Beyond Open House –

By Jenna Vandenberg

Whether you have a five year old about to start kindergarten or a senior who’s counting down the days until graduation, the best way to make sure your child succeeds in school is to keep parents, teachers and students communicating effectively. Good habits of interaction should be introduced early in elementary school and carried on and improved upon through high school to help keep your son or daughter on track for a fulfilling and successful education at all levels.

Elementary School

At the elementary level, tech savvy teachers are forgoing printed newsletters in favor of a teacher website, often called a “wiki.” These can be checked daily for spelling words, links to online math games, field trip information and picture dates. If your child’s teacher doesn’t have a website, look for a weekly newsletter or homework sheet and display it prominently at home.

If you have a concern or question not addressed on the teacher’s wiki or newsletter, get in touch with them. All teachers welcome parent communication, but each will have their own preference. Some may swear by email, while others don’t take a seat at their computers until students are long gone. Many prefer a phone call or text message, while others would rather you send a note with your child so they can get back to you at a convenient time. With all these options, your first conversation with your child’s teacher should inquire about the preferred method of contact.

Middle School

Parent communication often drops off at the middle school level, right when it should be picking up. Don’t let the fact that your child has six or seven teachers stop you from getting to know each of them. Ask them about grading, homework and your child’s academic and social performance in class. Once teachers have met you personally, they are more likely to invest a little extra time in your child, which is very important at the middle school level to prevent kids getting lost in the shuffle. Wait until November or December to schedule a meeting. At this point, all the teachers should know your child well and there should be plenty of time to address any problem.

If your child is having behavioral challenges, consider spending a day shadowing him or her from class to class. Shadowing not only gives you insight into struggles your child may be having, but it also sends a clear message that you take their education seriously. The embarrassment factor is usually enough to shape up any unruly middle school student. Be sure to check in with the school in advance for permission and stop by the office for a visitor’s pass.

High School

Are you willing to serve on the PTSA, sit on a panel to critique student presentations, talk about your job during career day, help during school celebrations or present specialized information to classes? If so, let the principal and the front office know. Volunteers are more common at the elementary level, but it’s even more important for parents to stay involved during high school. This will help put you in good graces with your son or daughter’s principal and counselors – the very people who will be writing your child letters of recommendation for colleges and jobs.

Regarding your college bound high schooler, know that even the most well behaved students skip class. Schools attempt to curb this behavior by having a phone system that automatically notifies families of a child’s absence so they can keep track of just how much school their child is missing. Students are well aware of this fact, however, and go to great lengths to file an incorrect number or have the calls directed to their own cell phone. Stay one step ahead of your child by contacting the school to ensure the number on file is your own work or cell number.

For additional support, the Clark County School District provides a service known as ParentLink, where you can see all of your child’s classes, attendance data and grades. You can obtain a login and password from your child’s school and access ParentLink via www.ccsd.net.

Talking About School

Making school a subject of conversation at home is the best way to reinforce the learning process. Don’t accept a blanket response of “fine” when asking your child about his or her day. Find out what books the class is reading, what science experiments were done and what debates have been taking place in social studies. And don’t glaze over when the conversation turns to math! If you don’t remember quadratic equations (let alone how to solve them), have your child explain them. These simple talks can help make lessons meaningful and school more relevant.

Between buying school supplies, setting up homework space and packing lunches, September can be just as busy for parents as it is for students. Give your family time to settle back into those school routines, but be sure to meaningfully engage with teachers before November or December. Attending open house and parent teacher conferences are great first steps, but keeping the lines of communication open all year is essential to your child’s success in school.     

Renaissance Man –

By Mike Sweeney

History has seen its share of brilliant minds, but few have equaled the legendary wisdom and humanist ideals of Leonardo da Vinci. In his life as an artist, scientist, engineer and inventor, he demonstrated the kind of innovative imagination we don’t often see in our technologically advanced world. Local residents now have the chance to draw some inspiration from the master at Da Vinci – The Genius, a new exhibit open now through October 15^th at The Venetian.

Cracking the Code

Your tour begins with an in depth look at detailed replicas of da Vinci’s personal notebooks, also known as codices. These provide a fascinating glimpse into the artist’s thought process, showing how he cleverly wrote his notes in mirror image script and left out crucial details of his invention designs as a sort of 16^th century anti-piracy measure. Most of da Vinci’s forward thinking inventions were never realized during his lifetime, but thanks to the dedicated work of skilled Italian artisans, we can now marvel at impressive mock-ups of da Vinci’s imaginative concepts, many built only with techniques and materials that were available during the Renaissance period.

Living Dreams

From antiquated forerunners of the modern helicopter and parachute to primitive takes on scuba gear and an odometer, the exhibit offers a captivating array of da Vinci’s dreams brought to life, proving that he was a man centuries ahead of his time. A talent for civil engineering shines through in a model of his plan for an ideal city meant to control the spread of disease, while military devices such as a steam powered cannon and a precursor to the modern day tank prove that the great artist was not necessarily a pacifist. The fact that such brilliance could stem from the mind of a single individual is quite staggering. By the way, don’t feel like you need to keep your hands in your pockets, as many of the inventive displays encourage tactile interaction.

