Summer Fun Indoors! Outdoors!

2016 Special Bonus Issue

Full house! Four generations under one roof KIDS AT

Summer The bucks PLAY fun indoors! stop here Ten-year-olds Outdoors! saving ... for a house?! Everywhere in between! Summer yummin' Cool recipes for little foodies The Dawson Difference At The Alexander Dawson School, we can’t predict the future, but we can teach children how to shape it.

Stellar academic programs, an emphasis Dawson gave me the room to be As a Dawson student I developed a solid Whether it’s delivering a presentation on holistic education, and adaptability to creative. For example, I wrote my foundation in writing, study skills, and or taking a test, there isn’t a single student interests make Dawson a fantastic first play in the eighth grade. It was problem solving. While it has been over identifiable thing that has been more place to learn, explore, and grow. Dawson’s a western melodrama we performed 15 years since I first attended Dawson, I beneficial to me than my educational decision to be the first middle school in for the entire School. People thought still rely on those basic foundational skills experience at Dawson. I was Las Vegas to offer Mandarin allowed me it was funny and I loved that reaction. to guide me through the challenges of encouraged to be an independent to establish a strong lingual foundation I Dawson’s performing arts teacher my Ph.D. program at Wake Forest thinker and I still use the tools I was continued to build through high school told me to take that feeling and try University Medical School. I know my given at Dawson to put forth 110 and college. Additionally, Dawson’s ability applying it to screenwriting. That must experience at Dawson prepared me for percent effort into whatever I am trying to accommodate my desire to attend a have stuck with me because I chose to success in high school and beyond. to accomplish. I was taught to question boarding high school made a daunting major in screenwriting and directing Now, I am in my third year of graduate what was questionable, and to discover process much more approachable. I believe at Boston University. I believe a lot of school studying the molecular what was undiscovered. Dawson has the academic preparation and opportunity my confidence came from the creative mechanisms of Alzheimer’s disease. not only made me the person I am I received at Dawson has been opportunities I was given early on at today, but has made me the person I instrumental to my academic success. Dawson, and from the people there Brenna Beckelman will be for the rest of my life. that helped me realize my strengths. Dawson Class of 2004 Wake Forest University Medical School Pascal Cevaer-Corey Jonathan Walton Dawson Class of 2010 Lida Nasseri Dawson Class of 2012 Stanford University Dawson Class of 2007 National Merit Scholarship Finalist 2016 Boston University

(702) 949-3600 www.alexanderdawsonschool.org 10845 W. Desert Inn Road | Las Vegas, Nevada | 89135 Month 2015 Month 2015 2 DesertCompanion.Com DesertCompanion.Com 3 The Dawson Difference At The Alexander Dawson School, we can’t predict the future, but we can teach children how to shape it.

(702) 949-3600 www.alexanderdawsonschool.org 10845 W. Desert Inn Road | Las Vegas, Nevada | 89135 Month 2015 Month 2015 2 DesertCompanion.Com DesertCompanion.Com 3 TICKETS FROM $49* 866.439.9272 • cirquedusoleil.com/las-vegas

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EDiTOR’S Note

Higher ed cience education through robots, financial literacy, But our 2016 Family Issue isn’t all work and no play. volunteerism — scanning the topics and issues we There’s plenty of diversion for summer, fall and beyond. cover in our third annual Desert Companion Fam- While the heat reigns well through August, keep this ily issue, I’m struck by, well, what a serious, grown- issue handy for a plethora of indoor activities that’ll S up enterprise being a kid has become. (The closest occupy everyone from toddlers to teens (“The great in- I think I ever came to entering a robotics competition doors,” p. 24), whether they like tumbling, trampolining was playing smash-up derby on our bikes. Not sure what I or trying their puzzle-solving skills in the latest craze, learned about science beyond an intimacy with the struc- escape rooms. When the mercury drops to survivable hu- ture and morphology of my bruised shins, though.) If such man levels, our “Wild in the streets (and trails)” (p. 18) concerns represent the New Childhood, then this year’s guide is a great tool for peeling the little ones away from Desert Companion Family Issue should serve as a more the iPad and introducing them to the flora and fauna than capable user’s manual. In “Go team science!” (p. 54), of the Southwest. But who says you even have to leave Sarah Vernetti explores the latest trend in STEM educa- the house to leap into adventure? In “Hot outside, way tion — and it doesn’t involve a tangled thicket of formulas cool inside” (p. 34) Scott Dickensheets scrawled on dry-erase boards. Rather, it’s about igniting has put together a crunchy snack bowl kids’ imaginations for science and engineering through of creative games, books and crafts that exciting robot battles and intense drone competitions. In are perfect for constructive indoor sum- “Common cents” (p. 45), Jason Scavone surveys courses mer fun. And, in what’s become a sort of and programs about financial literacy, a bedrock life skill culinary tradition, Oksana Marafioti is that’s fallen by the wayside in the traditional classroom back with more kid-friendly recipes for (to the peril of several generations mired in consumer and budding chefs and foodies (“Flight of fla- student debt). Today, proponents of financial literacy are vor,” p. 40). And don’t forget our resource teaching kids about much more than merely how to bal- guide (p. 59), our expanded compendium ance a checkbook; they’re hoping to instill money habits of events, amusements and organizations that will empower youth for a lifetime of wise saving and that offer services — and in many cases, thoughtful spending. Such education is itself an invest- just pure fun — to families like yours. Andrew Kiraly ment. And in “Advanced degree in charity” (p. 31), Heidi editor Kyser profiles a group of teens who, encouraged by their parents, formed a tight-knit volunteerism club called TeenMD. What began as a loose group of do-gooders became something much more to these teenagers (and to the organizations they served): Volunteerism became a lifestyle; selflessness, a character trait. And an appreciation of the bigger picture was a lesson they probably wouldn’t have learned in a classroom. As TeenMD member Eve Follow Desert Companion Wellish puts it, “With each project, you look a little deeper www.facebook.com/DesertCompanion and see what needs to be changed in our world.” That’s a www.twitter.com/DesertCompanion decidedly different kind of higher ed.

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 4 DesertCompanion.com INSPIRED. CONFIDENT. PREPARED.

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Learn more at HendersonSchool.com | 702.818.2100 6 24 18 resources 2016 indoors! give themataste ofthe outdoors! your kidsataste ofthe GET activities DesertCompanion. DESERT COMPANION FAMILY OUT

special issue ! Now Give c om yumz forhungrytumz 40 Cooking 36 generations magma months to whileawaythose Books, gamesandcrafts 34 fun&Games TeenMD The generousyouthof 31 charitycase with love andplacenta a crowded house, filled Home life Summer It's tles anddronecontests science withrobotbat- 54 science 48 issues 45 money village tostopabully checkbook beyond balancingthe Balance 18 It takesa Going Teaching tion every parent canuse activities andinforma- Events organizations, 59 The Guide Resourceguide 45 www.desertcompanion.com

Scott Lien Illustration on the cover 31 54

virgGutterinia ci tyCRE traDITi n:Left courtesy; piggy bank: brent holmes; robot: brent holmes; teen md: anthony mair Built to hold your most precious cargo.

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Subaru and Forester are registered trademarks. *EPA-estimated hwy fuel economy for 2016 Subaru Forester 2.5i CVT models. Actual mileage may vary. †MSRP excludes destination and delivery charges, tax, title, and registration fees. Retailer sets actual price. 2016 Subaru Forester 2.5i Limited pictured has an MSRP of $28,795. publisheD By nevada public radio Mission Statement Desert Companion is the premier city magazine that celebrates the pursuits, passions and aspirations of Southern Nevadans. With award- winning lifestyle journalism and design, Desert Companion does more than inform and entertain. We spark dialogue, engage people and define the spirit of the Las Vegas Valley.

Publisher Melanie Cannon Associate Publisher Christine Kiely Editor Andrew Kiraly Art Director Christopher Smith deputy editor Scott Dickensheets senior designer Scott Lien staff writer Heidi Kyser Graphic Designer Brent Holmes

Account executives Sharon Clifton, Parker McCoy, Favian Perez, Noelle Tokar, Markus Van’t Hul sales assistant Ashley Smith NATIONAL ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE Couture Marketing 145 E 17th Street, Suite B4 New York, NY 10003 (917) 821-4429 advertising@couturemarketing Marketing manager Lisa Kelly print traffic manager Karen Wong Subscription manager Tammy Willis Web administrator Danielle Branton ADVERTISING COPY EDITOR Carla J. Zvosec Contributing writers Cybele, JoAnna Haugen, Oksana Marafioti, Eric Roberts, Jason Scavone, Sarah Vernetti, Misti Yang, Carla J. Zvosec Contributing artists Anthony Mair, Rick Sealock, Hernan Valencia Editorial: Andrew Kiraly, (702) 259-7856; [email protected] Fax: (702) 258-5646 Advertising: Christine Kiely (702) 259-7813; [email protected] Subscriptions: (702) 258-9895; [email protected] Website: www.desertcompanion.vegas Desert Companion is published 12 times a year by Nevada Public Radio, 1289 S. Torrey Pines Dr., Las Vegas, NV 89146. It is available by subscription at desertcompanion.vegas, or as part of Nevada Public Radio membership. It is also distributed free at select locations in the Las Vegas Valley. All photos, artwork and ad designs printed are the sole property of Desert Companion and may not be duplicated or reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. The views of Desert Companion contributing writers are not necessarily the views of Desert Companion or Nevada Public Radio. Contact Tammy Willis for back issues, which are available for purchase for $7.95.

ISSN 2157-8389 (print) ISSN 2157-8397 (online)

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 8 DesertCompanion.com 䜀椀瘀攀夀漀甀爀䌀栀椀氀搀䔀瘀攀爀礀䄀搀瘀愀渀琀愀最攀

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氀瘀搀猀⸀挀漀洀 Desert Savvy Board of Design Directors Officers

cynthia alexander, ESQ. chair Snell & Wilmer

Jerry Nadal vice chair Cirque du Soleil

TIM WONG treasurer Arcata Associates

Florence M.E. Rogers secretary Nevada Public Radio

Directors kevin m. buckley First Real Estate Companies

Dave Cabral emeritus Business Finance Corp.

Louis Castle emeritus

Patrick N. Chapin, Esq. emeritus Richard I. dreitzer, Esq. Wilson Elser Moskowitz Edelman & Dicker, LLP

Elizabeth FRETWELL emeritus City of Las Vegas bOB GLASER BNY Mellon don hamrick eat the heat with a Schilling Horticulture Group desert savvy design. Desert Chapman Las Vegas Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Badapted plants are easier to care for, use less water, thrive in hot weather, gavin isaacs and enjoy a longer bloom season than most ornamental landscape plants. We Scientific Games Jan Jones Blackhurst create and transform outdoor living spaces, strive for sustainability, and reveal Caesars Entertainment Corporation the beauty desert plants have to offer. John R. Klai II Klai Juba Wald Architects emeritus todd-avery lenahan Mention this ad when scheduling your appointment TAL Studio for a complimentary packet of Schilling Seeds, our Lamar Marchese president emeritus William mason custom blend of Mojave native wildflowers. Taylor International Corporation

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Cottonwood Cove at Lake Mead

travel for the night and the kids have slipped off to sleep, sneak outside and take in the new- You be tripping to-you view of Las Vegas from the sun deck.

These family-friendly road trips offer fun for all ages — not just Tip: Renting a houseboat can be pricey, in the summer, but all year long By JoAnna Haugen but just about every rental company offers specials to sweeten the deal. Check out seasonal discounts noted online or by Float-tastic Fun on Lake Mead nies offer houseboats starting at 50 feet phone. Las Vegas families don’t have to travel and increasing in size to larger, more lux- far to dip their toes into a lakefront va- urious models that sleep up to 14 people. Book it: callvillebay.com, nps.gov/lake/ cation, but with water levels dropping index.htm at a drastic pace, take advantage of Lake For the kids: Once you’re out on the Mead National Recreation Area before it water, there’s nowhere else to turn for Canyons and Critters disappears for good. Many daytrippers entertainment, so rent a houseboat with in Kanab, Utah rent canoes or kayaks to slip in and out a waterslide and make sure you’re fully With a population of 5,400 people, of the many coves tucked around the stocked up on kid-friendly food and fun Kanab, Utah, would be easy to overlook, ex- edges of the lake, but shake things up before you set out. cept that this quaint little town has snagged and spend the night on the water with the perfect location from which to explore

lake mead courtesy national park service park national lake mead courtesy a houseboat rental. A number of compa- For the adults: After the boat is anchored all things awesome in Southern Utah. Fam-

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY DesertCompanion.com 13 GET OUT travel

History lessons: Clockwise from left, Kanab, Utah; Ancestral Pueblo dwellings in ilies can get their outside on with easy day- Colorado; historic drives to Zion National Park (40 miles), Virginia City Bryce Canyon National Park (70 miles) and the greatly underrated Grand Canyon North Rim (80 miles). Kanab is also home to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, and volunteers of all ages and experience levels are invited to interact with the 1,700 cats, dogs, horses, pigs and other animals that call Best Friends home.

For the kids: Cash in on the fresh air and pack a picnic lunch to eat in Jacob Hamblin Park. This large, open park with plentiful shade has a fantastic playground, complete with tandem slides, climbing walls and more.

For the adults: Well-known Western artist Maynard Dixon lived in Mount and a riverfront with boating, river pad- derwood. On the docket for the coming Carmel, less than 20 miles from Kanab. dling, fishing, jet skiing and other ample months: Hank Williams Jr., (September Today, the property is a living histo- opportunities to cool off from the desert 24) and Dolly Parton (September 30). ry museum with several of the artist’s heat. Visit during the River Regatta (Au- pieces located throughout the buildings. gust 12-14) and float down the Colorado Tip: Like most casino-resorts, Laugh- Self-guided walking tours ($10) and do- River with hundreds of other partici- lin’s properties offer promotional pack- cent-led tours ($20) are available. pants. Bring your own rafts, inner tubes ages that include extras like meal vouch- and other float devices — and don’t for- ers, drink specials and discounts on Tip: Some of Southern Utah’s national get your life vests! other local activities. parks and monuments have restricted access during the fall and winter. For the kids: Find all the standard Book it: visitlaughlin.com kid-friendly fare around town, including Book it: visitsouthernutah.com, 15 movie screens and a bowling alley. All Mountaintop Retreat bestfriends.org the casinos have video arcades, though on Mt. Charleston Harrah’s, with more than 60 video game Most Las Vegas locals head up to Urban Escape in Laughlin options, is arguably the best one to keep Mount Charleston for day hiking in the Laughlin is often overlooked when it the young ones entertained. summer and skiing or snowboarding comes to vacation spots, but recent up- in the winter, but stay for a few days to grades and changes have made the city For the adults: Tap your toes late into escape the valley’s oppressive heat. Doz- an ideal destination for a quick vacay the night at the Laughlin Event Center, ens of trails in this part of the Spring with the family. A mini-Las Vegas in which has attracted an impressive roster Mountains National Recreation Area some ways, Laughlin has nine hotel-ca- of entertainers as of late, including Toby welcome hikers of all ages and abilities.

sino resorts, more than 50 restaurants Keith, Lady Antebellum and Carrie Un- At night, check into one of the cabins at park national dwellings: city of kanab; courtesy kanab: courtesy city: virginia service;

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 14 DesertCompanion.com GET VIP ACCESS Mt. Charleston Lodge. “Double” log cabins Subscribe today to Desert Companion. Not only will you are larger studio rooms that come with two get a year’s worth of our award-winning city magazine king-sized beds and fold-out sofa sleepers. delivered to your door. But you’ll also be supporting quality journalism, fine writing and great design. For the kids: Consider signing the kids up for a Junior Ranger Program, which is best suited SUBSCRIBE TODAY! www.desertcompanion.com/subscribe for kids ages five to 10. And if you’re trying to narrow down the trekking options, look into Get a 1-year (12 issues) subscription for just $18 taking a guided night hike (offered on Friday nights) with a trained naturalist who offers information about nocturnal animals, astron- omy and other (appropriate) after-dark topics.

For the adults: A three-course wine-pairing menu served at the Mt. Charleston Lodge from 5 p.m. to close makes it easy to tip back a drink (or two) after a satisfying day in the mountains.

Tip: Cell phone reception in the area is sketchy at best, so plan in advance and completely unplug during your family trip.

Book it: gomtcharleston.com, mtcharlestonlodge.com

A Trip to the Wild West in Virginia City Pull on your spurs, grab your cowboy hat and mosey on up to Virginia City, Nevada. Once a thriving mining town, Virginia City has kept its Wild West charm intact. Towns like this have the potential to feel tacky, but well-maintained museums and historic buildings such as the opera house and courthouse balance out trolley tours and Start Early. Start Right. gold-panning activities. A self-guided walking tour, available through a mobile app, hits Challenger School offers uniquely fun and academic the highlights while also giving your family classes for preschool to eighth grade students. room to explore at its leisure. Our students learn to think for themselves and to For the kids: Virginia City is known for its value independence. weird and wacky festivals including the Inter- The results are unmatched at any price! national Camel Races and the World Champi- onship Outhouse Races. Yes, these events are Come see for yourself. Observe our classrooms any as goofy as they sound, and yes, you and your time—no appointment needed. kids will get a kick out of watching them.

