The annual Crab Fest benefiting ACORN (Advocates for Children of Rural Nevada) took place on Saturday, February 15, 2025, and proved to be the most successful yet, raising over $38,000—a record-breaking amount for the organization. The event brought together 215 attendees who enjoyed an evening filled with delicious seafood, exciting auctions, and a shared commitment to supporting local foster children.
From the moment guests arrived, there was a palpable energy in the room. The event has long been a beloved tradition in the community, combining a passion for good food with a dedication to a vital cause. 600 pounds of crab were prepared and served, ensuring that every guest left full and satisfied. Attendees were reminded to keep their plates to help streamline the serving process, with ACORN President Brian Kunzi humorously reassuring the crowd, “We have never, ever, ever run out of crab. You will get all the crab you want.”
Leading up to the meal, a lighthearted card game added to the entertainment to see which tables would get their food first. Attendees had the opportunity to purchase extra playing cards to increase their chance, with three aces being the top hand, followed by three kings and three queens. The friendly banter and competition made the wait for food go by in a flash. At one point, Kunzi playfully disqualified a table, adding to the fun.
One of the highlights of the evening was the live auction, which featured an incredible lineup of items. Bidders had the chance to win a week-long trip to Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo, two sets of Vegas Golden Knights tickets, a $600 Botox treatment, and vintage baseball memorabilia. A signed copy of Written in Stone by Rick Clout was also among the coveted items, along with numerous other prizes that kept the bidding lively. The friendly competition among attendees, paired with the excitement of winning exclusive items, added to the night’s spirited atmosphere. A silent auction also added to the evening’s festivities and total funds raised.
The success of Crab Fest would not have been possible without the generous support of sponsors. Eleven Captain’s Table Sponsors played a key role in making the event a success: 775.FYI, Desert View Hospital, Brian Kunzi, Sofos-Alexis Decker Law Firm, Prickly Pears, Robin Holseth Law Firm, Meadows Bank, Waste Connections, EstateAuctions411.com, Pahrump Family Medical, and Valley Electric Association. Additionally, seven Pirate’s Table Sponsors showed their commitment to ACORN’s mission: James “Gunny” and Ellen Arntz, Roland Law Firm, KNYE 95.1’s Karen Jackson, James and Rebecca Oscarson, Leeward Renewable Energy, and Paul Healey & Sons CPAs Ltd.
Several notable county officials were also in attendance, underscoring the community-wide support for ACORN’s mission. Among them were Nye County Commissioners Bruce Jabour and Ron Boskovitch, County Manager Brent Waggoner, Judge Kimberly Wanker, and District Attorney Brian Kunzi, who stepped in as the event’s chef and server, adding a special touch to the night.
Executive Director Kathie McKenna expressed her deep gratitude, saying, “I am always touched by the massive support we receive from the community to support our organization in advocating for our foster children.”Crab Fest 2024: A Night of Generosity and Community Spirit for ACORN
ACORN’s work is more critical than ever, with 22 trained advocates currently supporting 62 foster children. However, 21 more children in 15 sibling groups are still waiting for an advocate. Funds raised from the event will go directly toward training and supporting volunteers who serve as guardian ad litem, ensuring that these children have a voice in the system and someone to advocate on their behalf. A new class of six volunteers is currently in training, with graduation set for March 10, 2025. ACORN hopes to expand its volunteer base and encourages those interested in making a difference to apply. Another volunteer training session will be held later in the year, and those interested can apply online at www.acornv.org/volunteer or contact ACORN at (775) 505-2272 or info@acornv.org.
Speaking about the importance of advocacy, Kunzi emphasized the organization’s commitment to helping foster children. “Hopefully, we can have some people that can be a very positive role model for the kids who are in the program. So it’s something that we’re very proud of here. And again, it’s events like this that allow us to continue what we do.” His remarks reflected the deep sense of responsibility the organization feels in ensuring every foster child has someone in their corner.
As the event came to a close, guests reflected on an incredible evening filled with generosity, laughter, and a shared mission to support ACORN’s vital work. The community’s outpouring of support was evident in both the record-setting fundraising total and the number of people eager to make a difference in the lives of foster children.
For those who missed out on this year’s Crab Fest, the good news is that the tradition will continue next year. ACORN’s work is far from over, and events like this ensure that foster children in rural Nevada receive the support and advocacy they deserve. Those interested in volunteering, donating, or learning more are encouraged to reach out and become part of ACORN’s growing network of advocates and supporters.
