89144 Magazine | January-February 2015

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Back to Basics | Handbag

Tips for finding your handbag – perfect for work and play! 

*Keep it neutral. Black, brown, tan, burgundy, olive green or a muted mustard bag will keep your bag versatile and will be a beautiful compliment to any ensemble. Avoid trendy colors if you want to use it for the long run as they are limiting.                                                                              

*Roomy is best. Look for a bag that is large enough to hold your essentials-keys, cosmetics, smartphone and maybe even an Ipad.  But, steer away from anything that is oversized. You will risk looking sloppy. If you are petite, it will overwhelm you.

*Make it personal. Every bag has a different organizing capacity. Look for a bag that suits your needs with enough compartments and zippered pouches for all of your belongings.                                    

*Add a little flair. During the week it’s all business but why not add a brightly colored scarf or charm to it for the weekend? This addition will take your workbag from practical to eye-catching. For evening, if your bag is not too big or slouchy, you can use it. But, you may want to purchase a clutch for special nighttime glamour. A clutch adds a sleek sophistication to any silhouette.

Back to Basics | Blazer Jacket

Find the perfect fit with this handy breakdown: 

*Athletic build, – cropped blazer or one that is longer in the front and higher in the back creates a feminine silhouette for the waist and hips. 

*Petite – fitted styles define your feminine shape.

*Pear shaped – Blazers with a light pad in the shoulder adds balance to the body.

*Busty shapes – Blazers that define the waist and show definition under the bust are most flattering.

*Small chested – Create a curvier line by choosing jackets with plenty of detailing to add volume to your upper body.

*Plus-sized – Long and short jackets work for this body type but avoid anything too bulky or loose and large patterned fabrics.

Tips for Joni Hoffman, www.myfashionarchitect.com

Kathryn Davis

“No hour of life is wasted that is spent in the saddle.” – Winston Churchill

A study by the American Youth Horse Council found that equestrian activities have a direct affect on enhancing a range of life skills in children.  Children are naturally attracted to horses and they make wonderful childhood companions. They help children build character in addition to providing some healthy benefits like increased balance, coordination and flexibility. 

By: Callie Thomas

Resident Kathryn Davis grew up in Irvine, California where her family kept horses at Irvine Park.  She and her sister made lots of friends who loved animals and her experience with horses throughout her youth provided her with a loving, learning and yes, stable environment. When she moved to Las Vegas, she looked for a place that her children would have a similar experience.  Little did she know that she would end up with three horses of her own and be looking for a place to live with them. The Las Vegas Riding Academy was the perfect solution. Davis is the owner and instructor of the facility which offers kids an opportunity to learn to ride, care for and develop a passion for animals and the great outdoors. Most of the horses Davis uses for her lessons have been rescued and she supports organizations that not only save horses but provide other services like therapeutic riding for kids.  She is passionate about an organization called Spirit Therapies, which assists physically, mentally and emotionally challenged children by connecting them with trained therapy horses, certified instructors and compassionate volunteers. 

Kathryn Davis talks about her dream of creating a facility with horse camps, play days and therapeutic riding for handicapped kids. She also discusses what children of today can learn from the experience and how her own mother was influential in her love of horses.

Tell us about your dream of creating a facility that includes therapeutic riding.

“I have dreamed of having a nonprofit organization that would bring in kids from all walks of life to share the therapeutic effects of horses and animals.  It would be a place where kids can spend time outside; a place to learn to care for and be compassionate about animals.  I am so passionate about this that I always seem to be talking about it.  I have several people who share the same dream as I do and we are working toward building a facility that will provide these services.  Las Vegas Riding Academy is busting at the seams so I know there is a real need out there.”

What do you hope kids will learn from the facility?

“I have children who come to Las Vegas Riding Academy and don’t realize eggs come from chickens.  We need to get our kids away from the computers and back outside interacting with their environment. I want kids to learn that life has its ups and downs, but animals have unconditional love and they don’t judge you.”

Tell us about your support for organizations like L.E.A.N., Shiloh Ranch in Sandy Valley and Spirit Therapies.

“Most of my lesson horses have been rescued. There are lots of wonderful horses out there that need a home. Organizations like L.E.A.N. and Shiloh Ranch help save horses.  Spirit Therapies offers therapeutic riding for mentally or physically handicapped kids as well as military members with physical or mental challenges.  We recently sponsored an American Competitive Trail Horse Association horse show and the proceeds were donated to Spirit Therapies.”

What or whom do you think was the biggest influence in your love of horses?