Green Valley 990-7300 For the adults: Once home to as many as 115 1725 East Serene Avenue bars and saloons, it would be a shame to visit the city and not enjoy a drink in one, many of Los Prados 839-1900 which have been maintained to look as they 5150 N. Jones Boulevard Opening Fall 2016! did in the 19th century. The city hosts several Summerlin 878-6418 Desert Hills 410-7225 saloon crawls throughout the year. Check in 9900 Isaac Newton Way 8175 West Badura Avenue with the tourism office when you visit and find out if one is taking place while you’re there. Inspiring Children to Achieve Since 1963 An independent private school offering preschool through eighth grade • ChallengerSchool.com © 2016, Challenger Schools • Challenger School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY DesertCompanion.com 15 GET OUT travel

Culture and leisure: Left, the Museum of International Folk Art in Santa Fe; beer, with 10 stops in downtown For the adults: Embrace your creativi - right, the Laughlin Flagstaff and nearby Sedona ty with a class or workshop while you’re waterfront and Williams. in town. Options are plentiful, ranging from painting and metal working to Tip: Avoid visiting during special events yoga and cooking. Tip: Because of its elevation, Virginia taking place at Northern Arizona Uni- City receives an average of 56 inches of versity because hotel prices and restau- Tip: Youth 16 and younger are always snow a year. Check the road conditions rant wait times sharply increase. free at the Museum of International before you go. Folk Art, which has some activities and Book it: flagstaff.com, flagstaffextreme. exhibits designed specifically with kids Book it: visitvirginiacitynv.com com, flagstaffaletrail.com in mind.

Cool Getaway in a Hot Place Sunny fun in Santa Fe Book it: santafe.org, While the summer temperature soars A colorful collision of Southwest art, internationalfolkart.org throughout most of Arizona, Flagstaff dining and culture, Santa Fe, New Mex- keeps its cool, with the average high hit- ico, has a personality found nowhere Colorado Time Warp ting 81F in July. Unsurprisingly, families else. With several museums (including It’s easy to feel like you’ve been sucked are drawn to outdoor activities and the the country’s only museum devoted to back into the past in Southwest Colorado. city delivers. The Arizona Snowbowl, artist Georgia O’Keeffe), dozens of gal- Cliff dwellings tell a story of Ancestral known for skiing and snowboarding in leries and lots of historic sites, it leans Pueblos who lived here centuries ago, the winter, is also open in the summer for toward the parent-oriented side of family and ghost towns dotting the landscape disc golf and hiking. Additionally, a hand- travel. However, outdoor recreation and paint a picture of an even more recent ful of outfitters in the area offer guided accessible attractions such as the Harrell departure. Hop on a guided tour at Mesa horseback-trail rides, which last about House of Natural Oddities and Bug Mu- Verde National Park, home to nearly one-and-a-half to two hours on average. seum mean there’s a little something for 5,000 known archeological sites — some everyone in Santa Fe. of the best-preserved in the country — For the kids: At Flagstaff Extreme Ad- and sign up for an ATV trip to the historic venture, kid-friendly (ages seven and For the kids: Though most restau- ghost town of Animas Forks, located near older) and adult-friendly ropes courses rants have menus that satisfy everyone, Silverton. with suspended bridges, nets and slides if all else fails, head to the Santa Fe promise to get the adrenaline pumping. Farmers Market (Saturday and Tues- For the kids: Take a trip on the Duran- Advance reservations are strongly recom- day from 7 a.m.-1 p.m.) or the Railyard go & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, mended. Artisan Market (Sundays 10 a.m.-4 which has been in operation since 1882. p.m.) to mix and match the perfect Winding its way through the canyons in For the adults: The Flagstaff-Grand Can- meal. Look for local specialties like ta- San Juan National Forest, the train pass-

yon Ale Trail spotlights the best in craft males and burritos. es over bridges and up steep grades. bureau news vegas las laughlin: museum: courtesy; art folk

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 16 DesertCompanion.com RSVP TODAY! SUMMER 2016 For the adults: Lots of rivers means lots of river rafting. Some rafting excursions are appropriate for most members of the family (even as young as four years old) but others are intense and high adventure, requiring participants to be at least 16 years of age.

Tip: High altitude plus lots of sunshine equals a high possibility for sunburn. Wear sunscreen year-’round.

Book it: swcolotravel.org, colorado. com/southwest, durangotrain.com, nps. gov/meve/index.htm

Slow Down in a State Park Next Door Skip California’s coastline, world-famous amusement attractions and crowded national parks on your next family vacation, and head for an underrated (and, un- fortunately, underfunded) state park for a breath of fresh air. Located east of San Diego, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park has two family campgrounds and more than 100 miles of trails for hiking, cycling and horseback riding. Green Valley, located at 4,000 feet in elevation, has shallow pools DATE DESTINATION and a creek for splashing around during FRIDAY SATURDAY UTAH the day, while many of the park’s trails JUL. 22 JUL. 23 SHAKESPEARE THRU FESTIVAL leave from Paso Picacho, five miles north YOU WILL SEE FOUR PLAYS: at 5,000 feet. Cocoanuts, Three Musketeers, Henry V, Mary Poppins

For the kids: Campground areas are DATE DESTINATION crowded with kids on bicycles, but take FRIDAY SATURDAY UTAH note that helmets are required for peo- SEP. 30 OCT. 01 SHAKESPEARE ple younger than 18. Remain cautious THRU FESTIVAL when driving through these areas to YOU WILL SEE THREE PLAYS: avoid accidents. Julius Caesar, Murder for Two, The Odd Couple

For the adults: Kick back and relax around the campfire even after the little ones are tucked in for the night. Purchase firewood at the park entrance or camp host sites, and use established fire rings — Southern California is a beacon for wild- fires in the summer. For more information or to reserve your seats, please visit www.npr.vegas Tip: Reserve a campsite in advance at 1-800-444-PARK, especially if you plan to visit on the weekend.

Book it: parks.ca.gov

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY DesertCompanion.com 17 GET OUT resources

Springs Preserve

Wild in the streets (and trails) Introduce your little ones to the great big world outside with these resources By Sarah Vernetti

LAS VEGAS n a world of tablets, smartphones age 6 and older. 16395 Bonnie Springs and video games, it’s easy to forget Bonnie Springs Ranch Road, 702-875-4191, bonniesprings.com there’s a wild world of outdoor ad- The site originally served as a stop- venture just beyond your doorstep. ping point for travelers heading to Cal- Boy Scouts of America I Not ready to haul the family on an ifornia. Today, the ranch features an Las Vegas Area Council epic backcountry hike of the North old-fashioned town, petting zoo, pony The Boy Scouts organization empha- Rim? Understandable! Here are some rides, and horse stables. Pony rides sizes self-reliance, resourcefulness, and newbie-friendly resources that are sure are available for kids who are at least 5 leadership skills. Participants learn to stoke your kids’ budding appetites years old and weigh less than 50 pounds. about the outdoors and nature through for the great outdoors. Horseback riding is available for kids excursions to a variety of camps through- springs preserve: courtesy courtesy springs preserve:

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 18 DesertCompanion.com Project-Based Early Childhood 9thBridgeSchool & Elementary School out the region. Donald Reynolds Scouting Inspiring Resource Center, 7220 S. Paradise Road, Young Entrepreneurs 702-736-4366, lvacbsa.org and Cowboy Trail Rides Creators Explore Red Rock Canyon on horseback during one of Cowboy Trail Rides’ guided excursions. The 60-minute Coy- ote Canyon ride is a good place to start for beginners. Children ages 7 and older are welcome, and helmets are provided. 4053 Fossil Ridge Road, 702-387-2457, cowboytrailrides.com

Floyd Lamb Park at Tule Springs Student Inspired Learning This 680-acre park features walking trails, picnic areas, fishing ponds, and the S.T.E.A.M. Integrated Curriculum historic Tule Springs Ranch. Daily entrance fee is $6 per car. 9200 Tule Springs Individualized Instruction Road, lasvegasnevada.gov 310 S 9th Street, Las Vegas, NV 89101 Friends of Nevada School Redefined. 9thBridgeSchool.org | 702.724.1436 Wilderness Now Enrolling through 2nd Grade. This organization is dedicated to pro- Limited Availability. Call for a tour today! tecting Nevada’s public lands. Check their website for volunteer opportunities, a list of wilderness areas by region, and the “kid’s corner” section, which provides a helpful list of online resources for kids. 702-515-5417, nevadawilderness.org

Gilcrease Orchard Seasonal fruits and vegetables are available for picking three days per week from 7 a.m. until noon. In fall, pick pumpkins and enjoy a hayride. 7800 N. Tenaya Way, 702-409-0655, thegil- creaseorchard.org

Girl Scouts of Southern Nevada The Girl Scouts organization encourages girls to have “courage, confidence, and character” by emphasizing leadership LAS VEGAS PREMIER skills and community service. Girls learn NANNY & HOUSEHOLD about the outdoors through camping trips and nature-themed outings. The main of- STAFFING AGENCY fice is located at 2941 E. Harris Ave., 702- FULL TIME, PART TIME & ON CALL 385-3677, girlscoutsnv.org NANNIES • HOUSEKEEPERS • BABYSITTERS NEWBORN CARE SPECIALISTS • TUTORS Hualapai Canyon Loop Trail Ask about our babysitting registry This trail, located in Summerlin, might not seem like the best place to springs preserve: courtesy courtesy springs preserve: (702) 451-3000 www.lasvegasnannies.com

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY DesertCompanion.com 19 GET OUT resources

experience nature. However, a stroll at entrance to the gallery. 309 S. Valley Shark Reef Aquarium dusk will reveal a host of desert crea- View Blvd., 702-486-5205, museums.ne- Learn about sharks, sting rays, and tures who come out of hiding once the vadaculture.org/nsmlv-home other water-loving creatures at Manda- heat of the day has subsided. Kids can lay Bay’s Shark Reef. In addition to visit- look for rabbits, lizards, and other ani- Red Rock Audubon Society ing the aquarium’s permanent residents, mals during this 1-mile walk. The trail- The Jr. Audubon Club strives to help guests can also check out the special head can be accessed from a parking lot kids develop an interest in birds and ex- exhibit Sea Monsters Revealed, which along Hualapai Way, north of Alta. plore the outdoors. Membership is $10 runs through October 2016. Located in- per year for children in grades 2-5. The side Mandalay Bay, 3950 Las Vegas Blvd. Las Vegas Natural Red Rock Audubon Society’s website is a S., 702-632-4555, sharkreef.com History Museum helpful resource, providing a list of bird From sea life to rocks and minerals, festivals in neighboring states for those Spring Mountain Ranch the exhibits at the Las Vegas Natural looking for feather-filled road trip ideas. State Park History Museum cover a broad range of 702-390-9890, redrockaudubon.com This state park, which is located with- natural sciences. Plus, visitors will also in Red Rock Canyon National Conserva- find a dose of human history, thanks to Red Rock Canyon National tion Area, offers a quiet retreat for visi- the museum’s Treasures of Egypt exhib- Conservation Area tors. Hike the relatively short Overlook it. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for Red Rock Canyon offers many op- Trail to enjoy beautiful views, or take a kids ages 3-11. 900 Las Vegas Blvd. N., portunities for outdoor exploration, in- tour of the historic ranch house. Admis- 702-384-DINO, lvnhm.org cluding hiking trails, picnic spots, and sion is $9 per vehicle, but Nevada resi- a visitor center with nature-themed dents receive a $2 discount. 6375 NV 159, Nevada State Museum outdoor exhibits. Visitors can also drive 702-875-4141, parks.nv.gov Located adjacent to Springs Preserve, the park’s 13-mile scenic loop. Admis- the Nevada State Museum showcases sion is $7 per vehicle. Annual passes Springs Preserve the history of Southern Nevada. Learn are available for $30 per person. Red The quintessential family destination about local creatures, past and pres- Rock Canyon Interpretive Association, in Las Vegas, Springs Preserve greets ent. Kids will especially enjoy the enor- 1000 Scenic Loop Drive, 702-515-5367, guests with a unique, desert-themed mous mammoth that greets them at the redrockcanyonlv.org playground, botanical garden, plenty bonnie springs: courtesy; shark reef: courtesy; snow canyon: utah state parks state utah canyon: snow shark reef: courtesy; bonnie springs: courtesy; hemenway park: scott lien; nevada state museum: courtesy; wetlands park: christopher smith; smith; christopher park: wetlands museum: courtesy; state lien; nevada scott park: hemenway

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 20 DesertCompanion.com Parks and recreation: Clockwise from left, Hemenway Park, Nevada State Museum, Wetlands Park, Bonnie Springs, Shark Reef

likes to congregate in the shade. 401 Ville Drive, bcnv.org

Lake Mead National Recreation Area From hiking to boating and water sports, Lake Mead offers a wide array of nature-based activities for families. Take a hike along the Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail or enjoy water sports like kayaking and canoeing. 10 Lakeshore Road, 702-293-8990, nps.gov/lake

HENDERSON Dive Las Vegas of desert animals, and indoor museum Wetlands Park Believe it or not, you can learn to scu- space. Admission is $9.95 for Nevada Wetlands Park, and the accompanying ba dive or snorkel right here in Southern residents and $4.95 for Nevada children Nature Center and Exhibit Hall, high- Nevada. Dive Las Vegas offers a variety ages 5-17. Admission is free for children light the unique ecology of the wetland of classes, some for kids as young as 6 age 4 and younger. Senior, student, and landscape. Take a stroll along one of the years old. Classes for beginners are held military discounts are available. 333 S. park’s many pathways, while keeping an at pools throughout the City of Hen- Valley View Blvd., 702-822-7700, spring- eye out for local wildlife. Inside the mu- derson. Open water, PADI certification spreserve.org seum, visitors will find family-friend- dives at Lake Mead are also available for ly, interactive exhibits. 7050 Wetlands participants older than age 10. Dive Las Vegas Roots Park Lane, 702-455-7522, clarkcountynv. Vegas, 702-897-5111, divelasvegas.com/ Community Garden gov/parks classdescriptions.htm Vegas Roots is a four-acre urban farm that offers nutrition classes, gardening BOULDER CITY Ethel M. Cactus Garden instruction, and school field trips. Kids Hemenway Park The cactus garden features 300 different can sign up for the Lil’ Roots Gardening This small community park includes species of desert plants, including cacti, suc- Club, which meets once per month and playground equipment, a grassy lawn, culents, and desert-loving trees and shrubs. includes gardening and cooking lessons. basketball courts, pretty views of Lake This is an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll 715 N. Tonopah Drive, 702-636-4152, Mead, and — perhaps most importantly with youngsters who aren’t quite ready vegasroots.org — a resident herd of big horn sheep that for a more intense hike. After exploring

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY DesertCompanion.com 21 GET OUT resources

the garden, visitors can take a tour of the 6725 Lee Canyon Road, 702-385-2754, chocolate factory. 2 Cactus Garden Drive, leecanyonlv.com 1-800-438-4356, ethelm.com From tyke Snow Canyon State Park (UT) Henderson Bird This state park, located just north of to trekker Viewing Preserve St. George, Utah, features plenty of pic- Tips on introducing your family to the outdoors The park is home to numerous species nic areas, trails, and rock formations. of birds, including migrating water fowl Families with young children can try that gravitate to the preserve’s ponds. the relatively easy trek along the Pioneer n Start small, stay local. Starting with The best time for bird viewing is early in Names Trail. Park admission is $6 per local parks and wilderness hikes is a the morning. Binoculars are available to vehicle for up to eight people. 1002 Snow great way to spend a few hours in nature without a huge time commitment. borrow. 350 E. Galleria Drive, 702-267- Canyon Drive, Ivins, UT, 435-628-2255, Develop a real love for certain wild 4180, cityofhenderson.com stateparks.utah.gov places or adventures, with short, local DAY TRIPS trips before you whip out the credit Star Journey (NV) card at REI or plan the week-long stay Death Valley National Escape the light pollution of the city, in the back-country. Park (CA) and travel to Goodsprings, NV for star- Hike to the top of a sand dune, stand gazing near the historic Pioneer Saloon. n Let curiosity lead you. Have you ever hundreds of feet below sea level at the Star Journey at Pioneer Saloon, 310 NV wondered what’s on the other side lowest point in North America, or en- 161, Goodsprings, NV, 801-382-7827, of that mountain, or where that path joy stargazing at Death Valley National starjourney.net leads? Ask your kids to pick an outdoor Park. Families can try camping or stay adventure and then go learn some- at one of the park’s four hotels, although Valley of Fire State Park (NV) thing new – together. Death Valley makes a reasonable day In addition to being quite picturesque, n Be prepared. The desert is a beautiful trip from Las Vegas for those who prefer this park, famous for its red rock for- place, but the outdoors is also full of the comfort of home. Always bring plen- mations, is ideal for hiking, picnicking, situations that can turn a fun trip into ty of water. 760-786-3200, nps.gov/deva and rock scrambling. The Mouse’s Tank a headache in a few short moments. Trail is a good place for families to start, Be sure to always bring plenty of water, Lee Canyon (NV) thanks to its reasonable half-mile length sunscreen, a first-aid kit, and let folks at Formerly known as the Las Vegas Ski and soft, sandy pathway. If you look home know where you are headed and and Snowboard Resort, Lee Canyon of- closely, you’ll find petroglyphs along the when you plan on being home. Even fers summer activities like scenic chair- way. Admission is $10 per vehicle. Neva- just a quick jaunt can take an unexpect- lift rides and disc golf in a picturesque, da residents receive a $2 discount. 29450 ed turn. wooded locale. In winter, families can Valley of Fire Road, Overton, NV, 702- take skiing or snowboarding lessons. 397-2088, parks.nv.gov/parks n Take pictures, leave footprints. The desert looks pretty rough and tough, but in reality, it is a very fragile environment that can be easily damaged if we are not careful. Take the time on each trip to teach good stewardship so your kids can have these same experiences with their kids.

n Solitude, together. There is no better place to grow closer together as a family than in the quiet solitude of nature. Something magic happens when the television is out of reach and cell service is out of range and families have nothing but each other and the natural world before them. Come and see! Eric Roberts

Eric Roberts is a father and outdoors enthusiast. He is a board member of Snow Canyon Friends of Nevada Wilderness.

