Illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer are not just human problems. Our beloved pets suffer many of these same ailments, and it can be a heart-breaking and stressful affair when emergency intervention and more expert care are required. Thankfully, Southern Nevada offers cutting-edge veterinary specialists in areas ranging from urgent care to skin treatment to ophthalmology and beyond. Just like human doctors, these vets receive intensive post-graduate training to prepare them for the daunting task of healing more than just a scraped paw or bruised collarbone. You can feel safe knowing that your pet’s well being is in their capable hands.

Critical Critter Care

So, what kind of advanced treatment do these specialists provide? Almost anything that can be done in human care can be done in animal care according to Kim Morgan, Hospital Operations Manager for the Las Vegas Veterinary Specialty Center (8650 W. Tropicana Ave.; 871-1152), which offers 24-hour emergency services through their Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care office. “We’ve had dogs with pacemakers and even done eye exams on the flamingos at The Flamingo,” says Morgan. Patients with everything from cancer to torn ligaments and heart murmurs have passed through here, and each one is treated with the same kindness and concern.

LVVSC veterinarian Ryan Gershenson, D.V.M./Diplomate ACVECC (American College of Veterinary Emergency Critical Care) emphasizes his passion for the ER environment, saying, “I fell in love with emergency and critical care as an intern. I get a great sense of accomplishment when I am able to save a pet that would otherwise not be saved.” This vet’s most memorable case was a Yorkshire terrier that was injured on a boat outing on Lake Mead. “When he initially came in, he had severe head trauma, could not walk, swallow or keep his airway protected,” Gershenson says. “We had to put in an emergency tracheostomy. He was in the hospital for two weeks but slowly, day-by-day, he improved. Ultimately, we were able to take out the tracheostomy tube and he is now at home and has returned to being a normal, happy dog.”

Blood donation is another important medical issue that crosses species lines. Until about five years ago, area vets and pet emergency rooms had to order blood, which could take up to 24 hours to be delivered. To help provide better support, the LVVSC began a local blood bank for cats and dogs back in 2007. Once their pets are cleared for health and disease, owners can bring them to participate in monthly donation days and are invited to join the list of emergency donors.  Recently, a donor pet and its owner met with a recipient pet and its owner. According to Morgan, “Both parties were clearly appreciative of the other’s participation in the blood bank program.”

Sneeze, Itch, Cough, Repeat

While critical care is always important, there are plenty of less serious disorders that may still require the help of a specialist. Springtime is allergy season, when both humans and animals endure the effects of everything nature throws at them. According to Kim Coyner, D.V.M/Diplomate ACVD (Dermatology) at the Dermatology Clinic for Animals of Las Vegas (5231 W. Charleston Blvd.; 821-1002), “Pets here in Southern Nevada suffer many of the same issues that we humans encounter including allergies to pollen, grass and dust as well as sunburn and even skin cancer.” The clinic is here to help, offering specialized care in skin diseases, ear infections, chronic itching and many other allergy-related issues.

Through the use of progressive treatments and clinical trials, Coyner hopes to improve the quality of life for pets suffering from skin ailments. She also enjoys the detective work that goes into analyzing and identifying certain conditions. “After my diagnosis,” she says, “I can usually make patients feel better quickly, and that makes owners happier, too.” When asked why she chose dermatology as her specialty, she remarks, “It was simply easier on my psyche. Internal medicine may be sexier, but in the end, rarely do my patients die from their ailments.”

One of Coyner’s favorite cases involved a tiny Terrier mix who was paralyzed in its back legs and had barely a hair on its head. Coyner immediately diagnosed Dermodex, a condition where microscopic skin mites in the hair overgrow due to a suppressed immune system. “After just three months of treatment,” she says, “this little dog went from looking like a raisin-skinned little gremlin to a beautiful, fluffy and vibrant Terrier mix. She was a dramatically different dog.”

All the Better to See You With…

Allergies can be just one factor of animal eye problems, which are the specialty of Veterinary Ophthalmology Service (1914 E. Sahara Ave.; 457-6523). VOS owner Dr. Michael Brinkmann, D.V.M./Diplomate ACVO (Ophthalmology) treats cataracts, glaucoma, infections and other eye injuries in most all animals. Specializing in one area offers him the chance to excel at ophthalmology and interact more with pets and owners.  He enjoys eye care because it’s something humans can relate to, especially in the dusty climate of Las Vegas, where flat-faced pets such as pugs and Persian cats struggle harder than most. “Dryness is rampant here,” says Brinkmann, “and there are some wonderful over-the-counter daily eye drops for pets that really help. Using drops also helps pet owners to look closely at their pet’s eyes on a regular basis.”