“I was taught a lot by my mother.  She was the youngest of six kids and grew up during the depression. Her mother died when she was five and when her father lost his job and couldn’t afford to feed the family, the kids were sent to other families.  My mother ended up on a farm and became a horse lover.  She also became a queen of the Ryan Horse Shows and I still have her trophy and pictures from 1944.”

Yannick Augy

Opening a new business is never easy, and focus tends to be on getting all the operational aspects in line (dealing with construction, décor, hiring employees, ordering supplies and so much more).  So, it’s pretty rare for a brand new business to immediately incorporate a community outreach initiative in the first year, but 89074 resident Yannick Augy, General Manager of Hakkasan Las Vegas Restaurant & Nightclub was instrumental in making it happen.

By: Callie Thomas

Since opening in May 2013, giving back to the community has become very important to the organization, leading to the development of Hakkasan’s overarching local non-profit program, “Hakkasan Gives Back.”  Augy and the team set out to identify a partner the company could relate to in the food service and hospitality industries, and found Three Square Food Bank, a  non-profit committed to feeding the community with quality meals.

Augy has had a passion for food and dining since growing up in the Loire Valley of France.  His grandmother first introduced him to the restaurant business at age 13.  He gained his education at Jacques Cocur, culinary school in Borges, France and completed a Master of Hospitality Management and Tourism Accounting from the University of Angers.  His diverse training included being a Demi-Chef at the Michelin-starred Le Clos des Sens at the Châteaux & Hôtels de France and Assistant Maitre D’ at Hostellerie le Phébus at Relais & Châteaux. Augy worked at a number of high-end hotels throughout France, the United Kingdom and Monaco before coming to Las Vegas where he took a Food & Beverage position with the MGM Grand Hotel Resort & Casino.  He later joined Hakkasan Las Vegas as Assistant General Manager where he worked to open the venue and, just a few months later, became the General Manager.  Yannick Augy shares his experiences with Hakkasan Gives Back and his other accomplishments.

What is it like being involved with Three Square?

“I feel privileged that we were able to raise so much money so Three Square can provide thousands of meals to its patrons in-need.  It’s a great feeling of accomplishment to know that I helped contribute to a great cause and I look forward to many more opportunities like this one.”

What are some of the initiatives of Hakkasan Gives Back?

“We wanted to align ourselves with a local food-based organization and give back to the community any way we could. Three Square Food Bank introduced us to their facility just before the holiday season and just a few days later, we created a campaign to help increase hunger awareness within Southern Nevada. Our next step was to have our staff involved (both in the restaurant and nightclub) as they raised contributions and donated their personal time at Three Square’s warehouse to help assemble meals for those in need

In just two hours we packaged 10,000 meals to-go for the Kid’s Café, 1,500 bags of food for Backpacks for Kids and 130 Senior Share Boxes. In addition to this volunteer activity, for each guest that dined in the restaurant during the month of December, Hakkasan donated $5 to the nonprofit organization. In January 2014, Hakkasan restaurant hosted Three Square Food Bank’s key executives and board members to present a cumulative check totaling $50,636 which included all funds collected throughout this time.”

What are you personally most proud to have achieved?

“I am extremely proud of what Las Vegas has given me.  I left France in 2007 right after college, leaving my entire family and friends back home to come to a country where I didn’t know anyone, didn’t know if I was going to like it or make it.  I will always be thankful to MGM Grand for giving me the best work experience and opportunity to grow.”

You’ve also received a few awards along the way for your efforts.

“I’m very honored to have received awards such as the MGM Mirage Warriorship Award, the Seventh Restaurant Service World Award and a few others. It’s a great feeling to be recognized, especially in a city that is so full of exemplary leaders in the hospitality industry.”

Any life inspirations or quote you’d like to share?

“My boyfriend introduced me to a TV show called Super Soul Sunday with Oprah Winfrey and one episode with Howard Schultz, the CEO of Starbucks, fascinated me and was a great lesson. I learned to lead my team not only by the way I see my surroundings but also the way I see myself.  Also, my grandmother Suzanne would say, don’t forget to smile, it’s the only free thing in this world.”

Chris Bezsylko

It’s safe to say that no parent would intentionally put their child in front of a shark…or would they?  Parents and teachers alike were thrilled to let their 5^th graders from Henderson International School present to a group of judges affectionately known as the “Shark Tank” as part of a fundraising activity to decrease poverty and combat childhood diseases in the community.  Their efforts were in conjunction with a national organization called Change for Change, under the direction of 89052 resident Chris Bezsylko, who happens to be both their middle school principal and preschool through eighth grade curriculum director.  The organization’s mission is to help empower young adults to create big changes.  In this case, students created real-life business concepts designed to fight poverty and disease and presented them to the “tank” of investors for a possible total of $750, which was invested in the winning businesses as start-up capital.

