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Publisher’s Letter TO EDUCATE, ENTERTAIN & INSPIRE
Publisher/CEO Tammy Shaw @TammyShawWoman Editor-in-Chief Debbie Hall @DangerousDeb Contributing Editor Jennifer Florendo VP of Sales & Marketing Ruth Lauber Chief executive to the publisher Shirley Turner Contributing Writers Debbie Hall • Jennifer Florendo Sherry Swensk • Beth Fisher Stephanie Ann Vehon • Jessica Kennedy Laura Coronado • Taylor Makakoa Rev. Thabiti • Dao Vu Photographers Joe Buda • Scott Kramer Photography Connie Palen • Tonya Harvey Virginia Trudeau • Scott Taber Emily Wilson • Emma Cohen Audrey Dempsey/Infinity Photo Art | Creative 702west • 702west.com
Join us on Facebook @ www.facebook.com/lasvegaswomanmagazine follow us on twitter @lasvegaswoman
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For advertising inquiries, contact Ruth Lauber at 702.629.5906, or ruth@lvwomanmagazine.com
Love Really is the Greatest Gift So much, and I mean, SO MUCH has happened since the previous issue of Las Vegas Woman was published. I stashed away my high heels and put on my traveling shoes these last few months. From Korea to Mexico to the Grenada Islands, all of them have a special place in my heart. But the one thing that has the largest space in my heart is my fiancé, Seth Grabel. I found the man of my dreams this year and he proposed to me on a private beach in the Caribbean with a message in a bottle. Thanks to Norm Clark’s published article in the Las Vegas Review-Journal Newspaper about our engagement, news spread quickly in the community. On a number of occasions, I’ve received letters and had conversations with other women that have been following Seth and my adventures together. They’ve shared that our relationship gives them hope. Let me be the first to tell you, I didn’t know a love like ours was possible until I experienced it first hand. Seth is extremely supportive, loving and honest with me. We are the best of friends and respect each other. Getting to this point of accepting this kind of love wasn’t easy and here’s what I’ve learned: when I began to truly love and respect myself, Seth showed up in my life. How we treat ourselves is how other people, especially our spouse, will ultimately treat us. Another life changing occasion occurred just a couple weeks ago. My Grandma Ba passed away. She was 91 years of age, was no taller than four-foot-something and had lived an inspiring life. In 1954, she moved her family from communist North Vietnam to South Vietnam. Then in 1975 she had the courage to escape South Vietnam before it fell to communism, taking her children, (my mom included), with her. She left everything else behind and took a leap of faith. They received refuge in our amazing country and settled in Las Vegas. My Grandma Ba saved her family for generations to come. THAT’S what unconditional love looks like. I love her very much and she will always be a true matriarch in our family.
Grandma Ba June 1922 - October 2013
As I reflect upon the last three months of my life, I am astounded. My incredible Grandma Ba’s life ends and Seth and my life together as one begins. Here’s to you and your loved ones this holiday season. May you cherish every moment shared. To educate, entertain & inspire,
________________________________________________________ Las Vegas Woman Magazine. is published quarterly. Reproduction of any portion of Las Vegas Woman Magazine is prohibited without prior authorization in writing from the publisher. For editorial consideration or Letters to the Editor, send to debbie@lvwomanmagazine.com. Letters to the Editor will be subject to editing by Las Vegas Woman Magazine. Las Vegas Woman Magazine is not responsible for the views of contributing journalists. All editorial correspondence should be addressed to Las Vegas Woman Magazine, Attn: Tammy Shaw, 6525 W. Warm Springs Rd, Suite 100 Las Vegas, NV 89118 or call 702.629.5934. Las Vegas Woman Magazine assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions appearing herein. All Rights Reserved. Las Vegas Woman Magazine, Copyright 2013. Medical statements of fact and opinion expressed in this issue are those of the authors and contributors and Las Vegas Woman is relieved of any legal liability. Las Woman Magazine does not make any medical representation, express or implied, in respect of the accuracy of the material in this magazine and cannot accept any legal responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions that may be made. The reader should make his/her own evaluation and get the opinion of their doctor of any medicinal, nutritional or surgical techniques.
Tammy Shaw Publisher & CEO
Photo by Connie Palen Photoworks
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December 14 – 22, 2013 The Smith Center for the Performing Arts Tickets: 702.749.2000 NevadaBallet.org
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Las Vegas Woman Winter 2013-14 CONTENTS
Features
Eat Shop Give
52 Donna Curry
31 32 34 60 62 64 64 66
Creating an empire one sandwich at a time
20 Katy Capella–A Cappella Christmas 24 Rosarito–Travel Exclusive
Departments 5 14 18
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A Few Words from the Publisher Calendar of Events Arts Guide – Clay Arts Vegas
Health & Age Management
Beauty & Fashion 34 35 85
Decadent Drinks Holiday Gifts Goody Bag Restaurants for the holiday season Aaron Lelah Jewelers Village Square Trendsetter Eyewear Anne Aniello-Wayman: A Portrait in Philanthropy 68 Give Back Before Buying
The Goody Bag If Your Closet Could Talk Let’s Talk About Your Hair
44 Rodan + Fields-The Gift of Beautiful Skin 45 From Fat Kid to Healthy Woman 47 Feeling Pressure: How to get your back back 48 The Fertility Center of Las Vegas: Making Parenthood Possible 49 Giving the Gift of Dental Health 50 Privy Skin Care: Celebrating Rejuvenation of the Skin
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Family First 21 United Way 36 Playpen 37 Holiday Activities with the Family 38 Channel 13 Beth Fisher’s “Making Las Vegas a Better Place to Live” 40 Moms Making Six Figures 43 Kidville University
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Technolog y 70 High Tech Women in the Forefront 73 Sappsuma creates Las Vegas Woman Magazine app
Fearless Females 60
76 77 78 79 80
On the Cover Model Donna Curry Hair Hair by Andeen Makeup Makeup by Didi Styling Mariah Walton
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Photography Tim Hancock/tjamesphoto.com
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Fearless Females Alexia Vernon Danielle Bisterfeldt Flor Bernal Michelle French
Extras for you 82 86 90 91
In the City Local Ladies Mars vs. Venus Ideas for Giving During the Holidays 91 Dear Dao 95 Great 8 with Al B. Sure!
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calendar of
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Jin Jin Reeves Singer, dancer and actress Jin Jin Reeves began her career at an early age. Growing up in Detroit during a time when the city was at an artistic peak, Reeves became committed to distinguishing herself in the field of entertainment and attended The Julliard School of Performing Arts. She appeared on Ed McMahon’s “Star Search” where she finished second. She has performed during the American Music Awards and under dance greats such as Alvin Ailey. Reeves recently completed her sophomore album, “Living Proof,” and is currently starring in “Hitzville: The Show,” a Motown review daily at 5:30 p.m. (dark Sunday) in the V Theater inside the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood. For more information, visit hitzvilletheshow. com. Tickets are also available at the box office or by calling 866.932.1818.
The Fertility Center of Las Vegas offers FREE seminars for new patients and for people seeking information about fertility treatments. Seminars are conducted monthly and are an opportunity for patients to speak candidly with Dr. Bruce Shapiro and Dr. Said Daneshmand, both sub-specialty board certified in reproductive endocrinology and infertility and world renowned for their research and breakthroughs in reproductive medicine. Tour the state-of-the-art facility and meet with financial advisors. Reservations are recommended, as seating is limited. Call to RSVP at 702.254.1777 or reserve your seat online at fertilitycenterlv.com. Nov. 20, 6 p.m.: The seminar will be held at 8851 W. Sahara Ave., Suite 100, Las Vegas. Dec. 18, 6 p.m.: The seminar will be held at 2769 Sunridge Heights Parkway, Suite 100, Henderson.
Nov. 27-Jan. 1, 2014: At Sam’s Town Hotel & Gambling Hall, Mystic Falls Winter Wonderland, its holiday themed laser light show will run daily.
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At Treasure Island, executive pastry chef Debra Mitchell created a 40-pound gingerbread model of Treasure Island’s own pirate ship and Sirens Cove. The model is on display from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve in a glass case in the middle of the revolving door by the registration desk.
Dec. 7: Santa Claus is coming downtown—Opportunity Village’s largest annual fundraiser, the Las Vegas Great Santa Run, will make its grand return to Fremont Street Experience. Now in its ninth year, the Great Santa Run has established itself as an iconic local charity event, with thousands of Saint Nick lookalikes flooding the streets for a 5K run and one-mile Kris Kringle Jingle walk, raising funds. The newly charted race course will begin under the glowing overhead screens of FSE and continue throughout downtown, passing a number of landmarks. Participants can register online as an individual racer for $40 or sign up as an adult team for $35 a runner. Children can join for $25. For more information, visit opportunityvillage.org.
Nov. 18-Jan. 5, 2014: The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas are presenting Winter in Venice, the third annual celebration of the winter holiday season on the Las Vegas Strip, dubbed A Gift of The Venetian. Winter in Venice is offering a schedule of Italian-inspired experiences including a nightly winter parade, tree-lighting ceremony, 3-D light projection show-a Winter in Venice fantasy scene in The Palazzo Waterfall Gardens and the return of the skating rink above The Venetian’s outdoor Grand Canal. For more information, visit venetian.com.
The Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort will open Nov. 29, weather permitting. The Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort is scheduled to open Nov. 29, weather permitting. Located approximately one hour from the Strip, LVSSR sits in the shadow of Mt. Charleston. The resort features access to 30 trails and 250 acres of side-country terrain serviced by three chair lifts and one surface lift. The area also features ski and snowboard school, clothing rentals and a terrain park with a variety of table top jumps, jibs and rails. Day and season passes are available. For more information, visit skilasvegas.com.
Dec. 5, 6 to 9 p.m.: Artist Jennifer Main, born and raised in Las Vegas, will hold a holiday party open to the public to celebrate her new work at Inside Style, a full-service interior design firm, 1119 S. Main St. Main began selling her work in galleries at the age of 17 and now is a successful full-time artist showing her work in galleries nationally as well as operating her own gallery in Las Vegas and Los Angeles. For more information, visit jennifermaingallery.com. Catherine Ho was announced as the first Miss Asian Las Vegas during the Inaugural Miss Asian Las Vegas Pageant hosted at The New Tropicana Las Vegas. Several celebrities and VIPs attended including BMX star Ricardo Laguna; Patrick Lee who co-founded Rotten Tomatoes; Chris Phillips and Lydia Ansel of Zowie Bowie; magician Seth Grabel from “America’s Got Talent,” along with his fiancée publisher Tammy Shaw; Maren Wade from “Vegas! The Show,” Tropicana headliner Murray Sawchuck; and award-winning actor Hector Bustamante, who hosted alongside KLAS TV-8 anchor Patranya Bhoolsuwan. Third place went to Connie Tsang, second to Alexandra Drechsler and first runner up was Elisa Chan. As part of her title, Ho also received a $10,000 scholarship, $3,500 from Mikimoto, and will go on to compete in Miss Asian Global in San Francisco.
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Bmôr Cosmeceutical Skin Care is a Las Vegas company that is proud to introduce an innovative 5-step daily anti-aging regimen, the Bmôr Age Defense System. It has been clinically proven to prevent and improve signs of aging by visibly reducing the severity of deep wrinkles and diminishing the appearance of fine lines using a synergistic approach. The Bmôr brand incorporates technology driven formulas in a highly concentrated synergistic blend of agefighting antioxidants, peptides, neuropeptides, retinoids and hydroxy acids. The blends work together to treat, prevent and reverse signs of aging using the latest technology and highest concentrations of age fighting ingredients. Log onto to bmorskincare.com to view and purchase Bmôr’s entire anti-aging skin care line. Order today and YOU can Bmor beautiful, healthy and youthful during the holiday season!
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ARTS Guide
The Arts District’s Best Kept Secret: Clay Arts Vegas By Jessica Kennedy
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estled in the heart of downtown and walking distance to the burgeoning Arts District is a small, white building. A few years ago revelers used to go to that location to imbibe at The Art Bar, but after it disappeared, visionaries Thom Bumblauskas, Peter Jakubowski, John Gregg and Marc and Mary Rosenthal put their heads together to develop Clay Arts Vegas.
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When asked about the motivation behind starting Clay Arts Vegas, Bumblauskas said, “I was working at two other clay studios and living very near to downtown. To one studio I was driving 14 miles in one direction and to the other, 16 miles. I thought to myself ‘If I’m doing this, there’s got to be other people in a similar situation’ and with the explosion of First Friday, thanks to Zappos and others, we decided that opening a studio downtown would be a great idea.” “We all sat down, having gathered some ideas and wound up calling the city to see if we could even open a place like this downtown, where we have kilns that get up to intense temperatures doing Raku firings.” Clay Arts Vegas’ vision encompasses more than just having a working studio and retail space. Part of the vision behind its inception was to have a place where three dimensional art could easily be shown. The Victor F. Keen Gallery inside Clay Arts Vegas is perhaps one of the most over-looked galleries in town. The monthly art shows there features pieces that question one’s perception of ceramics. Each month’s art show offers
From left to right: Clay Arts Owners, Peter Jacbowski, John Gregg, Thom Bumblauskas; Missy Check, Special Events Coordinator, Ronald McDonald House LV; former Las Vegas Artists Guild President, Jessica Kennedy
arts
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an opportunity to see work from all across the country as well as local artists, showing their labors of love. Unlike other art shows, ceramics take months of advance planning. First, if a piece explodes in the kiln because of poor construction, or other reasons, the piece can be damaged as well. Next comes the glazing process, which is essentially liquid glass, which can drip down and fuse the piece with the shelf or drip in an undesired way ruining the piece. Then, assuming all that goes well, there is a chance of breakage in shipping. In addition to the gallery, the studio and classes, Clay Arts Vegas is involved in community outreach. They have done a number of fund raisers including Candlelighters for Childhood Cancer, Celebrate Las Vegas and One Million Bones Project that ran from September 2012 until January to bring awareness and raise money for the oppressed people in Darfur. Clay Arts Vegas, along with the Bezos Family Foundation, Global Nomads, Congo Justice and a few other philanthropic groups, was able to raise $17,000 for this global cause. The bones were gathered from all over the country and displayed in June on the lawn at the National Mall, Washington, D.C. Currently Clay Arts Vegas is working with Veterans Village and is in the process of creating a therapy garden. “We’re working with them as a fundraiser and are creating tiles. We go out to various events and for a small fee you can paint a tile to decorate the garden with 75 percent of the proceeds going directly to the Veterans Village to help support their therapy garden.” WINTER 2013 | lvwomanmagazine.com
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Las Vegas Pop Artist Katy Cappella Records “A Cappella Christmas” By Nicole Hanratty
Her Holiday Gift to Fans
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op artist Katy Cappella spent the better part of October in studio with her producer Wade Martin recording a five-track Christmas music EP titled “A Cappella Christmas.” Cappella said she chose the songs because, “they are a meaningful, heartfelt reflection of what the Christmas spirit is about to me.” The highlighted song on the EP is the stunning “O Holy Night” that will stop you dead in your tracks with the power of Cappella’s voice and her ability to send chills up your spine. With a nod to pop, “This Christmas” is radio ready with Cappella’s soulful vocal performance, an upbeat tempo and big band horns to carry home this classic song to toast the holidays. Cappella’s Christmas EP comes as a follow up to her stellar debut album “Turn The World Around,” and Las Vegas Woman subscribers will receive a link to a free download of “A Cappella Christmas” via email. Because the holidays are all about family traditions, I asked Cappella what she could remember about celebrating Christmas in her home growing up. While her first response was to say that her family didn’t really have too many traditions, as we chatted memories spilled out of her recreating the scene in her family’s living room. “Every year before anyone opened anything we would each have to say what we were thankful for, and my sisters and I would just say something really fast.” She laughs, “My dad would take like 45 minutes and tell a long story and we were dying. I think it was his payback for us waking him up at six in the morning.” I asked her about her favorite Christmas presents. “A Cabbage Patch
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doll, a guitar and a real functioning cash register when all I had asked for was a toy one that I circled in my grandma’s Service Merchandise catalog.” Just when she thought she had told me all of her holiday traditions, I asked Cappella one more question, which sparked a whole new memory of the classic siblings in matching dresses for which most of us are still seeking therapy. Cappella told me in a horrified voice, “One year even my mom matched us. It was awful! We had them made so they would match; they were green with white doily collars.” Besides the five—yes five—trees that are set to bring Christmas alive in her home and making her Grandma’s famous potatoes, I asked Cappella how she will celebrate. “This Christmas is my second year in Las Vegas and I look forward to attending The Crossing where they have a candle light service and sing ‘Silent Night,’” she said. “I’m also looking forward to walking through Opportunity Village, donating to a great cause and enjoying the Magical Forest. Last year I joined a group of talented musicians in Las Vegas and we sang at a nursing home. I’m hoping we are welcomed back this year.” Watch for a Katy Cappella single to be released in January 2014 premiering on lifeofarockstar.com with a music video to follow. Also, 2014 will also see Katy Cappella headlining her own show to sing both her original hits and cover songs featuring guest performers and digital imaging in the near completed and state of the art brand new Giordano Theatre and Events Center. Visit giordanotheatre.com for tickets. Visit cappellacappella.com, follow her @CappellaCappella or #CappellaCap on Twitter and like her on facebook.com/ CappellaCappellamusic.