Brinkmann treats all types of animals, including cats, dogs, birds and snakes. He even once performed surgery on a cougar. The majestic big cat was a performer in commercials and was losing his sight to cataracts. Just like human actors, animal performers need good eyesight in order to hit their marks and successfully navigate a photo or film set. The dedicated vet performed cataract surgery on the cougar, restoring better eyesight and thereby ensuring a longer career for the animal and a sense of relief for its owners. That satisfaction brings a sense of joy to Brinkmann. “It may sound corny,” he says, “but to see a patient’s owner smile makes my day.”

Eye Care for Animals (5231 W. Charleston Blvd.; 795-3937) also specializes in ophthalmology and offers both chronic and urgent care for exotic animals and family pets. Neal Wasserman, D.V.M. of ECFA, recalls a case involving a shelter kitten born without part of her upper eyelids, which made it impossible for her to blink. Wasserman performed three procedures to reconstruct her eyelids using skin from her cheeks. After the final procedure, the kitten healed comfortably and was adopted by a caring family. At times like these, Wasserman enjoys comforting patients and educating their owners about care and treatment. “While technology allows us to do more than ever before,” he says, “with laser procedures for glaucoma and modern cataract instruments,  it’s really the owners’ ability to offer care and comfort that truly makes a big difference.”

If you think your animal might require the care of a specialist, always remember to check with your regular veterinarian first. They will know the medical and social history of your pet better than anyone and can offer recommendations to help you make the right decision.

Ultimately it’s good to know that our furry, feathered and fuzzy friends can find quality care here in the valley. Whether your beloved pet has an emergency or requires the help of a specialist for a chronic or unique ailment, residents can rest assured that there’s a veterinarian here for them. As the esteemed Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” It’s obvious that the intense work these veterinarians and specialists do comes from a passion for helping the most helpless among us.

 The 911 on Emergency Pet Care

Many animal emergencies occur after hours, so it’s important for pet owners to know their options when it comes to emergency care. Southern Nevada is home to four after-hours animal hospitals:

Animal Emergency Center

3340 E. Patrick Ln.

457-8050

www.lvaec.net

Las Vegas Emergency Animal Hospital

5231 W. Charleston Blvd.

822-1045

www.lvaeh.com

Veterinary Emergency + Critical Care

8650 W. Tropicana Ave., Suite B-104

262-7070

www.vecc24.com

Warm Springs Veterinary Emergency Clinic

2500 W. Warm Springs Rd.

614-5454

www.wsvec.com

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What do you think of when you hear the word “port”? Landed gentry puffing cigars in the gentlemen’s clubs of London? A platter of powerful cheese that it might complement? That side trip you took to Portugal while backpacking around Europe? Port’s semi-stuffy image has kept it from being popular in the U.S. as little more than a digestif, but the reality is that port offers great range and varied styles that make it worth another look to everyone, not just a select few.

A Splash of History

Port wine hit the international scene in the 17th century when two Englishmen arrived in Portugal and stumbled across a rich and powerful wine they dubbed “blackstrap.” Their discovery led to a huge influx of British companies setting up operations in Portugal, where port lodges with names such as Sandeman and Fladgate remain to this day, a reminder to modern-day residents of the United Kingdom’s influence on the popularity of their country’s namesake wine.

Many countries produce port style wines today, but for a wine to be called port, it must hail from Portugal’s Douro Valley and follow a strict set of production protocols. Sixty percent of the wine must be made from a specific set of grape varieties that include Touriga Nacional, Touriga Francesa and several others. The grapes are crushed to draw rich color, after which the wines are fortified to a range of 19 to 22 percent ABV (Alcohol by Volume). Addition of a high ABV grape spirit known as aguardente halts fermentation and maintains the sweetness of the wine.    

A Tale of Two Ports

Red port can be divided into two broad groupings, ruby and tawny, both serving as excellent aperitifs. Comparatively, the ruby port will have a high degree of sweetness, the tawnies a little less so. Both will leave a sense of heat at the back of the mouth and on the throat. This is due to the higher alcohol content of a fortified wine, so imbibe wisely.

Richer in color and more fruit forward than their tawny counterparts, ruby ports vary in quality and complexity. The most basic version is the Ruby Port, a wine that exhibits a dark ruby color and an inexpensive price point. Ruby Reserve Port adds a layer of complexity to standard ports with a longer yield on the palate, while the rarer Vintage Port is the most expensive and most sought after by collectors since it accounts for only one to two percent of total port production and is not produced every year. Youthful ruby ports pair well with blue cheeses such as Gorgonzola and Roquefort and also with fresh berries. Vintage ports are best left to speak for themselves; however, richer chocolate desserts can be enhanced with a taste of any fine port. 

