Maggie Boyd

Palo Verde High School
Class of 2014
G.P.A.: 4.3

Not everyone can say they are among the top in the world at something, and it’s even harder to find those who can say it and describe the accomplishment as “pretty cool.” That’s the endearing, humble attitude that just adds charm to the success of Palo Verde High School student and future Texas A&M Aggie, Maggie Boyd. Quiet, yet undoubtedly passionate and talented, the graduating senior is top five in the world as a West Coast Equestrian, in addition to being a stellar student and engaged young citizen. Her drive and dedication to her skill is truly a joy to watch and her natural, laid back approach to life makes her “pretty cool” in our book, placing her – A Step Above. 

Sports/Clubs/Community Service

• Photographer for football & lacrosse teams, 2010-Present
• Competitive equestrian -National, Regional & Local levels, 2011-Present
• United States Equestrian Federation Varsity Athlete, 2011-Present
• National Honor Society, 2011-Present
• PVTV Broadcast Group                  , 2011-Present
• Palo Verde High School Track Team, 2011
• Junior League of Las Vegas, 2010-Present
• BJ Schafer Training Center, 2010-Present
• Project 150, 2012-2013
• Title One Hope, 2010-2011

Scholarships/Awards

• Multiple award winner; West Coast equestrian events, 2011-Present
• AMHA Equestrian Medal Recipient, 2011-2013
• Ranked Top 3 in Nation – AMHA Grand Nationals, 2013 
• Ranked Top 5 in World – AMHA World Championships, 2013  
• West Coast Region Champion, 2013 

Sounds like your passion for sports will be driving your career? “Right now my goals are to get through the rest of senior year and further improve my riding abilities. Long term I hope to win the World Championships in October and graduate from Texas A&M with a sports management degree. In ten years I see myself in Texas, managing or running PR for some of the biggest names in sports.” 

What accomplishments are you most proud of and why? “ I’m most proud of my 3/5 finishes at the National and World Championships. It was my first time competing at that level, so I’d say that’s pretty cool.”’

You have a very special idol: “As cliché as it seems, I look up to my mom. She has such a caring and supportive demeanor and she always has the solution to my problems. I don’t know what I would do without her.”

Animals play a really important role in your life: “If I could be president of a non-profit organization it would be the SPCA. I have the biggest soft spot for animals and would jump at any opportunity to help them. To be able to run an animal rescue would be an amazing experience.”

Favorite quote to live by: “Hakuna Matata!”

Jennifer Teng

Gorman High School
Class of 2014
G.P.A.: 4.11 

Jennifer Teng’s quote to live by comes from the great William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, “Though she be but little, she is fierce.” She couldn’t be more spot-on. The tiny senior at Bishop Gorman High School packs an impressive punch when it comes to her goals and vision for the world around her, and the talent she brings in everything she puts her mind to. An aspiring lawyer, Jennifer holds a profound and refreshing respect for the protection of civil rights that will surely lead to a lasting and respectable career. Her perspective beyond her years, genuine kindness and “fierce” tenacity place her – A Step Above. 

Sports/Clubs/Community Service

• JV/ Varsity Track, 2011-2012 & 2014
• Pole Vault Captain, 2014
• Aerialist, 2013-2014
• JV/ Varsity Cheerleading, 2011-2012
• National Honor Society, 2013-Present
• National Science Honor Society, 2013 – Present
• Mu Alpha Theta, 2014
• We the People – Unit 2 Leader, 2014
• Student Government – Junior Class Representative, 2013
• Sun Youth Forum Delegate, 2013
• Nevada JCL, 2011-2012
• National Latin Honor Society, 2012
• Forensics and Debate, 2011
• Matthew 25 Board, 2013-2014
• Historical Interpreter, 2011-2013
• Mountain View Hospital Volunteer, 2013
• Make a Wish, 2011-2012

Scholarships/Awards

• National Merit Scholar Finalist, 2014
• We the People Regional Winners, 2014
• AP World History Student of the Year, 2013
• AP Scholar with Honor, 2013
• Commended Student for AP English and Spanish 2, 2013
• Commended Student for New Testament, 2012
• JV Scholar Athlete, 2012
• All State Academic Team for Spirit, 2012
• Academic Achievement Award in Art II, 2011
• Academic Achievement Award in English 3H, 2011
• Top 10 in National JCL Writing Contest, 2011
• Honors Status in the National Forensics League, 2011

What are your keys to success? “I think that an open mind, along with a desire to learn and achieve makes me successful. Also, I recognize that taking risks and having great aspirations is essential. As Michelangelo said, ‘The greatest danger for most of us is not that our aim is too high and we miss it, but that it is too low and we reach it.”’