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 22 DesertCompanion.com FASHION LIVES... IN THE BOLD

MACY’S • FOREVER 21 • H&M • FRANCESCA’S SHOE PALACE • CHARLOTTE RUSSE • TILLY’S

1300 W Sunset Rd • Henderson, NV 89014 • 702.434.0202 • GalleriaAtSunset.com GET OUT activities The Great Indoors Don’t let the heat spoil your kids’ summer fun. Get active at these high-energy hot spots that’ll still keep them cool

By misti yang photo courtesy origin climbing and fitness courtesy photo

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 24 DesertCompanion.com Kid rock: Origin Climbing and Fitness

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY DesertCompanion.com 25 GET OUT activities

ools are the classic ref- Costner adorned in drenched leather, than Jaws, which means little hands uge for summertime Discovery Children’s Museum (360 are safe. For the kiddo who aspires to frolic. “Marco?” “Polo!” Promenade Place, discoverykidslv.org) an exhibition of their own, Henderson has echoed across back- capitalizes on H2O’s appeal with the is home to Create (1570 W. Horizon yards for generations, aptly named exhibit that includes Ridge Parkway #170, createhenderson. but reapplying sun- hands-on experiences such as air com), an arts and crafts studio that of- Pscreen in triple-digit weather every half- blowers and boats. It’s a compromise fers Craft & Play, a featured craft proj - hour doesn’t always make for the perfect that still allows for splashing a little ect, plus unlimited play in their indoor summer day. With excessive heat out- brother or sister. Plus, this summer the playground for younger than 7, as well doors and vacation-hyped children museum hosts the Clifford The Big as open crafting for all ages. This sum - afoot, it’s nice to have options that don’t Red Dog traveling exhibit. If cartoon mer they’re hosting several camps, in- require a sun-protection factor. Seeking canines are not quite your idea of mu - cluding an entire week dedicated to water may be your first instinct when seum material, peruse the achieve- Star Wars. Sew-bi-Wan Kenobi may or the heat hits, but this guide will remind ments of Ancient Rome with your may not make an appearance. you that the air-conditioned great in- brood through September 11 at the Las doors offers just as many worthwhile Vegas Natural History Museum (900 Romp ’n’ roll adventures. Las Vegas Blvd. N., lvnhm.org). Maxi- While galaxies of glitter make note- hristopher smith; meepleville, pin - HKPK : C hristopher ourtesy; “Museum” may not evoke the same mize your investment by visiting on worthy playgrounds, the local roundup fun as “wave pool,” but how about Tuesday or Thursday at 2:30 p.m. or of indoor romper rooms deliver surpris- “Water World?” For those of you too Saturday at 2 p.m. to catch a live shark es of their own. It’s not every day you

young to immediately imagine Kevin feeding. Do not fear. It’s more Dory see an octopus carousel, but the oc- C kangamoo: children’s museum: courtesy ball: brent holmes; D iscovery

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 26 DesertCompanion.com Play lands: Clockwise from left, Kangamoo, HKPK, Pinball Hall of Fame, Discovery Children’s Museum, Meepleville

topedal-go-round is front and center along with plenty of slides and ball pits at Adventure Indoor Playground (5693 S. Jones Blvd. #114, adventurein- doorplayground.com). For the smallest of tykes, Fidgets Indoor Playground (7835 S. Rainbow Blvd. #15, fidgetslv. kick back in one of the shiatsu massage com) has a dedicated pre-walkers area, chairs instead. With vacation- and recently started providing some- If your offspring has graduated from thing special for adults with children at bounce houses, the valley has several hyped children play: adult yoga on Thursdays from 9-10 trampoline parks for more sophisticated a.m. If downward dog is not your forte, aerials. In addition to wall-to-wall can- afoot, it’s nice to just bring your laptop and tap into the vas, FLIPnOUT Xtreme (4245 S. Grand free Wi-Fi. Three levels of mega-jungle Canyon Drive #111, flipnoutxtreme.com) gym are the centerpiece of Kangamoo houses the only indoor zipline in town have options that Indoor Playground (1525 E. Sunset and Laser Tag Warehouse Wars — four Road #7, kangamooplay.com), and the words that are long overdue as a com- don’t require a hristopher smith; meepleville, pin - HKPK : C hristopher ourtesy; indoor track ensures that parents can pound phrase. As implied by its name, make laps, keep cool, and observe the Rockin’ Jump (7200 Montessouri St. sun-protection little ones at play. Or you can leave hy- #160, lasvegas.rockinjump.com) pro- kangamoo: C kangamoo: children’s museum: courtesy ball: brent holmes; D iscovery peractivity to the young at heart and vides both rocks and hops, which may factor.

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY DesertCompanion.com 27 GET OUT activities

sound dangerous, but there’s no need for ity is not required to partake in the hara Ave., liveescapeadventure.com) ev- concern. The rocks appear in a board game wonderland that is Mee- eryone can live out their Indiana Jones rock-climbing obstacle that allows com- pleville Board Game Cafe (4704 W. fantasies with a visit to the room of Pha- petitive spirits to race to the top. Rockin’ Sahara Ave. #2, meepleville.com). The raoh’s Curse. Finally, the name may be a Tots jump time ensures smaller folk self-proclaimed “second happiest place tad extreme, but the family that escapes (children younger than 6) will not be on earth” has a library of more than a zombie virus together stays together at trampled Monday through Thursday 1,000 board games, and you don’t have Escape or Die (3064 W. Post Road, from 9-11 a.m. and Saturdays from 8-10 to worry about deciphering long in- 34escapeordielv.com). a.m. For a true family affair, Gravady struction manuals, as the staff is happy (7350 Prairie Falcon Road #120, gravady. to help you learn and master any game. Bull’s-eyes, home runs and com) has a flat rate for the entire family Also on the west side, Game Nest (4545 rock walls on Monday nights 6-9 p.m. Be sure to W. Spring Mountain Road #104, game- Your inner grandpa may be asking, take a swing on their trapeze to get the nestlv.com) is a pay-by-the-hour arcade “What happened to good old fun? The full experience. which earns you unlimited access to kind without zombies?” Fair question, Bouncing off the walls is really a thing free-play arcade games. In addition to and although arrows could be handy in North Las Vegas at HKPK Las Vegas DanceEvolution, Fighter, Puzzle and during the apocalypse, Pacific Ar- (3680 N. Fifth St. #130, hkpklv.com), the more arcade games, they have six con- chery Sales (4084 Schiff Drive, pacifi - largest parkour facility in the United sole stations with the choice of XBox carcherylv.com) does not require the States, with 20,000 square feet of park- One, Playstation 4, or Wii-U. If you’re undead for a grand old time. You can our structures, trampolines, a spring wondering, “Why battle imaginary take a shot on one of their indoor ar - floor, a 60-foot tumble track, plus doz- foes?”, Battle Blast Laser Tag (8125 W. chery lanes, take a lesson, or go all ens of modular obstacles. In case you’re Sahara Ave. #200, battleblastlv.com) Robin Hood and sign up for a summer not familiar with parkour, it’s a sport answers with a multi-level arena, league. Speaking of summer: Baseball. that involves moving through a city by phaser packs and an unfolding drama of You may have thought it was impossi- jumping, leaping, and running off of and hide-and-seek, tag, and capture-the- ble to swing, batter, batter in sub-100 through buildings and structures; prob- flag. For the summer, Battle Blast is of- degrees here in town, but behold Ex- ably easiest if you Google it to see what fering all-you-can-play specials and tra Innings (7200 Montessouri St. your kids are getting into. Or, you can special theme weeks. You may get #190, extrainnings-lasvegas.com), an sign up for one of their summer camps psyched for “I love the ’80s” week, but indoor batting cage facility where you (for ages 7 and older) or training classes you will probably end up at “Potter-tas- can walk right in and use token-operat- in parkour, trampoline, tricking (a com- tic” defending Hogwarts with at least ed baseball and softball batting cages bination of kicks, flips and twists), or ae - two of your favorite kids. and tunnels. Bows and bats are not re - rial silks. Sign your 3- to 6-year-old up quired at Nevada Climbing Centers for the Little Ninja Class. The great escapes (3065 E. Patrick Lane #4, nvclimbing. Being locked in a room with your fam- com). With just two firm grips, you and Balls and boards ily may not be magical, but the escape the crew can navigate 27 top rope walls, Virtual aerials greatly reduce the risk rooms in town give you an opportunity a 30-foot, 45-degree inverted climb, of bumps and bruises and increase the to try it out. The idea is simple: you are and a bouldering cave. In Henderson, rate of pizza consumption. This law of locked in a room with a group and you Origin Climbing and Fitness (7585 physics is appreciated by Press Start have a set time to solve a series of puz- Commercial Way, originclimb.com) Gaming Center (1550 E. Tropicana Ave. zles to “escape.” Each location has spe- provides similar adventures but in #7, psglv.com), as demonstrated by their cific age restrictions and several rooms technicolor. The 23,000-square-foot monthly lock-ins that allow all ages to to choose from, so do your research be- climbing, yoga and fitness center offers game all night and consume bottomless fore rounding up the family. Here are kids’ climb time Saturdays and Sun- boxes of Italian pies. Or, you can just some of our favorite themes: At Lock- days; it includes rental equipment and stop in to play their consoles and library down (3271 S. Highland Drive, lock - an Origin Instructor to guide and belay of games on one of their 40-plus stations. downrooms.com) you can engage in a your child while you run out for a frap - You can make a day of it and wander simulated hostage negotiation for the puccino. As you sip that refreshing across the parking lot to the Pinball release of your best friend. Perhaps a bit beverage, remember that frozen treats Hall of Fame (1610 E. Tropicana Ave., less stressful is the Sherlock Room in- and water features are not your only pinballmuseum.org) where a fist full of spired by Holmes himself at Count- respite this summer. Stuff this handy quarters buys access to 10,000 square- down Live Escape Games (2959 West- guide in your glove box for easy refer - feet of flippin’ old-school fun. wood Drive, countdownescape.com/lv). ence, and stay cool by seeking out the Speaking of old school, even electric- At Live Escape Adventure (6376 W. Sa- great indoors.

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 28 DesertCompanion.com THE ORIGINAL DESERT COMPANION Jeep. The oldest four-wheel drive mass-production vehicles now known as SUVs. The Jeep became the primary light 4-wheel-drive vehicle of the United States Army and the Allies during World War II. Chapman has sold more Jeep Wranglers than any other dealership in the history of Nevada. Why? We’re family-owned, family-operated and family-friendly and have been for the last 50 years.

One day you’ll say, “I got it at Chapman,” too! % DODGE • CHRYSLER • JEEP • RAM APR

LasVegasDodge.com 0 LasVegasChrysler.com Financing 702-457-1061 Available 702-558-3000 East Sahara at Mojave on selected models. oac In the Valley Auto Mall I hold water to a higher standard. The Superstar Standard.

My name is Matt, and my job at the Southern Nevada Water Authority is to make sure water delivered to your home meets or surpasses all state and federal drinking-water standards. At home, my job is to make sure my family drinks plenty of clean, healthy water. At the SNWA, we keep a very close eye on water quality, conducting hundreds of thousands of analyses every year to verify the quality of our drinking water. And that makes both of my jobs a lot easier. We know that some customers use additional home water treatment devices and want to help you make informed decisions. If you have questions or would like objective information about supplemental water treatment systems, visit snwa.com or call 702-258-3930.

The SNWA is a not-for-profit water utility. portraits of the fam 16 places where we live, work and play

community little after 6 a.m. one October ing. Later, he’d tell his mother, Deborah morning, half a dozen Green Val- Newman, that he was struck by their A ley High School sophomores and gratitude and good manners, and sad- Advanced their moms stood shivering in a parking dened to see how many military veter- lot near West Washington Avenue and ans were among the city’s homeless. Be- G Street. Julia Occhiogrosso, of the Las fore heading home around noon that day degree Vegas Catholic Worker, pulled up with in 2013, the Newmans and their friends a trailer full of coffee and tea, food and served more than 150 people. in charity industrial kitchenware. Following Oc- But the remarkable part of this story chiogrosso’s directions, the sleepy-eyed isn’t just the volume of need met – the A group of local teens proves that kids helped set up a soup line and then Catholic Worker soup line routinely at- community service can be fun, manned serving stations. Homeless men tracts as many as 200 – it’s the fact that fulfilling and high-impact and women wandered into the lot and the Green Valley group was neither put- By Heidi Kyser lined up for the free food that the commu- ting in mandatory community service nity charity doles out four days a week. hours for school, nor volunteering for Charlie Newman, a tall baseball an official nonprofit organization. Yet, player with shaggy hair and hazel eyes, despite the casual nature of their efforts, flipped pancakes and watched as people they got together nearly every month took washcloths to clean up before eat- for six years and lent a hand to someone

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY Photography anthony mair DesertCompanion.com 31 HOME LIFE community

who needed it. Called TeenMD, short for say. After a meeting or two more, they of wood, and they had us come in and oil teens making a difference, the kids re- had full buy-in from the kids, a mission the cars and make sure they didn’t have cently finished high school and will soon statement and a name: Teens Making a any splinters or anything that could hurt head off to college. But the impact of Difference, TeenMD. the kids they were going to give them to. what they did will last for years to come. “There were 12 of us, so the idea was, I remember it being kind of lightheart- each of us would take a month,” says ed. We were playing with the cars, and A history of giving Cyndy Mahoney, who fills the role of the boys were being very silly. I think we n 2007, during lunch with some female unofficial den mother. “So, you and your were sophomores in high school then, friends, Henderson resident Leslie child would decide, ‘OK, we’re going to but we became like little kids again.” I DeBore floated an idea for an activity do Three Square,’ and then (that fami- After they finished polishing what that she’d heard about a similar group of ly) would take care of setting it up and seemed like hundreds of little cars to Orange County friends doing: What if, in- letting everyone else know when and Wellish, Toys for Smiles founder Rex stead of spending $50 on lunch, they pooled where we’re going.” Doty gave each teen two cars to take their money once a month for a charitable How each parent-child team oper- home. He told them to keep an eye cause? DeBore’s friends loved the idea, and ated was up to them. In some cases, out for kids who needed toys and give their informal give group was born. Mom took charge; in others, Junior them the cars. There were a few ground rules: They was more involved. In general, they “That really made a huge impact,” Wel- decided to avoid overtly political and gravitated toward causes that resonat- lish says. “So often, we’d go to a place religious activities, but otherwise could ed with the kids. A sporty boy named and do a job and that would be it. But give the money to whomever they col- Noah Whitehead usually picked the there, we took something with us. It lectively decided on, from a neighbor Tour de Fire, a long-distance bike ride taught me a lesson: Your service projects who’d fallen on hard times to a formal that benefitted the Nevada Childhood should never end. … Physically, we might 501(c)3. There would be no strings at- Cancer Foundation. A pet lover, Haley have been done with it, but mentally, we tached, and the low amount would keep Kaminsky tended to choose animal were thinking about the happiness and them under the tax limit. rescues and shelters, such as Heaven well-being of children.” The give group has succeeded beyond Can Wait. One mom, Janet Wellish, Over the years, Wellish and her friends what the friends expected when they kept a folder of ideas for anyone who volunteered for dozens of organizations: started it nine years ago. This fall, they’ll was short on inspiration. Boys and Girls Club of Henderson, Cath- hit the $50,000 mark in total donations. “One thing we took from our give olic Charities, Goodie Two Shoes, Ronald “I think the reason it worked for me is group was to have the kids learn about McDonald House, Tonopah Community because it was so easy and a good way the different needs and opportunities Garden – the list is long. to give,” says Deborah Newman. “Then within our local community,” Mahoney What kept them going, when so after a few years I realized, you know says. “When you’re at Three Square, many kids’ parents have trouble get- what? I want that for my kids. … I can see they give you a tour and talk about the ting them off the couch and away from the way our society moves. Sometimes food bank and where the food goes, so it their video screens? people are not so charitable, and I think kind of opens your eyes.” “We loved being there so much that it’s important.” Once those eyes are open, they tend showing up was never really a problem,” In 2010, a few of the women in the give to stay open, according to Bob Morgan, Wellish says. “It was never a ‘Shame on group had kids who were seventh-grad- president and CEO of United Way of you!’ thing. It was more, ‘Oh, we missed ers. A mix of boys and girls, they’d grown Southern Nevada. “This is a great way you.’ We just happened to be friends up together and were good friends. to ingrain in the next generation the with this nice, down-to-Earth group of Their moms wanted to encourage them core value of giving back,” he says. “It’s a people. It’s definitely rare. I’m lucky to to do something like the give group, but great way to make that world view stick have them.” recognized that the teens would have to with the next generation. … It stays with She alludes to two factors that seem to offer something other than money, since them forever.” be at the heart of TeenMD’s longevity: they had little of their own. How about good group chemistry and a low-pres- their time? Give and give again sure attitude toward participation. Al- The moms got everyone together for ausing to reflect on all the places though the parents say they expected a pizza party and – like DeBore had she went with TeenMD, Eve Wel- their kids to commit long-term, they done with them three years earlier – P lish, Jane’s daughter, lowers her also made it clear from the beginning proposed the idea of a volunteer project. dark brown eyes and leans forward on that conflicting activities, from soccer The girls were receptive and the boys one elbow. to church, would take precedent. With didn’t object, which, at their age, was “Toys for Smiles is one that stands out,” guilt-trips out of the equation, the kids tantamount to approval, their mothers she finally says. “They make toy cars out went to events, many of which they’d