Displaying paler hues and flavors of dried fruit and spice elements, tawnies also have several classifications. The classic Tawny Port is often sourced from less regarded vineyards, foregoing the extensive aging that others tawnies are subject to, giving it a paler color and fruitier flavor profile. Reserve Tawny Port is aged for over six years before bottling, subduing the lush fruit and giving the wine a lighter brown hue. Colheita Tawny is a port that hails from a single specific harvest and is relatively rare. Other tawny ports are usually blended from different vintages and are thus identified by how long they are aged rather than the vintage year. These can be aged anywhere from 10 to 40 years and are typically known as Tawny 10 Year, Tawny 20 Year and so on. As the aging increases, these wines generally lose their dried fruit flavor profile and emerge with more spice characteristics such as cinnamon and nutmeg. Most of these ports pair well with bittersweet and dark chocolate, dried fruit, nuts and even pumpkin pie.

Ports with Personality

If you’re new to port, here are three recommendations to give you a solid start:

Sandeman Ruby Porto ($12):

Vibrant ruby color with heavy aromas of strawberries and plum. Rich, round and warm on the palate.

Offley LBV Port 2005 ($20):

Bold and fruit forward with heavy elements of blackcurrant and blackberry. Sweet jam on the palate with a velvety, dense mouth feel.

Taylor Fladgate 10 year Tawny Port $22:

Wood flavors, spices, fig and maple with sweet red fruit. Soft, slightly juicy finish.

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This year’s fall and winter styles have something for every fashion lover, and it’s easier than ever to create a look that’s all your own. It’s all about choices and self-empowerment this season, so enjoy the freedom and be super chic by wearing what suits you and you alone. Whether you go for 70s glam, modern sophistication, bright and flashy or mix and match, the choice is yours. Play and experiment. Take charge, you sexy siren.

Cozy Fur: It’s glamorous, toasty and easy to wear. Make an entrance in a statement coat with a fur collar or even a poncho that has a wooly vibe. Keep it simple with pants and a turtleneck underneath. A faux fur vest is a youthful and refined option with a pair of jeans and a tie-neck blouse.  Or you can play it subtle with just a touch of plush by sporting a fur lined hat, booties or gloves.

Skirting Issues: Longer hems were all the rage on the runway this fall. Flowy dresses and skirts can be topped with a tailored or leather jacket. You can also opt for a 40s style dress that’s longer in length but nipped in at the waist for a more sophisticated feel. Longer length dresses in body skimming shapes are super stylish in prints and patterns. Pencil skirts are making a big return, too. Pair with round toed heels for optimal elegance.

Brights: Vivid color is on the scene: cobalt blue, emerald green, harvest yellow and cherry red. Pick a shade that suits you most and stand out in a crowd. Colored jeans are a must have! Rich burgundy or olive skinnies work well as a more muted version of the trend with a graphic or print tee. Color block your ensemble by mixing solid brights in classic shapes.        

Minimalist: Straight cuts of soft, muted colors are pure modern minimalism. Think of a palette of neutral colors like camel, navy, black and white. Simple cropped trousers or pants with high waistbands are versatile pieces that will slip into any wardrobe. Jumpers paired with sleek boots or plaid skirts with chunky sweaters are particularly chilly-weather wearable. Go refined in menswear–houndstooth, tweed, white shirts and masculine jackets for the perfect masculine/feminine mix. For evening, look stunning in a white tailored tuxedo jacket with tie-neck, plunge blouse and boot cut pants.

Shine: Be a golden girl this season in lamé and high gloss pieces in gold, silver or copper. Shimmer in metallic pants, patent skirts or paillette tops. Metallics are striking; pair bold gold and silver with basic black.

Over the Top Accessories: Luxe accessories update your wardrobe and bring interest to your ensemble. Strut your stuff in footwear like high-heeled loafers, embellished heels, pumps, ballerinas, peep-toed booties in velvets, suedes and pythons. Hats in many styles from the 70s floppy hat to the wide-brimmed fedora play up the top, while bold jewelry adds a stunning finish. Think solid jewelry with an accent on collars and cuffs.

70s Cool: Bohemian looks and sophisticated glamour remember an era gone by. High waisted pants and bow blouses, jumpsuits and roll-neck blouses tucked into pants or skirts make a statement by day. By night, long, slinky gowns with draping necklines reflect the essence of 70s glam.