A certain teacher has really inspired you:  “My instructor, Mr. Goertemiller, inspires me. Not only has he taught me world history and US government, but has revealed more important life skills and morals such as dedication, perseverance, patriotism, faith, and compassion. His kindness on my first day at Bishop Gorman will forever be a fond memory of mine.”

We love your perspective on what shapes a person: “Though certain experiences can have great effects, I believe every day decisions play the most crucial role in determining your identity. Every day you have the ability to shape and transform who you are.”

What a great idea of a non-profit. We say go for it! “If I could be president of any non-profit it would be a foundation that would provide a ‘virtual pen pal’ to children who are recovering from serious illnesses, especially those who are quarantined. Through social media such as Skype and Facetime, two children who were paired together could give eachother the necessary support and companionship during the difficult recovery process.”

Spring Fever | RX for Seasonal Allergies

Fresh flowers, busy bees, green grass and weather that just makes you want to play in the park all signify the renewal and rejuvenation of spring time. But for more than 35 million Americans who suffer from seasonal allergies, this time of year also ushers in some unwelcome guests; Sneezy, Stuffy, Wheezy, Dopey, Watery, Runny and Itchy.

Aside from painfully obvious physical symptoms, allergies are often responsible for sleepless nights, an inability to focus at work, trouble socializing and a general feeling of ill health. While there is no catch-all, miracle cure, there are a number of simple lifestyle changes and alternative solutions that’ll help you feel your best the whole year through.

By Lisha Ross 

The Low Down

An allergic reaction is what occurs when your immune system over-reacts to common substances that you inhale, ingest or come into physical contact with. After repeated exposure to substances including pollen, pet dander, mold and dust mites, your body produces histamines that cause a cascade of symptoms to occur.  

Because there are so many allergens circulating at any given time of year, Dr. Hugh Windom of the University of South Florida recommends that allergy sufferers get tested by an allergist or immunologist to pinpoint specific problems. Once you know just what you’re allergic to, fighting the battle against the elements will be that much easier.   

An Ounce of Prevention

Particularly with seasonal allergies, your first instinct might be to lock yourself indoors, but we often forget just how many allergens are lurking inside our homes, cars and offices. Early preparation and continued maintenance are key factors for reducing allergens in your living spaces.   

Linens and Things

Towels, sheets, bath mats, linens and curtains should be washed frequently in hot water to kill dust mites and remove pollen. Shower curtain liners should be bleached once per month, or replaced entirely to eradicate mold.  Consider purchasing pillow, box spring and mattress enclosures that are impenetrable to allergens, as well as other allergy friendly bedding and linens. Ask your allergist, or visit Allergy One (www.allergyone.com) or Allergy Control Products (www.allergycontrol.com) for product lines.  

Carpeting presents a serious issue for allergy sufferers as it is a virtual breeding ground for millions of allergens. Wood flooring or carpeting with very tight knit fibers are optimal for chronic allergy sufferers, but if changing your floor coverings isn’t an option be sure to vacuum at least once per week with a vacuum outfitted with a HEPA filtration system. Product ratings are available at Allergybuyersclub.com. Other products purported to kill allergens in carpeting include Allersearch X-mite Fabric and Carpet Powder and Allersearch ADS Fabric and Carpet Spray. They claim to deactivate most allergens associated with dust mites, cat dander, mold, mildew and plants, but must be re-applied periodically.

In the Air

Air purifiers are your best defense in removing allergens from the air. Choose models equipped with HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filtration, a system that removes 99.97% of airborne allergens.  You’ll also want to make sure the system is the correct size for the square footage of the room it will be used in.

Humidity in your home is also a factor and should ideally stay between 20%-40%. Levels below 20% may cause the body to generating excessive mucus in your nasal passages, leading to congestion and possible sinus infections. Humidity over 40%, a condition likely to occur in your bathroom, encourages mold and dust mites to thrive. Keep the air dry by running an exhaust fan during and after showering and on humid days. Consider purchasing a small, battery operated hygrometer ($25), a device that measures humidity, to keep the moisture levels in check. Then, with the use of a humidifier/dehumidifier, you can adjust moisture levels to suit your needs.

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America also suggests that you keep the air conditioner set to re-circulate air, replace filters frequently and keep the windows closed during high pollen season.

Away From Home

In your car as in your home, set the air conditioner to re-circulate. Turn the A/C or heater on before you get in and always keep the windows up.  