Master Strokes

While da Vinci’s passion for invention knew no bounds, he is perhaps best remembered for his dramatic contributions to the art world, and here you’ll find expert reproductions of some classic pieces. A replica of Vitruvian Man, da Vinci’s famous sketch detailing the ideal human proportions, hangs beside a video presentation analyzing the drawing’s concise measurements. On the opposite wall hang facsimiles of the artist’s meticulous anatomical sketches, drawn from the then-controversial practice of dissecting human cadavers. Another video presentation takes a closer look at The Last Supper. The famous fresco is projected on a large screen in its actual 15 by 29 foot size, followed by a concise study of the painting’s significance and restoration.

No examination of da Vinci’s art would be complete without a look at his most celebrated work. The Secrets of Mona Lisa portion of the exhibit details the findings of Pascal Cotte, a French scientific engineer and fine art expert, who was granted unprecedented access to the painting by the Louvre. Using a multispectral camera of his own design, Cotte was able to digitally scan the painting (out of its frame) across a wide spectrum of light at a stunning resolution of 240 million pixels, digging through layers of paint to reveal hidden secrets. Here you can examine 40 super magnified sectional images that explore all aspects of the painting, from the subject’s missing eyebrows and eyelashes and the position of her hands to how the painting’s colors have faded over time. Cotte’s analysis sheds even more light on one of art’s most enigmatic works… but he still can’t tell us what she’s smiling about. After all these centuries, da Vinci still has his secrets.

The world may never see another mind to equal that of Leonardo da Vinci, but thanks to revealing exhibits such as Da Vinci – The Genius, we can get an inside look at how one of history’s great thinkers changed the world around him and influenced the world we know today.

For more information, visit www.venetian.com.

A Step Above – Shawn Steckel

Silverado High School
Class of 2013

Being a leader means more than just having a winning personality. Leadership grows out of knowing when to make the right decisions and having the charisma to inspire others, all qualities that Silverado High School Student Body President Shawn Steckel has on his side. Athletic, optimistic and completely at ease with life, Shawn has a passion for healthy living and giving the best of himself in everything from volleyball to volunteer work. Driven to succeed through positivity and a strong desire for self improvement, Shawn Steckel stands – A Step Above.

Sports/Activities/Awards/Community Service

• Varsity Cross-Country, 2009-10
• Varsity Volleyball, 2010-12
• Student Body President, 2012
• Class Committee, 2010-12
• Student Council, 2010-12
• Outstanding Sophomore for Student Council, 2011
• Outstanding Junior for Student Council, 2012
• Honorable Mention for Volleyball, 2011-12
• Volunteer for Make-A-Wish Foundation, 2009-10
• Volunteer at Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary, 2010
• Volunteer for Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, 2010-11

Goals & Aspirations: “My goal for this year is to have a memorable and successful senior year. I want to make this the best year yet! My goal for the future is to graduate from college with a degree in medicine and then start my residency at a hospital.”

Shawn Looks Up To: “I look up to my dad, because he can solve any problem thrown at him. He never gives up on anything and is always encouraging others to do their best.”

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “My proudest accomplishment is becoming Student Body President. It took a lot of work and time, but I have made amazing memories that I will never forget!”

Shawn is Stronger and Wiser Because: “My freshman year, I tried out for the varsity volleyball team. I was the first freshman to ever try for varsity, and I thought I had no chance at making the team. I gave it my all at tryouts and made the team! This experience taught me to try my hardest, no matter what.”

Part of the Solution: “A key issue facing young adults today is obesity. It is very important to make healthy lifestyle choices and exercise regularly. I can be a part of the solution by asking for a healthier lunch menu at school.”

A Step Above – Jade Welton

Green Valley High School
Class of 2013

Life is full of change, and Green Valley High School Student Body President Jade Welton has found much success in new beginnings. After moving to Las Vegas from Arizona during her sophomore year, she took an active role in both student government and cheer, showing tremendous school spirit and a passion for leadership. Poised and self assured, with a positive outlook that never lets the little things get her down, she hopes to make this coming year the best one yet. It’s that kind of dedicated confidence that helps place Jade Welton – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.2

Sports/Activities/Community Service

• Varsity Cheer, 2009-12
• Varsity Track, 2009-12
• JV Tennis, 2009-10
• Peoria Sea Turtles City Swim Team, 2010-11
• Student Council, 2009-12
• Class Committee, 2010-12
• Class President: Freshman, 2009-10; Sophomore, 2010-11; Junior, 2011-12
• Student Body President, 2012
• Gator Haven Anti-Bullying Campaign, 2011-12
• Relay for Life, 2009-10
• Walk for Hope, 2011-12
• JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes, 2011-12

Awards

• Academic Letter, 2009-10
• Honor Roll, 2009-11
• “Miss Versatile” (Cheer), 2010-11
• Most Spirited (Cheer), 2011-12
• Nominated for RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Award), 2010-11
• 6^th in Region for High Jump (Track), 2011-12
• 2^nd in Region & 7^th in State for 4 X 100m Relay (Track), 2011-12
• 4^th in Region for Advanced Show Cheer Division, 2011-12
• 1^st in Region for Intermediate Stunt Group Division (Cheer), 2011-12

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of becoming Junior Class President and Student Body President right after moving to not only a brand new school, but a brand new state!  Becoming SBP has been a dream of mine since I was in 3^rd grade. Now, I’m living my dream.”