Pictured left to right: Katie Decker-Walter Bracken Elementary School Principal, Jody Belsick-YPS Member, Tivona Betz-YPS Member, Student, Chelsie Campbell,Vice chair and Piggy Bank Committee Chair and Laurie Mann-YPS Member
Young leaders teach children about savings ®
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aving is no easy task, especially during tough financial times. Most Americans don’t have enough money saved for emergencies. But the good news is through programs like the Piggy Bank, children are learning early about the importance of saving so they are prepared when they are looking to buy their first car and pay for college. When the Piggy Bank opened its doors on Oct. 5, 2012, there was a bustling line of over 100 children who were anxiously waiting their turn to deposit their hard-earned savings into their first bank account. Created by a dynamic group of young leaders, United Way of Southern Nevada’s Young Philanthropists Society, the Piggy Bank program has taught over 500 students at Walter Bracken Elementary School how to save and learn the importance of financial responsibility. According to the program’s chair, YPS Vice-chair and Piggy Bank Committee Chair Chelsie Campbell, the students of Bracken named the Piggy Bank and successfully saved over $18,000 during the first year. “Seeing the kid’s smiles when they make a deposit is awesome,”
Campbell said. “They are so proud of the money that they are saving every week.” For the innovative program, Campbell and her fellow YPS members collaborated with Walter Bracken Elementary School, Junior Achievement, Silver State Schools Credit Union, Andson Foundation and various volunteers, to convert an unused room into a kid-friendly, walk-up bank-teller window with a TV to showcase each classroom’s savings. The Piggy Bank program also includes a six-module curriculum component that brings to life the importance of saving and money management. According to Campbell, at the program’s start, kids planned to spend their savings on candy and bicycles, but by curriculum’s end their goals grew to one day afford a car or even a house. “They learned to recognize the power of having a dollar in the bank,” Campbell said. To learn more, contact Jason Soto, Director, Young Philanthropists Society-Major Gifts at JasonS@uwsn.org or 702.892.2360. WINTER 2013 | lvwomanmagazine.com
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Rosarito Beach Hotel: Combining the past with the present creating future memories
By Debbie Hall
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pened as a lodge more than 80 years ago, Rosarito Beach Hotel is a Baja spa resort located in what was once part of the family mansion. The 500-room, full-service resort remains one of the most popular destination for the city’s more than 1 million visitors a year offering old world grandeur, world-class restaurants, entertainment, lodging options and activities. Its Casa Playa Spa is dedicated to pampering and nurturing hotel guests in an atmosphere of elegance and serenity. The history of the Rosarito Beach Hotel has shaped the growth of west Baja California Norte with Rosarito Beach 30 miles south of San Diego. “We are blessed with a coast line of white sandy beaches and inland areas of natural beauty. Our goal is to enhance the resources of Rosarito Beach, both for our residents and the visitors who enjoy our wonderful city,” said Hugo Torres Chabert, president and manager of the Rosarito Beach Hotel.
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“Getting to the resort was simple for me,” said Tammy Shaw, publisher of Las Vegas Woman magazine. “I had to arrive later in the evening than my group, so I took a shuttle from San Diego to the resort. It was late at night and I felt safe in the shuttle. From San Diego, I was there in less than an hour. Upon arriving, the resort was beautiful, clean, and authentic and I instantly felt relaxed. My room was spacious and modern with hints of Mexican culture from the artwork hanging on the wall.” “And the amenities of the resort are fabulous,” Shaw continued. “There are three pools to choose from. One of them is a lap pool if you want to get some exercise in. One pool is an infinity pool, surrounded by beautiful plants and flowers. The staff is there ready to serve anything from mixed drinks to my personal favorite, fresh squeezed carrot juice.” “Daniel Torres, Patricia Orozoo and the whole staff is so service oriented,” said Ruth Lauber, vice president of Las Vegas Woman
TO EDUCATE, ENTERTAIN & INSPIRE
Travel Exclusive
“On some nights, I spent on the balcony watching the sunset over the water. As the resort is right on the beach, my favorite activity was walking on the beach. During the weekday, the beach is quiet and serene. I went for runs and walks. On the weekends, the beach fills up with food vendors selling fresh mangos on a stick and churros, lots of families, locals and tourists. Walking on the beach during the weekend was so much fun!”
Authentic Mexican Cuisine at the Azteca Restaurant magazine. “All of my wants and needs were taken care of by them.” Shaw added, “I enjoyed sleeping with the balcony door open to hear the waves of the ocean. On some nights, I spent on the balcony watching the sunset over the water. As the resort is right on the beach, my favorite activity was walking on the beach. During the weekday, the beach is quiet and serene. I went for runs and walks. On the weekends, the beach fills up with food vendors selling fresh mangos on a stick and churros, lots of families, locals and tourists. Walking on the beach during the weekend was so much fun! There were mariachi bands everywhere you turn.” Rosarito Beach Hotel offers authentic Mexican cuisine, The Azteca Restaurant, with a range of omelets along with traditional Mexican breakfasts and other egg dishes. For lunch and dinner, the menu includes a selection of seafood, beef and chicken dishes. Wall-to-wall windows provide a view of the 100-foot-long swimming pool beyond the restaurant. The Casablanca Restaurant is located near the beach bringing the flavors of colorful, balanced and exquisite dishes. Visitors can also order unique cocktails and tapas in the restaurant’s lounge with a breathtaking view of the ocean. A traditional Mexican buffet at a folkloric ballet show is offered in the Salon Mexicano.
The history of the Rosarito Beach Hotel has shaped the growth of west Baja California Norte with Rosarito Beach 30 miles south of San Diego.
“There was a consensus among the group that the shrimp cocktail was the best we’ve ever tasted,” admitted Shaw. “The large shrimp in avocado, parsley, onion, in tomato cocktail sauce concoction was addicting. We enjoyed it every day.” To the right of the hotel entrance is the Rosa and Rita hacienda-style bar. This karaoke bar is decorated with wonderful historic photographs of the hotel from 1926 to the present. It provides guests with a trip of the grand history of the legendary Rosarito Beach Hotel. There is also the Adobe lounge with live music playing old time favorites creating an intimate ambiance. Located just northeast of Ensenada, Guadalupe Valley offers great wine tasting. The Baja California Wine Country is blessed with some of the most ideal Mediterranean climate for grape growing and the valley is home to about 18 wineries. The different wines can also be enjoyed at the Rosarito Beach Hotel where once a month they host a wine tasting and dinner at Chabert’s restaurant featuring many of the local wineries. Baja’s Gold Coast, the 60 scenic miles that stretch from just south of San Diego to Ensenada, offers some of the best recreational activities. Fishing is available right off Rosarito Beach Hotel’s quartermile wooden pier. Explore the beach in an ATV or ride a horse alongside the
travel
One of three pools to choose from at Rosarito Beach Hotel
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The Casablanca Restaurant offers unique flavors and exquisitely colorful dishes
Having a day at the spa at the Casa Playa Spa completes a relaxing vacation
water at sunset. There is golfing, parasailing, shopping spree and a nightlife. Shaw explained, “We enjoyed walking the shopping stores and marketplace during the day. There were wonderful hand crafted pottery, jewelry stores and lunch restaurants to enjoy. We stopped into El Nido for fresh made tortillas and delicious local quail. One evening, we took a taxi 20 minutes away to a town called Puerto Nuevo, otherwise known as the ‘Lobster Capital of Baja.’ There were over 30 restaurants serving, you guessed it, lobster. Fresh caught lobster for amazing prices. This was some of the sweetest lobster I’ve ever tasted.” Having a day at the spa at the Casa Playa Spa completes a relaxing vacation. When it
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originally opened in 1925, the Rosarito Beach Hotel was considered a vacation and health destination because the sea swept air was both preservative and restorative. Early visitors appreciated the therapeutic effects of saltwater bathing and fresh ocean air. People were also drawn to the soul satisfying aesthetics the seascape provided. The hotel’s oceanfront location gave early visitors the chance to enjoy one of nature’s most inherently beautiful landscapes: sun, sand and the sea. Casa Playa Spa has put together a variety of body services that can help achieve smooth and nourished skin. Natural products are used from the sea and earth. They are specially combined to restore and improve the condition of the skin as well as to detoxify and rehydrate creating an all-over body glow. The staff consists of registered and highly trained massage therapists. They are educated on how to effectively relax muscles, increase circulation and improve joint mobility using light and deep tissue techniques. “I enjoyed The Casa Playa Spa at Rosarito Beach Hotel,” said Shaw. “The spa is a mansion-like ornate building nestled next to the main hotel building and towers. Walking into the spa, you can feel the history in this building of the roaring 20s until now. Many
celebrities enjoyed what it had to offer over the years, and now it continues to serve as a place of relaxation.” Special guests Marilyn Monroe, Lana Turner, Joan Bennett and Kim Novak inspired the sign above the entrance that reads, “Through this door pass the most beautiful women in the world.” In the 1920s, people from all over the world traveled to hunt the quail, ducks, deer and mountain lions that inhabited the area. The lodge was then purchased by Manuel P. Barbachano, which began the historic journey of what is now known as the Rosarito Beach Hotel.
Special guests Marilyn Monroe, Lana Turner, Joan Bennett and Kim Novak inspired the sign above the entrance that reads, “Through this door pass the most beautiful women in the world.”
The 500-room, full-service resort is one of the most popular beach destinations
Relax in the lounge area with a cocktail, great atmosphere and a live pianist
Bienvenidos (welcome) to Rosarito Beach
Wanting to expand the eight rooms and one bath lodge, Barbachano began drawing up plans and working on developing the area as a whole. To design the elaborate hotel lobby with 20-foot-high ceilings, he worked with an engineer. He also added more guest rooms and a large dining room that included a bar running the entire length of the room. Barbachano hired people that lived on nearby ranches to work on the hotel’s construction. After the completion of the hotel, many of them stayed on as staff and today, a number of the hotel workers are children and grandchildren of the original families who built and worked at the facility. Barbachano continued to expand the beautiful hotel. He had special murals made to decorate the lobby walls and placed replicas of important Aztec and Mayan art throughout the hotel. The grand hotel foyer was constructed, including the addition of 50 rooms, the Salon Mexicano Ballroom and the Azteca restaurant and the decoration of extraordinary chandeliers and furniture from Mexico City. He wanted the hotel to emphasize gracious Mexican living but also appeal to the U.S. tourist. In 1937, Barbachano married Maria Luisa Chabert, an aspiring actress from Mexico City, and built a gorgeous 19-room mansion next to his hotel. In 1940, he expanded the Rosarito Beach Hotel again by putting in an Olympic-sized tiled swimming pool, casual Beachcomber bar and more guest rooms. The World War II and post-war years continued to see popularity of the hotel grow. Barbachano died in 1954 and his wife Maria remarried in 1957 to a U.S. Navy Pilot, James Shaw. The couple moved to Washington state and Maria Shaw leased the hotel. In 1974, Hugo Torres Chabert, Maria Shaw’s nephew, became president and manager of the Rosarito Beach Hotel and continues to manage the operation. In the early 1980s, a wing of oceanview rooms were added to the hotel and in 1992, an eight-story tower to the north opened with 147 more oceanfront rooms. The elegant, 19-room Barbachano estate has been transformed into the hotel’s spa, Casa Playa, as well as housing the Mediterranean specialty restaurant, Chaberts, in the elaborate former living room. According to Chabert, Rosarito Beach Hotel will keep its traditions while upgrading for the 21st century and beyond. For more information, visit rosaritobeachhotel.com or call 1.866.ROSARITO (76727486).
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Sweeten the holidays
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Chocolato Wine Who needs the hassle of holiday baking? Skip the kitchen headaches and enjoy this delicious dessert instead! This creamy chocolate-wine combination is sure to impress every guest at your party. Available in original chocolate, orange, raspberry and strawberry. Chocolato Wine is a perfect gift for the chocolate-lover in your life! $9.99
Heritage Hills Cream Liqueurs These unique cream liqueurs will quickly become a holiday tradition for your entire family. Available in both Pumpkin Spice and Bourbon Cream, Heritage Hills makes a fantastic after-dinner treat. Serve “straight-up” or blend with ice for a Pumpkin Spice Martini! $14.99
Benchmark Old #8 Eggnog This is a delicious holiday classic blended with a delightful kick of Benchmark Old # 8 Bourbon. Benchmark Old #8 eggnog may be smooth and creamy, but make no mistake; this sweet-treat packs a punch and is a low-maintenance refreshment for your get-togethers. $6.99
s we move into the Holiday season, these delightful libations are sure to liven up any party! These selections offer everything from effervescent bubbles to sweet treats, and there is something to satisfy every taste bud.
Cheers! Kenny Lee. Sponsored by Lee’s Discount Liquor, with 17 locations in Southern Nevada (including one in Mesquite, Nev.). For locations, hours and more information, visit leesliquorlv.com
wines
&dines Snobar Frozen Cocktail Ice Cream No cocktail is cooler than Snobar. Made with natural ingredients and premium alcohol, there is a full cocktail in EVERY serving. The infused desserts are guaranteed to stimulate and please even the most sophisticated palate. This innovative adult ice cream is available in four fantastic flavors: Grasshopper, Pink Squirrel, Brandy Alexander and Brandy Alexander Chocolate Chip. $9.99 Taittinger Brut Champagne Class up your holiday parties with a bit of bubbly! Taittinger Brut Champagne gives an intense sweet fruitiness with mandarin fruit drops and a flowery touch of acacia honey. Both crisp and rich, this champagne is the perfect balance of finesse and elegance. Perfect with fresh strawberries, and for a New Year’s toast! $37.99 Batasiolo Moscato The popularity of Moscato is insurmountable in the world of wine these days. With such a large selection to choose from, we have taken the guesswork out of your Moscato selection this year. Batasiolo is the real deal with grapes grown in the Beni di Boscareto estate in the village of Serralunga d’Alba. This luscious, fruity dessert wine has a delicate sweet flavor with a lingering aroma. $15.99 WINTER 2013 | lvwomanmagazine.com
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Holiday Gift Guide
By Laura Coronado
The best gifts in town for the Las Vegas woman
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or the ardent Las Vegas supporter, the popular town motto “shop locally” is more than a cheer for the city; it’s a lifestyle rule. Whether you’re shopping within the walls of a locally owned business or purchasing a brand created and owned by a Las Vegas entrepreneur, shopping locally helps to fuel our community spirit and our economy. As our town expands and grows, and more
Fashion Watches Winky Designs Where to buy: Container Park, 707 E. Fremont St., Ste. E2a Website: winkydesigns.com New Yorker Winky Wu is already achieving great success with her designs being featured in a multitude of retail outlets across the U.S. as well as in 19 other countries. But when it came time to relocate her business, Wu brought it to Vegas. Vibrant, fun and affordably priced, Wu’s Sweet Dreams Collection showcases watches that are adorned with layers of leather and semi-precious stones for $120 each. “My inspiration comes mainly from every day, happy and simple pleasures like fresh fruits, fun ice creams flavors and cooling cocktails,” she states.
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and more new companies open their doors, it’s important to not forget about our local small businesses when shopping for gifts this holiday season. But don’t save your thoughtfulness for Small Business Saturday (Nov. 30) only. In fact, our top five holiday gift picks are not only available throughout the season, but also year-round. Ready to shop locally? Check out our top local picks below and give a gift that supports Las Vegas.
Leather Scarves Leather Couture by Jessica Galindo Where to buy: Container Park (opening in November), 707 E. Fremont St., Ste. E2b Website: leather-couture.com Does it get any better than handcrafted, handcut leather elegantly draped around your neck? No. It doesn’t. “Not only can my scarves be worn as an individual statement piece, but they are also fantastically functional because they are warm,” Jessica Galindo explains her design concept. Prices vary, but the general range is between $159-$295.
Holiday Cocktail Collection Ethel M. Chocolates Where to buy: Any of the six Ethel M. Chocolates locations in Southern Nevada Website: ethelm.com Nothing stuffs a stocking better than chocolate, but when you add cocktail-inspired flavor on top of that, then it’s a gift that is sure to make Santa himself jealous. For the holidays, Henderson’s own Ethel M. Chocolates is offering a 16-piece Cocktail Collection ($28), featuring concoctions such as champagne cocktail and lemon drop.
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Photos By Emma Cohan
One-of-a-Kind Feathered Accessories Inspired by Claire Jane Where to buy: Coterie, 515 E. Fremont St. Website: icjuk.com Don’t let her British accent fool you. Apparel and accessories designer Claire Jane Vranian calls Las Vegas home, melding her U.K. roots with neon flash to create stunning pieces unlike anything else. “Each one is unique, making them charming and a conversation piece,” the designer says. Handbags range in price from $150-$300 and hair fascinators range from $99-$150.
Luxury Bottle Carriers and Wine Bags Tipsy Totes Where to buy: 1549 W. Oakey Blvd. Website: tipsytotes.com You could tote your wine to the next holiday soiree in one of those run-of-the-mill paper bags, or you could make a statement and steal the scene by walking in with a Tipsy Tote. Handcrafted and decadent in design, Tipsy Totes come in all kinds of fun shapes, like a stiletto boot, bustier or lipstick. Prices range from $34 for a simple tote to over $200 for an intricate design. “Our products are a perfect holiday gift because we allow individuals to customize each item,” say the mother-daughter team behind the brand, Sonja and Ursula Bettendorf.
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Goody Bag By Jennifer Florendo
Give the Gifts You’d Love to Get With Our Best Picks of the Season
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&fashion
Paparazzi Bath Bombs Prepare for your holiday parties with the brand new and improved bath bombs. Simply place the entire bath bomb—plastic glass and all—into the bath and soak for five minutes. Combo pack comes with one gold and one silver bath bomb made from soap-grade glitter, almond oil, coconut oil, citric acid and sodium bicarbonate. Available at heathermarianna.tv.
Lavish Kit Anastasia Beverly Hills Lavish Kit includes an eye shadow palette, eyeliner, brow pencil and the essentials for creating decadent beauty in one portable kit. $38, Sephora
Toni & Guy Tourmaline Ceramic Curling Irons Tourmaline ceramic barrel prevents damage and increases shine. Variable temperature control heats up in 30 seconds and features a one-hour shut off for safety. Available in 1” and 1 ¼”, $29.99 at Target. Noodle & Boo Love LightCandle Sweet and subtle notes of English pear and peaches wrapped in French roses will add warmth to any party you host this time of year. Available at Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus, $10.
