Third Annual Benefit Dinner raised nearly $50,000 to support U.S.VETS – Las Vegas Programs

On November 8, 2011, U.S.VETS – Las Vegas hosted the third annual “Honoring Those Who Serve” benefit dinner.  A record-breaking crowd of more than 400 people filled the ballroom at the Circus Circus – a property of MGM Resorts International.  The event featured a silent auction and raffle with luxurious prizes ranging from an Exotic Racecar Driving package and show tickets to Barry Manilow and to the exclusive encore performance of Supernatural Santana: A Trip Through the Hits.

Dan Ball, KSNV Channel 3 News Anchor, returned as the Master of Ceremonies and also served as the evening’s energetic auctioneer!  This year’s event featured an added touch – a live auction that raised $1,700 for two very sought-after prizes… two-roundtrip tickets on Southwest Airlines and a private wine tasting for 20 people at Total Wine & More!

The crowd remained uplifted with live entertainment by Chris Phillips, local headliner from the duet “Zowie Bowie!”  He shared well-known renditions including timeless hits from Neil Diamond as the crowd sung along. Throughout the evening, guitarist Robby LeBlanc also entertained the crowd with musical stylings ranging from jazz to popular cover music.

One of the highlights of the event was the recognition of local heroes. The Local Civilian Hero Award was presented to Mr. Wayne Newton. Known for his heartfelt patriotism, “Mr. Las Vegas” was chosen as the first-annual Local Civilian Hero for his service to veterans and the military and his commitment to the Southern Nevada community. Doug Bradford, Center Director of the local USO, accepted the award on Mr. Newton’s behalf.

Fifteen nominations of active duty service members and veterans were received from the community for the Local Hero Award and each nominee was recognized at the event. This year’s winner was revealed during the elegant seven-course dinner and the award was presented to CMSgt (Sel) Bradley Behling, a Bronze Star recipient and veteran of Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and New Dawn. He has worked tirelessly to improve programs and services for Southern Nevada veterans as the President of the Nellis Air Force Base “Top Three” enlisted organization.

The event was not only the organization’s most successful fundraiser to date, raising almost $50,000, but was also a memorable evening for all those who attended. It was an outpouring of support for the organization’s mission to serve veterans and also a celebration of the sacrifice and service of our nation’s heroes.

U.S.VETS – Las Vegas thanks all of our guests and supporters for

making this event a success.  We hope to see you next year!