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 32 DesertCompanion.com Want your teen to make a difference? of her son Zach Mahoney, who’s usually the mother and younger brother of one handy advice from TeenMD’s pioneers: pretty stoic. “Some people who air- senior member, Kelsey Au. brush cars for a reality TV show came “We thought we’d keep it going with out and airbrushed stockings with kids’ these guys,” Jennifer Au says, looking at n Start early. When kids are in names and pictures in the parking lot at her son Conner, who’s now a freshman at middle school is ideal, moms Sunrise Hospital. Zach and a few of the Green Valley. “This group actually went to said, because after that they get kids took names and passed out stock- the same elementary school as the older over-extended with activities. ings. Afterward, he was just like, ‘That group, so they’re really following in their was so awesome!’ He had a Santa Claus older brothers’ and sisters’ footsteps.” n Enlist people who get along. “I hat and a big grin on.” “It feels like I’ve done something good,” think it worked because the kids TeenMD became so much fun that, by Conner says, describing why he took his were good friends anyway, not the time kids were in high school, driv- mom up on the offer to start TeenMD just the moms,” Newman says. ing and carrying their own cell phones, 2.0 three years ago. “It makes you feel n Keep it easygoing. Allow them they would get together and do things better about yourself to help others.” to put organized events first. “If with no parental involvement at all. He had some experience to build on, While Mahoney set up a Shutter- having participated in activities with somebody had a soccer game? fly Share site for photos, the kids used his older sister’s group. They couldn’t go that day. It’s GroupMe to communicate the details of Jennifer says she also has a friend in okay,” Mahoney says. outings. The closer the kids got to gradu- Summerlin who’s interested in starting n Keep it informal. No dues and no ation, with social lives and SATs to wor- a similar group there. Her advice for agenda means no drama, New- ry about, the fewer of them would show this friend and anyone else who’s think- man says. The more demands up each month. But their enthusiasm ing about launching a TeenMD-like you make, the less fun it will be. didn’t wane, even if only two or three of initiative: “If you can get at least six or them could make it. seven kids to commit, it will work. Take n That said, commit. “It requires a Based partly on her description of the the summer off, and during the year, lot of hard work and time, and experience in an essay, Wellish received have each kid take one month. … There you have to really want to do a $1,000 Powerful Partnership college are many organizations that need help, this,” Conner Au says. scholarship from NV Energy. She’s plan- but even if you know an elderly couple ning to go to George Washington Uni- who needs their lawn mowed and trees n Pick a ringleader. Let families versity and double major in business and trimmed, that will work. Encourage choose causes and organize Spanish. She says she’ll do some kind of kids to come up with their own ideas of outings in their own way, but community service in college and is hop- how they can help.” designate someone to keep track ing that her degree will help her run her United Way’s Bob Morgan says that of and share contact information, own nonprofit someday. he finds his son’s generation is more and keep the trains running on “It’s easier to say than do, but it’s good philanthropically inclined than his time. to keep in mind the concept behind ser- own and has the benefit of operating in vice,” she says. “If you’re going to feed the information age. n Go local. TeenMD prefers the homeless, for instance, you can do “With the Internet and social media, grassroots groups over national that every day and night, but they’re go- there are so many ways of communi- organizations, which typically ing to still come back for more, so I guess cating now,” he says. “People are able have enough name recognition what I was left with was, there’s a bigger to find causes that resonate with them and marketing to get plenty of problem. It’s the system that’s making at a level that maybe wouldn’t have been volunteers. them homeless. So, I think about that possible for us.” problem. What needs to be done to help Good for them, he adds: “I don’t have n Don’t give up. Interest in the them so they can find a job and sustain exact data, but there is a pretty robust group will wax and wane, Ma- themselves? With each project, you look set of data showing that there is a cor- honey says, but if you keep it a little deeper and see what needs to be relation between volunteering as an fun, people will keep showing up. changed in our world.” adult and self-identified contentedness.” In other words, the kids of TeenMD Future give not only had fun trying to make the picked themselves, on their own terms. ith Wellish and her peers grad- world a better place, but in doing so, they “In 2014, we did the Nevada Child- uating, what will become of also prepared themselves to be hap- hood Cancer Foundation Toy Run,” Ma- W TeenMD? Another generation is py grownups. And heaven knows, the honey says, recalling a favorite activity taking the baton. Leading the effort are world can always use more of those.

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY DesertCompanion.com 33 homelife fun & games

Hot ouside, way cool inside When the air is on fire outdoors, these books, games and projects will keep the kids happy indoors

READ tions are beautiful and full of version of Susan Cain’s hit While grownups are agog for Six books that let kids gentle humor, and the language book Quiet: The Power of Intro- Emma Cline’s The Girls, the of every age roam freely deeply considered. There Is a verts in a World that Can’t Stop teen set can check out Alison without leaving the safe- Tribe of Kids is perfect read- Talking, and it relocates the con- Umminger’s American Girls. ty of A/C Compiled by Drew aloud material. versation from the workplace Like Cline, Umminger revisits Cohen of The Writer’s Block to school, extracurriculars and the Manson murders through bookstore friendship. The book’s message the prism of the present, and (ages 10 and up) will be empowering to kid and through the gaze of Anna, a (ages 4-7) Lungdon teen readers who will recognize 15-year-old runaway navigat- ABZZZZ …: A Bedtime Al- (The Overlook Press, $11.99) themselves in Cain’s story. ing turbid waters of B-list Los phabet Angeles. This is mature stuff, but (Thames & Hudson, $14.95) The third and final book in The written with an eye for the sensi- This one is for the illustration Iremonger Trilogy, Lungdon (ages 12 and up) tivities of young-adult readers. enthusiasts. Originally published brings the Iremonger family to Saving Montgomery Sole in Portugal in 2014, ABZZZZ … is London, and with them, a host (Roaring Brook Press, $17.99) PLAY a bedtime alphabet designed to of dark goings-on and super- The family that plays cajole children into sleep. Each natural intrigue. Edward Carey Monty Sole is a book-smart (board games) togeth- page includes a fact or question debuted this unusual series — a girl in a small town, and a er stays cool together (“Did you know that even the pastiche of Mervyn Peake’s Gor- founding member of Jeffer- Compiled by Timm Metivier of strongest bear purrs to sleep menghast novels, incorporating son High’s Mystery Club — a Meepleville Game Café …?”). But it’s Yara Kono’s illustra- the art style of Edward Gorey group dedicated to exploring tions that steal the show: bright, and the sensibility of Lemony the occult. As if this didn’t (ages 8-up) scintillating and modern. Snicket — a few years back with single her out enough, she’s Ticket to Ride the superb novel Heap House. got two moms and a gay best Settle in for this one — you’re Essential reading for morbidly friend. Mariko Tamaki’s second in for 30 minutes to an hour of (ages 5–8) inclined, precocious youngsters. YA novel is diverse without heat-avoiding fun. Bring a fresh There Is a Tribe of Kids being self-congratulatory and brain, too; the website Board (Roaring Brook Press, $18.99) combines two topics high on Game Geek says players make (ages 12 and up) the teenage agenda: identity “intense strategic and tactical de- Lane Smith’s latest depicts a Quiet Power politics and astrology. cisions every turn” as they build young boy’s journey through (Dial Books, $17.99) railroad empires across North a series of collective nouns: a America. Yet it’s simple enough colony of penguins, a smack of You don’t see this often: pop- (ages 14 and up) for the two to five players to jellyfish, a trail of snails. As ever, ular psychology adapted for American Girls learn in a few minutes. Smith’s sponge-paint illustra- teens. This is a totally reworked (Flatiron Books, $17.99)

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 34 DesertCompanion.com Illustration brent holmes (ages 8-up) (ages 12-up) King of Tokyo Telestrations Oh, no, there goes Tokyo! In In what is basically an illustrated this dice- and card-based game of “telephone,” four to game, giant, mutated mon- eight players use small white- sters — avatars of the two to boards to illustrate words, which six players — compete to de- the next player has to interpret stroy the Japanese metropolis. and redraw, and then the next Fiercest monster wins! Bonus player, until everyone’s had a detail: There’s a card that crack at everyone else’s white- allows your monster a second board. Then you see just how far life ... in the form of an extra afield the iterations have taken head! Godzilla — and your you. Everyone wins! kids — would approve. MAKE Keep your little ones (ages 8-up) busy and creative with Suspend projects from these The basic dynamic? Players kids-craft websites (up to four) take turns hanging Compiled by Desert thin, twisty metal rods on Companion child-having staff a central post. As the wires accumulate into ever-more Filthwizardry.com elaborate, precarious shapes, Strike one: The website’s name; who will be the player to make it sounds a little, er, dicey? it fall? A quick and easy game Strike two: It hasn’t been up- in which kids and parents are dated since 2014. But it turns evenly matched. out that “filth wizards” is just an affectionate term for ram- bunctious/messy kids; and the (ages 8-up) site’s stasis doesn’t take the Tsuro charm out of the step-by-step Fast and simple, just like sum- instructions for making loom mer, Tsuro is a path-building bands, staging bathtub curling game for two to eight players. matches or fighting the battle You lay down tiles, creating a of Hoth in an ice cream bowl. route for your dragon, while trying to run other dragons off Childhood101.com the board or into each other. Make a school of origami fish. Last dragon on the board wins. Decorate some sneakers. Learn Easy to learn, too. what “tabletop monoprinting” is (hint: it’s messy). This site tells you what you need and (ages 10-up) what you need to know for Catan these and other projects that’ll A card and dice strategy make time fly. game for three or four players, Catan is all about controlling Disneyfamily.com the island of Catan by civi- If you aren’t put off by the lizing it — building cities and ubiquitous brand awareness infrastructure. Get comfy, as (though your kid probably play might continue for more won’t mind), there are plenty than an hour. But it’s time of fun projects here that run enjoyably spent, according to from easy (Dory notecards) to Board Game Geek, which says more complex (Marvel photo it’s “one of the most popular frames) to cross-stitching. games in recent history.”

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY DesertCompanion.com 35 DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 36 DesertCompanion.com homelife generations

The fullest possible house It’s a very, very, very fine house, with three cats in the loft, four dogs in the yard and people stacked like firewood. Notes on a domestic blitz by SCOTT DICKENSHEETS

et’s begin with an inventory of their enormous dog, two cats and pet rat We had dogs adding to the chaos — a pair sorts. As I write this, there are needed a place to stay for a month be- of schnauzers so smart we had to child- six adults, one preteen, one tod- fore moving to Illinois, we said yes right proof all the lower cabinets — plus a cat dler, two infants, four dogs, three away? or two. A snake in a terrarium. You know, L cats, one rat (thankfully caged) Of course we did. (Okay, we did fret starter cacophony. living in my house, for a total of 18 sig- briefly about their dog; it’s rideably Then the kids grew up and the grand- nificant life forms in these 2,900 square large.) Just as we invited some friends, kids started coming. feet. Which isn’t as big as it sounds, es- and their dog, to stay with us for a few According to Generations United, an pecially when you factor in all their weeks when they moved to town. Just advocacy group, one in every six Amer- stuff. Clothes. Baby furniture. Toys. as we opened our doors to my mother icans lives in a multigenerational home. Litter boxes. Lumpy bags of miscella- and brother and her three dogs for six That’s trending upward, increasing by neous items I don’t wanna know about. months while they were house-hunting. more than 10 percent in the three-year That it’s a temporary overcrowding — as There’s just something about domestic span beginning in 2007. No doubt the you read this, the house will have ex- cacophony that works for us. recession has a lot to do with it, cash- haled four humans and several animals strapped families banding together to — doesn’t make it any less crazy while ***** stretch their resources. As it happens, it’s happening. Or, frankly, all that un- n the beginning, there were just the that’s about when it started for us, too, usual for our place. It’s kind of nutty two of us: my wife, Laura, and me. and the economy had a lot to do with it. here. (Have I mentioned that one of the I But before the beginning, there were That’s when our first grandchild, Ca- infants was born in an upstairs bathtub? many more children — we both grew dence, was born, and to save money, It’s a tale that accounts for the pickle jar up in large families. I had three siblings, Steven, Cadence and his girlfriend lived in the illustration across the page.) Pre- she had four; we know our hubbub, bub. with us. The girlfriend eventually moved viously we’ve had seven people and four We were born in it. Molded by it. Conse- out, but Steven and Cadence stayed for dogs; seven people — spanning four gen- quently, once we were married, I didn’t most of the next seven years. The two erations — and six dogs; and there have want kids. Zero. Finally, a lifetime of qui- schnauzers were succeeded over time by surely been other arrangements I’m for- et! That lasted until a few minutes after a skittish Yorkipoo, a chill shih tzu and a getting. Welcome to our home! We’ve our first child was born. Then came the schnauzer-terrier mix. always had trouble deciding if it’s best pivot: “I want nine of these,” I gushed to “About 7.8 million children across the compared to (a) a sitcom; (b) a circus; or Laura, brandishing newly born Steven country live in households headed by (c) a sitcom about a circus. while she lay on the Caesarean table. We grandparents or other relatives,” Gen- As you might expect, these days settled for three. erations United tells us. Often it’s a cir- there’s a lot of commotion, a fair amount Wherever we’ve lived, we’ve always cumstance of last resort, undertaken of barking, plenty of baby squawking, encouraged a casual, crossroads feel for unhappy reasons, but that wasn’t people in one another’s way ... aw, hell, to our home. Kids, some of them ours, the case with us. It’s an amazing thing can you tell we enjoy this madhouse? crashing in the living room; an extra to have daily access to your grandchild That we have cultivated it? That when plate or two for dinner. Sure, your friend as she grows up. Did I say grandchild? I our oldest son, his wife and kids and Daniel can join us on vacation. Like that. meant grandchildren. My youngest son,

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY illustration rick sealock DesertCompanion.com 37 home life generations

Spencer, and his fiancée, Kayla, added not only to the stockpile of grandkids — bearing Liam three years ago — but to the population of the house, the three of them moving in.

***** ast year, after Steven and Cadence moved out, my mother and brother L relocated to Southern Nevada from Colorado, bringing three small dogs and a garageful of stuff. Stay with us!, we insisted. Added to our own fleet of yappers, that made six dogs. (Thank- fully, all six had hair instead of fur and didn’t shed.) So, bark bark! the house bark bark! could get very bark bark! noisy. One dog always set off the other five. Nor were any of them inclined to distinguish between, say, a potential in- truder and the sound of a leaf blowing he Tony Award-winning Utah Shakespeare Festival is down the street. Bark bark! not just a theatrical presentation – any more than the And you do not want me to describe Taj Mahal is just a house. It’s eight of the liveliest, most what six dogs can do to a backyard. professionally-produced plays this side of Broadway. Still, everyone got along pretty well and tempers rarely flared, even when Drama, comedy, Shakespeare, contemporary theatre and a few the water heater leaked and required Tgenres in between. And it’s conveniently set in the midst of Cedar many days of wall and floor removal, not City’s stunning new Beverley Center for the Arts. to mention industrial dryers RUNNING VERY LOUDLY night and day, a mold But wait, there’s more: The interactive Greenshow, backstage scare, insurance voodoo and time-suck- tours, play seminars, panel discussions with world-class cast ing reconstruction. We had to move my members and artists, plus enlightening play orientations. And a mom’s bed into the living room during nearby renowned national park or two, or three. the tear-down. Hey, at least the dryers drowned out the dogs. Through it all, I was mostly able to No wonder it’s called a festival. It’s also quite accurately referred keep my cool amid the racket. It felt to as The Greater Escape. good to help my mother and brother. And it was especially gratifying to have four generations under the roof. How June 27 – October 22 many kids interact daily with a great grandparent? How many seniors enjoy Much Ado about Nothing (or, on some days, endure) the attentions Henry V of so much ancestry? The time-span was boggling: When my mother was the The Three Musketeers same age as the great grandson bounc- The Cocoanuts The Greater Escape. ing on her lap, the atom bomb was still Mary Poppins a few years from changing everything; Julius Caesar he’ll grow up in a world that would Murder for Two have seemed like science fiction to her The Odd Couple back then. There are cultures where this kind of multigenerational home is closer to the norm, and I think they’re 800-PLAYTIX • bard.org • #utahshakes on to something. I have to believe that Ask about Child Pricing.