By: Callie Thomas

Bezsylko began his education career as a teacher in inner city Philadelphia and later left to become a full-time educational consultant.  Although he spent four years traveling across the country and working with many educators, he missed being part of a school community and seeing his students grow.  He went back to teaching and earned a Master of Arts in private school leadership through the Klingenstein Center Teachers College at Columbia University.  He began his career as an administrator and later moved to Las Vegas. His mission for Henderson International School is not a common one.  Their goal is to develop and nurture life-long learners who are prepared to work and support others, making service the primary purpose of education. Bezsylko talks about the school’s efforts with a variety of charitable organizations, his personal experiences through their support of Change for Change and unplugging after a busy day.

Tell us about the mission of the Henderson International Schools.

“Henderson International School is dedicated to nurturing great learners and responsible global citizens. The idea of community service is not novel, however, it is not common to make service a primary purpose of education. This resonates with who I am as an individual, as a father and as an educator.  I believe that as a community of learners, schools have a responsibility to engage and be active members of a community.”

How was the school involved with Change for Change?

“This is the first year that Henderson International School has participated in the initiative.  Our fifth graders engaged in a year-long study of poverty where they met with guest speakers, exchanged research and opinions with peers at our Meritas sister schools, and participated in a variety of community-service projects.  The project challenges our students to apply what they have learned in the classroom to a real-life issue.”

How does the “Change Project” work?

“Students worked as individuals or in small groups to turn a modest financial investment into greater change.  They created one-page business proposals, met with project coaches and finally pitched their proposals to a panel of judges called the “Shark Tank.”  The judges awarded start-up funds to viablestudent projects that aid local, national and global causesand organizations.”

Any experiences you’d like to share?

“I spoke with a parent who witnessed her son’s change over the course of the Change for Change project.  She said he thinks of others and wants to find more ways to help.  I’ve also heard from students who thought they were going to hate working on the project but ended up loving it.”

 What other organizations does the school support?

“We’ve partnered with the American Heart Association’s Hoops for Heart and Jump Rope for Heart, the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree holiday project and the Las Vegas Rescue Mission’s Holiday Food Drive.”

What are you most proud to have accomplished?

“My wife Marta and I have two boys, Max and Luca, who are by far my greatest accomplishments, but fatherhood is a work in progress that I cannot consider something I have accomplished just yet.”

How do you de-stress after a busy day?

“A bicycle ride home and cooking for my family.”  

Jim Brock

How long have you had your computer?  According to the folks at the Encyclopedia of Earth, the average life expectancy of a desktop today is around 3-5 years, depending on use, and the amount of computer waste increases annually as electronic systems play a progressively more important role in all aspects of technology. So, the question arises, what exactly should you do with your old computer? Resident Jim Brock has the answer: give it to him.  More specifically, give it to Computers4Cause, Brock’s nonprofit organization, which fixes computers, wipes the hard drives and restores factory settings in order to give them to those in need.

By: Callie Thomas

Brock knows a thing or two about computers. He “officially” retired at the age of 38 after selling one of his telecommunications businesses to Nextel.  Being too young and restless to settle into retirement, he started Simple Computer Repair to fill a void in the marketplace.  He created a neighborhood repair store dedicated to three principals:  No speculation, no opinions and no geek speak – just a flat rate repair model with a free diagnosis.  By creating an alternative to the big box stores, Brock put himself in direct contact with the community and has provided a real service for individuals and neighboring businesses.  Through his simple repair business he recognized the need to provide technology to individuals, businesses and charitable organizations who couldn’t afford it, but also to help customers who just didn’t know what to do with their old models. With microchip development becoming so rapid, users are able to purchase computers that are twice as powerful at the same price as those currently available about every 18-months, hence, a more rapid turnover of used computers.  Brock talks about creating Computers4Cause and how it’s making a difference.

Tell us about Computers4Cause and how it helps others.

“I founded our nonprofit organization in 2010 out of market demand.  We heard it continually, ‘Is there anywhere I can donate my old computer?’ We heard it so often, I thought, why not do something good for the community?  So now we fix up and recycle working desktops, laptops, keyboards, flat screen monitors and mice by wiping the hard drives and giving them to people and organizations in need.”

Any experiences through Computers4Cause you’d like to share?