The Everything Pencil Still considered by many in the beauty biz to be the best multi-use concealer pencil around. This convenient carry along face and body concealer pencil hides small imperfections such as under eye circles, broken capillaries, age spots, birthmarks, bruises and more. Available in six shades at judithaugust.com, $16.
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Unite LUXURY Line Give your locks the gift of luxury this holiday season with the luxury line from Unite. Made of crushed pearl, Hawaiian white honey and pure Argan oil, this line will lavish your hair with nutrients, moisture and shine. Luxury shampoo, $43; Luxury conditioner, $47; Moisture and Shine, Exclusively in Las Vegas at ADD Hair & Makeup, addhairandmakeup.com.
Joy to the Girls The Joy to the Girls Holiday Collection is full of fabulous gift ideas. Infused with classic colors to party-stopping looks, including eye shadows, mascaras, primers and more, all contained in a cute cosmetics case. This collection is sure to be on the top of any glam gals list. Sold separately at Sephora.
Killer Cover Discover the best concealer makeup to cover tattoos, scars, vitiligo, birthmarks, bruises and more. It succeeds where tradition concealers fail. Have you noticed that every part of your body is a different color? Custom blend problems away with Killer Cover 5 Color Wheel. Available at judithaugust.com, $36.
If Your Closet Could Talk “clean your closet and have A it aligned with your goals.” By Stephanie Ann Vehon
s a new columnist for Las Vegas Woman, I want to ignite the world of image. Image is something that happens from the inside out. Through this column, I want you to receive entertaining, informative and impactful information. Allow me to introduce you to: If Your Closet Could Talk. Through this column, you will receive the tips you need to clean your closet and have it aligned with your goals. It happens to all of us when we walk into our closet and it starts talking to us, saying, “It’s time to make more money, so you could replace everything in here. Have better health and you’ll fit in the clothes in here.” As we move into 2014, what’s important about our closets is how they reflect our goals for the New Year. With every New Year come new goals, intentions and desires. What is in your closet will reflect the goal you intend to get this year. So it’s time to start cleaning from the inside out. To start the New Year off right, let’s examine what’s underneath your clothes and closest to your heart: your bras. What do you think those are saying to you? Yes, they are talking to you. Most likely they are saying something like: “I am not as sexy as I was five years ago.” “I’ve lost elasticity.” “You need something new.” What you put under your clothes is as important as your outer clothing. Women wearing Saggy Sally’s bras tend to look older than those wearing Upright Ursula’s bras. As a rule of thumb, your undergarments should be replaced every six
to eight months and more often for larger busted women. Your body emotionally connects with fit and fabric. If what you are putting on your body does not fit your body, you have an unhappy body. If you purchase a bra that doesn’t feel right to your body now, it’s not going to fit you properly over time. Brazier expert Lauren Rivkin said, “There’s no magic bra out there that can somehow get rid of the back spillover or back fat and still be extremely supportive. You need your bra band to be snug—not choking you, but really snug—it’s inevitable that most of us are going to have a bit of a line. I compare it to taking a pair of socks off, they leave a line or a mark but they definitely are not too tight.” Therefore, invest a little on what goes under to celebrate the holiday season and continue into the New Year. Sometime your most popular place for a bra fitting is the worst place. Without mentioning any names or giving away any “Secrets,” get a fitting from a real expert such as Rivkin with celebrarvegas.com (where you go to celebrate your bra). You might be surprised to find out you are wearing the wrong size. According to Rivkin, “For many years because only certain cup sizes were available (most up to DD cup,)
many ladies would need to increase their back size in the hope that the cup would in some way fit. As there is more of a range in size, ladies can focus on one of the most important factors, the back size, cup and then shape.” It’s time to get upright with your image and your goals this year. If your closet could talk it, would say, “Bring confidence to what is closest to your heart; the rest of your dreams will follow.”
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A nationally-recognized authority in image consulting and CEO of Image Empowering, Stephanie Ann Grant brings proven expertise. Grant served on the board of Dress For Success Southern Nevada and worked ERC of Nevada, Cintas, Appreciation Financial, Eccoci, Limited Editions for Her, MGM Resorts, Caesar’s Entertainment and Four Seasons.
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Disney Eye Found It! Discover hidden treasures in this largerthan-life, six-foot-long game board. Enjoy quality family time as you race through 12 wonderful worlds of Disney. Available at many retailers, $19.99.
Compiled by Jennifer Florendo
Fun finds for the little members of your family
Spineless Classics A whole book on a single poster makes a unique piece of playroom décor. Children’s favorites such as “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” “James and the Giant Peach,” and “The Wizard of Oz” are just some of the great titles available. The prints measure 30 inches x 40 inches and are available at spinelessclassics. net, $66.99 each. SAVE: Enter code LasVegasW40 at checkout to save 40 percent through Dec. 31.
Dropper Stopper Never play sippy cup fetch again when you can stop your infant or toddler from tossing bottles, cups and snack holders onto the ground. Wrap it, snap it and never lose sight of the sippy cup again. Special grip material provides a strong hold while the length can be adjusted based on the size needed. Available at dropperstopper.com, $7.99-$13.
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Prince Lionheart Wheely Bug Promote balance and motor skills with this fun ride-on toy. Wheely Bug ensures a smooth ride with padded seating and multi-directional casters for mobility in all directions. Recommended for ages 1-3 years. Available at various retailers and online, $59.99.
Squeez’Ems This eco-friendly, one-piece, reusable food pouch is perfect for any pureed or blended food. Easy to fill, clean and store, these pouches are perfect for homemade foods. $7.99 for a duo pack at Babies R Us. Sip’n Protect your toddler’s mouth while preventing spills and controlling the flow of food from the pouch to your toddler’s mouth. The silicone topper helps prevent injury from biting on the pouch plastic. Sip’n fits all food pouches and is available at diapers.com, $6.99.
RECARO Performance RIDE Convertible Car Seats Safely seat Junior from the newborn days through the toddler years with this revolutionary car seat. Featuring the innovative HERO protection to resist harness twisting and a 5-Point harness system that holds children from 5 to 40 pounds rear-facing or 20 to 70 pounds forward-facing, it incorporates RECARO Side Impact Protection technology inspired by four decades of racing seat safety.
WIN your very own RECARO Performance RIDE Convertible Car Seat in Knight. Just like RECARO Child Seats on Facebook and when a link to this article posts on our Facebook page, leave a comment on why you want to win. A winner will be drawn on or around Dec. 31, 2013. Good luck! 36
lvwomanmagazine.com | WINTER 2013
Holiday Activity Guide
Welcome to the time of year with its beauty and meaning where families come together to celebrate with activities that engage children. Below are some ideas for spending that special time with family and creating holiday memories. Join Henderson International School for Winter Wonderland, a morning of fun winter learning activities for three- and four-year-olds to instruct children and adults on creating special snow-inspired educational science and art projects. The event will be held Dec. 6 from 9 to 11 a.m. at Henderson International School, 1165 Sandy Ridge Ave., Henderson. For more information, visit hendersonschool.com.
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Nov. 15-Jan. 5, 2014: Glittering Lights at Las Vegas Motor Speedway holiday drive-through spectacular has entertained more than 1 million people in the past 13 years with an array of festive lights and sounds. Branches of the United Methodist Church are uniting to bring a living nativity scene to Glittering Lights. Glittering Lights will be open Sunday through Thursday from 5:30 to 9 p.m. and Friday to Saturday from 5:30 to 10 p.m. The cost is $20 per car Friday through Sunday and $15 per car on weeknights. Goodwill of Southern Nevada is offering of $2 off a Glittering Lights ticket with a donation of gently used items. The coupon can be obtained at 30 drop off locations or entrance of Glittering Lights. Speedway Children’s Charity also receives $2 from each purchased ticket. For more information, visitglitteringlightslasvegas.com.
Dec. 14-22: The Nevada Ballet Theatre at the Smith Center for the Performing Arts presents a new interpretation of The Nutcracker. Based on the original tale “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” by E.T.A. Hoffmann and set to Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s classic score, The Nutcracker will come alive on stage, immersing audiences in an extraordinary fantasy world. This is the first production of its kind built for the Reynolds Hall stage featuring grand sets, costumes and the choreography of Artistic Director James Canfield. For more information, visit nevadaballet.org.
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Nov. 13-Jan. 1, 2014: Henderson chocolatier, Ethel M Chocolates, will once again light up the night with the 20th annual Holiday Cactus Garden. The seasonal attraction will feature more than 600,000 sparkling lights displayed throughout the three-acre Botanical Cactus Garden. In addition to twinkling lights, the holiday hot spot will offer live entertainment Friday and Saturday and photos with Santa Friday through Sunday. The attraction will be open 5 to 10 p.m. at Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Botanical Garden, 2 Cactus Garden Drive, Henderson. For more information, visit ethelm.com.
The Neon Museum is offering a special holiday ornament-making activity Dec. 14 from 3 to 5 p.m., followed by hot chocolate and caroling by Las Vegas Academy singers in the Neon Boneyard, which will be specially illuminated for the holiday season from 5 to 6 p.m. This program is part of the city of Las Vegas Cultural Corridor’s December to Remember holiday festival. For more information about these and other events at the Neon Museum, visit neonmuseum.org or call 702.387.6366.
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Nov. 22-Jan. 5, 2014: The Magical Forest is a winter wonderland filled with hundreds of decorated trees, millions of brilliant holiday lights, nightly entertainment for all ages, photos with Santa in his workshop, gingerbread house display, the Forest Express passenger train, Cheyenne’s Enchanted Carousel, Rod’s Mini-Golf and Boris the Elf ’s 3-D Experience. The Magical Forest is located at Opportunity Village, 6300 W. Oakey Blvd. There is free parking behind the Magical Forest in the CSN parking lot. For more information, call 702.259.3741 or visit opportunityvillage.org.
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She is going to the dogs... to help others By Beth Fisher, Morning News Anchor for KTNV Channel 13
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“Together Making Las Vegas a Better Place to Live”
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e all have gifts, and we’re supposed to use those God-given gifts to serve others. But sometimes it’s not easy sorting out what our gifts are or how we should use them. For example, what if you’re a dog trainer? I happen to know one, Janet Edberg, who is changing the world for local veterans. Edberg currently trains dogs at Smarty Paws owned by Donna Foreman, another incredible Las Vegas woman. Edberg became interested in training service dogs when she needed one for her multiple sclerosis. Soon, Edberg realized these animals could also help people whose injuries are less obvious such as soldiers suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. “I see how these dogs enhance people’s lives,” said Edberg. Edberg knew dogs like Lilly and Foster could help veterans. We met a few of those soldiers at SmartyPaws recently. Brandon Kleindeaux and Tabitha Davis served our country proudly in the Navy, but both returned from their wartime service with deep scars. Post-traumatic stress disorder kept them both homebound—afraid to be around people or inside stores. And, even though Davis has no memory of the war, night terrors keep her awake. “We were the ones who put out the first bombs after 9-11. I don’t remember it. But I wonder if the things in my dreams really happened. When I fall asleep, I wake up screaming,” she said. That was before Davis got her tiny service dog, Lilly. “Lilly is my savior girl. I was really lucky to get her. She wakes me up when I have terrors. She loves me and comforts me. It’s hard for me to go grocery shopping and to be in loud places. I get anxious and she knows when I need comfort; she calms me.”
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Kleindeaux actually says his service dog, Foster, saved his life, “He is my lifeblood. He keeps me sane and wakes me up when he senses a nightmare coming on. When I feel threatened during the day, he nudges me and keeps me focused on him.” A year ago, Kleindeaux was contemplating suicide. He says, “The only reason I didn’t kill myself was because of Foster. He’s my emotional support; my companion. He senses my pain.” Cory Ossana from the Elk’s lodge wrote a grant to the National Elks Foundation, requesting funding for Edberg’s training program. “Anybody who’s given their life to defend our country to do the great things that veterans have done and given us the freedoms we have, they deserve everything they get,” said Ossana. The Elks agreed and awarded SmartyPaws $1,000. That grant enabled Edberg to train five dogs, including Lilly and Foster. But she has a waiting list of more veterans wanting dogs and there are plenty of shelter dogs that need them too. I had the honor of telling Edberg’s story on my show, “Good Morning Las Vegas.” The National Elks Lodge saw the news story and immediately sent more money. That’s just one reason why I love my job. Now Edberg is training even more animals and helping even more veterans and she’s thrilled. “I see the life change that happens. I see what happens from beginning to endthe joy and happiness these dogs bring to people.” Beth Fisher is a morning anchor for Channel 13 Action News. She reports on the people who make Las Vegas a better place to live. Beth’s stories air at 5:45 and 6:45 a.m. every day on “Good Morning Las Vegas.”
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Moms Making
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Six Figures
hen Cheryl Fox Toste, an 11-year resident of Las Vegas married in September 2011, she knew she was ready to start a different chapter in her life. Having worked in sales and marketing for over 12 years in the hospitality, staffing and healthcare sectors, she knew that her more than 50-hour workweek would make starting a family nearly impossible. “As a newlywed in my mid-thirties, my priorities definitely started to change,” Toste explained. When one of her long-time friends in California, Kellee Wip, introduced her to Moms Making Six Figures, Toste jumped at the opportunity. Founded almost five years ago in San Diego, the company now has a team of almost 100 women who all work from home. The women come from a variety of backgrounds, from a certified public accountant to a surgeon and even a Cirque de Soleil performer. “The best way to explain Moms Making Six Figures is that we are a group of moms who created a marketing organization to represent one primary company,” said Wip, “I knew that Cheryl was anxious to start a family, and I wanted her to have the same freedom I have had to bring in a substantial income while not taking anything away from raising my two children.” Through Moms Making Six Figures, Toste and Wip meet with interested women to talk to them about the specifics of the business. “A typical workweek can range
from 30-35 hours, but I plan around my kid’s school and sports schedules,” Wip said. “There is no inventory, no party planning, no selling and no risk, but you do need to be self-motivated and have a desire to succeed,” she explained. Both Toste and Wip Cheryl Fox-Toste enjoyed careers in a corporate environment, but hated the hours, the inflexible schedule and the glass ceiling. They are still working hard, but doing it on their terms with no cap on their income. Toste’s priorities changed substantially this January when she gave birth to her first child, a baby girl. “I remember when she turned six weeks,” said Toste, “I had a pit in my stomach thinking about the women who have to leave their children to go back to work. I am so thankful for Moms Making Six Figures, which gives me the flexibility to work when I am able, and I want to be able to share this opportunity with my Las Vegas community.” “Bringing women home to their lives,” is the motto of Moms Making Six Figures and Toste is proud to be living proof of the brand. To learn more about the company, visit momsmakingsixfigures.com.
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Kidville University There is a new school in town
Toddlers learn through play, exploration
Gym mats and retail clothing by Jonathan Lattif; Gym rings little orange chairs courtesy of Kidville
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idville is a membership-based indoor play space offering classes and programs for almost any age child. The facility is run by “The Mayor,” Melissa Weiner, who started out as an assistant teacher and worked her way up through the company to now owner of one of its franchises. Her zest and passion for what she does are apparent in her everyday interactions with the residents of her Kidville. At Kidville University, a playful environment is created for toddlers to explore their emerging language and social skills. While in the care of Kidville University, each child is nurtured to achieve their highest potential through relationships that are built on trust, respect and secure attachment. Its teachers who not only love what they do, but are also affectionate, caring and playful in their interactions with the children, ensuring that each child walks away with an enjoyable experience. Everyone at Kidville University strives to understand each child in the program and exercise patience with them as they grow and develop their communication skills. “Melissa’s expertise in the classroom coupled with her authentic passion and enthusiasm for the Kidville brand will only continue to grow the Kidville business in Las Vegas. She is truly a star and we could not
think of a better face for the Kidville brand in a city as exciting as Las Vegas,” said Jennifer Mingucci, vice president of sales at the Kidville corporate office. Kidville University is built upon three key principles, which are reflective teaching, empathetic guidance and emergent curriculum. With reflective teaching, the children are given objective feedback about their play, exploration or behavior. As children are building their self-worth and confidence at this young age, they won’t be labeled or judged based on their behavior. So for the parent who is worried that their child is the “loud kid,” Kidville University does not label any child. The Kidville University offers a “graduate” program for 3- to 4-year-olds, called Kidville University Grad School where the kids learn pre-reading skills and basic French. Both programs currently run three days a week with an anticipated expanded program running five days a week by fall 2014. “Their classes, over one to two years, have changed my kids’ lives by being instrumental in instilling this amazing love for learning and, more importantly, educating me on what activities to do with my kids at home to continue what they are learning in the classroom over the rest of the week,” said Shelley Sherk, a mom of two Kidville residents.
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Aside from providing growth and educational programs to the youth of the Valley, Kidville also gives back to the community by partnering with several local charities including Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, the Pregnancy Foundation, Baby’s Bounty and Goodie Two Shoes. Whether it is art, music, dance or camp that interests the child, Kidville offers something for every little one. Kidville Playspaces offer kids the chance to run, climb, tumble, and slide. There is also a boutique offering toys, clothes and salon. Kidville is also there to celebrate the milestones in a child’s life—from their first haircut to their next birthday party. Kidville also plans to expand their age group up to 9-year-old and planning to include such interests as pottery, karate and oil painting classes. To learn more about Kidville’s classes, programs and memberships, visit kidville. com/tivolivillage or call 702.233.9253. Kidville is located at Tivoli Village 420 S. Rampart Blvd., Suite 130.