Joni Hoffman is the owner/stylist of My Fashion Architect.  A former actress and television executive, Joni is passionate about fashion, making the principles of chic dressing accessible for the real woman in order to create self-confidence through knowledgeable wardrobe building strategies and maintenance.  For a personalized consultation to  identify and express your unique style, visit MyFashionArchitect.com

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With 2012 in full swing, it’s time to finally tackle those pesky New Year’s resolutions, while the impending arrival of Valentine’s Day means doing something special with the one you love. This year, why not combine the two? Before the heat of summer closes in, take advantage of the cool weather and burn some calories with your better half at the same time with some of these open-air date ideas.

Bike Riding

Nothing gets the blood going like a good bike ride, and it’s a lot more fun when you’re pedaling side by side with your beloved. You don’t have to be Lance Armstrong to get your wheels spinning and enjoy plenty of heart-healthy exercise. Visit www.bikinglasvegas.com for a full list of local bike trails as well as a community forum, blog and a local biking event calendar.

Hiking

From Red Rock to Lake Mead and all points in between, there’s no shortage of trails to traverse around the valley. Whether you want a challenging climb to test your endurance or just a casual stroll in the fresh air while holding hands, the options are abundant. Check out www.localhikes.com for a comprehensive guide that includes trail descriptions and reviews.

Horseback Riding

There’s no better way to commune with nature than to spend some time with animals. Horseback riding is always fun and provides a good low-impact workout. You can go at your own pace and have some bonding time with your trusty steed and your significant other. Saddle up and try www.lasvegashorsebacktours.com or www.cowboytrailrides.com for some good riding options.  

Just the Ticket

Wining and dining your sweetheart can get expensive in Las Vegas, especially if you want to hit up the Strip for glamorous shows and five star cuisine. But frugal locals know that you don’t have to burn a hole in your pocket to impress your date on Valentine’s Day, or any other day of the year for that matter. Romance is all about spontaneity, so why not throw caution to the wind and treat your better half to a last minute show or dinner that they won’t soon forget.

Tix4Tonight offers half price, same day tickets to over 100 top shows and discount dining reservations at any number of buffets, steakhouses and culinary hotspots on and off the Strip. Stop by any one of their 11 locations along Las Vegas Boulevard, downtown or at local shopping centers such as Town Square and get connected tonight! All locations open at 10am every day. Call (877) 849-4868 to reserve your tickets or visit www.tix4tonight.com for more information.

Sweet Romance

2 oz. DeKuyper Razzmatazz liqueur
2 oz. vodka
2 oz. sweet and sour mix
1 splash of Sprite

Combine ingredients in a shaker, then pour over ice.

Recipe courtesy of Storm DuBois, Mixology Connoisseur
Did You Know?

In the Middle Ages, young men and women drew names from a bowl to see who would be their Valentine. They then pinned the name of this suitor onto their sleeves for a period of one week for everyone to see, thus the origin of the expression “to wear your heart on your sleeve.”
The Must Do List

Editor’s Picks

February 24-25
Gospel Fest
In honor of Black History Month, Gospel Fest celebrates their 9^th annual presentation at the Black Mountain Recreation Center in Henderson. The event kicks off on Friday with a performance of the Broadway musical Hiram and Nettie, a heart wrenching tale of forbidden love between two slaves from different worlds, with a 30-minute “talk back session” following the performance. Saturday brings a gospel concert that spans a wide and eclectic range of styles stretching from Southern traditional to urban contemporary. Remnant Ministries Choir, Victory Missionary Baptist Church and many others are scheduled to perform. Join this celebration of history and culture filled with singing, dancing and fellowship. For more information, visit www.hendersonlive.com.

February 27-March 4
Spring Restaurant Week
Due to popular demand, Three Square Food Bank has added a spring edition of this popular culinary event. Locals and tourists alike will have the opportunity to dine at many of the city’s best restaurants at affordable prix fixe prices to help benefit Three Square’s fight against hunger in Southern Nevada. Diners can visit any participating restaurant during the specified dates and enjoy a multi-course meal specifically created for Restaurant Week, with each eatery crafting its own delicious menu. Participating restaurants include Andre’s, Delmonico Steakhouse, Julian Serrano, Mesa Grill and many more. There’s no better time to go gourmet for a good cause. For more information and a full list of participating restaurants, visit www.helpoutdineoutlv.org.  

February 18
Polar Plunge
If you’re willing to brave the glacial temperatures, join the “cool” crowd at this year’s Polar Plunge to help benefit the Special Olympics. Collect a small donation from family, friends or neighbors, then show up at the M Resort and race your fellow swimmers into a body of frigid water. Costumes are encouraged, but no wet suits – that’s cheating! If you prefer, you can register as a “chicken” and still raise some money without having to take a chilly dip. Either way, it’s all good charitable fun. Visit www.plungelasvegas.kintera.org for more information. 