Products that might help at work or on the go include:

• The Portable Car Air Purifier ($119.95) plugs into your car cigarette lighter and straps to the back of the headrest. Roomaid Portable HEPA Air Purifiers ($159.95) are light-weight, have a car adaptor, and are perfect for use on a desktop at work. Check out Allergybuyersclubshopping.com for info.

• Aller-RX ($7.95), a carpet and upholstery spray that temporarily de-natures allergens, comes in convenient and refillable 4 oz. spray bottles, perfect for your glove box or desk drawer. Visit Allerrx.com to order.

• The Dust Grabber Magnetic Dust Cloth ($3.99) picks up dust and fine particles without stirring them into the air. Use to dust your dashboard, desk and shelves at work. Available at allergyone.com.

• Dirt Tamer Handheld Vacuum Cleaners ($59.95+) are wet/dry, cordless, rechargeable HEPA vacuums that can be used in the car or in the area around your desk at work. Find them at Greenandmore.com.       

Other Attractions

Remember that clothing and hair are magnets for allergens circulating outdoors. During high pollen season, remove your shoes at the door so as not to track pollen inside. For those who have severe pollen allergies, it is recommended that you change your clothes, and immediately wash your hair upon arriving home. This will help to prevent the pollen on your body from rubbing off onto your couch, pillows and linens.

Mother Nature’s Medicine Cabinet 

Improving your living environment may not be the only remedy for keeping allergy symptoms at bay. Mary Hardy, MD, director of integrative medicine at Cedars Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles says, “Using nature-based products can be a very useful way to handle mild allergies and a useful adjunct for more significant allergies….” From herbal supplements to local honey, when used properly, nature’s gifts can be a great way to alleviate allergy discomfort.   

Honey Do 

Many experts agree that foods that help manage inflammation and support the immune system can help alleviate allergic reactions. One such food is local raw honey. Similar to an allergy shot, eating local honey produced within ten miles of your home will gradually expose your body to the same types of pollen that induce allergic reactions when inhaled, purportedly boosting your own immune defense. Often found at local farmer’s markets, visit www.localharvest.org for a market near you.

Food for Thought 

Eliminating empty calories from your diet, such as those found in fast food, and consuming foods rich in vitamins and healthy calories is also thought to help in alleviating allergy symptoms. Apples, leafy vegetables, bananas, tofu, legumes and walnuts are foods purported to tame inflammation. Additional anti-allergy foods include broccoli, turnips, kale, cabbage and colorful red berries such as raspberries, blackberries and cranberries which contain quercetin, a powerful flavanoid thought to ease symptoms.

Experts say spicy hot foods containing cayenne pepper, hot ginger and fenugreek seeds can thin mucus secretions, ultimately clearing nasal passages. Onions and garlic are also thought to be helpful.  

A Note on Natural Alternatives

Non-traditional treatments, including acupuncture, diet and exercise, are garnering recognition for having affective results for treating allergies. However, while supplements such as Butterbur, goldenseal, fish oil and perilla oil are thought to be helpful in quelling allergy symptoms, non-traditional supplements should be used with as much caution as any other treatment. Natural doesn’t always mean better or safer, and one should always consult a physician before mixing alternative treatments with traditional drugs.

Seasonal allergies don’t have to put a damper on your spring time activities. With a few simple changes, you too can enjoy the beauty this season has to offer.

Michael Tatalovich Fundraiser

Dear Friends and Community Partners,

As 2014 rolls along, we are often reminded of how precious and vulnerable time is. As most in our community are familiar with the Josh Stevens Foundation, and their “Be Kind” message that inspires us all to spread kindness and heartfelt acts of love, some are unaware that the Coronado High School class of 2014 would have been Josh’s graduating class. The motto of the foundation from its start has been, “Genuine kindness born in the heart of a child deserves celebration.”

It is with this celebration in mind that I would like to tell you about one of Josh’s classmates, Michael Tatalovich. Michael is also the true epitome of kindness, love, generosity, and hope. Michael is a senior at Coronado High School, graduating with honors, with the admiration from staff and faculty alike, and with lots of love and respect from his fellow students. In May of last year however, Michael and his family’s world was turned upside down. Michael was a stand-out athlete and a member of the State Champion Coronado men’s volleyball team, when a pain in his hip led him to consult his doctors. The diagnosis: Ewing’s Sarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer that had infiltrated his femur. After months of treatment, chemotherapy, multiple surgeries and blood transfusions, and ultimately a partial hip replacement at 17 years old, Michael is battling to make a full recovery. However, all of this treatment has left the family with a huge financial burden and the stress of huge medical bills.