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The Gift of
Beautiful Skin
health
age & management
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By Kelly A. Garret
t’s the most wonderful time of the year! So, why does your reflection seem to refute that statement? There are many factors that bring about an unwelcome change in our skin. But, with the proper skin care regimen and a few changes to your daily habits, you will be celebrating the holidays with a luminous glow that reflects the spirit of the season. Many people experience dry, irritated skin as the weather begins to turn cold. Couple that with less sleep, more stress and indulgences at holiday parties, and it’s no wonder you feel like you aren’t putting your best face forward. That’s why the gift of beautiful skin should top your list. Women, men, teenagers, every ethnicity and every skin type experience challenges with their skin during the fall and winter. There isn’t a magic cream or ingredient de jour that will solve the problem. You need skin care that offers a regimen approach in order to change the composition of your skin. Drs. Katie Rodan and Kathy Fields, the creators of Proactiv Solution, changed the face of acne and now they have launched a new medical-grade line of skin care that centers around a full-face, full-regimen approach with their latest endeavor, Rodan + Fields. When you combine the right ingredients, in the right order, with the right delivery system you will finally achieve the best skin of your life in just a few simple steps. With four, clinically proven regimens to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. Holiday shopping made easy? Yes, please! Raedeen Kougias, local aesthetician and executive consultant with Rodan + Fields stated, “As the weather turns cold it is important to exfoliate dry, unwanted skin. I recommend using the
Macro-Exfoliator from Rodan + Fields once a week, removing dead skin cells to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. The MAC E combined with daily use of the Redefine AMP MD and Redefine Regimen will leave your skin bright and glowing. Along with your daily regimen it is so important to apply sunscreen. The reflection of the sun through your windshield is enough exposure to cause real damage. Just because it’s cooler does not mean you don’t need to protect yourself. Each regimen from Rodan + Fields offers sunscreen as the final step that is light, non-greasy and offers broad-scope protection. Youthful, vibrant looking skin starts with Rodan + Fields and everyone deserves to feel confident in their own skin. It’s also important to remember to get plenty of sleep, drink lots of water, try to eat healthy, exercise and take time out for you.” Dr. Jeffrey Brown agrees. “We all know the saying, ‘If you look good, you will feel good.’ As an anti-aging specialist, I recommend Rodan + Fields to help you look better on the outside. Being able to eliminate wrinkles, acne, sun damage, rosacea and other skin blemishes will make anyone feel better. I also recommend them because you can have the spa experience in the comfort of your home without spending the spa prices. I have focused on healing people from the inside to make them feel better. However, I do recognize that women also want to look good on the outside as well. Being able to offer my patients something of high quality that’s still affordable, is important to me.” Rodan + Fields offers online shopping to make giving the gift of beautiful skin simple and easy. To schedule your free consultation, contact Kelly Garrett, 702.595.0696 or online at kellygarrett.myrandf.com.
“If you look good, you will feel good”
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From Fat Kid to Healthy Woman: A Personal Journey
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or all of her life, Diane Abeldt was the short, fat kid. She grew up needing special clothes to accommodate her size and with limitations on the activities that were enjoyable for her. Despite some issues with high blood pressure, it never occurred to her to diet. She was overweight, she accepted it and so did the people in her life. Then, Abeldt had a few health scares, some big changes in her personal circumstances and decided it was finally time to do something about her weight. After some research, she discovered Premier Physicians Weight Loss and Wellness. With its help, Abeldt has lost 75 pounds and is living the active life she really didn’t know she was missing. “Of course, I had to commit to making a change in my life. Once I did, Premier and its professional staff helped me believe that I could take the healthy, positive steps I needed to lose weight safely and permanently. They helped me understand I needed a new lifestyle that would be better than the one I had. That was the first step, but Premier has been with me absolutely all of the way with encouragement, support and perfect information for every stage of this journey,” Abeldt commented. She is convinced Premier’s comprehensive approach is key to her success. That’s because Premier addresses all of the factors in her life that contributed to her being overweight and gives her effective tools to deal with each of them. For example, Abeldt is a big sports fan and enjoys watching her favorite football team at a local bar. She’s still part of the action but now she knows what she can eat and drink to have fun and maintain her healthy weight. She has a special dinner out with her mother once a week but chooses the restaurant with care and knows exactly what she’ll order before she gets there. With Premier’s support, these new habits have simply become a part of her life. Premier also has helped Abeldt to monitor
and manage the medical issues involved in weight loss. Her blood pressure is stable, she no longer suffers from sleep apnea and the frequent headaches she used to endure are a thing of the past. The best part about her new life is the big increase in energy levels. “I went hiking in the mountains this past weekend,” she comments. “Never in my old life would hiking have been an option. I’ve found so many new things to enjoy and the old things, like bowling, are a lot better now. I even need to have my bowling ball redrilled to fit my slimmer hands!” For this football season, Abeldt ordered a new team shirt in women’s sizes, a first for her. No more men’s XXL to hide the extra pounds, now that she looks as good as she feels. She knows, though, that vigilance is key. She wouldn’t think of missing her weekly weigh-in at Premier. Accountability, support and feedback are built into the Premier program. With its help, Diane has learned to tailor what she’s doing and where she’s going to her weight loss goals. “I guess I never thought that ‘fat kid’ me could be successful in losing weight and keeping it off. At my first appointment, Dr. Evensen told me that I could and pointed me along the way I needed to take. I have so much confidence in his team. I tell everyone that if I can do it, they can, too. And am I ever glad that I did.”
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… I had to commit to making a change in my life … Premier and its professional staff helped me believe that I could … WINTER 2013 | lvwomanmagazine.com
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Feeling pressure? Here’s how to get your back … back.
Simple changes in your workday can ease back, neck and hip pain.
“Every woman who spends eight or more hours per day in a bra should invest the time and energy into a proper bra fitting.”
By Andrew M. Cash, M.D.
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tatistics show about half of American workers suffer from some kind of back pain and many believe this is a result of stress, aging or lack of sleep. But, if you take a careful look around your office, there is a good chance it is something you are wearing or doing at work. Apply these simple changes to relieve the aches and pains that can develop throughout your day. 1. Your Office Chair The most important job of your executive chair, whether you paid a hefty price or not, is that it functions properly and supports your body. Your chair should swivel, provide lumbar support, have good padding, an adjustable backrest and allow you to rest your feet comfortably on the floor. If you are spending eight or more hours per day in a chair that does not support your spine, discs can become compressed causing pain and poor posture that may worsen over time. 2. Your Workstation When it comes to your workstation, apply the principles of ergonomics to maintain good posture while you are working. Make sure your computer screen is eye level with a viewing distance of 18-24 inches, use a document holder to prevent constantly looking down at your desk and use wrist rests for the keyboard and mouse. Once your body is positioned properly, there is less risk of fatigue and joint soreness. 3. Your Shoes It doesn’t matter if you wear high heels, flip-flops, Crocs or flats; the most important function of your shoes is to support your arches and heels, minimizing pressure on the lower back. Loose fitting or backless shoes, like many styles of sandals; actually change your gait, which is the motion of your walk.
High heels can have a similar affect by forcing your toes toward the ground before your heels are stable, which adds pressure to the spine and knees. Shoes with backs and arch supports help you to walk and stand correctly, relieving stress on the entire lower body. 4. Your Tablet and Phone You leave the office and your work leaves with you. Whether at lunch, your car, or home, you are probably answering emails on your phone at least a couple of times a day. You wouldn’t think your tablet or smartphone could be a backbreaker, but posture is absolutely vital when using these devices. We often spend an hour or more focused on emails or social media while being completely unaware of our awkward sitting, standing, leaning or lounging positions. My advice is to avoid reading emails while sprawled out on beds or couches, especially if you are propping yourself up with pillows or an armrest. Make sure that you are sitting up and the device is being held close to eye level. 5. Your Bra The wrong size and style of bra can have a significant impact on your back health and it’s the one danger that is most often overlooked by women. Every woman who spends eight or more hours per day in a bra should invest the time and energy into a proper bra fitting. The name of the game is support, and the right fit will keep your shoulders from falling forward and pulling on your upper back. If extra weight causes the straps to dig into your shoulders, try a razorback style to provide additional back support. Dr. Andrew Cash is a fellowship trained and board certified orthopedic spine surgeon and the founder of the Desert Institute of Spine Care in Las Vegas.
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The Fertility Center of Las Vegas: Making Parenthood Possible Doctors receive international acclaim
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t should come as no surprise that people holiday in Las Vegas, a city unlike any other, to experience world-class hotels, nightlife, food and entertainment. But did you know that people also travel to Las Vegas to be treated at one of the most highly respected fertility centers in the world? The Fertility Center of Las Vegas has received international acclaim for their high success rates, extensive experience, groundbreaking research and excellent patient care. In a recent article, fertility pioneer Jacques Cohen has called research performed by clinic founder, Dr. Bruce Shapiro and practice manager, Dr. Said Daneshmand, the most compelling and important trials performed in IVF in the past 10 years. This is an impressive recognition and important consideration for anyone, male or female, considering fertility treatments to create their family. The research and advances performed at The Fertility Center of Las Vegas have become so significant, their success rates in single embryo transfers resulting in live births rivals most fertility clinics in the world. The Fertility Center of Las Vegas has a celebrity clientele and an international patient base who seek alternative fertility treatments with remarkable results. For more than two decades, The Fertility Center of Las Vegas has been dedicated to making parenthood possible for anyone who wishes to become a parent. The doctors and staff are committed to helping all types of families welcome children through a combination of clinical excellence and exceptional care. Patients at The Fertility Center of Las Vegas work with Dr. Shapiro, a graduate of Yale and the University of Amsterdam, and Dr. Daneshmand, who was trained at the UCLA Medical Center. Both doctors have received advanced certification and are Sub-specialty Board Certified in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility.
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Dr. Shapiro and Dr. Daneshmand are on the cutting edge of reproductive technology. They utilize the world’s most advanced techniques and offer the utmost professional, warm experience with a high level of discretion. Dr. Shaprio and Dr. Daneshmand and their staff are truly a diamond in the desert, and for anyone considering using a fertility option, the need to seek care elsewhere has virtually been eliminated. The Fertility Center of Las Vegas is the destination for intended parents worldwide and a resource for innovation and safety protocols recognized and adopted by reproductive endocrinologists and fertility specialists worldwide. With so many transplants to our city and deep seeded fears when it comes to sophisticated, high level health care, the city that has for so long been known a haven for tawdry evenings and late night soirees, Las Vegas offers us another, more settled reason to stay up all night – a child. “At The Fertility Center of Las Vegas, we have always worked diligently to make parenthood possible. We are proud to be considered one of the top fertility clinics in the United States and to be recognized internationally for our scientific advancements of fertility treatments, making them safer and more effective,” said Dr. Shapiro. There are many options available for anyone wanting to become a parent. The staff at The Fertility Center of Las Vegas will work closely with you to find the treatment cycle that best fits your individual needs. Services at the Fertility Center of Las Vegas include intrauterine insemination (IUI), In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), gestational carriers (surrogacy), egg donor IVF, donor egg bank, embryo donation and other procedures that will help your family conceive. Free monthly informational seminars are offered. To register, visit fertilitycenterlv.com.
The Fertility Center of Las Vegas is the destination for intended parents worldwide and a resource for innovation and safety protocols recognized and adopted by reproductive endocrinologists and fertility specialists worldwide.
Joel A. Stokes, D.D.S. Giving the Gift of Dental Health
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hile this is the holiday season, Dr. Joel Stokes finds ways to give all year round. First, Dr. Stokes gives of himself. Along with featuring the latest in restorative and preventative dentistry, he gives of himself with his personal approach to family dental care. Time is very valuable and patients do not wait for Dr. Stokes. Each patient is greeted and brought back to the exam room within five minutes of their arrival. Once a patient is seated, Dr. Stokes is there, ready to treat them. There are two reasons for this approach. First, patients can become very anxious waiting and he wants to give them peace of mind. Second, Dr. Stokes respects everyone’s time and understands that every moment counts, whether it is the holiday season or some any other time of year. To add to everyone’s sense of security, he makes certain that each patient and their family understands that the protection of a patient’s health is at the top of his standards. Dr. Stokes takes extra measures to coordinate each patient’s medical and dental care and designed his current office with a state-of-the-art sterilization room. In addition, and all staff strictly adhere to all OSHA and Center for Disease Control sterilization standards. All instruments remain sealed in a sterile field until opened for the specific patient. What a present to know that dental procedures are conducted in a safe, secure practice. Dr. Stokes is very patient and understands that sometimes not everyone is able to keep up with their regular dental care. Dr. Stokes never judges anyone. He only wants to help people get back on track with their dental care and help them maintain good health.
health
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By Debbie Hall
“I meet and interact with individuals and community groups to help inform our community about how our dental office can help elevate the level of dental health with a high trust and low-stress environment,” he said. His extensive focus on comprehensive dentistry is combined with his dedication for one-to-one interaction with patients and helping them to look and feel better in that high trust, low-stress environment. Some of the newest procedures his practice offers include all forms of general dentistry, the removal of silver fillings that are replaced with nonmetallic dentistry, Invisalign, dental implants and porcelain veneers. As a respected dentist by his colleagues and patients, he is now training other dentists on his procedures with veneers as an expert in the field. This is his gift of education so that many can benefit from his knowledge. Dr. Stokes decided at age 13 that he wanted to be a dentist and followed his dream. “My dentist in San Diego always seemed to be happy about the work he did,” Dr. Stokes explained. “He was truly a professional and he encouraged me to go to dental school. In fact, his daughter also became a dentist. I felt that being a dentist would allow me to provide a needed health care service.” Dr. Stokes and his wife, Sandy, have three children. Adam is a local attorney, Alexis a dental hygienist and Jesse attends college and plans on attending medical school. Both personally and professionally, Dr. Stokes gives the gift of good dental health in a warm, caring environment. Dr. Stokes is offering complimentary private consultations for Las Vegas Woman magazine readers. Contact the office today at 702.699.9876 to schedule a visit.
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Privy Skin Care: Celebrating rejuvenation of the skin By Debbie Hall
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rivy Skin Care, owned and operated by Joyce Zwiefel, was created as a sanctuary for the mind while care was being given to the body’s largest organ, the skin. Privy Skin Care utilizes clinical treatments and Rhonda Allison cosmeceutical products to treat aging, acne, rosacea and pigmentation disorders. Custom facials for acne, hydration, deep-pore cleansing and adding vitamin C are some of menu offerings. Microdermabrasion, back acne, waxing, chemical peels and aromatherapy facials, all specifically designed to meet a person’s skin care needs are also available. Privy Skin Care is a building on the outside, but a retreat once a client walks through the front door. It is there that people find their glow both inside and out with a peaceful state of mind. According to Zwiefel, she started the business because, “I love to help people look their best, and I realized that I have a unique service to bring to the community as I combine relaxation and rejuvenation with beautification. I have experienced businesses like my own, which are very clinical or treat all clients the same. I wanted to stand out and give clients something special.” Zwiefel is a woman who loves the arts, but also loves science. “I became an esthetician because I realized I needed a career where I can mix both. I am an artist at my job because I’m creating beautiful pallets. I enjoy problem solving and since each individual has such unique skincare needs I get to use my knowledge of the skin and body, which I developed working in a lab, to find solutions to each skin care challenge I run across.” Her philosophy is that anyone of any age can benefit from learning about their own skin and what works for their unique skin type. Beauty is for everyone and she encourages everybody to take care of their skin. For example, many women’s daily skin care is limited to cleaning and moisturizing. Facial serums add moisture to the skin, but are actually formulated to address specific skin problems like acne, fine lines and wrinkles or age spots. There are also serums created to make skin look brighter and more radiant. A typical facial serum is made with a mixture of beneficial vitamins and antioxidants.
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A major difference between a moisturizer and a serum is that serums are made up of smaller molecules that can easily penetrate and add nutrients to the deeper layers of the skin. In addition, serums are much more concentrated and only a small amount is needed for each use. A serum can contain a wide variety of ingredients, including vitamin A (retinol), C or E, amino acids, essential oils and peptides. There are serums made specifically to rejuvenate the delicate skin around the eyes. Some serums are formulated for oily skin (water-based), while others are formulated for dry skin (oil-based). Vitamin C helps even out and brighten skin tone. Peanut oil, alfalfa extract and hyaluronic acid increase hydration and help prevent moisture loss. Vitamin A treats both acne and wrinkled skin. Privy Skin Care carries the complete line of Rhonda Allison products, which includes an array of serums including formulations for rosacea, skin-firming and skin brightening, wrinkle reduction and a multi-vitamin complex that nourishes, hydrates and strengthens the skin. Each month Privy Skin Care offers a monthly special on its website and now is currently offering a pumpkin facial which will leave your skin glowing. Privy Skin Care 8910 W. Tropicana Ave., Suite #5, Las Vegas, NV 89147 702.496.2066, privyskincare.com
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DONNa currY
Creating an empire one sandwich at a time
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By Debbie Hall
onna Curry grew up in a family of six in the small town of Newark, Ohio where her father and mother worked in government agencies and her father was involved with the politics of the town. Even as a young child, she admits that she was very goal oriented and driven, traits that have helped her achieve great success today. “When I was a little girl, my first business was a lemonade stand on the golf course, since we lived next to it. My dad told me that one of his memories of me was looking out the window and watching me make change for the president of Park National Bank. Even then I had a desire to earn money.� Both sets of grandparents were in business. Her maternal grandfather owned the corner grocery store and her maternal grandmother was its bookkeeper. Her paternal grandparents owned a women’s hair salon and barbershop. At a young age, Curry worked in the grocery store as a cashier while standing on a crate when not attending school. She loved it and this instilled her work ethic.