March 16-18
46^th Annual Sons of Erin St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival
Celebrate the luck of the Irish with this time honored tradition in downtown Henderson that draws thousands of visitors each year. Starting on Ocean Avenue, the parade will travel down Water Street to Victory Road. The accompanying festival features a carnival midway, food booths, souvenir and merchandise vendors, an Irish beer garden and much more. You can also enjoy live entertainment, including Irish music and dance, swing, jazz and Broadway show tunes. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a true “Son of Erin” or just pretending! Call 267-2171 or visit www.hendersonlive.com for more information.

March 20-21
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
The stunning performers of this modern dance ensemble bring their impressive talents to The Smith Center to showcase the vision of new Artistic Director Robert Battle. This graceful and artistic show embraces the Ailey tradition of such beloved classics as Revelations and extends the legacy in dynamic new directions. Experience the power of Ailey and see for yourself why this extraordinary troupe is hailed as America’s cultural ambassador to the world and viewed as one of the most successful contemporary dance companies on the planet. Call 982-7805 or visit www.thesmithcenter.com for tickets and information.

SPORTS

Go! Fight! Win!

As we look to put the Super Bowl behind us and prepare for March Madness, there’s plenty of upcoming sports offerings to keep you busy in between. Here’s a look at a few worth attending:

2012 USA Sevens International Rugby Tournament

This three-day tournament is one of nine stops on the 2011-12 HSBC Sevens World Series and the only one in North America. Fans will see 16 national teams play 44 matches during the three-day event, held February 10^th-12^th at Sam Boyd Stadium. Teams from the United States, Argentina, England, New Zealand and many other countries will participate in this thrilling competition. Call 1-888-RUGBY-7S or visit www.usasevens.com for tickets and information.

2012 Henderson Senior Games

Athletes over 50 will get the chance to engage in a little friendly competition and achievement in sports such as basketball, volleyball, tennis and more at the Henderson Senior Games. The event takes place April 10^th-29^th at a variety of Henderson locations. Registration is open from February 1^st-March 20^th and costs $15 per person, with individual events costing $3-$5. Packets are available at any City of Henderson recreation center or online at www.cityofhenderson.com/parks.

2012 Conoco Mountain West Conference Basketball Championship

Cheer for your favorite team as the Thomas & Mack Center hosts this electrifying and competitive basketball tournament to determine the top teams in the Mountain West Conference. Tip-off is set for Wednesday, March 7^th with four women’s quarterfinals games and wraps up on Saturday, March 10^th with both the women’s and men’s finals. Call 739-FANS or visit www.unlvtickets.com for tickets and information.

FOOD & DRINK

UNLVino Sips for Scholarships

Wine, spirits and beers from all over the globe will give beverage enthusiasts a tour of what’s new and exciting at the 38^th Annual UNLVino, Nevada’s largest and oldest wine festival, held from March 22^nd-24^th at various locations around the city. Guests can sample everything from champagne to sake to wine varietals while helping to raise thousands of dollars in scholarships for students at the UNLV William F. Harrah College of Hotel Administration. Each night will also honor a recipient of the 2012 Dom Pérignon Award of Excellence in recognition of “inspirational leadership, character, and work ethic.” This year’s honorees include Zappos CEO Tony Hsieh and celebrity chef Michel Richard. Throw in some food prepared by UNLV Hotel College students, cocktails from master mixologists and upbeat live entertainment and you’ve got revelry to remember. Call (877) 413-8466 or visit www.unlvino.com for more information.

COMMUNITY

A Race for Research

When Sharon Rosenberg lost her husband Irving to pancreatic cancer, her world was shattered. From that moment on, she was determined to help raise money for research to fight this terrible disease. Enter her son, Paul, founder of Real Results Fitness. Through their combined efforts in this labor of love, they set up the Real Results 5K and Kids Dash, now in its fourth year. You can join them on March 18^th at The District at Green Valley Ranch for this charity run to help benefit the Hirshberg Foundation and Nevada Cancer Institute. Free food samples, martial arts demonstrations and live music will also be available, so put on your running shoes and don’t miss out on this chance to stay in shape and give hope to a good cause. Visit www.realresultsfitness.com for registration and further details.

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It’s been a month since you made your New Year’s resolution to finally get down to that dress or pant size you’ve always dreamed about.  Fitness experts say that you should focus on your goal and “visualize” what you want to achieve.  But one expert, 89123 resident and exercise psychologist Annie Lindsay, advises it’s not the result you should concentrate on but the changes in behavior you need to reach your goals. 