I have had the pleasure of knowing Michael since he was just an elementary school boy, being raised in the neighborhood that our families still reside in today. I can say without hesitation that he has always been one of our family’s favorite neighborhood kids. Michael is always upbeat, always polite, always respectful, always there for his family and friends whenever needed. He’s just your all around wonderful American boy. I am proud and honored to be writing this letter on behalf of a wonderful young man, his family, his friends, and the entire community.

We are asking for your help and support.  We are holding a fundraiser for Michael and his family on May 5^th, 2014 at 6pm at the Coronado High School men’s volleyball game vs. Basic HS.  We are asking for donations of money, gifts/gift cards for drawings during the game, time to be volunteered, or any other way you could possibly help the cause. All donations will go to help ease the burden of Michael’s cost to fight cancer. This community has been incredible in raising great kids like Michael and Josh; kids that truly understand what it means to be loving and kind. Now we want to help as a community, to ensure that Michael has what he needs to win his toughest battle yet.  Please find it in your heart to donate and to come out and celebrate a remarkable young man.

If you are unable to attend the fundraiser PLEASE make all donations at http://www.gofundme.com/7n4u9k.      
Checks can be mailed to: 2311 Tilden Way Henderson, NV 89074  Questions: 702-274-8271

Yours Truly,
Dr. Gene & Lori Garlick

Dallin Bryan

Coronado High School
Class of 2014
G.P.A.: 4.8

Dallin Bryan epitomizes the all around “stand-up” guy. He’s comfortable in his own skin, smart enough to think for himself and willing to make the tough choices in Einstein-esque “what’s right is not always popular” style. He’s the guy you want in your corner. It would be easy to look at Dallin’s track record and assume that grades and sports define him, but in fact there’s something much deeper and exponentially more important to his resume. It’s his character. Dallin stands for kindness, integrity and responsibility and those qualities are what truly place him – A Step Above.  

Sports/Music/Scholarships/Awards

• Coronado Volleyball Team, 2011-Present; Freshman, 2011-2012; Jr. Varsity, 2012-2013; Varsity, 2013-2014
• Vegas Volleyball Club, 2011-Present
• Piano
• Nevada Boys State Delegate, 2013
• Nevada All-State Academic Team, Volleyball, 2013
• Nevada State Champions, Volleyball, 2013
• HOBY Leadership Seminar Delegate, 2012
• Junior Varsity Sportsmanship Award, Volleyball, 2011
• Eagle Scout, Boy Scouts of America, 2010

Clubs/Community Service

• Student Body Treasurer, 2013-Present
• Junior Class Treasurer, 2012-2013
• Sophomore Class Treasurer, 2011-2012
• Freshman Class Treasurer, 2010-2011
• Co-Founder of Ping-Pong Club, 2012-2013
• Quantum Physics Club Treasurer, 2014
• Four Square Club, 2014
• Boy Scouts of America, 2007-Present
• Smiles for Central America Participant, 2009-2013
• Cougar Care Volunteer/Participant, 2009
• Santa Run Participant, 2009-2010
• Danny Gans Memorial Champion Run for Life, 2009
• Tiny Tim Foundation Volunteer to Chihuahua, Mexico, 2006            

Your goals and aspirations are pretty well thought out! “I hope to graduate as a valedictorian and leave my mark on this school’s history.  I would like to be remembered as a kind friend to all who brightened people’s days. I then plan on serving a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, attend BYU on scholarship (hopefully), and eventually Stanford Business College for my MBA. In 10 years I see myself having a small, happy family.  I see myself as a young business owner striving to serve his fellow man and provide for his wife and kids.”

Of all that you’ve accomplished, there’s one thing that stands out: “I am most proud of my Eagle Scout award.  It took a lot of hard work and dedication through countless hours of merit badges, but the skills and the life lessons I learned in the scouting program have forever changed me. I will never be able to repay the debt I owe to the scouting program for shaping me into a man.”

Is there someone you look up to? “I look up to my brother, Logan.  I have strived to model my high school career as much after him as I possibly can. He was in Student Council, I’m in Student Council.  He was Student Body Treasurer, I’m the Student Body Treasurer. He was a valedictorian, I’m on track to be a valedictorian. He couldn’t have set a better example for me to follow, and I will be eternally indebted to him for that.”

