Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2002 | 8:19 a.m.
Mark Twain once wrote, "Out of public schools grows the greatness of a nation." Certainly our community has a growing faith in this American institution, as shown in the outpouring of support and funds garnered by the Clark County Public Education Foundation on Saturday evening.
A gala affair, the Education Hero Award dinner at Four Seasons celebrated what's best about our schools and paid tribute to Sen. Harry Reid, whose life was transformed by the power of education. Reid, a native of Searchlight, attended a two-room school in the mining community and later attended Basic High School in Henderson. His life in public service at both the state and federal levels has been filled with many actions on behalf of children and education.
Fittingly, serving on the gala committee for Reid's tribute was his former high school government teacher, Gov. Mike O'Callaghan, joined by past honoree and foundation trustee, Jim Rogers, and Sen. John Ensign, with honorary chairmen Sig Rogich, Ann Lynch and County Commissioner Erin Kenny.
Well-supported, the evening drew many leading citizens, among them Nancy and Kell Houssels, Dr. Kay Carl, Clark County School Board Trustee Shirley Barber, Rob and Maryann Dondero with Judge Ron and Leslie Parraguirre, Dr. Allen and Gladys Coles, Landra Reid, Julie Shaffer, Dr. Raj Chanderraj, Pete and Liz Gibson and Dr. Walter Rulffes.
Mingling with fellow guests during the silent auction and later at dinner were Tom and Marla Letizia, Joyce Woodhouse with Al Wittenberg, Jenny and Roger Oakes, David and Jacque Matthews and Stan Fuke. In the crowd was Penney Towers, newly-appointed CEO for the Southern Nevada Chapter of the American Red Cross, who was introduced to many guests by Ted Rodriquez, board member for the Red Cross chapter.
The Clark County Public Education Foundation, established in 1991, generates private-sector support and facilitates collaboration and alliances to ensure high-quality public education opportunities for every child. Solutions impact schools and the Clark County School District at multiple levels, from grass-roots classroom participation to systemic reform.
The grants, scholarships and initiatives developed through the foundation empower teachers and students, reduce bureaucracy, insure accountability and leverage resources.
Women's night out
Little Buddha at the Palms was bustling with talented, savvy women during In Business Las Vegas' recent Most Influential Businesswomen in Southern Nevada ceremonies. Joining the crowd of honorees were well-wishers Allen Kaercher, Terri Monsour, Toni Reiser, Mercedes Warrick, Mollie Schneider, Scott Menke, Lori Harris, Nancy Arrington, Debbie Donaldson, Suzanne Levenson and Erik Blank.
Nominated by corporate executives and community agencies alike, the honored business leaders shine in both professional endeavors and volunteer efforts.
Recognized in the program led by In Business Las Vegas' special publication editor Jennifer Robison were Janet Blumen (Foundation for an Independent Tomorrow); Brenda O'Boyle Haynes and Kim Sinatra (Park Place Entertainment); Lynn Moran (Ethel M Chocolates); Courtney Alexander (Culinary Union); Diana Bennett (Paragon Gaming); and Helen Foley (Faiss Foley Merica).
In the spotlight as well were Pattie J. Shock (UNLV Harrah's College of Hotel Administration); Rita Brandin (The Rouse Company); Molly Kay Hamrick (Coldwell Banker Premier Realty); Carla Perez (Desert Springs Hospital); Puoy Prems- rirut (Jones Vargas); Kim Cimini (MGM Grand); Stacey L. Lied (Templeton Development Corp.); Cheryl Fish (MGM MIRAGE Events); and Sharolyn Craft (Nevada Small Business Development Center).
Event sponsors included the Eastridge Group of Staffing Companies and Canyon Ranch Spa at The Venetian that provided spa packages and luxury robes to each honoree.
Greek gift
The Greeks truly have a zest for living and this weekend's Greek Food Festival is great evidence of their ability to enjoy food, wine and music. Opening on Friday evening at 5 p.m. and running Saturday noon to 11 p.m. and Sunday noon to 9 p.m., the festival is held on the grounds of St. John's Greek Orthodox Church, 5300 S. El Camino, at Jones Boulevard and Hacienda Avenue.
The church's green lawns will be transformed into a huge Greek bazaar featuring the foods of the Greek Isles, rousing music and folk dances, a sizeable shopping village and games for the children. A 30-year tradition for Las Vegas, the festival is family priced and includes activities suitable for all. For details call 248-3896.
Spanish soiree, ole
Equally tasty and supporting the arts in our community is Noche de Espana at the home of Dorothy and Donald Kemp. A benefit for the Las Vegas Performing Arts Center, the concert and dinner on Friday evening will feature Flamenco dancers, guitarists and singers, served up with a superb Spanish paella dinner. Cost is $75.
The Las Vegas Performing Arts Center (LVPAC)is a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising funds for the construction and operation of a multi-facility performing arts center for the enrichment of Southern Nevada.
The center plans to provide space for visual arts, opera, drama, ballet and music events. For further information on Noche de Espana or the LVPAC call 457-7919.
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