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She moved to Las Vegas with her then husband 35 years ago after selling their small business in her hometown. Coming to Southern Nevada for opportunity, Curry first worked as a camera girl at the Riviera Hotel and Casino and enjoyed her work. Still, she and her then husband wanted to get back into business and on the advice of a friend who owned three Subway Sandwich Shops in their small town; they brought Subway to Las Vegas. They had so much faith in the business and despite the risks, the couple took out a home equity loan to buy the first store. The store proved to be so successful that the couple grew the business to four stores, all of which Curry managed. It was not until they opened their fifth store that Curry leased an office. “When I opened the first store, there were only 282 stores in the whole country. Now there are more than 40,000 locations. I am one of the pioneers of the company,” Curry explained. The first store was located at Paradise Road and Twain Avenue. “When I first started 30 years ago, that was the heart of Las Vegas. People would move to the apartments in the area and seek employment in the casinos. I felt when we put our first store there, we could educate people about Subway and then start growing from that location. As the population grew, so did we. I have 169 locations in my market right now that I manage as a development director.” Throughout her early days with Subway, Curry didn’t experience any unique problems or obstacles as a female franchisee. Curry believes her expertise as a problem solver and the ability to multi-task was instrumental to her success with the company. Curry juggles three careers. First, she is a franchisee of Subway and Curry owns more than 60 locations adding four to five stores each year maintaining a growth pattern. Second she is a Subway development agent. She is the corporate liaison in Las Vegas covering Lincoln, Nye and Clark counties. She sells franchises, finds locations and negotiates leases. She also works with existing franchisees on an ongoing basis, sending teams of business consultants to make certain the company’s standard is maintained, assist the franchise owners with any challenges or concerns as well as help them achieve and continue their success with Subway. “In fact, I just celebrated my 30 year anniversary doing this in August (2013),” she said and credits her parents for her success. “My parents always told us that we can dream whatever we wanted to dream and be whatever you want to be; then go out and work for it. That is what they taught me—make the decision and then work towards it.” She is also a franchisee for 13 Winchell’s Donut Shops in Las Vegas and develops two additional locations per year. As for charity, Subway contributes to a number of projects and Las Vegas Subway locations have partnered with Make-a-Wish foundation. Subway in Las Vegas worked on a project for two young boys who were blind and deaf which Curry found very moving. While Curry is not serving on any nonprofit boards, she does donate to many charities and is looking to serving in a nonprofit organization in the future. “I would like to become a mentor for young women who want to get into the business world and thrive,” she said. However, one event close to her heart is DJs for PJs. For the past 11 years, the organization collects new pajamas to benefit abused and neglected children in Southern Nevada. Sizes infants through adults are donated to 20 charities including Child Haven, Boys Town Nevada, Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation and S.A.F.E. House.
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“I would like to become a mentor for young women who want to get into the business world and thrive”
“I always go out and buy one pair of pajamas to represent each store in Las Vegas for this event. I have been doing this for years,” she said. “My staff takes them out on the day of the event and they love participating.” Subway also participates in the Heart Association walks due to the inspiration of Jared Fogle, who lost over 245 pounds by changing his diet to incorporate low-fat Subway sandwiches and walking. In fact, The Jared Foundation has been created to raise funds and awareness in an effort to fight obesity. Curry has one daughter, Johnna, who is married and her son-in-law works for her as a business consultant. The close family lives within minutes of each other and Curry is also a grandmother to three grandsons with another grandchild on the way at the time of this article. Her philosophy is to never give up and to always think outside of the box. “Being in business, you are a problem solver. I am a people person and I tell everyone we are in the people business. It is just not about making sandwiches, it is about encouraging your employees to want to take care of the public, produce a good product with a clean store and friendly service. Curry believes to be a success, “you have to work smart and really hard. I think when many people go into business, they think that since they own a business they don’t have to work; just make the bank deposit and go home. That is not true. I am personally fully engaged in my business every single day. While I realize at this point, I don’t have to be this involved but love it.” Curry’s mentor for Subway has been the founder of Subway, Fred DeLuca. “He has been very instrumental in coaching me over the 30year span. I remember attending the first Subway convention in Orlando in 1984. Fred advised all of the franchisees—including myself—to pay complete attention to your Subway store and do not go out and buy big houses, boats and new cars. He said verbatim ‘most of you in this room will become millionaires if you follow my lead.’ His business plan was very basic. Take profits from your business and invest it back into your company. I followed his direction and quickly became a multi-unit owner.” “I work hard and I play hard,” Curry said. “I just purchased a new house, and I am looking forward to showcasing it. This was one of my goals: to purchase a dream home. I was able to do that through my hard work and drive. I appreciate the rewards as much as I appreciate my family.” Hair: Hair by Andeen; Makeup: Makeup by Didi; Styling: Mariah Walton; Photography: Tim Hancock/tjamesphoto.com
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EAT Written & Compiled by Debbie Hall
ANDRE’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE Celebrated chef André Rochat has maintained the charm and elegance of his original Andre’s Restaurant in downtown Las Vegas at his Las Vegas Strip location at Monte Carlo Resort and Casino. Once inside the door, diners are transported to an intimate, elegant setting with fine dining and attention to service and detail. Andre’s Restaurant & Lounge at Monte Carlo features more than 1,500 wine selections and an inventory of more than 12,000 bottles.
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B Sweet Candy Boutique B Sweet Candy Boutique, created and operated by husband and wife team Victor and Arlene Bordinhão, celebrated its first anniversary Sept. 22. The candy mecca, located in Tivoli Village MarketLV, offers lollipops, gummies, bulk candy treats, sugar-free, nostalgic sweets section, freshly handmade cotton candy and the very popular Whoa toffee line. They also design candy buffets and bars for weddings, birthdays and parties.
Upstairs is Andre’s cigar bar where every month, Whisk(e)y Wednesdays showcases different flights, pours and whiskeys. The inviting lounge is Las Vegas’ only cigar lounge to be connected to a Strip resort. In addition to offering Andre’s cognac and Armagnac collection, the lounge also features 30 different types of cigars.
The shop’s shelves hold more than 60 over-sized apothecary jars full of bulk candies such as Atomic Fireballs, sour balls and Mary Janes. Gummy candy includes gummy rings with hard-to-find flavors such as watermelon, raspberry and cherry.
Located inside the Monte Carlo Resort Casino 3770 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas, NV 89109 702.798.7151 • andrelv.com
Tivoli Village - MarketLV 420 S. Rampart Blvd., #240, Las Vegas, NV 89145 702.798.2979 • bsweetlv.com
lvwomanmagazine.com | WINTER 2013
EATSHOPGIVE
SMASHBURGER
Joe Vicari’s Andiamo Italian Steakhouse
Smashburger Create Your Own burgers are made with certified Angus beef that is smashed on a 400-degree flat grill. Smashburger’s signature Vegas burger is the Sin City, featuring fried egg, apple wood-smoked bacon, American cheese, grilled onions, haystack onions and smash sauce on an egg bun. Other menu items offered include marinated grilled chicken sandwiches, fresh tossed signature salads, rosemary and garlic-seasoned Smashfries, haystack onions and veggie frites (flash-fried carrot sticks and green beans).
Bringing another signature element of Detroit to downtown Las Vegas, Joe Vicari’s Andiamo Italian Steakhouse opened its first outof-state location inside the D Casino Hotel.
Smashburger recently launched its Beer and Burger Pairing Menu at all eight Southern Nevada locations, including its newest location at Ft. Apache and Tropicana. Smashburger is partnering with local brewer Joseph James Brewing Company to match seven of its most popular burgers with craft beers selected by Joseph James’ brew masters and Smashburger Founder Tom Ryan. Various Locations • smashburger.com
“Andiamo is all about family tradition and delicious food, and it’s going to be a great addition to downtown Las Vegas. We really look forward to sharing another taste of Detroit,” said Derek Stevens, co-owner and CEO of the D. The restaurant offers Pat LaFrieda and Stockyard Premium beef, all natural Strauss lamb and veal and free-range chicken that is hormone and antibiotic free. Menu items also include appetizers, pasta, seafood and dessert with more than 80 wines to pair, including imported Italian reds, white, rose and dessert wines from around the world. Located Inside The D Casino Hotel 301 Fremont Street Las Vegas, NV 89101 702.388.2220 • theD.com
Grape Street Cafe
FERRARO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & WINE BAR
Even though located at street level, once inside, Grape Street Café, Wine Bar & Cellar has a feel of a wine cellar with an intimate dining room. Offering California bistro-style cuisine with Italian and Mediterranean influences, Grape Street also features 80 wines by the glass, private dining room, catering and a retail shop to purchase a bottle of wine to go for 50 or 60 percent off a case. Live entertainment, art showings and full service outdoor patio complete the experience. “We want our guests to have fun while dining with us,” said John McKibben, executive chef and owner of Grape Street Café, Wine Bar & Cellar.
Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar is one of Las Vegas’ oldest family-owned and -operated Italian restaurants. The fine dining menu includes authentic Italian cuisine such as Carpaccio di Manzo (thinly sliced beef, arugula salad, shaved parmigiano and truffle oil), Ferraro’s Osso Buco or Coniglio Brasato (Sonoma farm-raised rabbit braised with pancetta, onions and white wine). One seafood dish choice is Capesante Scottate (seared scallops over chiffonade of Brussels sprouts with toasted pine nuts and pancetta) or seafood combined with pasta such as Pappardelle Mimmo (long, wide pasta with scallops, lobster, asparagus, butter, sage and truffle sauce). Wine pairings are available from Ferraro’s 12,000-bottle collection.
Grape Street features happy hour Tuesday to Friday from 2 to 6 p.m. with buy one get one free wines by the glass and half-off for appetizers.
There is also a lounge with late night dining, a patio with an al fresco atmosphere including a fire pit along with foliage and private dining rooms.
7501 W. Lake Mead Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89128 702.228.9463 • grapestreetvegas.com
4480 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, NV 89169 702.364.5300 • ferraroslasvegas.com
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SHOP The brilliance of holiday gifts: Jewelry
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he gift of jewelry is timeless. Whether for a man or woman, family member, loved one or dear friend; a piece of jewelry will be treasured. Gold, silver, precious and semi-precious stones set in pendants, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings and broaches can be the centerpiece to a person’s wardrobe. Watches are more than a time-keeping piece; it is a fashion accessory for both men and women. Expert jeweler and designer Aaron Lelah has been designing custom-made, fine jewelry for more than 30 years. He has witnessed the styles over the years and for the holidays (and beyond); here are some of his recommendations. The Shimmering or Starlight diamond is a new trend in diamonds. Set into a 14K white gold halo set, the center diamond is about 20 to 25 points, and is placed on a wire perfectly balanced so every single move the light will cause the diamond to shimmer adding sparkle to the stone. Another trend is stacked rings or stackables. Lelah explained, “Stackable (rings) is the wearing of two to three bands on one finger with either different colors of stones or same color with different styles. The stackables are mixed and matched with different colors.” Regardless of what kind of jewelry one is interested in purchasing, Lelah advises, “to look for quality. There is commercial grade (stones) which is everywhere and should not be purchased. Commercial grade is made to look like expensive jewelry but all of the excess gold is carved out so it is really light-weight. Crystalized stones are used but it is still called diamonds (which is legal).” Lelah takes pride that all of the jewelry he offers is hand-made in the store. “We use the top two grades of stones and everything is bright and brilliant.”
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By Debbie Hall
As for silver versus gold, Lelah stated, “Gold prices have skyrocketed so silver became the new alternative metal to use. It is still a precious metal and almost all of the jewelry that used to be made in gold is being created in silver as well. These are beautiful pieces in top styles.” Precious stones include diamond, ruby, sapphire and emerald. Semi-precious stones are topaz, amethyst, citrines-anything considered a natural stone. Treated stones use heat treatments and create different colors in the stones such as a white topaz. This is done to produce a lower priced stone that looks similar to a genuine stone. There are also glass and colored rhinestones as options in purchasing jewelry. Watches are a big seller, especially for men, as a gift of time. The price range at Aaron Lelah Jewelers is $300 to $25,000 depending on the watch and type of diamonds set in the watch. “Watches make a great gift,” Lelah said, “It is something someone uses every day and we engrave it to make it personal. It is an affordable jewelry item.” Aaron Lelah Jewelers carries more than 750 designs of watches in stock. They offer three year warranties, lifetime battery replacements and lifetime trade-in. The watches are all made with Swiss parts and keep the most accurate of time within a half second per year. Watches are also water resistant with no worries about beaches or pools. In fact, Aaron Lelah Jewelers offers life-time warranties on everything in the store, with a free inspection every two months including tightening settings, clean, polish and help the customer take care of jewelry. For a precious gift that will be treasured and passed down from generation to generation, jewelry in any form is a wonderful choice. For more information, visit Aaron Lelah Jewelers at 4175 S. Grand Canyon Dr., call 702.531.8100 or visit aaronlelahjewelers.com.
EATSHOPGIVE
STACKABLES JOURNEY With every step love grows in 14k white gold with diamonds
14k rings in white gold or yellow gold with choice of diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds
COgnAC 14k white gold with Cognac and white diamonds
VINTAGE
IN & OUTS
14k white gold diamond ring with many styles to choose
14k white gold earrings, infinity style
COgnAC PENDANT 14k white gold White and Cognac diamonds.
CHRONOGRAPH BLACK OR WHITE Black or white stainless and ceramic with 6-vs/f diamonds, sapphire crystal, copper inlay dial.
Black, white or brown colors Ladies Chronograph watch with purple, silver or copper crown. Soft rubber band, sapphire crystal, luminous dial, 10atm 330ft water tested.
CERAMIC WATCHES Black or white with sapphire crystal, butterfly clasp, 10atm 330 ft water tested, white diamonds 11-vs/f diamonds
Jewelry and watches provided by Aaron Lelah Jewelers. aaronlelahjewelers.com WINTER 2013 | lvwomanmagazine.com
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Village Square Celebrates 16 Women-Owned Businesses
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omen-owned businesses are growing in Las Vegas and Village Square is an example of that trend with 250,000 outdoor retail, dining and professional office space center this is home to 16 businesses where women are at the helm. The following Village Square businesses are either wholly-owned, co-owned or the franchise is held by a business woman: Alligator Soup, Avery Coffee , Blown-Go Hairbar, Chinita, Cold Stone Creamery, Color Me Mine, Euphoria, Full Circle Couture, Kinderland, Maka Beauty, NVpcfix, PACA, Patty’s Closet, Pisces Reef Fish Emporium, Rocket Fizz, and Xelement Music & Dance. Patricia Barba is the owner and franchise founder of the Patty’s Closet Village Square location. “My dream has always been to be in fashion and opening Patty’s Closet in Las Vegas and around the country has given me the opportunity to live my childhood dream every day, I think that is the key to running a successful business, having passion for what you do,” said Barba. Kathy Denton, owner of the Full Circle Couture, held her grand opening early in November. “As a Las Vegas local for 50 years, I am so excited and passionate about my new Village Square adventure. What I love most about being a woman-owned business is networking and being involved in the community,” said Denton. Another woman-owned business, Blow-n-Go Hairbar, is scheduled to hold its grand opening at Village Square later. Village Square is located at 9400 W. Sahara Ave. For more information, visit govillagesquare.com.
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Trendsetter Eyewear: The gift of sunglasses
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yesight is one of the most precious gifts and one way to protect eyes in the desert sun is to use sunglasses. Along with sensibility, sunglasses are a great accessory and make a wonderful fashion statement. Trendsetter Eyewear is a boutique-style optical offering eye care, eyewear, eye exams and personal customer service. They showcase a wide selection of fashionable designer eyewear from top brands: Dior, Tom Ford, Roberto Cavalli, Gucci, Kate Spade, Betsey Johnson and Swarovski. They also provide unique designer sunglass and eyeglass lines that are exclusive to Trendsetter Eyewear. New designers and styles coming soon to Trendsetter Eyewear are Robert Graham Eyewear, Vince Camuto Eyewear, Velvet Eyewear, Efva Attling Eyewear and English Laundry All Wood Eyeglasses.
TRENDSETTER EYEWEAR Located in the Eye Center Cynthia S. Payne, O.D. 1225 S. Ft. Apache Rd, Ste. 145 Las Vegas, NV 89117 702.479.5222 trendsettereyewear.com
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GIVE Anne Aniello-Wayman: A Portrait in Philanthropy By Debbie Hall
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nne Aniello-Wayman is a successful business woman, wife, mother, pet mom, mentor and philanthropist. She credits many people for her inspiration to succeed both professionally and personally and is instrumental in giving back to her community. Her family moved to Las Vegas in 1963 where her parents started and operated a very successful business. “My father recruited me into the business while I was working at Valley Hospital in my 20s. He advised me that insurance (protection of people and their assets) was a very rewarding career. I found the business interesting due to the analytical aspects, the opportunity to build long-term relationships with my customers and to provide protection to those who suffered financial and other personal and business losses.� After living and working in the Bay area, Aniello-Wayman Anne Aniello-Wayman
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EATSHOPGIVE returned to Las Vegas in 1996 to continue her career. Today she is employed with Kaercher Campbell Insurance Brokerage, one of the oldest, largest independent brokerage firms in Nevada. “I’m quite proud of my work in Silicon Valley because it was such a booming and challenging time in my career,” Aniello-Wayman said. “It was literally at the biggest time in the technology boom. That is where I really learned about corporate insurance and risk management.” She, along with her mentor and husband, Mark Wayman, are very active in supporting many local charities including Make-A-Wish, Opportunity Village, Olive Crest, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Adam’s Place for Grief, Safe Nest and Clark County Medical Society Alliance. She was named after her aunt who died of heart disease at an early age and explained, “I am also a big supporter of American Heart Associations’ Go Red for Women and I have recently joined United Way Women’s Leadership Council.” As for her inspiration, Aniello-Wayman stated, “First, all single parents inspire me. I know first-hand the sacrifices and hard work it takes to raise children alone and the responsibility involved in order to give them the best opportunities to thrive in the world. I admire my sister, Janice Portaro, for her strength. She is the most gracious, empathetic woman I know despite the fact that life has dealt her and her family the most devastating of losses. “Growing into adulthood I read books about women that I admired; Benazir Bhutto (The Daughter of Destiny). She was the first woman in Pakistan to head a major political party and suffered immeasurably for the fight for Democracy. She later lost her life because of her unwillingness to give up the fight.” She added that as a “business mentor, Patti Hart, CEO of IGT, is the hardest working, goal-oriented woman I have met. She has also brought jobs back to Nevada. “I have served on committees with Patti, Dawn Gibbons, Tammy Shaw and Mary Krevosh and I admire these women for their philanthropic endeavors, their positive attitudes and for showing grace under fire. These are a few of the women that stand out in my world and those who have similar goals and that I share a sense of camaraderie.” In her personal life, Aniello-Wayman is newly married and has three children and three dogs. Being a former competitive triathlete; fitness has always been a big part of her life as well as a love of food and entertaining. She enjoys hiking in the mountains, boating and practicing Yoga. Her personal philosophy is that, “I don’t consider myself a wealthy person. However, it is not a requirement to give to charities because there are so many people who are in need and that require our help. Someone always has less and needs our help so I consider it my social responsibility to give back to this community. We believe that for whom much is given, much is required. My belief for charity is to ‘keep it local.’ Nevada was hit hard by the recession. I believe in Nevada and for our future.”