Favorite quote to live by: “My favorite quote to live by is “Come what may and love it!”  It basically means no matter what happens in your life, love it!  Smile!  Have a positive attitude!  Though one can acknowledge the hardships and trials in one’s life, they can choose how those will affect them and what attitude they will exhibit.  Every day can be the best day of your life, if you choose to “Come what may and love it!”

“Fire Hurts. Red Cross Helps.”

A fire can be detrimental and traumatic in the lives of all involved – especially if it’s a fire to a home. Beyond all of the emotional distress and destruction of sentimental objects that can’t be replaced, many victims of house fires also have to consider where they might find basic necessities like clothing and furniture that are most likely gone with the flames. A local organization, with a profound understanding of what a victim goes through during this time, reached out to help.

On January 23, 2014 the Professional Fire Fighters of Nevada (PFFN) made a financial contribution of $20,000 to American Red Cross’s “Fire Hurts. Red Cross Helps.” campaign, which provides assistance to victims throughout Nevada who have been displaced from their homes due to fire. The campaign is a joint effort by the American Red Cross and PFFN, with the goal of raising $350,000 to fund emergency assistance to local families. All assistance provided is an outright gift, made possible by financial contributions and donations. “It is an honor to be part of such an impactful campaign, and we hope to provide the best assistance possible to those whose lives have been disrupted by house fires,” said Rusty McAllister, president of PFFN. “Though we are grateful to be able to donate $20,000 to this worthy cause, we are reaching out to the community to help us meet the financial goal and create awareness on fire safety.”

On average, the Southern Nevada Chapter of the American Red Cross responds to a residential fire every 18 hours, day and night. For more information on PFFN visit www.pffn.org. 

Caesars Entertainment Corporation and Clean the World Foundation

Ever wonder what happens to the leftover soap or shampoos when you go to a hotel? We hadn’t given it much thought until we found out about Clean the World Foundation. In an era of repurposing and recycling – this organization very much thought about what happens to all of that gently-used soap and decided to do something with it that would have a positive impact on the world.

Millions of deaths per year are caused by hygiene-related illnesses. Clean the World Foundation creates a means to fight these statistics by collecting, sterilizing and repackaging soap and shampoo from hotel properties, later distributing them to impoverished nations. Just recently, employees from Caesars Entertainment Corporation packed their bags and boarded a plane to the Philippines as part of a joint trip with Children International and The Clean the World Foundation, Inc. to deliver thousands of hygiene products and health education tips to schools and student activity centers throughout Manila. Employees who were able to travel were nominated by managers and staff for excellence in the following categories: Dedication to Community Service: William Knowles, Electronic Technician – Harrah’s Laughlin, Outstanding Housekeeper: Soccorro Garcia, Inspector, Housekeeping – Bally’s Las Vegas, and Service with Passion: Lance Elliot, Table Games Dealer – Harrah’s Council Bluffs. “I had the opportunity to see many aspects of life that some will never see,” said Elliot. “I saw soap make kids smile and say thank you. I saw kids, kids and more kids, and all of them seemed amazing to me.”

For more information on the Clean the World Foundation visit www.cleantheworld.org. For more on Caesar’s Entertainment Corporation visit www.caesars.com.

Bank of America and Habitat for Humanity Las Vegas

To have a roof over our heads… it’s why we work and it’s why we save. It’s the foundation of the American Dream. A roof over our heads gives us more than just shelter – it’s a place to call home and to have a space away from the rest of the world. Habitat for Humanity, a national organization with a local presence in Las Vegas, understands this basic human need for security. With the help of a generous donation by Bank of America, the organization gave that gift to a local woman in need.

On March 1, 2014 single mother of three, Denzila Watts, entered her Habitat for Humanity home in South Las Vegas for the very first time. The home was donated by Bank of America. More than 20 Bank of America employee volunteers helped Watts with approximately $20,000 in landscaping, painting, flooring and damage repair improvements to her soon-to-be space. This day marked the first time Watts will work on revamping the family’s future home. As part of Habitat’s homeownership program,she is required to complete 300 hours of “sweat equity” which involves not only working at the construction site on Habitat homes, but also undergoing several classes that focus on the various components of responsible home ownership. The home is the 11th such donation by Bank of America – part of a national partnership through which the institution is donating up to 2,000 vacant properties nationwide for renovation or reconstruction over a three-year span.

For more information on Habitat for Humanity Las Vegas visit www.habitatlasvegas.org. For more information on Bank of America visit www.bankofamerica.com. 

