BY TERRI FITZSIMMONS
Over 100 supporters flocked to the pool at the Casablanca Resort on Saturday, October 25th to participate in the first annual Duck Derby. All proceeds went to the Warrior Women of Mesquite Nevada, a local non-profit benefiting those with cancer and their families. Jami Taylor, employee and Community Engagement Manager of Mesquite Entertainment stated “Mesquite Entertainment was the driving force behind the event, and it couldn’t have been accomplished without the collaboration of all departments and CEO Justin Moore’s encouragement and care for the community.” Many of the supporters donning pink shirts were eager to participate in this worthwhile event which focused on benefiting the organization during breast cancer awareness month. Some of them were in varying stages of cancer, while others had members of their families suffering from it. All agreed that the Warrior Women Organization is an integral component of the healing process. The organization stresses that helping the families, along with the patients is crucial.
This lively event featured upbeat music from a live DJ, Brandon Royce from Vegas Born Entertainment, light snacks, remarks from Mesquite Mayor Jesse Whipple, and special appearances from the Mesquite Showgirls and the CasaBlanca’s mascot, Casanova the Parrot. The Warrior Women handed out necklaces, packets, and flags to all the supporters.
Many of the Warrior Women were busy selling ducks for the races. Nearly 600 were sold (along with the Warrior Women, Mesquite Entertainment’s gift shops and golf pro shops sold many ducks prior to the derby), making this event a big success.
Opening the program was Andy Falkof from Mesquite Entertainment, announcing their new brand and logo: Mesquite Entertainment Cares, which highlights their commitment to supporting the community. Dawn Pecoraro, president of Warrior Women, gave a short speech, discussing the origin of the Warrior Women and asking for ideas from the supporters to help promote the organization, which was founded by a passionate group of cancer survivors “who came together with a shared mission to support others battling cancer.”
The derby consisted of four heats with all the ducks floating in the pool, going over the waterfall and being propelled by lifeguards in the pool. The participants cheered their numbered ducks to the finish line. The final heat proved to be a lucrative one for the top winners: The first prize went to Kelly M. for $1000.00; In second place was Christie N. taking home $600, and Kirsten P. winning $400.00. Other prizes consisted of Catherine’s basket which was won by Linda B, and a bowling package given to Rex and Tammy B. Each of the 4 heat winners got a buffet for 2 at the Virgin River: Shanna M., Debbie P., Jr & Sabra B. and Brenda A.
The Duck Derby event is shining example of Mesquite Entertainment’s dedication to the community and the Warrior Women’s inspiring hope and awareness, as well as providing resources for all those affected by cancer.