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 38 DesertCompanion.com I got even more emotional when I opened the fridge an hour later to find the placenta in a bag, next to the there are intangible benefits to this fa- jar of pickles Kayla bought when she was pregnant milial continuity — each generation is a and immediately declined to eat. living road map for the other, of where our family has been and where it’s going. The six-dog home, on the other hand, is for the birds. (Have we ever owned birds? I quickly amended my to-do list: opened the fridge an hour later to find Not sure; I might’ve missed them.) “Tack up plastic sheeting in front of my the placenta in a bag, next to the jar of books, just in case.” pickles Kayla bought when she was ***** So it was that in the wee hours one pregnant and immediately declined to kay, about the baby and the bath- early May morning, I sat on the stairs eat. Just a bag of afterbirth — a complete- tub. As the May due date for Spen- outside a very crowded upstairs bath- ly transparent bag, I might add — sittin’ O cer and Kayla’s second child ap- room, listening as the rampant midwife- in the fridge. Beside the pickles. As if proached, Kayla let us know that she ry was cut short by the squealing arrival that’s a normal thing. planned to have a home birth in one of of our home’s newest resident, Marshall. Hey, it happens. That’s our life, what our tubs. I was dubious. Our house has (No surgery needed.) The moment can I say. a few nice amenities, but a surgery suite seemed to call for a lofty benediction of Postscript: A few days after my son ready for emergency C-sections isn’t one some kind — perhaps a bit of enduring and his family and pets departed for Illi- of them. Should I have someone sign a wisdom about not tossing the baby with nois, leaving the house suddenly quieter waiver or something? I had immediate the bathwater, just in case no one was and less frenetic, we got a text from a visions of a 20-hour labor, frantic shouts paying attention during cleanup — but family friend. She’s coming to town for of “It’s crowning!,” rampant midwifery — I was, frankly, overcome with emotion. a few days. Could she crash at our place? afterbirth flying everywhere! I got even more emotional when I Absolutely.

sed PRES te-licen CHOO Sta Ages 3-5 L Half day and full day classes available Two days or three days a week | Yearly tuition starting at $554.63 Register starting August 1 Classes begin September 19 Valley View Recreation Center, 500 Harris St. | 702-267-4060

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY DesertCompanion.com 39 HOME LIFE cooking Flight of Flavor Parents and kids will enjoy creating these recipes together — and taking a flavorful flight of international delight

by OKSANA MARAFIOTI photography CHRISTOPHER SMITH

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 40 DESERTCOMPANION.COM Iced oranges hese orange ices come from the South of France. They make perfect picnic treats, T especially on a hot day. INGREDIENTS:

L 2/3 cup of granulated sugar

L 1/2 cup plus 6 tablespoons of water

L juice of 1 lemon

L 14 oranges

L chocolate curls and festive cocktail umbrellas for decoration

DIRECTIONS: 1. Warm a heavy-based pan over low heat, and add the sugar, ½ cup of water and half the lemon juice. 2. Stir until the sugar melts. Bring the mixture to a slow boil, and cook, stirring often, until the syrup becomes clear. Cool on the counter. 3. Cut the tops off eight oranges, and keep the tops for later use. Scoop out the flesh and set aside in a small bowl. Place the orange shells and tops on a tray and freeze until needed. 4. Grate the rind of the remaining oranges and add to the sugar syrup. Squeeze the juice from the flesh of all the oranges until you have about 3 cups of orange juice. 5. Add half of the reserved orange flesh (just for texture), freshly-squeezed orange juice along with the remaining lemon juice and the 6 tablespoons of water to the sugar syrup. Taste to adjust for sugar. Freeze in a shallow tray for about 3 hours. 6. Remove the sugar syrup tray from the freezer. The mixture shouldn’t be completely frozen. Place into a bowl, stir gently and return in the bowl to the freezer for 4-5 hours, or until firm but not frozen. 7. Fill the frozen shells with the mixture and replace the tops. Store in the freezer until ready to serve. 8. Before serving, push the cocktail umbrellas into the tops and enjoy!

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY DESERTCOMPANION.COM 41 HOME LIFE cooking

ussian pancakes, or oladyi, are light and delicate, and the apples add natural R sweetness, plus vitamins. The vanilla sugar in this recipe can be store-bought or homemade. It’s versatile and easy to make, but if you decide on the homemade version, you do need to prepare it ahead of time: Simply place a vanilla bean into a one- to two-pound container of sugar, and store for about a week for the va- Russian apple nilla scent to infuse the sugar. Use vanilla sugar in pastry and dessert recipes, even coffee.

INGREDIENTS:

L 2 Granny Smith apples, cored and peeled pancak L 1-2 tablespoons of vanilla sugar (adjust to es preference) L 1 tablespoon lemon juice

L 3 eggs, separated

L 1 cup half-and-half

L 1 / 2 cup milk

L 3 tablespoons melted butter, more if needed for cooking

L 1 cup plus 4 tablespoons unbleached all- purpose flour

L 1/4 teaspoon white vinegar

L 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

L 1/2 teaspoon salt

DIRECTIONS: 1. Slice apples thinly and toss with the vanilla sugar and lemon juice. Set aside. 2. Sift together the flour and salt. 3. In a separate bowl, beat egg yolks, half- and-half, milk, and 3 tablespoons of melted butter. Add the flour mixture and whisk until smooth. Stir in the baking soda and vinegar. Let stand at room temperature for about 30 minutes. 4. Add the apples to the batter and mix well 5. Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, and add to the batter. 6. Pour 3 tablespoons of batter per pancake onto a hot griddle or a heavy skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden-brown on both sides. Because the mixture already contains melted butter, you shouldn’t need any oil on the griddle. However, if pancakes stick, lower the heat and add additional butter as needed. 7. Keep the prepared pancakes in a warm oven until ready to serve. 8. Serve with maple syrup, or be creative with jams, fresh fruit, and sour cream.

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 42 DESERTCOMPANION.COM Moroccan chickpea tagine

dish perfect for young vegetarians-in-training. It’s delicious and versatile, and can be served as-is or A with a side dish of meat or fish. If you have picky eaters, you can always leave out the spices and herbs, or substitute with the ones they like. However, crusty bread is a must!

INGREDIENTS:

L 3/4 cup of chickpeas

L 2 tablespoons of sunflower or good quality olive oil (any oil will do here, so don’t be afraid to substitute for the type your family enjoys most) DIRECTIONS:

L 1 large onion, chopped 1. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan, and fry the onion

L 3 garlic cloves, crushed and garlic until golden-brown, about 10 minutes.

L 1 large tomato, chopped, or 14 oz. canned chopped 2. Add the chickpeas, cumin, tomatoes, and broth. Bring tomatoes to a boil, and simmer covered over low heat for 40-60

L 1 teaspoon ground cumin minutes, or until chickpeas are soft.

L 2 tablespoons fresh coriander, chopped 3. Before serving, cut the peel of the lemon into slivers

L 1 1/2 cups of vegetable broth and stir into the tagine.

L 1 lemon 4. Serve while warm, with a side of crusty bread.

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY DESERTCOMPANION.COM 43 FOR HOURS, SPECIAL OFFERS, BIRTHDAY PARTIES AND GROUP EVENTS, VISIT WWW.COWABUNGABAYVEGAS.COM 900 GALLERIA DRIVE • HENDERSON, NV • 702-850-9000 insight and reflections fam on making it 16 all work in the modern world

“Common sense doesn’t prevail in education,” she says. “To me, (financial literacy) is non-negotiable. It’s part of what we have to teach. It’s one of the things that left the curriculum. I don’t know why it’s not required.” Decker is at the forefront of an aggressive push to help Clark County kids get their nickels and dimes locked up in a piggy bank. Or, the Piggy Bank, as the case may be. One that doesn’t take a hammer to free up your rainy day fund. In 2013, the United Way’s newly formed Young Philanthro- pists Society was looking for a project to make a mark. The permanence of establishing an actual, functioning bank in a school to teach financial literacy appealed to the group, but they weren’t sure how to proceed. Decker convinced the society to launch its Piggy Bank program at Bracken. Silver State Credit Union is the actual financial institution of record. Everything about the Piggy Bank functions as a real bank. Kids are encouraged to make weekly

money matters deposits at an actual, physical walk-up counter (the kind your actual bank has been trying to do away with for years). At Brack- Common cents en, it was set up in the former school store. The fourth leg of this project was And- son, an educational nonprofit that focus- Modern financial literacy education teaches children to es on boosting academic improvement save for a rainy day — and for college, homes and more and financial literacy for kids. Andson By Jason Scavone came in and helped design and teach the curriculum in class, in order to turn children into the kind of finance-savvy peo- n many a school, back in the dark management. Katie Decker, principal of ple that wouldn’t, say, take all the money ages before there was a debit card in Walter Bracken STEAM Academy, Walter they earned over multiple summers every wallet and a banking app on Long Elementary and Howard Holling- working at a high school job and blow it every phone, the extent of financial sworth Elementary, knows that even the on a really cool guitar. (Just speaking, I literacy learning was, “Here’s a simplest of financial education can help lay you know, hypothetically.) The program checkbook. Here’s the column for de- the groundwork for a lifetime of good judg- accommodates first- through fifth-grad- posits and the rows for checks. Try not ment when it comes to money. She also ers. At the end of fifth grade, kids can ei- to hold up the line in the grocery store.” isn’t particularly shy about what she thinks ther continue on with an account at the It was perhaps not, in retrospect, the of the current system’s approach to finan- credit union, or they can collect a check FOR HOURS, SPECIAL OFFERS, BIRTHDAY PARTIES AND GROUP EVENTS, most savvy approach to a lifetime of money cial literacy. to take to another financial institution. VISIT WWW.COWABUNGABAYVEGAS.COM 900 GALLERIA DRIVE • HENDERSON, NV • 702-850-9000 DESERT COMPANION FAMILY ILLUSTRATION Brent Holmes DesertCompanion.com 45 BALANCE money

The society gave kids quarters to get she had a hit on her hands when one Some parents have zero experience with them started. Decker encouraged them fifth-grader told her that before the pro- banks. There are educators who stress the to save their own change, too. From that gram, he thought candy was a need. Now importance of the program during par- modest start, big things began to happen. he knows it’s a want. (This is arguable.) ent-teacher conferences. The idea is if they “If we can focus children on saving and can get the folks on board, they’ll reinforce Small change, big changes delayed gratification and wants and needs these lessons at home. So parents are wo years ago, Bracken students col- — ‘Should I eat popsicles every day, or if I taught things like how to fill out a deposit lectively saved $30,000. This year save the money on the popsicles, what slip. They see that kids can use an app to T they got it up to $50,000. The pro- might I have by the end of the year? May- check their balance and see how an ac- gram first expanded to Hollingsworth, be I can afford a book at college?’ Let’s get count is growing. They get, well, invested. which socked away $9,000. This year, the concept out there (of ) having a sav- “My neighborhoods, they don’t bank,” Walter V. Long Elementary got in on the ings account and having a reserve in the Decker says. “A lot of them are from Mex- fun and put away $14,000. Hollingsworth event you have any emergency come up,” ico. It’s that trust. They learn to trust us. was Decker’s first school as franchise Decker says. That’s why they’re participating so much. principal, and she recently took Long un- There are kids saving for college, and They get that we’re trying to help them.” der her wing. She expects those numbers some saving for houses. Imagine buying to go up at all of her schools. property in your early 20s because you had Kid business Part of the way the school encourages the wherewithal to marshal couch-and- he Piggy Bank may be one of the saving is to strip it all down to its simplest dryer change for it in your Inside Out years. most successful recent programs in components, teaching the difference be- But the program doesn’t stop with the kids. T the local financial literacy landscape, tween wants and needs. Decker knew Parents are learning about saving, too. but it’s by no means the first. hy N a me Go e s H r g rap Ph oto

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 46 DesertCompanion.com Junior Achievement of Southern Ne- gets more intense as middle-schoolers ers, that covers everything from money vada runs economic success programs in have the opportunity to visit Junior management to credit to scholarships. nearly 40 schools with 15,000-20,000 Achievement’s Finance Park from Octo- That confluence of college and credit students led by an army of more than 800 ber to December, held this year at the old cards is a universal talking point to these volunteers annually. Junior Achieve- Lied Discovery Museum site on Las Ve- programs. Manzella warns kids not to do ment’s kindergarten-through-12th-grade gas Boulevard. what she did, and sign up for a credit curriculum starts with its “JA for a Day” Almost 3,500 students took part in Fi- card on the flimsy promise of a free courses, in which volunteers teach finan- nance Park this past fall. Over the course T-shirt. No one should be paying off Taco cial lit lessons tailored to specific grade of 4 ½ hours, kids become an adult for a Bell-and-sneaker debt into their 30s, but levels. For instance, fifth-graders learn day. They get a life scenario where that’s the kind of pitfall that financial lit- about entrepreneurship, the types of jobs they’re told how old they are, what their eracy educators are trying to stave off. out there, the skills necessary to get them job is, how much they make, if they’re Justin Micatrotto, the co-chair of the and how all that fits into the global econo- married or have kids, what their credit Young Philanthropists Society who my. (In case you were wondering who score is, how much debt they’re carrying helped get the Piggy Bank program off might take your job out from under you as and what their education level is. With the ground, was lucky to have some guid- you slowly descend into obsolescence, all of that information, students have to ance from his father, because his finan- this is the answer.) The organization op- make 25 budgeting decisions and come cial education in high school was virtual- erates primarily Downtown, and 85 per- up with a one-month balanced budget. ly nonexistent. Andson’s co-founder, cent of its students are from low-income It’s grown-up fantasy camp for all of the Sonia Anderson, was born in poverty in schools. That focus allows them to estab- lousy parts of being a grown-up and none Guyana and the only way she escaped lish a feeder system from elementary to of the fun stuff, like buying your own was by educators helping to give her a leg middle school to high school where kids beer or planning a staycation. The idea is up. She had to teach her mother how to are ideally coming into contact with Ju- to gets kids thinking about money man- count, and took over the family finances nior Achievement every year. agement, investing, saving and credit, but as a child. After coming to America, she Jodi Manzella is the chief operating of- there’s also a subtly reinforced message eventually built a debt management busi- ficer of Junior Achievement of Southern about the importance of education. ness that she sold in 2008. She got into Nevada. She started as a volunteer 19 “The goal for the students is not only to the nonprofit arena because she wanted years ago, when she went into a Las Ve- understand the important personal fi- to do something to help break people’s gas High School classroom to help kids nancial concepts, but for them to under- cycle of debt. start their own business. She spent 20 stand that everybody in the room has a There’s a common thread to these pro- weeks taking them through business different life scenario,” Manzella says. grams, of adults trying to fill in kids on plans and market research and promo- “Everybody’s educational level is differ- the life skills they themselves never got tions to sell T-shirts. One girl, who resist- ent. They’re sitting at a table of five peers. in school. ed at first, eventually came around and Someone at the table might have only a “Financial literacy, for me, is one of the designed the shirts. She ended up going high school diploma, some might have a most critical things we have to teach our to school for design. Manzella was Ph.D. They see that earning potential is a youth,” Decker says. “Living in Las Ve- hooked. Two years later she went to work lot different and you can get a lot more gas, a city where people are foreclosing for Junior Achievement. stuff if you get a Ph.D. than if you only on their houses left and right, seeing “Either we educate these kids now so have a high school education. We want parents make financial decisions that they understand the subject matter and them to understand their ticket to their are not in the best interests of children, how it affects them in the future and they future is their education.” the debts they’re accruing, it’s a huge is- can be successful, or we’ll all be paying sue. When you work with elementa- for them,” she says. “They’re going to Money on their mind ry-age children, that’s the time to in- drop out and maybe take government as- he Uplift Foundation, a nonprofit spire. That’s the time to change that sistance. That affects our tax dollars. It’s that offers various youth programs story for them as adults. Saving is a hab- truly important to teach students these T on top of financial literacy, offers it. It’s something you have to practice. concepts now and be that prevention.” a similar adult-for-a-day outing in the Anything we get the kids to develop as a The fifth-graders cap off their pro- Mad City Money simulation, in conjunc- habit while they’re in elementary school, gram with a trip to BizTown, where kids tion with the SCE Federal Credit Union. we hope that will carry through with can help design and manage a simulated Upon completion, kids get a $25 voucher them the rest of their lives.” city. All three of Decker’s elementary to open an account with the financial in- It’s enough to make you want to un- schools will make the trek to BizTown in stitution. Uplift also holds an annual eco- load the guitar and open a money-market San Diego next year. In eighth grade, it nomic summit, primarily for high school- account.

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The bill was signed into law May 20, creating the Office for a Safe and Re- spectful Learning Environment. It not only establishes systems for reporting bullying, training faculty and staff on bullying issues and protocols for hear- ings on specific bullying instances, but is aiming to reshape the culture and climate of Nevada schools.

‘Grand effort’ n Oct. 1, Dr. Edward Ableser, a 38-year-old mental health profes- O sional married to U.S. Sen. Dean Heller’s daughter, Hilary, was tapped to run the office. Ableser has been tasked not only with getting the office up and running, but with winning over the hearts and minds of district administrators when it comes to state’s crusade to wiping out bullying. And make no mis- take, that’s exactly how high Ableser is shooting for his office. “The long-term effect is to take steps at demanding positive and inclusive cultures at our schools so we can eradicate bullying once and for all in Nevada,” Ableser says. “Obviously that’s a grand effort. Our hope is through a combination of some of our programs in this office along with many amazing things the districts are doing, we’ll be able to get to It takes A that level in the near future.” It’s an optimistic goal, to be sure, but bolstered by the passage of 504, village there’s no small amount of legislative ... to stop a bully. The state has an ambitious new firepower behind it. The state defines program to deal with the issue — and one zealous bullying broadly and stipulates that every time any adult at school either wit- new anti-bullying czar By Jason Scavone nesses or is told of a bullying incident, then by law, they must report it to the he word “bully” used to evoke im- Meier in 2006 drew major media atten- appropriate administrator in order to ages of an overgrown lout shaking tion to bullying. In 2010, the president begin an investigation. down scrawny third-graders for and first lady held the first-ever White Ableser started with a school cli- milk money, or the senior-class House Conference on Bullying Preven- mate survey that identified the need- T “mean girl" in the locker room, tion. And in Nevada, anti-bullying efforts iest schools in Nevada. He then allo - lording it over a gaggle of timid fresh- came to a head in the 2015 Legislature cated social workers, paid for via block men. Not pleasant pictures, for sure, but when Gov. Brian Sandoval pushed for grant, to go into schools. To start, not without an aura of innocence. Kids Senate Bill 504, which was helped into there is one social worker per 500 stu - will be kids, right? existence through the lobbying efforts dents, up to a total of four per school, It seems those days are long over. of Jason Lamberth, whose 13-year-old to the tune of 164 social workers in 123 High-profile suicides like those of Ver- daughter, Hailee, killed herself in 2013. In schools statewide. mont middle-school student Ryan Hal- her suicide note, Hailee addressed both “The extent of their role is to be school ligan in 2003 and Missouri teen Megan White Middle School and her bully. climate and culture transformation

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 48 DesertCompanion.com Illustration Hernan Valencia agents,” Ableser explains. “A social worker will come in and provide year- round messaging. They talk about being an upstander, or student of character, that works on providing positive messaging around the school and creating positive culture and climate online from a universal perspective. Their role is to be omnipresent throughout the school.” There are more than 25 distinct programs individual schools can choose to implement, such as the Be Kind Proj- ect, which teaches social and emotional learning; or the Anti-Defamation League of Las Vegas’ No Place for Hate, promoting inclusiveness and tolerance; or even programs as simple as No One Eats Alone, which encourages kids to mix up their lunchtime social circles. Data on bullying has only been made public for the 2013-14 and 2014-15 academic years, predating the office’s creation. $ Statewide there were 4,298 reports with 3,721 incidents determined to be bullying or cyberbullying after an investigation the first year, and 5,638 and 4,939 the second. 30 More than one in five of those incidents ended in suspension or expulsion. Since the signing of 504 into law, the number of incidents being reported in Clark County has increased. This, though, is par for the course in what administrators have seen when anti-bullying programs have been codified in OFF other states. ANY CLEANING SERVICE “What I’m beginning to notice now Cleaning Completed By 8/31/16 starting this year is that the reporting of incidents has kind of leveled off,” says Promo Code: 30NP Brandon Moeller, the assistant director for the district’s Equity and Diversity Education Department. “There haven’t been any big spikes or major increases, so we kind of hit our peak. I’ve looked at other trend data nationwide and usually after it hits a peak, it begins to trickle down a little bit more to kind of an average reporting level. We haven’t quite reached that yet, but I believe we will. I think that will come from people know- BEYOND CARPET CLEANING ing that once they report they’re going CARPET | TILE & GROUT | HARDWOOD | UPHOLSTERY to get a reaction from the Clark Coun- 24 HOUR EMERGENCY WATER SERVICES ty School District to stop the situation. ® | stanleysteemer.com Then we’ll just notice in general a whole 1-800-STEEMER cultural change in the district.”