United Healthcare, Konami Digital Entertainment and Boys and Girls Clubs of So. NV Fight Childhood Obesity

Over one third of children in the United States are considered overweight or obese according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This statistic presents itself in our own community with 34% of Nevada’s children considered such, leaving the state 17^th for physical inactivity and 18^th for obesity, according to UnitedHealth Foundation’s 2013 America’s Health Rankings. What can we do about this epidemic? First, similar to a new initiative recently launched at our local Boys & Girls Club of Southern Nevada, we can make exercising fun for kids and encourage them to involve friends in creating a healthy lifestyle. 

UnitedHealthcare and Konami Digital Entertainment brought DanceDance Revolution: Classroom Edition (DDR CE) to the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Nevada recently, where local youngsters will use the popular dance game to have fun and improve their fitness… at the same time (gasp!). Students will play the interactive video game, which combines physical activity with energetic music and visuals. The game enables dozens of students to participate simultaneously, creating friendly competition and fun using wireless mat controllers featuring a smart card reader that tracks each student’s individual progress. “It is important we continue the fight against obesity,” said CCSD Superintendent Pat Skorkowsky. “We need healthy, happy students in our schools so they can learn and be good citizens going forward.”

Childhood obesity has doubled in the last thirty years. In order to fight continued growth UnitedHealthcare, Konami Digital Entertainment and the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Nevada partnered to create this new “exergaming” program. For more information on UnitedHealthcare visit www.uhc.com. For more on Konami Digital Entertainment visit www.konamigaming.com and for more on the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Nevada visit www.bgclv.com. 

Diana Weeks

It’s hard to believe that it’s been over twenty years since the world learned a new language…the SMS (short message service) or text message.  AAMOF (As a matter of fact) over six billion texts are deployed each day in the U.S. according to Forester Research, with a whopping 8.6 trillion annually sent on a global basis. Of these messages, Pew Internet Research indicates that 75% of teens use text messaging and on average send 60 messages per day.   The numbers continue to grow and with more children with access to mobile devices, it is imperative that parents and kids be aware of potential problems. 89123 resident Diana Weeks, a Client Relations Manager with Imagine Communications is making a difference in the community by volunteering her time to a number of causes, including SM@RT Connections, an organization that works under the umbrella of the Henderson Community Foundation.  The organization’s purpose is to help educate parents and children about the dangers of the Internet, sexting and how to become good digital citizens.

By: Callie Thomas
The nine year resident is active in the community, not only through her work with Imagine Communications and the clients she assists, but also as an important part of her faith. While SM@RT Connections is an organization that’s close to her heart, she also makes time to help others through her church, where she teaches Sunday school and she and her husband Eric manage the church’s bus ministry to transport kids from lower income communities to church each week. Diana Weeks talks about her philanthropic efforts and why working with organizations that assist children are especially important.

How did you become involved with SM@RT Connections?

“I am a part of Leadership Henderson’s Class of 2014 and have become an active volunteer.  As a class we chose SM@RT Connections because this is an issue that is growing in vast proportions amongst our youth today. The mobile phone is the new desktop and with it comes a somewhat ambiguous platform from which bullies and pedophiles can play.  The Internet has become part of the daily fabric of our lives and people need to know how to use it safely.”

How do you assist the group?

“As a volunteer I head up the Marketing & Outreach Committee for the class project. The committee has worked diligently these last couple of months to try to market SM@RT Connections to the Southern Nevada community.”

Any experiences you would like to share?

“We created the SM@RT Connections brand and logo, manage the project’s social media (Facebook & Instagram) accounts and we’ve developed the website, beingsmart.org. In the future, we will continue to look for media opportunities for SM@RT Connections as well.”

Why is giving back so important to you?

“It means everything to me. It’s an ordinance of my faith and it keeps me humble. I’m reminded that no matter how bad I think I’ve got it, others have it worse.  It is encouraging to see the lives that are transformed.”

How do you unplug after a busy day?

“Yoga and a long hot shower but I also enjoy designing stationary, reading and writing short stories. I also love going on picnics with my husband and traveling with my younger sister. Every year we visit a place we’ve never been together and have fun.”

If you weren’t in your present career, what other job would you like to do?

“I am originally from Nairobi, Kenya and am the third daughter in a family of four girls.  My father, Charles Chege, worked in the Kenyan Air Force and as the attaché to the Kenyan Embassy in New Delhi, India.  I would love to own/manage an orphanage in Kenya for kids who have been orphaned as a result of the AIDs epidemic.  I am passionate about kids and working in any type of child ministry/service or volunteer opportunity.”