“I’ve seen people cry when we give them a computer.  It’s very rewarding when the mom, dad and kids come in so excited and they’re hugging you because they’re so happy.  Often it can mean the difference between employment and unemployment for them.”

How can people or organizations apply for computers?

“If you or someone you know is in need, you can fill out an application on our website (www.computers4cause.com) and apply.  Applications can be mailed, faxed or hand delivered.”

What does giving back to the community mean to you?

“Everything.  I’m blessed to be in a position to help.  Other than raising my kids Stephanie and James, it’s the most rewarding thing I do.  I’d hope someone would do the same for me if the tables were turned.”

What do you think makes you successful?

“Fear of failure and a narrow focus.”

Of all your accomplishments, what are you most proud to have achieved?

“Being a father…to my kids and to many successful businesses I have founded.”

Any life inspirations or a favorite quote that you’d like to share with others?

“That would be a quote by Napoleon Hill:  What the mind can conceive and believe it can achieve.” 

Miguel Garcia

Southeast Career & Technical Academy
Class of 2014
G.P.A.: 4.7

Science continues to inform us that a deep sense of gratitude and thoughtful understanding of how those around us can affect our lives may be one of the key foundations to a lifetime of success and, more importantly, happiness. It’s a mindset many are constantly working to build. For Miguel Garcia, graciousness and humility came with the package. A senior at Southeast Career and Technical Academy, Miguel excels in sports and academics, but it’s his natural inclination to construct deep, human connections that really sets him apart. His presence of mind and understanding of the world around him place him – A Step Above.  

Sports/Scholarships/Awards

• Las Vegas Track Club, 2008-2014; Scholarship Recipient, 2013-2014
• Varsity Cross Country 2010-2014; Captain, 2012-2014
• Varsity Volleyball 2011-2014; Captain 2012-2014
• Four Time State Qualifier Cross Country, 2010-2014
• Scholar Athlete Cross Country and Volleyball, 2011-2014
• Team Cross Country Division & Region Champions D1A, 2012-2014
• Volleyball Academic State Champion, 2012-2013
• Volleyball Nevada D1A State Champion, 2012-2013
• Nevada D1A First Team Volleyball, 2012-2013
• Team Cross Country State Runner up D1A, 2012-2013

Clubs/Community Service

• Student Organization of Latinos, 2010-2014
• National Honor Society, 2012-2014
• Color Run, 2014
• Hit and Run 5k, 2014
• Black Light Run 5k, 2014
• Civic Engagement Las Vegas Rescue Mission
• School Beautification Volunteer
• Haunted House Volunteer
• Cashman Middle School Volunteer Judge

First State, Then The World? “As of now, one of my short term goals is to win another state championship for my school and graduate with an advanced honors diploma. My long-term goal is to continue my education and get my Associate Degree in Pre-Med. Ten years from now I see myself at a hospital, assisting in surgeries and founding programs to help give back to my community.”

Winning State Championships is a big deal! “I am most proud of winning the D1A Volleyball State Championship. Not only was this proof that hard work and determination pays off, but it also brought pride to our school and was the first volleyball state championship ever. In fact, this is one of my greatest accomplishments.”

You’ve dealt with tough loss in a really inspiring way: “Over the year I had close people pass away. My former Coach passed away this summer and she had a huge influence on my volleyball career. She made me believe in not only myself, but my team as well. In January, I lost my AP Calculus teacher, Mrs. Bzinak. She was one of my favorite teachers and had a great influence on my academic career. After hearing the news, I was devastated with both losses and I felt as if those who have impacted my life in a positive way were slowly passing away. I overcame these challenges by changing my perspective on life and continuing to bring honor to their legacy. In fact, the views they had on life, I have implemented into mine.”

You also find inspiration through your parents? “I look up to my parents; not only do they support me in everything I do, but they are extremely hardworking and want the very best for me. Growing up they didn’t have much, but through hard work they managed to get by and now give me the life they always wanted. I am extremely grateful and words can’t describe how lucky I am to have them.”

Favorite Quote to Live By: “To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift.” –Steve Prefontaine 

Cassidy Pappas

Silverado High School
Class of 2015
G.P.A.: 4.25

To have a voice is a gift that should never be squandered. In the case of Cassidy Pappas – this means through music and through representing her classmates as Student Body President. The incoming senior at Silverado High School uses her voice for good – whether it’s in song, or to speak out in defense of those who can’t necessarily defend themselves. With a wide spectrum of talents, and a decidedly kind disposition, Cassidy defies the omnipresent culture lines that echo through the high schools halls. Her ability to maintain a positive leadership style, regardless of the task at hand, as well as to live in the moment place Cassidy – A Step Above.  

