Sunday Jazz at the Bird Viewing Preserve

Enjoy the Fall Weather with an Afternoon of Jazz

If you're seeking a relaxing way to spend your Sunday afternoon on October 15th, look no further than the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve. The preserve, renowned for its natural beauty, will transform into a haven for jazz enthusiasts as it hosts an enchanting afternoon of live music. On this special day, you can unwind while listening to the captivating tunes of local jazz musicians and enjoy the breathtaking views that envelop the area. This wonderful event will be featuring two remarkable jazz acts, the Bill Zappia Trio and BEE.


The Bill Zappia Trio

Bill Zappia is a pianist whose musical journey has taken him from the Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music to performing with an array of renowned artists and in numerous Broadway shows. His versatility, creativity, and improvisational skills have earned him a place among the jazz greats. Bill has collaborated with notable musicians, such as Scott Henderson, Ann Hampton Callaway, and Eric Marienthal. His has also performed on the Broadway stage, including notable shows like "Mama Mia," "Hairspray," and "Hats."


Yolandus Douglas Jr., affectionately known as YL, is an extraordinary drummer who has shared the stage with pop legend Barry Manilow and performed at prestigious venues worldwide. His musical odyssey extends to motion pictures, television appearances, and theater performances, including "The Color Purple Broadway Musical." YL's impeccable rhythm and soulful beats have been listened to at numerous concerts and festivals. His long list of musical collaborations includes icons like Eartha Kitt, Joe Williams, and Shirley Caesar.


Derek Jones, a bassist recognized for his mastery of the electric, fretless, and double bass, will grace the event with his skills as well. As an educator, Derek combines real-world experience with academic theory to prepare aspiring musicians for professional careers. His list of collaborators is a testament to his exceptional skills, including artists like Jeff Coffin and Nickel Creek. Since 2004, Derek has also been the bassist for Cirque du Soleil's production of "KA" at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.


BEE: The Harmonious Collective

BEE, short for Boris, Eugeny, and Eric, represents a harmonious collective of jazz artists, each bringing their unique talents to the stage.

  • Boris Shapiro: With over two decades of experience mastering jazz, Boris is known for achieving results that others believed to be impossible. His passion for the genre is evident in every note he plays.
  • Eugene Shapiro: A jazz guitarist, composer, and bandleader, Eugene holds a Master's Degree in Jazz Studies and has led the Shapiro Project for over two decades. His collaborations include sharing the stage with artists like Carl Fontana and Art Van Damme.
  • Eric Runquist: A highly accomplished bassist, Eric has been playing professionally since his teenage years. His early experience, including playing with Joe Williams at just 15, set the stage for a remarkable career marked by recordings, tours, and captivating live performances.


For a mere $20, you can secure your spot at this musical extravaganza by purchasing tickets through the City of Henderson's website, here. Whether you're an avid jazz enthusiast or just looking for a delightful way to spend your Sunday afternoon, the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve promises an unforgettable experience filled with jazz harmonies and the serene beauty of nature. Mark your calendar for Sunday, October 15th, and come enjoy the magic of live jazz at the preserve.

Las Vegas Ranked #9 for Diverse Food Scenes in the U.S.

September 8, 2025
When people think of food diversity in America, their minds usually go straight to New York City. But according to a recent study highlighted by the esteemed culinary school, Escoffier, the Big Apple doesn’t take the top spot. Instead, San Francisco claimed first place — praised for its bustling variety of cuisines and holding the title for the highest density of restaurants per capita among major U.S. cities. What’s even more exciting for us locals? Las Vegas earned the #9 spot on the list of the most diverse food cities in the country. Why Vegas Stands Out Las Vegas may be known worldwide for its neon lights and entertainment, but the dining scene is what keeps both tourists and residents hungry for more. From celebrity chef–driven restaurants on the Strip to hidden neighborhood gems serving authentic global flavors, Vegas has transformed into a true culinary destination. While seven of the top 10 cities named in the study were coastal (a trend Escoffier notes is tied to cultural diversity and a robust restaurant scene), Las Vegas proves that you don’t have to sit on the coast to experience world-class variety. Our city thrives on international influence — with dining options that range from Korean barbecue and Italian trattorias to Thai street food, upscale steakhouses, and plant-based fine dining. A Foodie Destination on the Rise Being ranked in the top 10 isn’t just a nod to the Strip’s luxury restaurants, but also to the everyday spots that locals love. With new eateries opening regularly, the Vegas dining scene continues to evolve and surprise. So, whether you’re a longtime resident or just visiting, Las Vegas offers something for every craving — proving once again that this city is more than just an entertainment capital. It’s a place where cultures, flavors, and creativity come together to make the dining experience as dynamic as the city itself.