Rudolph the cook AT christmas
Mark and Anne at Governor’s Ball
Jessica Brimhall, Jeana Aniello, Anne Aniello, John Brimhall, Amelia Amiri
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Give Back Before Buying This Season By Sherry Swensk
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t’s the season of giving and most shoppers are focused on buying something shiny and new for those on their holiday list. But if you pride yourself as the conservationists you’ve worked long and hard to become, then you know giving back through reusing or recycling is even more satisfying this time of year. Before joining the crazed crowds, first declutter your conscience and take a look in your stuffed drawers, closets and cabinets at home. You can quickly make a list of naughty and nice possessions begging for a new purpose in life. For instance, if you’re like me, you are hoarding jeans that you’ll probably never slip your hips into again. Let them go. And don’t hesitate to donate even if they’re rag-tag because many charities will sell the material to a recycler, where the denim gets repurposed into high-quality, post-consumer products like denim insulation. The building material is used in green LEED-certified construction like the Molasky Corporate Center. Check out this link if you’d like to send your faded glories directly to the cause, bluejeansgogreen.org. Another outgrown and often forgotten garment: old bras. I’ve got scads of them stuffed in the back of my lingerie drawers. Bra Recyclers is working to “reshape” the environment one hooter
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harness at a time by keeping them out of the landfill and putting them on the torsos of women in underserved communities. They’ve started a BRAVolution by sending their donated inventory to registered agencies around the world to be worn again. You can send your gently used undergarments to the Bra Recyclers at brarecycling.com. All of us have old, unidentifiable keys collecting dust around the house. While you don’t have a clue what they unlock anymore, they are made of valuable metal and many local scrap metal recyclers will buy them. Find them at earth911.com. Got kids? Then no doubt you find oodles of broken or lonely crayons stuffed between sofa cushions, at the bottom of the toy box or even in the washing machine! There is a National Crayon Recycle Program that can make them new and useful again. Crazy Crayons have kept nearly 100,000 pounds of the unwanted petroleumbased color sticks out of landfills. Getting your kids involved in collecting the old ones is a fun, educational project that helps save the planet, one crayon at a time. Visit crazycrayons.com to learn more. Wine is always a great gift during the holidays, and just think of the all the corks that get popped and tossed in the
trash. This year, adorn your bottle of bubbly with a nifty tag that says, “Don’t forget to ReCork.” ReCORK (recork. org) is North America’s largest wine cork recycling effort having collected more than 45 million corks and turning them into lots of useful eco-friendly products or mulched and used again to make new sustainable stoppers. There are so many unassuming items around your house that can be recycled or reused: everything from cotton swabs, to used Brita water filters, to rechargeable batteries. Don’t forget the Back to Mac cosmetics containers buyback program. And even those squishy, recyclable Styrofoam packing peanuts have local drop-off sites and a Peanut Hotline! Thank you Plastic Loose Fill Council. Take some time to put the planet at the top of your list. While it may take some extra thought and energy, giving new purpose to so much of what we already have, instead of tossing it in the trash, will be the best gift you can give this season. Sherry Swensk produces the daily segment “Living Green for Las Vegas” for 8 News Now. Read her blog at green. lasvegasnow.com. Stay up to date with Sherry on Facebook and Twitter Facebook.com/SherrySwensk and @SherrySwensk
“UNLV is vital to the sustainability of our community. Like McDonald’s, we are about giving back to the community we serve. As a UNLV alumna and a member of the Foundation Board of Trustees, we are huge advocates of the University. Our Lewis Family Foundation is honored to support the UNLV Foundation.” Jennifer Lewis ‘11, Director of Operations and Tina Lewis, Matt Griffith, general manager of Smith & Wollensky with Executive Sous Chef Luis Flores. McDonald’s Franchisee Owner/Operator, The HRL Group, LLC
Unrestricted support for UNLV provides unique educational opportunites for our students. These Academic Corporate Council members support UNLV through Annual Fund gifts of $5000 or more. Above Marketing Group American Pacific Corporation Arnold Palmer Golf Management AT&T Back Bar USA Bank of America Nevada Barrick Goldstrike Mines, Inc. BNY Mellon Wealth Management Boulevard Invest LLC dba Miracle Mile Shops BrightSource Energy Cashman Equipment CB Richard Ellis CenturyLink Citibank Nevada Core Construction Credit One Bank Doctor’s Express DB’s Pong and Pool Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant•Wine Bar Fogo de Chão Las Vegas
G.C. Wallace, Inc. Global Gaming Business Greater Las Vegas Association of Realtors Jamba Juice Kittrell Garlock & Associates Konami Gaming, Inc. Las Vegas Woman Magazine Manpower of Southern Nevada Martin-Harris Construction National Security Technologies, LLC Nevada Beverage Company Nevada State Bank Northwestern Mutual Las Vegas, Inc. NV Energy Pardee Homes of Nevada Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers Real Water Renaissance Las Vegas Hotel Renu Oil of America, Inc. Republic Services of Southern Nevada S3H, Inc.
For more information, please contact the Annual Giving team at 702-895-2838 or visit us at foundation.unlv.edu
Senteo SH Architecture Sletten Construction of Nevada, Inc. Smith & Wollensky Southern Wine & Spirits of Nevada Southwest Airlines Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging Centers The Coffee Bean And Tea Leaf The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas The Howard Hughes Corporation The HRL Group, LLC Thomas & Mack Company TLC Enterprises, Inc. Magoo’s Gaming Group UBS Financial Services United Healthcare USAA Savings Bank Wells Fargo Foundation Wirtz Beverage Nevada Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining Group
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Technology: Women in the Forefront Las Vegas Woman magazine, in partnership with hiTech Vegas and Women in Media Mentoring Initiative, are pleased to honor the contributions of inspiring women blazing trails in a previously unrecognized, yet vital, sector of our business community. Please join us in celebrating the achievements and contributions of these luminaries in the Las Vegas tech industry.
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High Tech Mentor: Dr. Janet Runge
High Tech Woman of the Year: Amy Jo Martin
Janet Runge, Ph.D. is a pioneer in creating challenging and unconventional ways for University of Nevada Las Vegas students to channel their entrepreneurial spirit. She is the founder, architect and coordinator of the school’s undergraduate four-year scholarship Global Entrepreneurship Experience and Founder of the UNLV Center for Entrepreneurship. Dr. Runge’s goal was to bring the intricacies of entrepreneurship to the Executive MBA curriculum. She designed and facilitates the Management of Entrepreneurial Organizations course. Due to her influence, the UNLV EMBA focus is on forward momentum. Dr. Runge mentors, coaches and inspires young female leaders in the technology space. She has volunteered weekends to coach Start Up Weekend competitors, meets with tech entrepreneurs that are struggling, and, along with UNLV students, works with Las Vegas community members. In addition, Dr. Runge served as faculty advisor for 56 entrants (18 winners/finalists) in the Governor’s Cup Business Plan Competition, receiving the inaugural Outstanding Advisor Award. Dr. Runge was recently honored by the National Association of Women Business Owners as a 2011 Woman of Distinction in Education for her efforts in entrepreneurship education.
Amy Jo Martin is the founder and CEO of Digital Royalty and Digital Royalty University, as well as a New York Times best-selling author. Founded in April 2009, Digital Royalty develops digital integration and social media strategies for corporate and entertainment brands, professional athletes, sports teams and leagues. Digital Royalty University also provides customized education programs including strategic and tactical social media training. Martin’s list of clients includes Double Tree by Hilton, Dana White, The UFC, Fox Sports and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Recently, she wrote the New York Times bestselling book, “Renegades Write the Rules,” a social media how-to and beyond. It is full of personal anecdotes from working with Shaquille O’Neal and how they came together to create @ Shaq, one of the most recognizable and original Twitter handles in the world. Martin sits on the St. Jude Digital Board of Directors and advises them on digital strategies as well as supports them with her social influence. She recently returned from a trip to Ethiopia with charity: water. Her company also has a Buy One, Give One Program through our partnership with Teach For America. For every class purchased, a teacher is invited to attend at no charge to help increase parent, student and teacher collaboration.
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High Tech Rising Star Samantha Krerowicz Samantha Krerowicz has shown dedication to acquiring a foundation of education prior to entering the technology world to follow her passion by earning her MBA from University of Nevada, Las Vegas. In addition to working for a major corporation to build experience, she worked on her own projects, often times free of charge. She continued to show dedication to her dream by taking a risk and leaving the safety of the corporate world to follow her passion. Krerowicz has faced the tough trail of building her own consulting/marketing business with bravery and expertise and has succeeded. She has experienced admirable growth in a very short period of time. Further speaking to her energy and drive, Krerowicz has overcome minor setbacks along the way, taking them in stride as part of being an entrepreneur. She is regard highly for her overwhelming capability to connect people with each other and provide the services they need.
Photo by Emily Wilson
High Tech Rising Star Honorary Mention Jen McCabe Over the last two years, Jen McCabe has launched a startup, served as Chief Ops Bot for the highly successful Romotive and started her own enterprise in the realm of 3-D printing—Fabbed Labs. The Y Combinator alum has already left an indelible mark on the Las Vegas tech scene. A fan of the messy, early stuff: pre-production research and design (ID), RFQ (manufacturing), sourcing manufacturers (production), research (new market development), business case planning, discovery/MVP, pricing and distribution strategy, launch (Kickstarter, web, key retail + etail accounts from Apple stores to bestbuy. com), post-launch analysis and expansion, McCabe loves to dig in and get her hands dirty. An innovative and bold leader, McCabe is the rare tech entrepreneur who embraces challenge and gets excited transforming the impossible into the doable.
High Tech Community Service Susan Hinton
High Tech Entrepreneur Jennifer Gosse
Susan Hinton is heavily involved in the tech community including hosting the Downtown Podcast and SYN Shop Talk podcast as well as helping to organize /usr/lib and Maker Faire. A natural mentor and community builder, Hinton dedicates time to teach classes for Girls in Tech and SYN Shop, and mentors others who show promise and interest in technology. Hinton is noted for ease with people and a generous desire to share her knowledge and experience. Her extensive list of awards include: AIMIA Awards finalist 2006, 2007; ATOM Awards finalist 2006; Victoria University - Special Achievement Award 2005; Victoria University - Outstanding Academic Achievement 2005 and Victoria University - Nominated for TAFE Student of the Year 2005.
Jennifer Gosse has been a leader in the #VegasTech community since it first started to blossom. She has mentored community members, developed great products with namechk.com and tracky.com, hired awesome talent and has been a trusted leader in the community. Having founded and developed several companies, Gosse is well versed in taking an idea through to funding and launch and then developing the marketing and branding strategy that support and propel scalability and growth. Comfortable being hands-on and switching hats at a moment’s notice when needed, Gosse represents the essence of a true entrepreneur. Always open to pitch in when the local startup community asks, Gosse has become a go-to advisor known and respected as much for her business acumen as her warm heart and sincerity.
We would like to thank the following community sponsors for their support and collaboration in recognizing the groundbreaking spirit of these deserving women in the Las Vegas community. Ticketcake is a leading advocate and highly respected partner in the Las Vegas High Tech community. Downtown Project is champion in the support and nomination of many of our Women in High Tech honorees.
The Downtown Podcast is a leader in the ongoing efforts to recognize and highlight our community’s women leaders in tech.
WIMMI is an inclusive environment dedicated to the personal and career development of women in media, marketing, advertising and entertainment at all stages of their career. WIMMI’s mission is to get more women into positions of power and influence in their industries.
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Our Judges:
Photo by Audrey Dempsey/Infinity Photo
Krista Whitley Castellarin
Shavonnah Tièra
Jacqueline Jensen
Krista Whitley Castellarin was born walking fast, talking fast and thinking fast in a small town. As a serial entrepreneur, she created and grew Canada’s No. 9 fastest growing company only to have it implode due to a corporate culture that pursued profit at the expense of values. Having learned this important lesson about corporate culture, she rebounded and created a hybrid engagement firm that secured huge clients less than two weeks from the day they opened. In fact, she was pregnant for 18 of the first 24 months while she created her first company and Whitley Castellarin believes women are at a distinct advantage over men in the business world. She has been on both sides of the camera, as a reality television star on Animal Planet and with her own reality television show in Canada on the Slice network as well as winning two American Advertising Federation Addy awards for her video production work. A passionate entrepreneur and consultant, she is a shareholder in numerous companies. A naturally philanthropic person, she donates her time speaking to students in local schools about entrepreneurship and coaching new entrepreneurs. Admired and loved for her straight talking style, Whitley Castellarin pulls no punches, but instead leads with authenticity and boldness that inspire all who are fortunate enough to know her.
Shavonnah Tièra is the INTJ who helped bring Startup Weekend to Las Vegas, a key player in coordinating the inaugural Vegas GiveCamp and among a handful to organize the first vegasjelly. She had a near death experience in Thailand but recovered and now likes to give hugs in gratitude. She is a collector of people and ideas, inspiration and attitudes. She believes the word “impossible” only makes her work harder and smarter, which is why she feels like she is one of the most ambitious go-getters on the planet. Always ready for a challenge and eager to collaborate for the good of the community, Tièra has become known and loved for her talent and team spirit. Currently working with the UNLV School of Entrepreneurship, she continues to devote her time and efforts to the business leaders of tomorrow.
Jacqueline Jensen is a Founder and the COO of ticketcake.com, a natural-born doer and an enthusiastic member of the #VegasTech community. She has been a relationship builder, problem solver, social marketer, project manager and finance nerd. She was on the path to becoming a standout in the business banking world, but left to take a shot at following her own entrepreneurial ambitions. Today, she is inspired by serendipity, and the other entrepreneurs she meets along the journey, to make her dreams a reality. Coming from a very reserved upbringing, Jensen has had to defy convention to realize the potential and power of her vision. Living her dream, Jensen is an example of what hard work, dedicated will and an unwavering belief in your dream can accomplish.
We would like to thank the following community sponsors for their support and collaboration in recognizing the groundbreaking spirit of these deserving women in the Las Vegas community.
hiTech Vegas is dedicated to connecting high technology businesses in the greater Las Vegas Metro area to conduct commerce, create partnerships, foster alliances, enable business education and establish an advanced business network in the Las Vegas Metro community.
The primary mission of The Social Register of Las Vegas is to bring a higher level of business networking and socializing to Las Vegas, while providing numerous philanthropic opportunities.
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Las Vegas Woman Magazine Goes High Tech Sappsuma creates app for magazine
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ith the growth of Las Vegas Woman magazine and the need to stay connected, Sappsuma has created a new app for the magazine. Sappsuma is a mobile technology company that creates and maintains apps for businesses such as salons, restaurants and gyms to provide to their customers. An app builds customer loyalty and allows the business to maintain a relationship with customers, clients and readers. While websites, email blasts and social media are great tools; an app allows businesses to communicate with free push messaging, enables clients to automatically recommend the business on Facebook twitter and via text, has built in loyalty programs, referral bonuses, image gallery, appointment setting, special offers and an events guide. An app is a program that runs on a smart phone such as an Apple iPhone or a device running Android (Samsung
Galaxy, HTC). An app is a powerful marketing tool for business owners. Sappsuma is a full-service provider that builds, hosts, maintains and takes full operational responsibility for the app. Its customer support team provides full support via telephone and email. Sappsuma has a three-year contract with Microsoft’s Azure cloud hosting platform which means it can scale to handle any situation and our servers seldom go down. In the United Kingdom, Sappsuma developed several popular salon apps included in the hundreds of apps created and have recently opened an office in Las Vegas. Sappsuma can create an app for magazines, salons, restaurants, gyms, spas, golf clubs, bars, opticians, hotels, driving instructors, personal trainers, dentists, doctors, estate agents and many other businesses. Pricing begins at $149 with a $59 monthly fee. For more information, visit sappsuma.com.
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s e l a m Fe Fearless By Debbie Hall Photos by Connie Palen
ur Fearless Females continue to break new ground and show that women are capable of accomplishing anything. One of our Fearless Females is teaching the leaders of today and tomorrow by empowering them. Another woman is chief financial officer guiding the financial future and community relations of a company providing spirits and wine. Bravery is a part of every woman, especially as the manager of a safety patrol and a volunteer firefighter. One our fearless females develop and manage the public image of one of the largest developments in Southern Nevada.