Sports/Music/Drama

• Silverado Soccer Team, 2011-2015; Junior Varsity, 2011-2012; Varsity, 2012-2015
• Varsity Flag Football, 2012-2015; Captain, 2013-2015
• Club Soccer, 2011-2012
• Silverado Volleyball, 2011
• Women’s Madrigal Singers, 2012-2015
• 1st Vice President of Choir Program, 2013-2015
• Concert Choir, 2012
• Advanced Women’s Chorus, 2011

Clubs/Scholarships/Awards

• Class Committee, 2013-2015
• Student Council, 2015; Student Body President, 2015
• Division Champions, Flag Football, 2014
• State Runner-up, Flag Football, 2013

What are your goals for this year? “Some goals I have for the upcoming year include trying my best to create an even more positive environment at Silverado and creating wonderful memories of my senior year.”

You’ve had a lot of help in your journey through high school: “My family is the reason I am successful. My parents have taught me so much in my 17 years and I can never thank them enough for creating such a wonderful life for my siblings and me. Knowing I have such a strong support system between my family and closest friends motivates me to do my best in everything I do.”

One member of your support system is especially inspirational:  “Of course my parents are two people that I will always look up to, but my sister is one person I respect and idolize more than anyone. I have watched her go through high school, college and now most recently medical school halfway across the world and she has taught me that if I want something, I should never let anything or anyone get in my way.”

Treating people right and creating happiness is very important to you: “Bullying has become a major issue amongst young adults especially with the increase of social media. I always try to keep positive and hope that this positivity transfers to the people around me. It is very important that as people we choose our words carefully and respect others. Try and go out of your way to make someone smile instead of spreading  negativity amongst others.”

If you could be the president of any type of nonprofit or charitable organization: “My best friend has been a part of my life since 2nd grade and her family has also become my second family. Her younger sister is diagnosed with a form or autism, and since we have been friends I have learned a lot about this disability. F.E.A.T. (Families for Effective Autism Treatment) is an organization that is dear to me and has grown immensely since it has started. It has changed countless lives and has inspired me in every way possible.”

Michael Tatalovich

Coronado High School
Class of 2014
G.P.A.: 4.7

Think back to your high school days. Managing the daily struggles of homework, social pressures and what to do on a Friday night is normally stressful enough. Now, add hospital visits, surgeries and sickness to the mix and you’ll understand the Junior year of Michael Tatalovich. A graduating senior at Coronado High School, at his young age Michael has added “cancer” to his list of battles conquered. Alone, the journey Michael has been through places him in a league apart from many of his peers, but that’s not nearly all that defines that him. On the contrary, it’s his deep and thoughtful intelligence, the unwavering smile on his face and the kindness in his heart, regardless of his situation, that truly raises Michael – A Step Above. 

Sports/Scholarships/Awards

• Coronado Volleyball Team, 2011-2014; Junior Varsity Captain, 2012
• Club Volleyball (Vegas Volleyball), 2011-2014
• Coronado Football, 2010
• Skills USA: 1^st Place – Nevada State Photo Competition, 2012
• Skills USA: 6^th Place – National Photo Competition, 2012
• Las Vegas Review Journal: 1^st Place “Best News Photo”, 2011

Clubs/Community Service

• WWD Magic Volunteer, 2012
• NV Wildfest, 2011
• Hopelink, 2011
• Key Club, 2010-2011 

You are very focused on what you want for your future: “A life goal of mine is to get my PhD in Environmental Chemistry and help to stop rapid climate change. In 10 years, I see myself living in Germany, working in a laboratory trying to improve industrial processes for the least environmental impact.”

You have overcome a very serious struggle recently: “Last year I was diagnosed with cancer and through the experience of going through 4 surgeries, 32 weeks of chemotherapy and countless hospitalizations, I found an inner strength and determination that I didn’t know I had. I think I am successful because I am able to take one day at a time in order to get through long periods of hardship.”

Your mom has helped you throughout your journey:  “I look up to my mother because she is so understanding and can maintain a cool temper well.  She also balances so many things with such ease and I really respect that.”

If you could be the president of any type of nonprofit or charitable organization, what would it be and why?“I would want to be President of the Teenage Cancer Trust because I would love to oversee those expenditures and the delegation of funds for maximum impact.”

Your Favorite Quote to Live By: “Keep on keeping on”