Through the University of Nevada-Reno Cooperative Extension, which puts university research into action in our homes, workplaces and community, Annie Lindsay helps many in Southern Nevada stay health conscious.  Her work involves developing education and applied research programs in physical activity and exercise science to curb obesity and other health related issues.  With a focus on youth and hard-to-reach adults, she targets childhood obesity prevention in preschool-aged children, residents in rural areas and young women and mothers who are in substance abuse treatment and correctional programs. For the past 30 years, she’s published research and educational material to promote jobsite health and has worked with firefighters, security forces, prisons, mental health agencies and court-ordered drug treatment facilities. 

Lindsay practices what she preaches and stays active by competing in surfing, wakeboarding, triathlons and soccer matches.  She also makes time to assist local charitable organizations, and there are two that she is especially passionate about: ChickBand Ministries, Inc. (for which she serves as president) and the Alzheimer’s Association.  Annie gave us a few insights on these special organizations that help make her heart healthy.

What is ChickBand Ministries and how did it get started?

“It’s a faith-based, non-profit group that provides musical entertainment and outreach efforts to inspire and encourage women in need.  The band is made up of all female musicians and ministers to women suffering from abuse and addiction to help them bring restoration back to their lives.”

As a band member, do you sing or play an instrument?

“I love writing music and I play guitar in the band.”

What do you enjoy most about being in ChickBand?

“Offering a welcome distraction to incarcerated moms on Mother’s Day, who recognize their shortcomings and failures while hoping to hear ‘Happy Mother’s Day’ when making that collect call home.  Or drinking hot cider and singing Christmas carols while taking first family portraits with moms living in treatment centers with their children.”

Have you ever recorded any of your performances?

“I’ve written and recorded two albums with the ChickBand which are on iTunes as well as the All 4 Kids© CD/DVD.”

It must be exciting to see the impact of your efforts on so many people. 

“I think when you combine mercy and compassion with tenacity and perseverance, you get success.”

You’ve also persevered in helping to promote brain health for the Alzheimer’s Association.  It’s a very personal experience for you.  Would you share?

“My father was a brilliant Air Force officer who built rockets to put America into space and directed more than a dozen Space Shuttle missions.  Today, the only thing he can recall about the military is that his father served in World War I.  He doesn’t know he was in uniform for 34 years, that his son is an officer, that he’s still married to his high school sweetheart of 54 years and he doesn’t know my name.  Every day is one more new challenge and one more long goodbye.”

You continue to help others in so many ways.  What accomplishments are you most proud of?

“I would say the data I collected for publication of the national YMCA Adult Fitness Standards; the University of Nevada’s All 4 Kids© evidence-based, preschool healthy lifestyle program that I co-authored; my published research and Healthy Steps to Freedom, which promotes the importance of body image and health education for women in substance abuse programs.”

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

“Go on tour with Keith Urban, play guitar and sing back up!”

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Perseverance and a buckle-down, never-give-up attitude are alive and well in 89074 resident Rick Stater, who not only strives to dedicate himself to his own profession, but also applies that same resolve to his work with local school children and the wounded warriors in our community. 

Stater served in the military during Vietnam, where he became a chemical engineer and honed his skills in science, math and chemistry.  His drive to succeed was encouraged not only in the armed forces, but also through his Midwestern upbringing, where parents and siblings stressed the value of good education and the importance of overcoming obstacles rather than letting them get the best of you.  Stater seeks to instill that same strength in his team as Henderson Plant Manager of Tronox LLC, which produces electrolytic chemicals and high strength boron fibers used to create products such as alkaline batteries, sporting equipment and aircraft parts, along with other chemicals used in the pharmaceutical and semiconductor industries

Rick makes every effort to stay involved in the community, both in his personal and professional lives.  His support of underprivileged schools includes programs such as a robotics club, student mentoring, the Boys and Girls Club and several children’s athletic teams, not to mention his committed work with the Juvenile Diabetes organization.  And if that doesn’t keep him busy enough, Rick also takes time out to lend a hand to his fellow veterans in the area. Stater feels that success in his work and the success of the community both depend on strong volunteer efforts.  He took time out to talk with us about some of those endeavors and experiences.

What was your catalyst to become involved in charitable organizations within the community?

“My involvement in Leadership Henderson, where participants learn through interactive experiences such as simulations and panel discussions with experts and established community leaders, emphasizing personal responsibility, commitment, vision and leadership. That experience influenced me to do more than just donate.  I first started by helping to create a Student Mentor Program for C.T. Sewell Elementary School because of my interest in education and emphasis on learning at a young age.”

What makes the Robotics Club at Robert L. Taylor Elementary School so special?