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Empower play unfairly bullied by an adult, they have mistakes, as well as a restorative pro- ith those reports come more in- recourse there, too. They can report it cess so the youth feel empowered by the vestigations, which are the bed- directly to the state hotline and the Of- adult. They hear forgiveness embedded W rock of anti-bullying policy. They fice for a Safe and Respectful Learning in the conversation with that adult and vary district by district. In Clark Coun- Environment will investigate. There they feel empowered that the adult is ty, for example, students are brought in have been 25 cases reported thus far, now an ally of that youth.” one at a time for adult mediation. Any with 13 being substantiated. “Empower” is a favorite word of Ables- bystanders who may have witnessed the “The situations that have come beer’s. He uses it often, and calls his reme- bullying are also interviewed. Parents of fore me are situations where adults have dies for these situations “empowerment both the bully and the victim are notified. made emotional comments, language plans.” They avoid labor issues with the Consequences can vary by school and the that is hurtful to a child and should not teachers’ union that may come from dis- number of times a perpetrator has been be tolerated,” Ableser explains. “A stu- tricts and schools doing their own in- in trouble, but typically involve a par- dent is incapable of telling the difference vestigating, but there’s still a carrot and ent-teacher conference, suspensions or between sarcasm, or that an adult just stick in play. “We don’t compel anyone a kind of in-school community service said something in the heat of their emo- to go through our empowerment plan,” where the bully is required to help out tion. The adult is supposed to be the sta- he notes. “However, if a teacher or staff around the building. After about 10 days, ble, calming safe place for this student. member refuses to engage in this prac- administrators will check back with the That’s our job in this office, to empower tice, then we have to protect our youth. victim to make sure things are still going these adults to understand the mistakes We have no other option then perhaps a fine. If there was a repeat offense, the that they’ve made, learn from these mis- punitive recommendation to a school dis- process starts over again. takes and work on schoolwide changes trict, and the school district is compelled If a student feels like he or she is being so that other adults don’t make the same to follow our corrective action plan.”

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DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 50 DesertCompanion.com It’s part of a soft-touch hardline that communication. He spoke at the Girl four personality traits that tell the story Ableser takes with the entire issue. Bullying & Empowerment National of a dangerous person, which includes Loath to lapse out of the soothing pos- Conference at Caesars Palace June 28- bullying. He also held a seminar on using itive-reinforcement speak that shades July 1. That the national conference was nonverbal methods to communicate ef- toward Stuart Smalley caricatures of held here speaks volumes about the col- fectively. When confronted with a bully, mental health professionals, the only lective headspace that bullying is taking for instance, Navarro said there’s a tech- time he moves toward flinty is when he up here in Southern Nevada. nique employed by law enforcement that addresses the idea of whether there’s Navarro’s two presentations covered can be used to de-escalate confrontations. anything of value to be gained in students learning to resolve conflicts on their own without adult intervention. In other words, what about the timeworn theory that kids dealing with bullies on their own builds character and teaches valuable life lessons? “I would say the people that are claiming those arguments are also the ones that are getting into barfights at 2 a.m. and getting thrown in jail because they feel it’s incumbent on them to settle everything with their own hands,” he says. “It is anecdotal. There’s no science to that. I’m going to call out the administrators who fall into a different paradigm. They’re the ones who have been resistant because they don’t believe in this. I’m not going to ever acquiesce to those old-school ways of thinking, because that’s what’s gotten so many FOUR Things To Know About Saint Gabriel Catholic School communities in trouble, where kids who have been needing adult intervention, We proudly teach the adults have sat on their hands and felt Core Knowledge Curriculum, giving all like kids need to go through hard times 1. children an equal opportunity to learn. to become callused and pulled themselves up by bootstraps. (With) that type of resistance, we simply encourage Small class sizes - only 24 students districts to perhaps evaluate their per- per class, allowing more one-on-one attention from the teachers. sonnel. Perhaps that person might be 2. suited best to become a real estate agent and not work with youth.” If Ableser is An iPad for every student - so adamant, he says it’s because he has Interactive technology makes learning science on his side, citing research, for 3. more engaging and memorable. instance — inconclusive research, at best — about how bullying can trigger, on a genetic level, anxiety and depression. Our students expand their creativity and exercise their minds with a Getting involved 4. Spanish, Art, & Music curriculum for all grades. ell beyond the schoolyard and the classroom, awareness of bul- If you're passionate about your child's education, Saint Gabriel Catholic School W lying seems at an all-time high, Las Vegas combines a traditional Catholic education, with modern technology, an too. Joe Navarro is a 25-year veteran of evolving curriculum, and a gorgeous facility. Now accepting applications for K-5th the FBI who served as both a criminal grade. Call 702-660-1111 or visit sgcslv.com. profiler and a behavioral profiler, and has written extensively on nonverbal

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Creating distance and angles with your signs, the school district’s Moeller says, is, by shifting the focus from the likes of body so you’re not face-to-face with a that might indicate a kid is getting bul- history, English and math. bully, and avoiding eye contact can help lied at school. If they’re acting depressed “It means as adults we have to under- soothe some of those instincts that may or withdrawn, spending more time by stand for that child it’s more important trigger a bully into amping up their ag- themselves or losing friends, the adults for them to learn how to empathize and gression. in a child’s life need to keep talking to care about others than it is for them to Being cognizant, too, of the types of them until they can get the child to open understand the Magna Carta and its ef- personalities that tend to bully can help up. Parents are just as encouraged to re- fects on American civilization,” Ableser in discerning the right way to de-esca- port instances of bullying to the school says. “Those are important knowledge late situations. He breaks them up as as kids are. pieces and sometimes we become lost in the pathologically narcissistic, the para- For the state and district, it all comes the true outcomes we want for our chil- noid, the predatory and the emotionally back to getting adults involved. By en- dren. I can assure you that, confronted unstable. gaging with the system, anti-bullying with that dyad, everyone would want a “We’re dealing with the human brain. champions hope to transform the na- child to gain empathy, to gain the abili- The question is why do they do it?” Na- ture of punishment, by focusing on re- ty to connect with another student and varro asked at the seminar. “They do storative practices that try to resolve develop those skills instead of a simple it because it makes them feel good. It conflicts between children as they work knowledge acquisition. So what we’re makes the paranoid personality, the nar- among themselves, instead of turning doing with that is challenging the fun- cissistic personality and the predatory to the traditional answers such as sus- damental premise of what is academics.” personality feel good. The rest of us, not pension or expulsion. The goal becomes Indeed, if it takes a village to raise a so much.” not just to revolutionize how bullying is child, the new thinking is that it clearly At home, parents should look for addressed, but to upend what education takes one, too, to deal with bullying.

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Plus – we’ll take your used car trade-in! Call for a fair price offer today. Travel the road less haggled. BALANCE education >>Go team science! had a reboot. From science expos to In Cimarron’s division, students were robotics competitions, STEM expe- given six weeks to create and program Robot battles, riences are leaving the traditional large robots for competition. This year’s drone tournaments, classroom setting in favor of con- challenge combined capture-the-flag, bas- fan-filled arenas: vention centers, museums, parks, ketball, and Renaissance-style castles, giv- The new brand of and even fan-filled sports are- ing students the opportunity to learn STEM education is nas. And more and more, the T about engineering, robotics, and, perhaps goal driven, group in STEM is starting to stand not most importantly, teamwork. - - just for “technology,” but also “There’s a lot of good science that they oriented -- and for “teamwork.” learn through the hands-on activities. But giddily intense Consider: In May, enthusias- they also learn how to plan, how to think, tic fans and intensely focused how to work as a team, and how to prob- competitors gathered in St. Lou- lem-solve. Even more importantly, they By Sarah Vernetti is, Mo. Instead of cheering for learn how to communicate,” says Jean their favorite athletes, the fans were Hoppert, FIRST Nevada Board President. watching a battle between high school “You can have the best idea in the world, but teams at the FIRST Robotics World if you can’t communicate it or sell it or mar- Championships. One of the teams that ket it, then it doesn’t happen.” participated in the event, the High Rollers from Cimarron-Memorial High School, Game-changers In a world where technology is earned the prestigious Chairman’s Award. FIRST Nevada is a division of the becoming a cornerstone to career success — “The Chairman’s Award is only given global organization, FIRST, which offers and in a city that continues to expand its out once a year at the world champion- programs for students in elementary, mid- economy beyond the service industry — ships to the team that is the best of the dle, and high school. Founded by entre- it’s no surprise that STEM education has best on the field, off the field, and in their preneur and inventor Dean Kamen, become a focus for parents and educators community. It’s what every team aspires FIRST strives to help inspire tomorrow’s alike. A background in STEM (science, to become. This year our team was the technology leaders. Children as young as technology, engineering, and math) can first team from the state of Nevada to ever age 6 can joining the FIRST LEGO League help students prepare for future careers in win it,” says Eric Stensrud, who has Jr. Challenge, honing their skills through- a host of fields, from architecture and en- served as a coach for the High Rollers out FIRST programs as they grow, culmi- gineering to biology and biomedicine. team for 13 years. The Chairman’s Award nating with the FIRST Robotics Competi- And they’re no longer just studying it also earned Cimarron High School’s team tion for high school students. through books, laptops and long formulas a spot in the high school robotics hall of The organization takes the practicality scribbled on dry-erase boards. In recent fame as well as a lifetime invitation to the of STEM-based learning and combines it years, STEM education in Las Vegas has FIRST Robotics World Championships. with the excitement of sports. Just like

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 54 DesertCompanion.com The droid you’re looking for: One of the Cimarron-Memorial High School robotics team’s contenders.

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY DesertCompanion.com 55 education BALANCE Future perfect: Hyde Park Middle School’s Team Kilau, from left: Isha Shah, dedicated athletes, FIRST Robotics Com- Sydney Lin, and petition participants spend long hours Krishna Patel honing their craft. But unlike a sport, where the rules are constant, robotics presents an ever-shifting set of circumstances, pursue education. and students must learn to adapt. This program actu- “With robotics, every year, the game ally inspires young changes. So the students have to change people to apply the their mindset,” says Stensrud. The ability knowledge they’ve to adapt can help students in the future learned. Our goal is to have every child Building cities with science when they enter the workforce. who wants to participate have a place to STEM-based competitions aren’t Cheryl Wagner, Coordinator for The do so,” says Hoppert. reserved for kids who want to fly a drone Clark County School District’s Communi- or program a robot. Middle school and ty Partnership Program, believes that an Bots in the sky high school students compete each year in understanding of technology and the abil- Meanwhile, Las Vegas-based Skybot the Nevada Science Bowl, hoping to earn ity to think creatively will be increasingly Business and Innovation Challenge, a rel- a trip to the national competition held in important as students move on and begin atively new program, puts robotics con- Washington, D.C. The competition has the job hunt. cepts and the thrill of competition into grown from 19 high-school teams when “The technology industry is so critical to flight. Teams of students learn to operate the Nevada Science Bowl was introduced everything we do today as a society. We and repair drones, competing in fast- in 1991, to more than 30 teams in 2016. have to build a workforce to fill jobs that paced events that include obstacle cours- Another popular STEM contest is the don’t exist yet and that we don’t even know es and time trials. Future City Competition, where tomor- the technology for yet. So we as educators “We did a trial competition in May, row’s engineers learn about sustainabil- have to start preparing our children,” she 2015, and it turned out to be phenome- ity and city planning. Each school year, says. “If I’m a teacher in a classroom, I have nally successful. The kids had to learn Future City competitors are given a par- to teach these students about STEM, how how to repair and run the skybots and ticular problem to solve, and each team put it all together, and how to creatively how to replace parts,” says Steven Curtis, must research and design a city that think and creatively design.” Executive Director of the Skybot Busi- demonstrates a solution to the problem. In addition to the practical skills that ness and Innovation Challenge. First, teams of middle school students students learn through FIRST programs, Twenty-seven teams participated in the use the SimCity platform to create their they also forge new friendships, connect- 2016 Skybot Challenge, representing virtual city. They also write an essay, ing with others who have a similar inter- schools from across the valley, including build a 3-D model, and present their est in technology. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that Hyde Park Middle School, Agassi Prep Mid- plans to a panel of judges. Past challeng- more than $25 million worth of scholar- dle School, Sunrise Mountain High School, es have focused on topics such as green ships are available for FIRST students na- Faith Lutheran Middle School, Findlay energy and urban agriculture. This tionwide who plan to pursue degrees in Middle School and Lied Middle School. year’s challenge will focus on the impor- STEM disciplines. “Our motto is, ‘Passion, innovation, and tance of multiuse public space. Last year, Students and parents are definitely tak- discovery.’ One thing about skybots is students tackled the topic of solid-waste ing notice of the opportunities FIRST pro- that kids instantly take to them. If I walk management systems. grams can provide. “The participation and into a classroom with a skybot, they are Like the FIRST Nevada Robotics Com- number of teams for U.S. FIRST and for just drawn to it. So, it’s easy to get kids petition and the Skybot Challenge, Fu- FIRST Nevada continues to grow and ex- involved and get them interested in this,” ture City participants are rewarded not pand each season,” says FIRST Nevada says Curtis. only for their technical skills, but also for Regional Director, Angela Quick. She Like the FIRST Robotics Competition, their ability to communicate effectively notes that, compared to last season, FIRST the Skybot Challenge does not focus sole- and work as a team. Each team consists Nevada saw an overall increase of 5.6 per- ly on technical skills. It also encourages of three members, and all participants cent in the number of teams across all four communication skills, teamwork, and must take part in each phase of the com- programs. That participation includes business-savvy. And it does so at a critical petition, ensuring that the Future City kids from a variety of educational back- point in children’s lives, says Curtis. challenge is a team effort. In April, Team grounds, including the homeschooling “Teamwork is very important, and I don’t Kilau from Hyde Park Middle School re- community. think kids think about that all the time. ceived a particularly important honor: “We are really at a critical stage here in You’re planting the seeds in middle school They were invited to the White House our educational system, and we need for the rest of their lives, in terms of their Science Fair, thanks to their design of a

something to inspire young people to habits and attitudes,” he says. sustainable, waste-free city. Such a buzz- p hy Name G oes H ere Photogra

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 56 DesertCompanion.com worthy honor helped the Future City kinds of interactive experiences requires means that you’re going to follow certain program gain additional momentum in teamwork of a different kind — this time standards and have best practices in place Southern Nevada. on the part of educators. and safety procedures in place to ensure “Some of the educators from last year The CHOLLA (Connecting Hands Of- that the kids are going to have a good, safe have already signed up. So we’re expect- fering Lifelong Learning Adventures) experience.” ing a pretty big year,” says Pom Jinta- consortium connects students with STEM Rather than limiting science education sawang, Future City coordinator. activities through their partnership with to the classroom, teachers have an oppor- In addition to earning a trip to the the Clark County School District and doz- tunity to bring their students outdoors White House, Hyde Park’s team also won ens of parks, museums, and state agencies, where they can see it in action. In addition the Southern Nevada Future City Compe- including Red Rock Canyon, Wetlands to field trips, the school district is also tak- tition and received the Most Sustainable Park, the Neon Museum, and Springs Pre- ing STEM learning outdoors, thanks to Buildings Award at the national competi- serve. One of CHOLLA’s goals is to help more than 130 school gardens and garden- tion in Washington, D.C. in February. ensure that school field trips go hand-in- ing clubs that can be found throughout hand with classroom curriculum and that the district. Field trip reloaded local venues offer students valuable expe- “If you want to teach someone sports, Although STEM-based competitions riences while also keeping safety in mind. you don’t keep them in a classroom and are gaining popularity, they aren’t the only “CHOLLA is a collection of informal ed- show them videos of the NBA and say avenue for studying science and math. It’s ucators. We all get together on a regular ‘Okay, now you’re good at sports,’” says important that hands-on STEM learning basis to set goals and pick projects to im- Leifheit. “So we shouldn’t do the same also finds its way into regular school hours, prove general student proficiency in the thing with science, either.” It’s an idea through field trips to the valley’s many region,” says Aaron Leifheit, facilitator that students, teachers and parents are parks and natural areas. Providing these with CHOLLA. “Being part of CHOLLA cheering for.