Alexia Vernon
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Danielle Bisterfeldt
Flor Bernal
Michelle French
Females Fearless
Alexia Vernon Leading the Leaders
ecently branded a Moxie Maven by the White House and since winning the Miss Junior America competition as a college women’s studies student; Alexia Vernon has been empowering people, companies, campuses, professional associations, and community organizations to build a new generation of heart-centered, high-impact communicators and ethical leaders. Along with public speaking and executive coaching, Vernon is an author and the creator of Step Into Your Moxie, a women’s empowerment platform. She is the founder of Influencer Academy, a nine-month women’s leadership development experience. Influencer Academy is designed for rising female leaders who are ready to grow their confidence, ambition, and impact by cultivating their skills in such critical leadership areas as public speaking, coaching, interpersonal communication, persuasion, negotiation and facilitating difficult conversations. Born in southern California and raised in Seattle, Vernon received her Bachelor of Arts in women’s studies from University of Nevada, Las Vegas and attended New York University’s Gallatin School of Individualized Study where she created a Master of Arts focusing on gender studies, theatre for social change and leadership development. Vernon also completed the Core Essentials and Advanced Coaching program through Coach U and is certified with the International Coach Federation. “It wasn’t until I was in my mid-20s that I realized people could have a career as speakers, coaches and trainers,” Vernon explained. “I began my career leading professional development for an educational theatre company.” Vernon continued, “One of my co-workers told me that there was a burgeoning field of coaching. Shortly after beginning my training program at Coach U, through New York’s Step Up Women’s Network, I was able to connect with next-generation thought leader and The New York Times best-selling author, Gabrielle Bernstein. She became my first formal mentor, even though she is just a year older, and was instrumental in helping me see the many different ways I could build a business that allowed me to serve the world ‘Lex-style.’ She supported me in developing my first book proposal, attracting a larger audience to my work and developing the self-care practices to sustain me in doing this work.” As for her inspiration, Vernon admitted, “My daughter, Kaia (due end of December), is my greatest inspiration to give 100 percent to the work I know I was put on this earth to do. I want her to know she can run a Fortune 500 company, discover a cure for a debilitating illness or devise sustainable solutions to large-scale global problems. Yet what I want for her, above all else, is to look in the mirror and love the woman she sees.” One of the most profound areas of Vernon’s life is her involvement with Family and Child Treatment of Southern Nevada, a nonprofit that is providing rehabilitation and education to people impacted by the cycle of sexual and physical abuse in Southern Nevada. She served on its board and has led career coaching groups for men in their sex offender treatment program. “That has been simultaneously one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my professional life. Having been sexually abused as a child, I was hungry to be a part of the productive rehabilitation and reintegration of these men into the Las Vegas community, but I’d be lying if I said it did not bring up all kinds of old wounds for me,” Vernon said. “Still … while simultaneously teaching me that the only way to help people who have committed unspeakable acts to move on is to support them in overcoming their shame, forgiving themselves for their mistakes, identifying how they can become productive members of society and obtaining gainful employment.” Alexia Vernon demonstrates through her words and action she is truly a Fearless Female.
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Females Fearless
Danielle Bisterfeldt Definition of woman who.....
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or the last 12 years Danielle Bisterfeldt has consistently climbed the professional ladder, making a positive impact each step of the way. She has strategically advanced her career and cultivated a reputation as a topnotch professional while simultaneously giving back to her community through volunteerism and service. In 2012, Bisterfeldt took on the role of director of marketing for Summerlin, The Howard Hughes Corporation’s 22,500-acre master-planned community. It is the largest MPC in Southern Nevada, populating the western rim of the Las Vegas valley. Bisterfeldt works as a department of one to develop the vision and manage the marketing, public relations and advertising for the massive development. She is responsible for ensuring the community meets its home sales target and works closely with HHC’s executive team while also managing the contributions of her consulting advertising and public relations firms. By fostering relationships with the community’s many homebuilders, realtors, Summerlin business owners and stakeholders, she executes an aggressive multimedia platform that includes social media to keep current Summerlin residents engaged as well. Bisterfeldt was groomed in the retail industry while working on the expansion of The Fashion Show Mall under her then boss, Cyndi Crawford. She enjoyed the two years she reported to Crawford and credits Crawford with teaching her the business of leasing and property management. She also says Crawford taught her valuable lessons, including, “If you are going to say you don’t like something you should have a suggestion of how to make it better.” Bisterfeldt believes she has learned the most by watching and listening to how men and women react to each other in a business setting. “I learn by observing how people treat one another. “Treat others the way you want to be treated’ should be a mantra in the workplace not just for school children.” Bisterfeldt transitioned to HHC after making a sizeable mark as senior associate general manager for Fashion Show, the largest retail destination on the Las Vegas Strip at nearly 2 million square feet. In this role, she independently managed the Fashion Show entertainment department, which included all advertising revenue, special events and the specialty leasing program. Bisterfeldt’s large-scale property management acuity was fostered while making her mark as marketing manager for The Shoppes at The Palazzo and The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian. From 2005 through 2010, she oversaw a $5 million annual operating budget for these two unique tourism centers, which collectively house 160 retailers and more than 30 restaurants. New challenges always inspire Bisterfeldt. “I think I would have been successful no matter what industry it was. I’m really tenacious. My strength is in developing new systems and constructing strong teams. I am motivated most by meeting new challenges, applying skills and learning a new industry.” As for her personal life, when Bisterfeldt was 12 years old, her mother was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Today, Bisterfeldt is her mother’s caretaker, helping her manage her illness and other chronic ailments. As a single mother from the time Bisterfeldt was 12, her mother inspires her. She says her sister’s 11-year-old daughter also inspires her to be a better person, and Bisterfeldt takes her role as aunt very seriously. Bisterfeldt is a 2007 graduate of Leadership Las Vegas and served on the Advisory Board for Vegas Young Professionals. She chaired the MS WALK and MS BIKE for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society for Southern Nevada and actively supports numerous local organizations including Junior League of Las Vegas and Make-A-Wish. She also participates as a business council member with the Las Vegas METRO Chamber of Commerce. Through her dedication to her career and love for her family, Bisterfeldt exemplifies a Fearless Female.
Females Fearless
Flor Bernal
Overseeing the flow of money with spirits
s chief financial officer for Back Bar USA, Flor Bernal oversees the finances and operations for the company with an annual gross over $3 million. With more than 15 years of experience in the distilled spirits marketing and special programming operations, Bernal is responsible for financial reporting, sponsorship opportunities, special event production and charitable contributions to our community in collaboration with the UNLV Foundation. Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, she moved to Las Vegas with her family while in her teens and graduated from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas with a degree in accounting. “I still remember the day when my mom told us we were moving to Las Vegas to be closer to her family,” Bernal recounted. “After a 36-hour road trip, it was July 15, 1992 when I met the City of Lights. Having resided in Las Vegas for so long has taught me to stay true to myself as the lights only shine at night. I’ve learned to be grateful for every single opportunity I’ve been given.” Prior to joining Back Bar USA, Bernal served as a revenue officer of the Internal Revenue Service managing collection cases in the Small Business/ Self Employed Division. She also was the payroll manager for Angel Management Group (formerly Pure Management Group), managing a biweekly payroll run of $750,000 with 1,500 employees and also worked for Montecristo Rum during the launch period in the early 2000s. As for combining accounting with spirits for a career, Bernal explained, “I’d always liked numbers. It was destiny that I would start working in the accounting department at Southern Wine and Spirits. My manager at the time made a remark that stuck in my head about how good I was with numbers and suggested I take an accounting course. One class became a full schedule. It was then when I met Tim Haughinberry who inspired my career in the spirits industry. “Tim, whose sense and spirit of entrepreneurialism never ceases to inspire me. His knowledge and willingness to make a better community drive my interest in philanthropy. The creativity and confidence he injects those that surround him is great. “I have had many people in my career who continuously help me path the way to success, going back to my days at Pure Management Group, the CFO and Director of Human Resources.” Her parents are her inspiration, “and have always taught me the sky is the limit.” She is also inspired by Laurene Powell Jobs for being an advocate to education and immigration reform, Melinda Gates for her worldwide efforts in making a better world for children and Hillary Clinton for the run she made for the presidential office. “I’m competitive and respect those that come in first place,” she admitted. Bernal maintains active involvement in several private and community service organizations. Currently, she serves as volunteer at St. Anne Catholic School. She has previously been a part of AFAN Black & White Party committee and has worked alongside the First Friday Foundation Las Vegas. Bernal is happily married with two children and explained, “Their support has been great. Without them I could not have accomplished many of my goals.” She considers her sister her best friend and together they visit baseball stadiums with their father. She advises all women to, “never be afraid of changes, instead embrace them and learn to maneuver around so that you always accomplish your goals. Visualize your dreams on a daily basis and work hard to bring them to life.” Bernal has followed her own advice as a Fearless Female.
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Females Fearless
Michelle French
Patrolling the slopes, fighting fires
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n the world of mountain safety, Michelle French is a rare find—especially among the ski community. She is one of a handful of women throughout the United States who oversees safety programs and a national ski resort. French can be found at Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort ensuring all ski and snowboard enthusiasts have the safest visit. Visitors can see her and her team of mountain patrol staff in their signature red helping guests or teaching mountain safety programs, but it is what guests don’t see that makes French one of the top females in her industry. Her many job titles include manager, national ski patrol volunteer patrol; manager, Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort Mountain patrol and assistant manager, Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort Snow Safety. At LVSSR, French is responsible for the training, scheduling and management of approximately 100 individuals with the National Ski Patrol Volunteer Patrol, as well as overseeing the seasonal staff LVSSR Mountain Patrol. Her primary duty of avalanche mitigation often goes unnoticed to the average visitor. It is during this daily routine that French records weather observations and prepares avalanche forecasts for the ski area. If the situation requires, she leads her team to carry out a variety of avalanche control methods including explosive mitigation, Howitzer gun control and ski cutting techniques. In fact, French is one of 12 individuals trained to use the Howitzer gun, the famed WWII weapon that is only used as an avalanche mitigation tool in 28 national ski resorts. She was named LVSSR’s Employee of the Year during the 2011/12 season and received the Angel Award prior to becoming a patroller for assisting in saving a patient experiencing cardiac arrest. She loves working at LVSSR because she is often a part of a visitor’s first experience with skiing and sometimes even seeing snow. “I love to be in the mountains, I also love to ski, so it was the perfect fit,” French stated. French moved to Las Vegas a little over 37 years ago after visiting her older brother while he was stationed at Nellis Air Force Base. It wasn’t long at all before French took up skiing. She credits two women in her life for guiding her. Her first mentor/role model was her mother, Lauretta Johns. Her mother supported five children with the income she made from the beauty salon she owned in the south side of Chicago. She also worked as a waitress in the evenings. “Her long hours and work ethic was passed along to me and all my siblings.” French explained. “Over the years we all worked in this family business. She was an example to us; never give up no matter what life throws at you. Throughout the years she transformed herself into different job professions until she retired at age 70ish.” Her second mentor/role model is her sister, Peggy Chapman. “She also instilled in me to never give up on my dreams and be all that you can be. We owned a repossession company together for 19 years and still have a very close relationship. It’s not always easy to own and run a business with family members.” French resides in Lee Canyon with her husband, (who also works in the ski area), cat and ski-partner dog. In the off season, French is a volunteer firefighter and EMT for the Mt. Charleston Volunteer Fire Department, where she also serves as treasurer. This past summer, her volunteer department assisted for 12 days in fire fighting and patrol during the Carpenter One Fire, where they defended 15 buildings against the blaze and saved a small kitten. As French proves with her passion and skill, she is truly a Fearless Female.
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In the City Fall 2013 Release Party
The biggest Doctors of the Desert issue of Las Vegas Woman was published in Fall 2013 and the release party celebrated this achievement. Held at Canyon Gate Country Club, guests mixed and mingled. As the sun set on one of the most beautiful views in Las Vegas, the mood was uplifting at the milestone accomplished by Las Vegas Woman magazine. Photography by Scott Kramer Photography
Vintage Vegas
Las Vegas Woman magazine transported Garfield’s Restaurant to the Roaring 20s with its Vintage Vegas night. The dapper gentlemen and the flapper ladies came out to speakeasy to laugh, dance and sample some “bootleg” drinks. Fortunately, everyone knew the secret password and the party continued into the night before the feds came. Photography by Scott Kramer Photography
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In the City Las Vegas’ Largest Mixer
The Las Vegas’ Largest Mixer was held Sept. 17 at Texas Station. Las Vegas Woman magazine sponsored the lounge with music by High Flyin’ Entertainment along with business and organizations showcased in the expo hall. Attendees mixed and mingled with the hundreds of industries and companies represented, enjoyed food and drink and made new contacts. Photography by Tonya Harvey
To have your event photos considered, please email Debbie@lvwomanmagazine.com. WINTER 2013 | lvwomanmagazine.com
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In the City Opening of Let’s Talk About Your Hair
Let’s Talk About Your Hair recently opened it second location with special guest Nick Arrojo debuting his new hair care line. The luxurious salon combines a diversity of stylists and clients to offer a range of beauty from classic to edgy. This is its second location in Southern Nevada with salons located nationwide. Photography by Scott Taber
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Let’s Talk About Your Hair: It is all about the strands
By Debbie Hall
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et’s Talk About Your Hair is a vision created by master stylist and award-winning salon owner Peter Anthony Wynn, CEO and founder. The salon was designed as a total experience boutique with a diversity of stylists incorporating upcoming trends in hair, along with timeless classic cuts and latest beauty products, trends, and professional education. With salons nationwide; the grand opening of its second location in Las Vegas was held in October and Wynn felt, “amazing and really grateful. The community has been very accepting of us and we intend to give back to the community.” As for his vision, Wynn said, “We thought this would be an amazing culture to bring to the professional hair industry. It is a fusion of independent stylists and training.” During the grand opening, celebrity stylist Nick Arrojo debuted his new line, Arrojo. Best known for appearing in the television show, “What Not to Wear,” Arrojo demonstrated his product and styling techniques before the opening. “My new line is very extensive with professional products and the goal was to give the right tools to create the kind of hairstyles I like,” Arrojo said. His line includes five shampoos and conditioners, including the SHINE LUXE line which is sulfate and paraben free. The product line was created for shine, luxury and restores softness and manageability with macadamia and grape seed oil and lightly scented with black orchid. He also offers a dry shampoo product that comes in an aerosol that removes the residue as well as adds texture and volume to the hair. “I am a huge fan and supporter of his product, his brand and his integrity as well as his education; it is amazing,” said Wynn, who has known and worked with Arrojo for years. “Every product I create, I work with the best chemists in America. I
work with six different manufacturing plants and develop the products to the specification that I know will work for me and my salon in New York City. We service 1,000 clients per week, so it is a very busy salon and it is a really great test market. We know if the products work in my salon, it will work in any salon around America,” Arrojo explained. “We have 200 salons in America that are carrying the line and it is tied completely to education. The Arrojo line is about education for the stylist which means a better hair experience to each and every client no matter where they are located.” Wynn also believes in the total salon experience and wants to understand everyone’s feelings after every visit. He and his staff travel the world to share and gather the latest ideas and the finest products available. As for giving back, recently over three days more than 200 women and children from the Shade Tree shelter were bused in to the salons and treated to a free haircut, color and style with products donated by Redken for the inaugural Become A Champion event. More than 50 people volunteered their time during the event to assist the hair stylists, set up the food and give manicures to the women while they were waiting to get their hair done. Wynn said that he plans to extend the event for one week and help more 1,000 women from Shade Tree. Let’s Talk About Your Hair 10300 W. Charleston Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89135 702.952.2222 7500 W Lake Mead Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89128 702.360.9700 letstalkaboutyourhair.com WINTER 2013 | lvwomanmagazine.com
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Local Ladies
Achievement. Motivation. Growth. Theresa Fette is the chief executive officer and partner of Provident Trust Group, a trust and self-directed IRA custodian, specializing in alternative investments. She is nationally recognized for her expertise in domestic and international income and estate tax planning for the high net worth individuals including tax planning for the sale of an appreciated asset. She was recognized in 2012 as one of Fortune’s most powerful women entrepreneurs and is a leader in the Las Vegas’ Entrepreneur Organization chapter.
Madga Hirsch has been promoted to director of fund development at Goodwill of Southern Nevada. She brings more than 17 years of nonprofit experience in program development, accreditation, fundraising and donor relations. Her professional affiliations include the Association of Fundraising Professionals and the Grant Professionals Association. Additionally, she has earned a Certified in Volunteer Administration credential and currently serves on the CVA Peer Assessment Committee.
Toby O’Brien has been hired as chief marketing officer for 777 Gaming Inc. She currently manages the marketing for Casuarina Casino at Westin Las Vegas and Carson Station Hotel Casino in Carson City. O’Brien frequently presents at national gaming marketing conferences and has published casino marketing articles in industry trade magazines including Native American Casino, Indian Country Today, IGWB, Casino Journal, Strictly Slots and Casino Player.
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Crystal Petrello, MS RD LD, has teamed up with a group of personal trainers and behavior therapists to create ReNew Life – Las Vegas, guiding participants through a free weight loss program. She owns the dietary consulting firm Crystal Clear Wellness & Nutrition and co-authored “But I’m Hungry.” Petrello is the delegate for the Nevada affiliate for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, spokesperson for Physicians’ Committee for Responsible Medicine for Las Vegas and the Nevada Dietetic Association and the delegate associate for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics for Nevada.
Tiffany Andersen, medical aesthetician and holistic health practitioner, has launched Gavee Gold non-toxic skin care line with a portion of proceeds to benefit the breast cancer awareness program, “Send me on Vacation” in honor of her mother, Marsha Marie Leitner, who lost the fight in 1998. Andersen, who survived cancer as well as a car accident that nearly left her paralyzed, has released a biography, “Finding Faith” along with hosting a television series to raise awareness about health of the skin.
Cynthia Vespia is a Las Vegas native who has released her latest thriller, “Lucky Sevens” and will donate a portion of the proceeds to benefit the Colon Cancer Program at Cedars-Sinai in honor of her father, Charles Vespia Jr., an entertainer on the Las Vegas Strip for 20 years who lost his battle in late 2012. She is also penning a new self-help/ training manual on how to overcome grief through exercise and nutrition.
Helene Neville is a 53-year-old four-time cancer survivor, nurse, fitness coach, transcontinental runner, nationally known speaker and author of two books: “Nurses In Shape: The Right Dose!” and “One on the Run – 93 Days Across America.” In 2010, she ran from California to Florida and in 2013 from Vancouver to Mexico. From these journeys, she organized the 2013 National Nurses Health Institute Speaker Series and National Nurses Half Marathon and 5K Race in Las Vegas.
Houldsworth Russo & Company recently promoted Jessica Sayles, CPA to principal. She has been with Houldsworth, Russo & Company since 2007 and previously was an audit manager. Sayles is a UNLV graduate with a Bachelor of Science in business administration with an accounting focus and a Master of Science in accountancy. She is a licensed accountant in Nevada.
