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A Festive Feast Served by Todd English P.U.B. as The Shops at Crystals Grants Christmas Wishes for Nevada Elementary Students

Thursday night, Todd English P.U.B. and The Shops at Crystals spread holiday cheer to more than 20 students assisted by Communities In Schools of Nevada (CISN), along with their family members (Photo credit: Communities In Schools of Nevada). 

The unforgettable evening included a festive feast for more than 40 guests and presents for each of the children.

Photo credit: Communities In Schools of Nevada.

As the groups arrived, they were welcomed by jolly décor before gathering around the tables to indulge in the divine spread. The meal, prepared for the families of select students from Cunningham Elementary, Kit Carson Elementary, Martinez Elementary and Wynn Elementary schools, included prime rib, ham, turkey, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, and a choice of bread pudding or chocolate chip cookies with ice cream for dessert.

Photo credit: Communities In Schools of Nevada.

“After hearing about what this organization does to help keep kids in school, we couldn’t help but want to get involved,” said Todd English P.U.B. Executive Chef Jean Paul Labadie. “Their passion, dedication and commitment were contagious and our team at Todd English P.U.B. had been looking for more ways to give back to our local Las Vegas community. We felt inspired and compelled to get involved.”

Photo credit: Communities In Schools of Nevada.

Following dinner, the room was filled with excitement as Santa Claus arrived for an early Christmas delivery. Over the previous weeks, the CISN staff asked each student to create a wish list, and The Shops at Crystals team found at least one item to grant for each, who were all luckily placed on the “Nice List.” The students graciously accepted their presents as family members looked on at their happy display of dolls, monster trucks, Legos and more. The holiday spirit showed in the smiles of grateful parents who might otherwise be unable to provide gifts for their children, as well as the enthusiastic staff members from Todd English P.U.B., Crystals and CISN.

Photo credit: Communities In Schools of Nevada.

“Crystals and several of our tenants have partnered with CISN for more than three years now to raise funds and awareness for this great organization,” said Farid Matraki, senior vice president and general manager of The Shops at Crystals. “When we were approached to participate in the holiday dinner, it was our privilege to join with Todd English to help make the holidays special for these families.”

During a time that can be difficult for families in need, Todd English P.U.B. recognized the ongoing needs of the families in attendance, sending each home with a gift basket filled with goodies to ensure that the children have healthy meals and snacks throughout the winter break.

“We are incredibly grateful for the continued support from community partners such as Todd English P.U.B. and Crystals,” said Cheri Ward, Southern Nevada Director of Communities In Schools of Nevada. “Having local businesses that truly understand and embrace our mission expands our reach and enhances our services in a very meaningful way.”