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AMUSEMENTS one of the country’s tallest and fastest High Roller roller coasters, which plunges downward Observation Wheel Adventure Canyon Log Flume at breath-taking velocities before heading Situated parallel to Las Vegas Boulevard This adventure log ride takes thrill-seekers into a number of thrilling twists and turns. and facing north to south, this 520-foot-di- through a darkened tunnel, into swirling $12.99, unlimited ride passes $15-$22. Buffa- ameter wheel takes 30 minutes to make rapids, then up a mountain and into anoth- lo Bill’s, 31700 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Primm, one full revolution, allowing riders to take er eerie passage before descending down 702-386-7867; primmvalleyresorts.com in views of bird’s-eye views of the Strip and a 50-foot, drenching drop-off. $8, unlimited the valley from 28 glass-enclosed cabins. ride passes $12-$22. Buffalo Bill’s, 31700 Dig This Heavy $16.95-$79. The LINQ Promenade, 3545 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Primm, 702-386-7867; Equipment Playground Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas, 800-634- primmvalleyresorts.com Families will have loads of fun when they 6441; caesars.com/linq/high-roller get behind the controls of either a fully climate-controlled massive Caterpillar The Adventuredome bulldozer or excavator and begin to build King Putt America’s largest indoor theme park at 5 dirt mounds, push gigantic tires, dig huge Entertainment Center acres offers visitors both thrill and tradition- trenches, play “bucket basketball” and more. Boasting more animations, pneumatics and al carnival rides that include two coasters, For guests’ safety, they must complete a interactive props than any other mini-golf eight premium, two large, three junior and breathalyzer, safety procedures and in-cab course, this indoor Egyptian-themed black four family rides. And it keeps the fun going orientations, and warm-up exercises before light course is unique and challenging. Also with seven featured attractions where digging in! $169-$249. 3012 S. Rancho Drive, featured at the center is a laser tag arena guests can enjoy rock climbing, bungee Las Vegas, 702-222-4344; digthisvegas.com where guests can explore multiple levels jumping, miniature golf, midway and video of an Egyptian pyramid with sophisticated arcade games, clown shows, bowling or laser tag equipment, an arcade and a piz- navigating a maze of lasers. $6-$12 per ride, Fast Lap Indoor Kart Racing zeria. $5-$17. 27 S. Stephanie St., Hender- all-day passes $17.95-$31.95. Circus Circus Whether using karting to develop your son, 702-541-6807; kingputtlv.com hotel-casino, 2880 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las driving skills, as a prelude to other series Vegas, 702-794-3939; adventuredome.com or you want to satisfy your need for speed, Fast Lap provides an exhilarating real race King Putt Indoor Mini-Golf experience. Vegas’ first and only indoor This 18-hole indoor mini-golf course takes All Family Fun Center kart track with gas-powered karts, the visitors through a winding black-lit jungle A 3-D mini-golf, laser tag and arcade com- karts are equipped with Honda 200cc en- of exotic animals, then submerges them plete with an 18-hole indoor course that gines that can reach speeds up to 50 mph into an underwater world. An arcade with takes guests on a journey to new places on a race course designed by two former air hockey, driving games and prize-earn- and back in time to old favorites. Featur- IKF racers. $26-$75. 4288 Polaris Ave., Las ing games are also on-site. $5-$9 per per- ing glow-painted walls, black lights and Vegas, 702-736-8113; fastlaplv.com son per round. 7230 W. Lake Mead Blvd., high-energy music, the 2,000-square-foot Las Vegas, 702-823-1519; kingputtlv.com laser tag arena can accommodate up to 10 players at a time. The arcade features Game Over Arcade numerous redemption prize games, as Buffalo Bill’s KISS by Monster Mini Golf well as driving skills and shooting combat Features action-packed video fun — from The Rio, games. $3-$30; $24.99 unlimited play. testing your driving skills at top speeds, to Play miniature golf under black lights in 3315 E. Russell Road #4K, Las Vegas, challenging your martial arts techniques — this indoor KISS-themed glow-in-the-dark 702-608-4653; allfamilyfuncenter.com and pinball games. 31700 Las Vegas Blvd. course featuring 18 holes surrounded by S., Primm, 702-386-7867; primmvalley animatronic figures, exaggerated replicas resorts.com and hit music of the iconic band, as well The Big Apple Coaster as a huge Gene Simmons head sculpture & Arcade complete with outstretched tongue. The Experience the thrill of racing 67 mph on GameWorks facility also offers a live DJ, contests and the world’s first roller coaster to feature a This family-friendly fun destination features prizes, arcade games, gift shop, special adrenaline-rushing 180-degree twist and gastropub-style American cuisine, an event room and first-of-its-kind wedding dive, and afterward, spend some time play- outdoor patio for al fresco dining and a chapel. $9.95-$11.95. 3700 W. Flamingo ing a number of video and arcade games. 8,700-square-foot arcade game floor con- Road, Las Vegas, 702-558-6256; mons- $14 individual, $25 all-day Scream Pass, taining classic and modern arcade attrac- terminigolf.com/kiss $60 Family Fun Flight for Four, specials for tions, including an eight-lane bowling alley, Las Vegas residents. New York-New York, two pool tables, 30 TVs playing all your Las Vegas Mini Gran Prix 3790 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas; 702- favorite sports and the flagship eGaming At a total of 7 acres, the Las Vegas Mini Gran 740-6969; newyorknewyork.com Arena complete with 60 computers that Prix provides a variety of family amusements. are designated for multiplayer online video Having the longest go-cart track in Nevada, The Desparado gaming. $5-$52. Las Vegas Town Square, it offers rides for all ages, including four Climbing more than 200 feet, riders can 6587 Las Vegas Blvd. S., #171, Las Vegas, go-cart tracks with 80 carts. Also featured see the entire valley from The Desperado, 702-978-4263; gameworks.com are four amusement rides, arcade games

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY DesertCompanion.com 59 THE GUIDE

and a 600-seat restaurant serving pizza, with guests free-falling at speeds up to functions of the human body, including the chicken fingers, a wide range of coffees and 40 mph as they leap off the Observation circulatory, digestive, muscular, nervous and more. $7.50-$23. 1401 N. Rainbow Blvd., Las Tower from 829 feet up. X-Scream catapults respiratory systems. $24-$32. Luxor, 3900 Las Vegas, 702-259-7000; lvmgp.com riders headfirst 27 feet over the Tower edge, Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas, 702-492-3960; allowing them to dangle weightlessly 109 luxor.com/entertainment/bodies.aspx stories up in the air, before being snapped Maxflight Cyber Coaster back to the Tower and propelled over again. A virtual ride that takes you on your $25-$119.95. 2000 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Clark County Museum choice of roller coasters from around the Vegas, 702-380-7777 (Sky Jump), 702- Located on this 30-acre site is a unique world. $5.99 -$22. Buffalo Bill’s, 31700 383-5210 (Big Shot, Insanity, X-Scream); collection of historic homes that re-cre- Las Vegas Blvd. S., Primm, 702-386-7867; stratospherehotel.com ates the daily lifestyle of the decade in primmvalleyresorts.com which each was built, the Ghost Town and Mining Trail, and a contemporary pueb- Vegas Indoor Skydiving lo-style exhibit hall that presents a timeline Pinball Hall of Fame America’s first indoor skydiving facility, of Southern Nevada from prehistoric to At 10,000 square feet and exhibiting the complete with a vertical wind tunnel, mesh modern times. The exhibit hall also features world’s largest pinball collection, this trampoline floor and foam-padded walls, changing art and artifacts, as well as spe- dedicated museum features wall-to-wall here guests can experience body flight and cial-themed displays. $1-$2. 1830 S. Boul- popular pinball machines from the 1950s the free-fall sensation during a simulated der Highway, Henderson, 702-455-7955; through the 1990s that have been restored skydiving session. All participants attend clarkcountynv.gov/depts/parks/pages/ to like-new condition, as well as a few retro a brief training class before suiting up for clark-county-museum.aspx arcade games like Super Mario Brothers. their flight. $50-$1,000.200 Convention But the best part is, visitors can play all Center Drive, Las Vegas, 702-731-4768; the machines for 25 or 50 cents each, and vegasindoorskydiving.com The Discovery since the PHoF is nonprofit, all excess rev- Children’s Museum enue goes to nondenominational charities, This nonprofit museum inspires kids to such as The Salvation Army of Las Vegas. VooDoo Zipline Rio want to learn and consists of ongoing 1610 E. Tropicana Ave., Las Vegas, Taking off from atop the Rio’s 50-story Mas- hands-on exhibits that feature interactive 702-597-2627; pinballmuseum.org querade Tower and sending guests higher science, sliding and climbing structures, than 500 feet in the air at exhilarating creative play, green living, design and engi- speeds of up to 33 mph, this zip line accom- neering challenges, role-playing and prob- Pole Position Raceway modates up to two riders at a time. On the lem-solving, a sensory area, educational Indoor Karting return trip, guests ride 800 feet back to the water play, the art of investigation, and the Pole Position features 1/4-mile track, starting point, facing backward. Free shuttle elements of art and health education. Also high-performance electric European carts bus service for more than six riders. $27.49. on display is a traveling featured exhibit. for adults that can get up to 45 mph and 3700 W. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, $14.50. 360 Promenade Place, 702-382- side-by-side racing action. Also available 702-388-0477; voodoozipline.com 3445; discoverykidslv.org are junior carts that get up to 25 mph for kids who are at least 48 inches tall. Several Hoover Dam indoor racing options are offered, including Drawing more than a million visitors an- the popular Arrive & Drive that allows nually, the Hoover Dam is considered one ART/CULTURE/EDUCATION walk-in customers to race on a first-come, of the 20th century’s top 10 construction first-served basis. Or sign up for one of the Barrick Museum projects. Construction on the dam began raceway’s public events. $5.95-$25.50. 4175 The museum’s goal is to provide an engag- in 1930, and today the one-hour guided S. Arville St., 702-227-7223; poleposition ing space consisting of works of art and Hoover Dam Tour provides a unique way raceway.com/las-vegas cultural objects that represent past and to see, learn and appreciate this immense present cultures, as well as artistic creativity, undertaking. The tour includes visitor that can be experienced directly by guests access through to the power plant and SlotZilla Zip Line in an effort to promote the understanding tunnel passageways within the dam where This Fremont Street Experience thrill of art as an enduring human endeavor. $2- guests will learn about the complexities attraction is a 12-story zip line offering two $5. University of Nevada, Las Vegas Cam- of the construction of the dam. Free-$30. ways to fly because it has a lower Zipline pus, 4505 S. Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas, 30 miles southeast of Las Vegas on U.S. and an upper Zoomline. The Zipline starts 702-895-3381; unlv.edu/barrickmuseum Highway 93 to Nevada State route 172, Ne- at 77 feet up, and flyers land halfway down vada-Arizona border, 702-494-2517; usbr. the FSE pedestrian promenade, while gov/lc/hooverdam/index.html the Zoomline takes off 114 feet in the air, Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art speeding flyers at up to 40 mph in a prone This fine art gallery features rotating position 1,750 feet downward to a landing world-class art and objects exhibitions that Las Vegas Natural History platform at the Golden Gate Hotel & Casi- include paintings, sculptures, ceramics and Museum no. $25-$45. 425 Fremont St. #160, Las more created by renowned artists ranging With 10 permanent interactive exhibits Vegas, 702-678-5780; vegasexperience. from Picasso to Warhol. The artworks as well as traveling exhibits and a young com/slotzilla-zip-line showcased are drawn from prestigious in- scientist center with computers and mi- ternationally known museums and private croscopes, this private nonprofit institution collections. An audio tour of the gallery is is dedicated to educating the community Stratosphere Thrill Rides included in the price of admission. $10-$14. in the natural sciences, such as wildlife, Big Shot blasts riders straight up 160 feet Bellagio, 3600 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las ecosystems and various cultures. Perma- into the air, then sends them free-falling Vegas, 702-693-7871; bellagio.com/attract nent exhibits include dinosaurs, Egyptian with some incredible G-force back to the ions/gallery-of-fine-art.aspx treasures, prehistoric mammals, African sa- launchpad. Insanity’s giant mechanical arm vanna and rainforest prehistoric primates, holds riders up 900 feet in the air and spins Mojave Desert plants and animals, marine them 64 feet over the Tower edge, giving Bodies ... The Exhibition life and terrestrial animals, and geological them an amazing view of the Strip. Sky Viewed around the world by more than 15 natural resources and minerals. Free-$10. Jump holds the Guinness World Record million people, this one-of-a-kind exhibit fea- 900 Las Vegas Blvd. N., Las Vegas, 702- for having the highest controlled descent tures nine rooms, each dedicated to different 384-3466; lvnhm.org

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 60 DesertCompanion.com Missoula Children’s Theatre Presents “Peter and Wendy” Whoever dreamed up this Kids in K–12 can star in a classic story about the adventures of Peter Pan and Wendy Darling. Registration: July 18, 3-4 candy-colored alternate p.m., with auditions from 4-6 p.m. Rehears- als: July 18–22, 4-8 p.m. Performances: July 23, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.; $5 child/senior; $8 adult; tickets available at the rehearsal site universe knew what they beginning July 20. Henderson Convention Center, 200 S. Water St., Henderson, 702- 267-4050; cityofhenderson.com were doing.

The Mob Museum The 41,000-square-foot, world-class, interactive museum presents an authentic view of organized crime and the impact it’s had There’s no other place like it. on the world throughout American history. Real stories come to life in engaging, multi- Anywhere. sensory displays, and eye-opening insights are gained through an insider’s look at Well, not on this planet anyway. Mob-related individuals and events, as well as hundreds of artifacts. $13.95-$19.95. 300 Stewart Ave., Las Vegas, 702-229-2734; Come feel the glow. themobmuseum.org

National Atomic Testing Museum The National Atomic Testing Museum features one of the most comprehensive collections of nuclear history that includes a wide variety of materials and more than 12,000 unique artifacts relating to atomic testing, the Nevada Test Site, the Cold War, and nuclear and radiological science and technology. The current display includes thousands of rare photographs, videos, artifacts, scientific and nuclear reports and data, and one-of-a-kind scientist collections, as well as the “Area 51— Myth or Reality” exhibit. $18-$65. 755 E. Flamingo BOOK A TOUR Road, Las Vegas, 702-794-5151; national- atomictestingmuseum.org NeonMuseum.org

The Neon Museum Dedicated to preserving the city’s most iconic art form, the museum’s outdoor Boneyard is home to more than 200 of Las Vegas’ most treasured and world-famous signs from Caesars Palace, Binion’s Horseshoe, Golden Nugget and the Stardust. Also part of this 2-acre campus is the adjacent Neon Boneyard Park and the Neon Boneyard North Gallery, which contains about 60 additional signs from the Palms, New York-New York, Lady Luck and O’Shea’s. $12-$18. 7700 Las Vegas Blvd. N., Las Vegas, 702-387-6366; neonmuseum.org

Nevada Southern Railway Climb aboard your choice of an authentic open-air car or air-conditioned/heated Pullman coach for a 3.5-mile train ride and learn about the history of the railway dat- ing back to the 1930s, when Union Pacific Railroad constructed the Boulder Branch Line to bring supplies to the Hoover Dam project. $7-$10. 601 Yucca St., Boulder City, 702-486-5933; nevadasouthern.com

