The word is out and the community is aware that Sha Na Na will be here at 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 27, at the Pahrump Nugget Event Center.

Proceeds from the concert will be used to educate Nevada teachers and school nurses and to provide much needed video and print information on how to teach and inform Nevada students about melanoma and skin cancer awareness.

One out of three Nevada children will be diagnosed with melanoma or skin cancer in his or her lifetime -- the statistics are astronomically high. The key to prevention and cure is to educate the community's children on the leading causes of skin cancer and to teach them how to detect changes in their skin, freckles or a moles. Early detection and treatment are the best answer to wellness.

The ever-increasing intensity of the Nevada sun and predisposition to skin cancer are two main factors to teach our children. Beyond those, the use of sun screen and limiting exposure to direct sunlight are important deterrents to skin cancer.

Melanoma and skin cancer are non-selective -- age, gender and race don't enter into the equation. People of color are just as likely to get skin cancer as those with lighter complexions. Age and gender aren't a factor either; young people are as susceptible as their elders.

You would think girls and young women would be more prone to skin cancer due to peer pressure and desire for the bronzed glow of a nicely tanned body.

However, young men are just as likely to seek a tan and often play or work in occupations performed outdoors.

Again, education and awareness are of the utmost importance for Nevada children. This program needs to be implemented in all Nevada schools and start at the junior high level.

Proceeds from the concert will get this information wheel rolling, and continuing education and reinforcement will increase the awareness factor into and beyond adulthood.

Tickets are tax-deductible; private and business sponsorships are still available at a minimum donation of $250. A $250 donation allows you a pair of VIP seats at the concert, admission to the meet-and-greet and photo session with the members of Sha Na Na, and your name or business name promoted in all print advertising.

Community support is also needed and achieved through tickets purchased to attend the concert. This concert will be the talk of the town, and will benefit our children and young adults. The sound crew promises a great show for all, and Sha Na Na, after more than four decades of entertaining, will deliver an absolutely magnificent performance.

For VIP sponsorship call 727-5102 or 209-5088.

Tickets for the show are available for purchase 24/7 at the Pahrump Nugget Casino cage. Tickets are going fast and are priced at $50, $40 and $25. There is a limited number of seats available, so be sure to get your tickets today -- the health and well being of our children are at stake.