The Power of Gratitude in Building Strong Business Relationships

September 3, 2025
In business, one truth always stands out: no one succeeds alone. Whether you’re running a small business or managing a large organization, your success is built on the connections you make. And one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to strengthen those relationships is through gratitude. At McKenna Property Management, we’ve made gratitude a core part of our culture from the very beginning. Our owner and broker, Jenni McKenna, personally hand-delivers gifts to some of our VIP agents every single month . While it may sound like a small gesture, it makes a big difference. These thoughtful touches show our VIP Agents how much we value their trust in us, collaboration, and hard work. But it’s not just about the gifts. Gratitude comes in many forms—thank-you cards, handwritten notes, or even a quick phone call to say “we appreciate you.” What matters most is the consistency and authenticity behind the gesture. Over the years, these small acts of appreciation have helped us build trust, loyalty, and long-lasting relationships that go beyond a simple business transaction. By showing genuine appreciation, we’ve created strong bonds with clients and agents alike, and those connections have allowed McKenna Property Management to grow into what it is today. If you’re a business owner or professional, here’s our tip: make gratitude part of your business strategy. It doesn’t have to be extravagant—even the simplest “thank you” can strengthen relationships and open the door to new opportunities. At the end of the day, business isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people. And people remember how you make them feel. 💙

4 Days in Las Vegas – A Local’s Guide to the Perfect Trip

August 19, 2025
Planning a trip to Las Vegas? Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the options. As locals, we know how to balance the must-see attractions with spots that many visitors miss. This four-day itinerary blends the energy of the Strip with the character of the neighborhoods beyond it, giving you a true taste of what Vegas has to offer. Day 1 – The Main Event: Everything Happening on the Strip Morning: Start with brunch at Alexxa’s in Paris Las Vegas , where the drinks come in disco balls and the atmosphere is upscale, modern, and trendy. Every Saturday and Sunday, a live DJ keeps the vibe upbeat while you enjoy brunch from 7:00 AM to 2:45 PM . Afternoon: Stroll through the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens , an ever-changing floral masterpiece perfect for photos (and a break from the casino floor). Each season the gardens transform into a different showcase of sights, sounds, scents and colors. The conservatory team changes out the design, and replant and repurpose as much of the living plant material as possible. Evening: Dinner at Din Tai Fung inside ARIA. If you’ve never tried their famous dumplings, you’re in for a treat — and yes, the chocolate xiao long bao is as good as it sounds. Night: Dance the night away at Omnia Nightclub in Caesars Palace, or if clubbing isn’t your thing, see one of the incredible Cirque du Soleil shows on the Strip! Some of our team members recommended KÀ, or Mystère. Although Absinthe is not a Cirque du Soleil production, it is another great recommendation! This one is unapologetically raunchy and hilarious- and it is for ages 18+. More show recommendations can be found at the end of this blog! Day 2 – The Arts District Morning: Grab brunch at Makers & Finders , a lively Latin café with killer coffee and a creative menu. Afternoon: Spend time exploring the Arts District’s unique shops like Alt Rebel , Spilled Milk , and Antique Alley Mall . If shopping isn’t your scene, dive into something spooky different with Zak Bagans’ Haunted Museum . And if you’re not into scary, check out the end of this blog for more exhibits/museums in Las Vegas! Evening: Dinner at Esther’s Kitchen , where fresh, handmade pasta and sourdough steal the show. Night: Head to Atomic Golf where you can explore four floors of immersive golf games, bars, food and private event spaces! Day 3 – Immersive Fun At Area 15 Morning: Start with breakfast at The Peppermill , a retro Vegas staple known for its huge portions and vintage diner vibe. Afternoon: Spend the day at AREA15 , where you can wander through the mind-bending Omega Mart , explore the Illuminarium , check out Wink World , and so much more. Evening: Dinner at Block 16 Urban Food Hall in The Cosmopolitan — a foodie paradise with everything from Momofuku to Ghost Donkey . Nightcap: End your evening with a glamorous cocktail or mocktail at The Chandelier Bar inside The Cosmopolitan. Day 4 – Vegas Local + Tourist Combo Morning: Breakfast at The Broken Yolk Café . A favorite amongst Vegas Locals with multiple locations throughout the valley! They serve up an amazing breakfast with unique drinks. Afternoon: Choose between hiking the Historic Railroad Trail (Lake Mead views!) or exploring the stunning Red Rock Canyon . You can hike Red Rock, or drive through and enjoy the scenery. Evening: Step into old-school Vegas with dinner at Capo’s Restaurant & Speakeasy . Night: Ride the High Roller observation wheel for breathtaking views, then grab a frosty cocktail at Minus5 Ice Bar to cap off your trip. Local Pro Tips Do not swim in the Beach Club pools — just trust us on this one. Avoid ATM fees in casinos by bringing cash ahead of time. Characters on the Strip aren’t free — they’ll ask for tips after photos. Don’t limit yourself to the Strip — Vegas has amazing off-Strip attractions. Escape rooms here are great! Try Escapology at Town Square or PanIQ Room at The Venetian. Bring comfortable walking shoes — distances on the Strip are deceiving. October is the best month for weather. Additional Show Recommendations: A Vegas Golden Knights Game A Raider’s Game ANYTHING at the Sphere (Postcards from Earth, The Backstreet Boys, Eagles, etc.) The Atomic Saloon Show inside the Venetian RuPaul’s Drag Race LIVE! At The Flamingo Las Vegas Exhibits/Museums to check out: The Bodies Exhibit The Titanic Exhibit The Neon Museum Madame Tussauds Mob Museum This 4-day plan mixes the best of the Strip with local treasures, so you’ll leave Vegas feeling like you’ve truly experienced it — not just skimmed the surface.