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY DesertCompanion.com 61 Nevada State Museum, ENTERTAINMENT/ATTRACTIONS Parkway, North Las Vegas; Regal Texas Las Vegas Station, 2101 Texas Star Lane, North Las Focusing on the prehistory, history and Bellagio Conservatory & Vegas, 844-462-7342; regmovies.com natural history of Nevada, this two-level, Botanical Gardens 70,000-square-foot museum features a Guests can leisurely stroll through and take 13,000-square-foot permanent exhibit in the enticing sights and smells that fill the Summer Screen Movie Series gallery that informs visitors about the conservatory’s seasonally themed gardens, Bring your blanket or lawn chairs and enjoy state’s geology, early flora and fauna, which are made up of beautiful, captivat- complimentary family-friendly movies on Native Americans and first settlers, mining ing displays of plants, flowers, trees, water Park Centre Drive next to H&M. Taking and railroad histories, the Hoover Dam, the features and more. The gardens present place before the showings are special char- atomic era and more. $9.95-$19.95. Inside changing themes that reflect the holidays, acter appearances, giveaways and prizes, Springs Preserve, 309 S. Valley View Blvd., seasons and Chinese New Year and are and free USTA-hosted tennis clinics. A VIP Las Vegas, 702-486-5205; springspre meticulously maintained by 140 expert section with chairs is available for guests serve.org/attractions/nsm.html horticulturists. Through Sept. 10: “Under who spend at least $20 at the center on the Sea,” free. Bellagio hotel-casino, 3600 the day of the movie. Through Aug. 25, Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas, 702-693- 7-10 p.m. Thursdays (weather permitting), The Planetarium 7111; bellagio.com free. July 15: Kung Fu Panda 3; July 21: College of Southern Nevada Cinderella; July 28: Star Wars: The Force Southern Nevada’s only public planetari- Awakens; Aug. 4: Rio; Aug. 11: Zootopia; um presents programs to the public and Dolphin Habitat Aug. 18: Inside Out; Aug. 25: The Good local schools, utilizing a high-definition This 2.5-million-gallon habitat containing Dinosaur. Downtown Summerlin, hemispheric video projection that creates four connected pools and an artificial coral 1980 Festival Plaza Drive, Las Vegas, virtual realities on a domed screen above reef system is home to a family of Atlantic 702-331-2007; downtownsummerlin.com the audience. As an added bonus, after the bottle-nose dolphins. Both an educational 8 o’clock showing, the telescopes at the and research facility, visitors can observe Student Observatory are open for viewing these magnificent creatures in a naturalis- PARENT RESOURCES when the weather is clear. $4-$6. 3200 E. tic environment above and below ground Cheyenne Ave., North Las Vegas, 702-651- and participate in two special programs — Baby’s Bounty 4138; csn.edu/planetarium Painting With the Dolphins and Trainer for This nonprofit organization provides essen- a Day. $17-$42. The Mirage hotel-casino, tial new and gently used infant clothing and 3400 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas, 702- gear, such as car seats, bottles, teethers and Shark Tank Tours 791-7188; miragehabitat.com toys (new only), and baby carriers, receiving Take an interesting behind-the-scenes blankets, diaper bags, bath tubs, reclining tour led by staff marine biologists who strollers, bouncy seats and more, to babies show you the inner workings of the hotel’s Ethel M Chocolate Factory & born to victims of domestic abuse, teen 200,000 gallon shark aquarium, includ- Cactus Garden mothers and low-income families. 840 ing what they eat and how the feeding Not only can visitors take a self-guided Rancho Drive, #4-556, Las Vegas, 702-485- process takes place. And, you get to take Ethel M factory tour, learn about making 2229; babysbounty.org home a souvenir shark tooth in memory chocolates and get a free taste sample, of your visit. $40. Golden Nugget, 129 E. they can step outside the factory and Fremont St., Las Vegas, 866-946-5336; explore the Botanical Cactus Garden, Best Buddies Nevada goldennugget.com touted as Nevada’s largest and one of the Heightens confidence and social skills, and world’s largest collections of its kind. Free. provides tools necessary for intellectual- 2 Cactus Garden Drive, Henderson, 702- ly challenged individuals and those with Titanic: The Artifact 435-2608; ethelm.com developmental disabilities to become more Exhibition independent and active in school and their Travel back in time at this 25,000-square- community by creating opportunities for foot exhibit and experience the wonder, Outdoor Movie Nights friendships through socialization programs, magnificence and tragedy of the world’s Enjoy PG and PG-13 movies under the job coaching, and leadership development. most famous ocean liner, including 250 stars on the green in back of Whole Foods. 500 N. Rainbow Blvd. #314, Las Vegas; authentic recovered artifacts from the Aug. 20-Sept. 24, 7:30 p.m. Sat. (weather 702-822-2268; bestbuddiesnevada.org wreck site and re-creations of some of the permitting), free. Aug. 20: Zootopia; Aug. most popular rooms of the ship. $24-$30. 27: Minions; Sept. 3: Star Wars: The Force Luxor, 3900 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas, Awakens; Sept. 10: Dirty Dancing; Sept. 17: Children’s Medical 702-262-4400; luxor.com Inside Out; Sept. 24: Ferris Bueller’s Day Assistance Inc. Off. The District at Green Valley Ranch, A nonprofit organization dedicated to 2225 Village Walk Drive, 702-564-8595; giving uninsured and underinsured children 2016 Presidential De- shopthedistrictgvr.com the opportunity to receive the same med- bate-Themed Educational ical care as the more fortunate through Initiatives community and professional partnerships, UNLV, CCSD, and LVCVA are partnering Regal Summer Movie Express such as The Children’s Free Clinic of South- to provide hands-on educational opportu- Enjoy great movies this summer for only ern Nevada. Other partnerships provide nities for local K–12 and college students. a buck. Through Aug. 10, 10 a.m. Tue. and immunizations, children’s mental health Through election-themed school activ- Wed., $1. Both movies are shown both days services, free health school-based clinics ities focusing on American history and each week. July 12-13: Minions, The Peanuts for Clark County School District students government, political and policy debate, Movies; July 19-20: Alvin & The Chipmunks: and more. 1120 Village Center Circle #3- the election process, voter education and The Road Chip, Curious George; July 26-27: 411, Las Vegas, 702-823-4954; childrens other related issues, these groups hope The Book of Life, Hotel Transylvania 2; Aug. medicalassistance.org to raise awareness and learning leading 2-3: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2, up to the final 2016 presidential debate, Shaun the Sheep; Aug. 9-10: The Croods, which is being held, Oct. 19, on UNLV’s Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax. Regal Colonnade, Family TIES of Nevada campus. UNLV campus, 4505 S. Maryland 8880 S. Eastern Ave., Henderson; Regal Run by staff and board members who have Parkway, Las Vegas, 702-895-3011; unlv. Village Square, 9400 W. Sahara Ave., Las a disability or chronic disease, or are the edu/2016debate Vegas; Regal Aliante, 7300 N. Aliante parents of children who do, this full-service,

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 62 DesertCompanion.com nonprofit agency offers extensive resourc- experience; building of independence and medical, child care, protective services for es internally and referrals externally, in ad- self-esteem through partnerships with local seniors, help with rent and utility bills, food, dition to hosting events, conferences and businesses; community job placement; art transportation, debt and foreclosure, legal workshops to provide advocacy services to and life skills enrichment; advocacy; and aid, cremation and burial and more — for help navigate public and private systems social recreational programs to those with needy residents of Clark County and Las of care. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri. 6830 W. intellectual disabilities. 6300 W. Oakey Vegas who aren’t assisted by other federal, Oquendo Road #100, Las Vegas, Blvd., Las Vegas, 702-259-3700 state or local government assistance pro- 702-740-4200; familytiesnv.org grams. 702-455-4270; clarkcountynv.gov Parenting Project Head Start Offers a series of free classes to help Southern Nevada Health This federal government-created and parents be more effective in raising their District Immunization -funded program helps lower-income chil- children through such programs as Triple P Program dren up to 5 years of age and their families for parents of children ages 2-11 years with The SNHD provides adolescent, back-to- gain access to various social services and challenging behavior issues; BabyCare for school, flu, immunizations and travel vaccine development programs, such as education- expecting or new parents with children ages clinics. For children younger than 18 years al programs, free medical and dental care, birth-6 months; Nurturing Parents & Families of age, written consent must be provided and overall child development assistance. for parents of children aged 6 months-4 to the health district from a parent or legal Parents may be able to receive assistance years; ABCs of Parenting for parents of guardian at the time of service. 702-759- through the program to gain long-term children aged 5-10 years; Staying Connected 0850; southernnevadahealthdistrict.org self-sufficiency in terms of finding a job or for parents and youth 11-17 years; and Teen other social services. benefits.gov Triple P for parents of teens 11-17 years. 3900 Cambridge St., #203, Las Vegas, 702-455- Spread the Word Nevada 5295; clarkcountynv.gov/family-services Serving children in at-risk, low-income HopeLink of Southern Nevada Southern Nevada communities by advancing The mission of this Family Resource Cen- early childhood literacy through book drives ters program, which is funded by a grant The Public Education and distributions, one-on-one mentoring, from the Nevada Department of Health Foundation storytelling events, summer reading pro- and Human Services, is “to build a better The Public Education Foundation is an grams, and a family literacy program. 1065 community by preventing homelessness, independent nonprofit organization that American Pacific Drive #160, Henderson, keeping families intact, and promoting addresses the toughest challenges facing 702-564-7809; spreadthewordnevada.org self-sufficiency.” Since its beginnings, schools by championing educational strat- the organization has made such nota- egies that foster innovation, promote excel- ble contributions as distributing school lence and produce results. Programs include St. Jude’s Ranch for Children supplies, backpacks, clothing and books to Clark County READS, which offers a variety Transforms the lives of abused, neglected and schoolchildren; assisting families with rent of literacy programs to children and families at-risk children and young adults up to 25 and utilities; establishing a literacy program in Clark County to empower educators and years of age, and helps families to create new that is held in 12 at-risk elementary schools; students, while improving student attitudes chances, choices and hope by empowering providing food, bus passes and parenting toward reading; higher education scholar- them through residential foster care; pregnant and life skills classes, and parental resourc- ships; We R Community service-learning and and parenting teens program; transitional lives; assistance with job searches and inter- volunteerism project for teens; Artists 4 Kidz; ing, housing and homeless services for 18- to views. 178 Westminster Way, Henderson, and Project Smile, which provides high-need 25-year-olds; therapeutic programs; job-train- 702-566-0576; link2hope.org children with dental health treatment and ing; child-focused sibling preservation; emer- prevention services. 4350 S. Maryland Park- gency placement; and USDA child-nutrition way, Las Vegas, 702-799-1042; thepef.org programs. 100 St. Jude’s St., Boulder City, Nevada Department of Health 702-294-7152, stjudesranch.org and Human Services Welfare Southern Offices The Ronald McDonald House Offers numerous agencies and family re- of Greater Las Vegas Strong Start for Children sources to assist with child support enforce- Creates and supports programs that directly A community outreach campaign supported ment, child care and development, profes- improve the health, education and well-being by many state and national partners that’s sional development, energy, food, financial of children in the community. Provides tem- aimed at mobilizing parents to make quality and medical assistance to Nevada families, porary housing, transportation and support early childhood education a priority in the the disabled and elderly. dwss.nv.gov to families, while their children receive critical state. It identifies and finds quality child care, medical treatment. 2323 Potosi St., Las helps pay for child care through child care Vegas, 702-252-4663; rmhlv.com subsidies; Head Start and Early Start; and the The Nevada Special Nevada state-funded Pre-Kindergarten Pro- Supplemental Nutrition gram, provides parenting tips and resources, Program for Women, Safe Kids, The District at and community resources such as Alert ID, Infants & Children (WIC) Green Valley Ranch Child Protective Services, Nevada 211, Nevada For more than 40 years, this federally funded Hosted by Safe Kids Clark County and Sunrise Check Up, State of Nevada Welfare Division, short-term special supplemental nutrition Children’s Hospital, Trauma Services monthly Child Care Aware, HealthyChildren.org, PBS program has been providing free nutritious car seat checks are conducted in the parking Parents, Zero to Three, Too Small to Fall and foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding lot behind REI by nationally certified child more. strongstartnevada.org support, and health and social services refer- passenger safety technicians who can help rals to pregnant, postpartum and breast- to ensure your child’s car seat is properly feeding women, infants and children younger installed. 2225 Village Walk Drive, 702-564- The Shade Tree than 5 years of age who are at nutrition 8595; shopthedistrictgvr.com A Las Vegas based shelter providing a safe risk and meet income eligibility require- haven for homeless and abused women, ments.800-8-NEV-WIC, nevadawic.org children and pets in crisis, and offering Social Services Department, life-changing services promoting stability, Clark County dignity and self-reliance. Programs and Opportunity Village Provides a variety of assistance services services include day, emergency and tran- Provides vocational training and work and aid — emergency crisis and financial, sitional shelter programs; a Survivor’s

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY DesertCompanion.com 63 Service Center that assists victims of offer moms a total body workout while Silver Nugget Bowling Center domestic violence, sexual assault/abuse, their babies are engaged in songs and If you’re looking for family fun on a budget, street crime and elder abuse, and more. 1 activities in their strollers. The program this 24-lane AMF bowling facility features W. Owens Ave. (at Main Street), North Las features hourlong classes led by certified $1 games, automatic scoring, cosmic bowl- Vegas, 702-385-0072; theshadetree.org fitness instructors that include a five mining on Fridays and Saturdays, an arcade ute warm-up, 45 minutes of power walking and air hockey tables, a snack bar and pro with intervals of strength and body toning shop. Inside Silver Nugget Casino, Ultimate Summer exercises using tubing, the stroller and the 2140 Las Vegas Blvd. N., North Las Vegas, Camp at Alexander environment. various locations; lasvegas. 702-399-1111; luckysilvergaming.com/bowl Dawson School fit4mom.com ingparties The Alexander Dawson School, in partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of South- ern Nevada, runs an affordable pay-as-you- Helen Meyer SkyView Multi-Generational go summer camp program. Open to the Community Center Center public, the camp utilizes more than 15,000 This center’s amenities include ball fields, This state-of-the-art community center square feet of indoor space, including the tennis courts, a recreation center, fitness accommodates all ages and fitness levels. gymnasium, a large game room, cultural course, walking course, playground, spray It offers a heated indoor lap pool with arts center, acting lab, science center and pool and picnic areas. The center also of- spacious deck and lesson area; wellness dining hall, as well as multiple outdoor fers a variety of classes and events, includ- center that houses cardio equipment, circuit fields and playgrounds.10845 W. Desert ing a 10-week Kindergarten Prep session, machines and dumbbells; cycling studio; Inn Road, Las Vegas, 702-367-2582; bgch a 10-week Preschool Prep session and an aerobics and yoga studio; fully equipped events.org/dawsonschool/home open recreation program. 4525 New Forest locker rooms with showers; kids’ gym; Drive, 702-455-7723 lounge areas with free Wi-Fi; multipurpose rooms for public use; and games such as Xbox, Kinect, air hockey, billiards and foos- ball. 3050 E. Centennial Parkway, North Las SPORTS/RECREATION Henderson Multigenerational Center/Aquatic Complex Vegas, 702-522-7500 Black Mountain Recreation This 84,120-square-foot center features Center/Aquatic Complex an aquatic complex, including indoor Offering a wide selection of programming and outdoor pools, a fitness center, Whitney Ranch Recreation and special events, this 41,000-square- walking-jogging track, dance and aero- Center and Aquatic Complex foot center is designed for all ages. It bics rooms, indoor cycling area, indoor The 41,000-square-foot center includes a features a fitness center, gymnasium, mulitsport area with basketball court, fitness center, dance and aerobics room, indoor cycling area, racquetball and rock climbing wall, Kids Corner, an art gymnasium, courts for racquetball and wallyball courts, tennis courts, an adjacent gallery, teaching kitchen, adult lounge wallyball, a Kids Corner, game room, class- seasonal aquatic complex with an outdoor with reading area and kitchenette and a rooms and meeting rooms and a confer- pool, Kids Corner, game room, classes and game room. 250 S. Green Valley Parkway, ence room. The aquatic complex offers two meeting rooms, a multiuse room and a Henderson, 702-267-5800 pools: an outdoor activity pool featuring covered patio. The aquatic complex offers 25-yard competition lanes, a shallow interactive water apparatus and a raindrop training area and water play features. 575 waterfall and three-loop slide. 599 Gre- Las Vegas Ice Center Galleria Drive, Henderson, 702-267-5860 enway Road, 702-267-4070, Henderson; This ice rink provides public skate sessions, cityofhenderson.com skating lessons, figure skating, youth and adult hockey leagues, camps and clinics, Walnut Recreation Center a weight room, an ice shooting room and This northwest rec center features a water Cowabunga Bay Water Park training room, full-service pro shop, and park; fitness center; numerous recreation Offering eight one-of-a-kind water slides, rental skates child size 8-men’s 14. 9295 W. and education classes, such as dance and including Wild Surf that features the Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, 702-320-7777; cheer, early childhood for kids and their world’s largest man-made wave and the lasvegasice.com parents, exercise and fitness, martial arts new Beach Blanket Banzai that carries and sports; computer lab; game room; day raft-riders to a height of 60 feet where camps; community service program; free they are let loose to race more than 600 Red Rock Riding Stables supervised open recreation program for feet through 180-degree turns, sidewinding Riders will experience breathtaking scenery ages 6-17; and party room. The facility also S-curves, dips and drops at thrilling speeds; and an abundance of native desert plants serves the community through several pro- beaches, pools, bays and rivers; and an and animals during their choice of one, grams like Nurturing Parents and Families; area just for the kiddies. $9.99-$116.50. 900 one-and-a-half- or two-hour guided trail ABCs of Parenting; Parent/Teen Solutions; Galleria Drive, Henderson, 702-850-9000; rides. Pony rides, horseback weddings and and more. 3075 N. Walnut Road, Las Vegas, cowabungabay.com horse boarding are also available. $60- 702-455-8402 $155. Bonnie Springs Ranch, 6395 Bonnie Springs Road, Las Vegas, 702-875-4191; Desert Breeze Aquatic Facility bonniesprings.com Wet ’n’ Wild The facility features an indoor pool with lap This 33.5-acre water-themed amusement swim and family swim hours, as well as a park offers more than 25 adrenaline-pump- seasonal outdoor water park that provides Silver Mesa Recreation ing water slides, but for those who desire a a shallow water beach entry, play structure Center & Pool milder form of excitement, it also features and two water slides designed for those This 5-acre rec center provides numerous a winding river, interactive fun zones, nine 48 inches and taller. 8275 Spring Mountain leisure activities, educational opportuni- slides and a wave pool. Amenities include Road, Las Vegas, 702-455-7798 ties and athletic outlets, including a fully shower and changing facilities, lockers, equipped fitness facility with free weights, cabana rentals and tube rentals. Dive ’n’ circuit and cardiovascular machines, exer- Movie program offers a unique outdoor Fit4Mom Stroller cise classes, a gymnasium, swimming pool movie-viewing experience shortly after Strides Classes with water slide and mushroom shower and sundown every other Friday. $9.99-$39.99. A stroller-based fitness program for moms shaded picnic areas. 4025 Allen Lane, North 7055 S. Fort Apache Road, Las Vegas, and their babies, Stroller Strides classes Las Vegas, 702-633-2550 702-979-1600; wetnwildlasvegas.com

DESERT COMPANION FAMILY 64 DesertCompanion.com

CELEBRATIONS HERE CREATE MEMORIES FOR A LIFETIME, EXPERIENCE YOUR BIRTHDAY WITH US! DISCOVERY Children’s Museum is the perfect setting for a fun and memorable birthday for your child. That’s because we make sure every birthday includes fun-filled, unforgettable experiences. Best of all, you select your Birthday Experience preferences and we handle the rest.

For more information on Gift Registry Available BIRTHDAY EXPERIENCES at Discovery Store visit DiscoveryKidsLV.org or call 702.382.3445.