“They learn math, science and engineering by exploring and building robots as well as having some fun. Through Tronox LLC, we’ve made contributions to the school for the last three years to fund its robotics club, a program volunteer-run by the school’s former science teacher. In the program, children begin to understand mechanical engineering, software development, electronics concepts and robotics principles.  Students learn that a large part of science is figuring out what doesn’t work.  They learn that it’s part of the process and not to give up. ”

How have you assisted other kids in the community?

“We’ve provided equipment to the McCaw School of Mines, which was set up to help educate children in Nevada about mining and issues surrounding abandoned mine entrances.  We also donate to the Boys and Girls Club and sponsor several little league and high school sports programs as well as semi-pro football leagues that several of our employees have been involved in.”

You’ve also made an effort to support other servicemen and women in the community.  Tell us about “One Hero at a Time.”

“Tronox LLC has been involved in the program, which is put on by Motorcycle Trike Toys and helps wounded warriors who live in the community.  We have been a proud sponsor for the past few years and have helped construct stages and structures needed to hold the event.  Each year, one wounded warrior is chosen. Being a veteran myself, it is always an impactful, memorable experience and I personally enjoy being involved.”

What would you say are your proudest achievements?

“I’m most proud of my children and their successes as individuals.  I’m proud of my diverse background, both my military and engineering experience.  The military provided me with leadership opportunities at an early age and I enjoy taking the lead and being involved in all the charity events.”

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“Once upon a time…” Those words are heard around the globe every night as bedtime stories unfold and weave a tale of fantasy, romance and a gorgeous wedding that leads to “happily ever after.”  As an owner of Scheme Events, one of the hottest new wedding and event planning companies in Las Vegas, you might say that makes 89052 resident Rissa Gunderson a fairy godmother of sorts.  Even the story of opening Scheme Events seems like a fairy tale.  After graduating from UNLV in Meeting and Event Management, Rissa attended the International School of Hospitality, where she earned a certificate in Wedding Coordination and Design.  It was there that she met three other ladies: Jacqueline Emamzadeh, Tara Cox and Traci McMaster.  These talented women combined their collective skills to devise Scheme Events, whose claim to fame is matching a wedding couple’s personality and style to their event. 

But beyond the typical happy endings, there are those couples who struggle with everyday life, let alone being able to plan the perfect wedding.  Rissa’s skills for granting wishes are put to the test in other ways through her role with a non-profit organization called Wish Upon a Wedding Las Vegas, the world’s first non-profit dedicated to making wedding dreams come true for couples facing terminal illness or other life altering circumstances. The group reaches out to vendors who donate goods, resources and services to help these special couples forget their troubles for one day and celebrate their union with family and friends.  As the Public Relations Chair for the Las Vegas chapter, Rissa gave us a little more insight into Wish Upon a Wedding and talked about the many other ways she’s touched the lives of people in our community.

The Las Vegas chapter of Wish Upon A Wedding is fairly new. How many weddings has the organization granted so far?

“So far, we’ve granted two wedding wishes and are in the process of granting our third wish.  Our first couple, Nick and Robin, have cerebral palsy, so special needs had to be addressed such as easy wheelchair access at the ceremony and the reception, along with specialized transportation.  It was a learning experience for both the couple and Wish Upon A Wedding.”

It has to make an impact on you, knowing that you’ve helped to create an unforgettable memory for these couples by helping them tie the knot.

“It’s been wonderful to be part of the weddings and touch the lives of these couples, their family and friends.  They are so appreciative of the local vendors who provide the goods and services to create their weddings.  I have learned much about prioritizing, gratitude and humility through my work with the organization.”

You assist residents in our community in other ways, too.  Are there a few you’d care to share?

“I’ve been involved with Special Olympics and Best Buddies, which assists handicapped children.  I’m extremely supportive of the armed forces with two brothers and numerous relatives serving in the military.  I help contribute to various sources, sending provisions to soldiers and their families.  My business partners and I are looking to spend time as camp counselors during the summer for children affected by cancer, and I’m also active in my religious community.”

Of your many accomplishments, what are you most proud of?

“I’d have to say first with graduating Magna Cum Laude from UNLV, opening my own business and being named Most Inspirational Member of the National Association of Catering Executives in 2010.”

If we bumped into you over the weekend, where might we find you?

“My husband and I live close to the Paseo Verde Library/Multigen Center/Henderson Pavilion and we attend concerts, festivals and farmers markets.  When I get a little down time, I love interior design, traveling, reading, spending time on the lake and just being with my family!”

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“Soul Sisters” comes to mind when describing the friendship of 89012 residents Julie Downs and Francine Sanchez. While they are not blood relatives, they have found an uncanny number of similarities in their lives that have bonded them together to help children in our community. 