Sheri Goldstrom handles all the Goldstrom family ventures, museum, car collection, Nostalgia Street Rods and charitable efforts. At the beginning of the business, Goldstrom earned her commercial driver’s license and hauled debris and scrap from the Goldstrom Enterprises demolition of the Stardust, Dunes and Hacienda hotel and casinos. A picture on the wall of her office shows her standing next to an 18-wheel 1989 Peterbilt with a 13-speed transmission that she can operate.
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Anita Mann, owner of Anita Mann Productions, is the producer, director and choreographer for “FANTASY” at the Luxor (celebrating 14 years) and has most recently produced and directed a show starring NFL Hall of Fame Quarterback Terry Bradshaw at The Mirage Hotel & Casino. She runs a company comprised of all women and has been honored by the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences as one of America’s top five contemporary choreographers. She is the recipient of six Emmy nominations including one Emmy Award win.
Latoya Holman has opened the Blowout Dollhouse in The Market LV at Tivoli Village; influenced by Holman’s passion for cute tea shops and the regular need to straighten her curly hair. Holman’s professional background is in human resources, marketing and public relations, community outreach and national LGBT advocacy. As a national board member of the Human Rights Campaign and a leader for the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, Holman connected her creativity and business knowledge with her passion to care for others. JuveRest LLC co-founder, Dr. Goesel Anson, a nationally recognized and top-ranked Las Vegas plastic surgeon who specializes in facial aesthetics, recently debuted her invention, JuveRest The Sleep Wrinkle Pillow, to national audiences on QVC. The uniquely shaped, patented pillow is designed to provide comfortable support while reducing facial compression during sleep which, over time, causes facial wrinkles. Dr. Anson spent more than five years developing JuveRest as an easy and logical addition to good skin care. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was recently held for the grand opening and expansion of Bodybuilding. com, an online sports nutrition store, into Southern Nevada. Bodybuilding.com executives presented a check for $2,500 for the annual Keeping Kids Fit 5K Race and 1 Mile Walk event hosted by Vegas PBS.
Dr. Nicole Dalessadro joins the newly formed Desert Institute of Specialty Care in Las Vegas. A podiatric surgeon recruited from the Philadelphia VA Medical Center, she specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of foot disorders. Her areas of expertise include foot and ankle, surgical procedures, diabetes, wound care and sports medicine. Desert Institute of Specialty Care plans to further expand its specialty services with the addition of general orthopedics and internal medicine specialists.
Cher Hale, program director for Influencer Academy, with a goal of teaching women how to make change through business savvy and communication, raised more than $3,300 for the nonprofit Hero School, which educates students and the homeless how to achieve their goals and transform their lives. What inspired Hale was a homeless man who approached her for money. Instead, she bought him lunch and listened to his story, which led her to raise awareness and money to help the homeless. With more than 20 years’ experience in the furniture industry as an interior designer, furniture buyer and showroom owner; Jill Thomson has opened Jill Thomson Design. She recently completed a full remodel of Wayne Newton’s former residence within 30 days using many local businesses. She was inspired by her father, designer Milton Homer and would attend furniture markets with her father, read Architectural Digest and developed her skills in the industry at a young age.
Melissa Garcia Silva
C
omprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada’s pediatrics division received a donation of handmade fleece blankets from students at Innovations International Charter School of Nevada. One of the IICSN students who helped make the blankets, Melissa Garcia Silva, is a junior and a current pediatrics patient at CCCN. CCCN will use the blankets for pediatric patients receiving treatment for cancer or serious blood disorders. Garcia Silva was diagnosed with T-cell lymphoma in 2012. According to Garcia Silva, she helped make the blankets because she enjoys giving back to the community and she wanted to do something nice for the other patients at CCCN. After she graduates from high school, Garcia Silva would like to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a goal of becoming a doctor.
Claudia Balfe-Taylor is now offering her public relations consulting services to small businesses. Her experience includes branding, website development, event planning, social media management, copywriting, editing and strategic planning for public relations campaigns. She has also launched Hot Yoga Revitalized, which offers Yoga Alliance certified teacher trainings to individuals and hot yoga studios and Balfe-Taylor is currently planning trainings in Australia and Mexico as well as a yoga retreat in Panama.
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Melanie Bash, brings more than 25 years of experience to her current position as Vice President of Development at Easter Seals Nevada. Previously, Bash worked as the director of events and corporate sponsorships for Eleven Spa Vegas, director of events and conferences at The White House in Las Vegas. A graduate of California State University Northridge, Bash is also active in the International Special Events Society, the Convention Services Association, the American Marketing Association and the Las Vegas Hospitality Association. Francie Stocking has been named chief executive officer for Western Risk Insurance. Stocking previously served in leadership roles at Western Risk for 12 years, most recently as chief operations officer. Stocking was named the Las Vegas Insurance Professional in 2008 and has two decades’ professional experience with expertise in underwriting and sales. She has earned the Certified Insurance Service Representative, Certified Professional Insurance Woman, Certified Apartment Supplier, Construction Risk and Insurance Specialist and Certified Insurance Counselor designations.
Longtime resident Kelley Thomas, owner of Kelley’s Kreations, designs Barbie, Ken and American girl doll clothes for gifts and other occasions. She started her business while making doll clothes for fun while recovering from a major illness. She also owns Sin City Pet Clothes, creating clothing for pets. Thomas does not allow her disability to prevent her from working numerous vendor fairs and events each year as well as maintaining the business online. Amy French is a loan officer with Castle & Cooke Mortgage at the company’s newest branch office. French works on behalf of home buyers, optimizing their opportunities through collaboration with realtors. After five years of zigzagging across the United States and Canada as a corporate trainer, French established her own mortgage broker company before joining Castle & Cooke.
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Mother and daughter team Jessica Poole and Renee Poole hold estate sales and own a 12,000-square-foot warehouse filled with estate liquidation items. The team has announced the opening of their auction house at their warehouse location. Renee Poole has been an estate liquidator for over 25 years known as Call Renee Estate Liquidation and Jessica Poole joined the business when they opened the estate liquidation warehouse known as Not Just Antiques. Las Vegas native Michelle Gott is a versatile, award-winning harpist active in the United States and Canada. When she was 13 years old, she performed for the opening week of the Bellagio with her mother, Caryn Wunderlich Gott. In December, Michelle Gott will return to perform in the Conservatory at the Bellagio. She is a graduate of Juilliard and has played with the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the National Arts Centre Orchestra, on Broadway and at Lincoln Center. Brenda Prinzavalli, nationally known speaker, author, organizing strategist, consultant and Vegas’ FOX5-TV organization editor has released her book, “31 Days to an Organized Life: Regain Your Sanity in Just One Month of Simple Actions.” As president of Balanced Organizing Solutions, a professional organizing service, she offers on-site and virtual consulting, upbeat presentations and corporate workshops that encourage audiences to transform their personal and professional lives through mastery of behaviors that lead to control of their actions and environment. The Ferraro Group, a statewide public relations and public affairs firm, recently announced the addition of award-winning, veteran journalist and communications professional Amanda Llewellyn as the firm’s newest account executive. In her new role, Llewellyn will be responsible for developing and overseeing public relations efforts for clients, creating marketing strategies, and handling media relations, social media coordination and community relations campaigns.
Patricia Lee, a Partner with Hutchison & Steffen, has become the first Nevada attorney to receive the American Bar Association’s national Pro Bono Publico Award for her demonstrated outstanding commitment to volunteer legal services for the poor and disadvantaged. Lee, one of three attorneys in the country to receive the award this year, was honored at the Pro Bono Publico Awards Assembly Luncheon during the ABA Annual Meeting. Lee forged a unique partnership to formally adopt an entire practice group (domestic violence), ensuring that all such cases would be handled completely and effectively. This marked the first time a law firm had ever adopted an entire Legal Aid practice group.
Nancy Momcilovic, Esq. is president of Firm Revenue Cycle Management Services, Inc., which works with hospital providers across the country. She received her dual undergraduate degrees in psychology and business administration from Marquette University and her Juris Doctor degree from the William S. Boyd School of Law. Momcilovic has more than 20 years of experience in receivable management for healthcare entities and has dedicated her career to assisting hospitals resolve challenging revenue cycle obstacles.
Vegas PBS announced Shauna Lemieux has been named communications and brand manager for the station. In her new position, Lemieux will develop and implement strategic communication plans to support the mission and goals of Vegas PBS, oversee brand development and direct and manage all public relations, advertising, design and production activities. Lemieux graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and a Master of Arts degree. Lemieux is a member of the Association for Business Communication, Southwest U.S. Region.
To nominate a Local Lady email Debbie@lvwomanmagazine.com
Women of NAIOP Southern Nevada Chapter
Sallie Doebler, Jennifer Turchin, Dana Berggren, Jennifer Levine, Katrina Bruce, Suzette LaGrange
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omen of NAIOP Southern Nevada Chapter, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association, include: Sallie Doebler is the director of Business Development for Nevada for the Jaynes Corporation. Doebler was the 2011 president for the NAIOP Southern Nevada Chapter, served on the board of directors for more than seven years and currently co-chairs NAIOP’s Government Affairs Committee. She has received NAIOP Southern Nevada’s Associate Member of the Year Award and NAIOP Corporate’s national Volunteer of the Year award. A senior consultant with Sellen Sustainability and a principal with Coda Architecture, Jennifer Turchin is a licensed architect focusing on sustainability and LEED projects. She is the 2013 president of the USGBC Nevada, chair of the NAIOP Developing Leaders Institute Committee and co-chair of the AIA Committee on the Environment. Dana Berggren is vice president of the Office Group at Avison Young. She has achieved her CCIM designation and promotes sustainability and green building as a LEED AP. She serves on the Board of Directors for NAIOP Southern Nevada and received the NAIOP Southern Nevada Chapter Broker of the Year award for 2013, Office Broker of the Year in 2010 and 2012 and Associate Member of the Year in 2012. Jennifer Levine is an industrial real estate broker at Voit Real Estate Services. She graduated from NAIOP’s Developing Leaders Institute in 2008, has chaired the Education Committee since 2010 and now also serves on the Developing Leaders Institute Committee. Katrina Bruce is the president of Alternative Management that provides full-service management to NAIOP and other nonprofit associations. Bruce was honored with NAIOP’s Chapter Merit Award for Outstanding Contribution by a Chapter Executive in 1996, 2008 and 2012. With Colliers International, Suzette LaGrange’s accomplishments include NAIOP Southern Nevada Chapter, 2013 Associate Member of the Year; Leadership Las Vegas Class of 2013; NAIOP National 2007 Emerging Leader Award Recipient; and NAIOP Southern Nevada Chapter, 2007 Office Team of the Year. She has been on the NAIOP Board of Directors since 2004.
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mars vs. venus By Rev. Thabiti
The Touchdown vs. The Touch up
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f we exist within the so-called “Game of Life,” then the natural or obvious objective for us all is to win the game. Some might say, “It is not the cards you’re dealt but how you play the hand.” Others might say, “You will never get to second base if you’re keeping one foot on first base in an effort to play it safe.” Or maybe others might say, “You cannot win the lottery if you don’t purchase a ticket.” What they’re all saying is we have to get into action and go for it or else we have no chance to win. On the field of everyday life, to score a touchdown requires strategic advantage and enough maneuverable skill to get the ball all the way downfield against the opposing forces. The closer we get the ball to the goal line, the meaner and more determined the defense becomes to stop us. This is what is happening in your everyday life when it seems like everything is trying to stop you from reaching your personal goals. The point is if you are experiencing strong adversity, then life is probably telling you that you are near the goal line for a big score. Enough persistence and determination is all you need to win every time. The touchdown is like the masculine principle because in order to be born we all must score the ultimate touchdown of being the first sperm cell to reach the mother’s egg because there are no second or third place prizes if we miss. The touch up represents the feminine principle. The touch up is what causes things to look improved or better. The touchup is commonly used whenever someone is trying
to sell a used car or home because it helps justify a higher selling price. A touchup using hair coloring can make a person look younger than they normally do or wear high heels to look taller. Using cosmetics for a touch up can make can make a person look more attractive by enhancing their features. The nature of the touch up is to make things look cleaner, newer or more appealing. Therefore, if “presentation is everything” in the Game of Life then we need to apply those touch ups wherever we can or we will never score the touchdown.
Rev. Thabiti is the CEO at thepower.com, executive director at thepower.org and is the inventor of the personal time-map system. He also officiates at weddings and funerals and can be contacted directly at ceo@thepower.com.
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IDEAS FOR GIVING DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON By Taylor Makakoa
T
he weather is getting colder, the leaves are falling from the trees, (or at least they would be if we weren’t in Las Vegas), and that means that the holiday season is almost here. To me the season means so many things: gettogethers with family and friends; decorating the house (which Terry and I start in August, no use waiting ‘til the last minute); and most of all, it’s a time of giving. Terry and I always have a great time shopping for presents for our “real” family and our extended show business family; it’s our way to show those who mean so much to us that we
are thankful for having them be part of our lives. But in addition, I truly believe one of the great gifts during the holiday season is the gift of time. There are so many distractions during the year while I’m working and simultaneously finishing my degree that I make it a point during the holidays that Terry and I turn off the iPads and iPhones and enjoy giving each other our undivided attention … assuming our dogs let us. And there is a third type of giving that I believe in—it’s giving to those who I may have never met in person but who are in need of help and support, especially at this time of year. A friend of mine introduced me to the practice of donating in lieu of gifts. I thought it was genius, and now most of our family joins us in our new tradition. Regardless of how you chose to give and celebrate the holidays, here’s hoping that all of us in the Las Vegas community can keep the holiday spirit 365 days a year. Taylor Makakoa is model and performer in Terry Fator: The Voice of Entertainment live at The Mirage
DEAR DAO Dao Vu answers your most interesting, intimate and outthere questions about love, life and everything in between Dear Dao, My sister’s baby shower was four months ago. In order to buy an expensive gift on her registry, my other two brothers and I decided to purchase the item together. We agreed to split the cost three ways, but the purchase was made on my credit card. One brother reimbursed me on the day of the shower, but the other has not even mentioned it. I want to ask for the money since I am on a tight budget, but do not know how to ask without coming across pushy. This is not the first time he has borrowed money from me and not paid it back. I can’t help but feel I’m being taken advantage of. I’m looking for a way to ask for my money back without offending. From, Tiffany
Dear Tiffany, First, congratulations on becoming an aunt. How wonderful for you and for your sister. As for your deadbeat brother who did not reimburse you for his portion of the gift, I would absolutely say something. If this has happened to you in the past, he knows exactly what he is doing. He has established a pattern with you and it’s time to break the cycle. He obviously has no intentions of paying his portion, and you are letting him take advantage of your generosity by not saying something. There is nothing wrong with being direct, nor is there a reason to be afraid to speak up. I would say to him the next time you speak, ‘By the way you have not paid me back and the shower was four months ago. We all agreed to contribute and you have not only not paid me, but you insult me by ignoring your responsibility.’ Tiffany, if you feel like you are being taken advantage of, it means that you are! Don’t let him weasel his way out of doing what’s right when he knows he’s wrong.
Dao Vu
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s n o i t s e qu with
! e r Su
Al B.
By Debbie
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Walk us through a typical day in your shoes. From 5 a.m.-9 a.m. daily we deliver the SlowJams.com show on iHeart Radio which is a morning radio show musical presentation representing the “Soundtrack of our Generation.” Music that you make those faces as in ... Ooohh wow I remember when I was … or make you late for work! Then, I do some sort of a work out after a delicious chai tea latte and light breakfast. Shower, shave, get dressed and hit the phone lines, roll calls, check email. Head to the office to tackle the day or head to the airport to wherever I’m scheduled to be for any meetings, an event or whatever. If no event is scheduled, I typically will head off to slumberland around 9:30 p.m. unless I decide to go out socially. Have you ever purchased any As Seen on TV items? Chia Pet and a Clap On Clapper unit. Yes I did! If you could destroy a grade-school photo of yourself, what year would it be and why? It would have to be any 7th or 8th grade photos. That is probably the most awkward time facially in a growing young man’s life. You just don’t know which way it will turn out. While grocery shopping, what is your stick-in-the-cartwhen-no-one-is-looking item? The largest bag of Peanut M&Ms in the grocery store.
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If we were to look through your iPod or iPhone, what is on your hit list or playlist or favorite app? My iPod consists of Michael Buble, Faith Evans, Michael Jackson, Tony Toni Tone’, Michael McDonald, Lenny Kravitz, Sting, Tribe Called Quest, Celine Dion, The Eagles, Alx Rose (Guns n Roses), Johnny Mathis, Frank Sinatra, Janet Jackson, Ferrel, Babyface, Jay Z, Vince Neil (Motley Crew), Quincy Jones, SWV, New Edition, Lalah & Donny Hathaway, SADE, Nat King Cole, Barry White, Imagine Dragons, Chicago, Today, GUY, Yani, Mary J. Blige, Joe Cocker, The Beatles, James Taylor, Wilson Pickett, Rod Stewart, Luther Vandross, Gladys Night, Stevie Wonder,Whitney Houston, Prince, Janis Joplin, Jackie Wilson, Bob Marley, Freddie Mercury, Mick Jaggar, Al Green, Lionel Richie My fav app is Shazam.
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Do you ever play “tourist” in Vegas? If so, what is your favorite thing to do? I always do the tourist thing when friends or colleagues come to Vegas and we go to a variety of places such as Sugar Factory, Emeril Lagasse at MGM Grand or visit the Red Rock canyon. So much to do in Las Vegas. What do you do to unwind and relax? My favorite unwind and relax activity is fishing (freshwater). Let’s go! Does anyone ever mistake you for someone else? Many will mistake me for one of my dear friends as well as a great singer and crooner Christopher Williams from the movie New Jack City.
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