community, the 2012 walk raised $110,000 and our walk grants continue to be approved by FARE! Together, we’ve increased awareness and raised funds to make our community a better place. It’s also exciting that the Clark County School District and the FARE partnership created a safer place for CCSD students and staff. I hope to see you at the charity event November 2 – you could be saving a life!”
For more information about the charity event visit www.foodallergywalk.org/lasvegas.”