Both ladies were born and raised in New Jersey, moved to Las Vegas in the early nineties, were students at UNLV and ended up in the same sorority pledge class. That’s a good start, but the connections persisted. They live one street away from each other in the same community and had their daughters almost exactly one month apart.  Both Julie and Francine landed in the pharmaceutical industry, working for competing companies selling cardiac drugs. Sadly, the coincidences didn’t end there but continued as Julie’s daughter Miah and Francine’s daughter Soleil both became heart patients of the Children’s Heart Center of Nevada. 

As a result, Julie and Francine became board members of the Children’s Heart Foundation, whose mission is to improve the care and quality of life for children in Nevada that are born with or develop heart problems. The board includes a unique and passionate group of parents who have gained firsthand knowledge of the emotional and financial toll exacted by a child’s heart conditions. The dynamic duo of Julie and Francine founded Operation HeartReach to fund the “Backpack Program,” an outreach effort to aid families in the hospital as well as Pediatric Heart Research. Both agree that they didn’t choose this charity – it chose them. The two were eager to talk with us about their families, their zest for life in the face of difficulty and their passion for moving mountains even when challenges are placed squarely in front of them.

The launch of Operation HeartReach began with an exciting silent auction affair. What were some of the unique offerings?

Sanchez:  “Some of the auction items included Judith Ripka canary Eclipse earrings (featured on “Oprah’s Favorite Things”), a Los Angeles package that includes a “Dancing with the Stars” experience featuring brothers Maksim and Valentin Chmerkovskiy and a New York City experience offering the winner’s choice of tickets to many of Manhattan’s premier TV show tapings.  Proceeds from the event went to funding for congenital heart disease research in Nevada, and a portion of the funds helped launch the Family Backpacks program, which provides fully loaded backpacks with essential items for families who have a heart-afflicted child in the hospital.”

What other events have you participated in to raise funds for the Children’s Heart Foundation?

Downs:  “Both our families have participated in Walk with the Heart of a Child by honoring Team Soleil (Francine’s daughter) and helped raise over $60,000 for the Foundation.  This year, we will become Team HeartReach and welcome any new walkers!”

What do you hope to achieve through these organizations?

Sanchez:  “I will do absolutely anything to raise public awareness for this under-resourced and under-recognized cause.”

Downs:  “It means making sure no family ever feels alone in their journey with a sick child.”

There are many similarities between you.  What are your differences?

Sanchez:  “Well, I have three children and I remarried the love of my life (my husband Mario) at the Elvis Chapel for our fifth anniversary!  I am also the reigning Mrs. Las Vegas-America and am competing in an adult beauty pageant (at age 37) to help bring awareness to Children’s Heart Foundation.”

Downs:  “My husband Michael and I have been married for ten years and have our four year old daughter Miah.  I did bungee jump in the Thomas and Mack parking lot as a freshman at UNLV, and I love trying out for game shows and actually won $6,000 on Press Your Luck!”

If given the opportunity, what would you say to inspire others?

Sanchez:  “Live life in the moment and have no regrets!”

Downs: “Discover what is truly important in your life and focus on that. Be joyful and try to live in the present.”

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More than 140 adults and children came out to support the organization, which raised more than $8,000 at the family affair. Kids participated in seasonal activities such as decorating gingerbread cookies, playing festive games and taking pictures with Santa himself. Adults weren’t neglected either as they were treated to specialty spritzers while mingling with family and friends. Executive Chef Kerry Simon was also on hand, dishing out some of his famous small plates. The little ones got to taste mini burgers and mac & cheese croquettes, while the adults sampled California rolls and margherita pizza. The tantalizing treats continued after dinner as the renowned holiday junk food platter of cookies, cupcakes and fudge made the rounds.

Thanks to the participation and support of some of Las Vegas’ most generous citizens and giving families, CISN is able to continue its mission to surround at-risk youth with a community of support that empowers them to stay in school and achieve everything they can in life.  

For more information on how you can help Communities In Schools of Nevada, visit www.cisnevada.org.

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Since opening their first location in April of 2011, Koko FitClub has been determined to start a new tradition and make a commitment to reaching out to the community and lending a hand wherever and however they can. In joining with Safe Nest, they’re helping break the cycle of abuse and assisting local families through some of the most difficult days of their lives.

During the holiday drive, Koko collected nearly 50 bags of clothes and boxes of gently used clothing, housewares and toys. Many club members showed tremendous generosity by purchasing new toys and other items for donation. Koko’s owners, Matt and Shari Meehan, were overwhelmed by the charitable response from everyone involved. Victims of domestic violence may face an uphill battle to improve their quality of life, but with the help of kind-hearted donations from businesses like Koko FitClub, their worlds will see a much needed ray of hope.

For more information on how you can help Safe Nest, visit www.safenest.org.

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