Jade is Successful Because: “I have to say I am very driven. Things rarely get me down or make me upset. I just tend to look on the bright side of things, get through it, and look back and think about what I learned. Getting upset over things does not help the situation, you, or anyone else around you. I believe that life is too short to get upset over things.”

Improving Student Life: “I think that by including all of our clubs on campus in the events that happen at school, rather than just Student Council, more students will get the opportunity to be “behind the scenes” on school activities. By doing this, we will reach out to a larger variety of students, and we will be able to make it more enjoyable for everyone.”

A Step Above – Ashley Godfrey

Coronado High School
Class of 2013

Aristotle once said that we live in deeds, not years. If our accomplishments are indeed a measure of our integrity, then Coronado High School Student Body President Ashley Godfrey has shown her strength of character many times over. Elegant, assertive and firm in her beliefs, Ashley cherishes the positive role models in her life, cultivating their inspiring wisdom and guidance into a focused optimism that she uses to help others achieve their goals. With courage and confidence on her side and many dreams yet to fulfill, Ashley Godfrey rises to – A Step Above.

Sports/Activities

• Varsity Track and Field, 2009-Present
• Varsity Cross Country, 2009-11
• Bradley Tennis Academy, 2007-10
• Student Body President, 2012
• Class President: Freshman, 2009-10; Sophomore, 2010-11
• Junior Class Representative and First Lady, 2011-12
• Student Council Commission, 2009-10
• Girls State Delegate, 2012
• National Association of Student Councils Delegate, 2009-12
• Blue Ribbon Commission Delegate, 2009-13
• Youth Camp Leader, 2007-Present

Awards/Community Service

• Co-Ed Soccer Champions, 2010-11
• Powder Puff Champions, 2012
• Cross Country Regional and State, 2009-10
• Varsity Track and Field Regional and State, 2009-10
• Most Outstanding Freshman (Cross Country & Track), 2010
• Scholar Athlete, 2009-11
• Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network Walk, 2011-12
• St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital Volunteer, 2009-Present
• Eagle Scout Project Volunteer, 2007-Present
• Zion National Park Volunteer, 2009
• Cougars Care Coordinator, 2009-Present

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “Representing Coronado High School as Student Body President is my proudest accomplishment to date. Having been highly involved throughout my high school career, I hope to unite the student body and inspire them to reach their fullest potential.”

Part of the Solution: “I believe bullying is one of the greatest issues we face today. With a culmination of hate within social media websites and everyday teenage life pressures, students can become withdrawn socially and academically. I am involved with the ‘Be Kind’ Josh Stevens Foundation program that promotes awareness and inspires children to be more kind more often.”

Improving Student Life: “In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, ‘You must be the change you wish to see in the world.’ That being said, if I could make any change to improve Coronado High School, I must begin with me. Instilling this mindset into the students would not only improve our school, but also society… a mini utopia.”

A Step Above – Gabriella Nellis

Foothill High School
Class of 2013

As someone who likes to live in the moment, Foothill High School Student Body President Gabriella Nellis is laying the groundwork for a great future by making the most of today. Embracing her new leadership role with pride and enthusiasm, she’s out to bring a sense of camaraderie to her school, uniting everyone from freshmen to seniors as one big Falcon family. A passion for dance helps keep her spirits high, while giving back to the community allows her to change more lives than just those of her peers, elevating Gabriella Nellis to – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 3.825

Sports/Activities/Community Service

• JV Dance, 2009-10
• Varsity Dance, 2010-11
• Senior Company at The Dance Zone, 2011-12
• Eco-Vision, 2011-12
• Student Council, 2009-12
• Student Body President, 2012
• Volunteer at Noah’s Ark Animal Shelter, 2011
• Volunteer at PB&J-A-Thon, 2012
• Volunteer at Silverman Triathlon, 2009-12
• Volunteer at Ragnar Race, 2009-12

Goals & Aspirations: “Right now, I want to be the best Student Body President I can be and make Foothill a truly friendly place. For the future, I hope to attend college and major in communications or English, then apply to join the Peace Corps, or I want to dance for Disney and tour on their cruises.”

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “Winning Student Body President is one of my most proud accomplishments. I lost my junior class election last year, so it was great to finally have hard work pay off.”

Gabriella is Successful Because: “The inspiring people that I have around me, my friends who are supportive and all the adults who believe in me. Every time I feel like giving up, they are there for me.”

Gabriella Looks Up To: “Jami Artiga and Kaydee Francis. They are my dance teachers/studio owners. These two lovely women have changed my life. Not only have they taught me and helped me grow as a dancer, they’ve helped me grow as a young woman. I look up to them as leaders because when I am around them, I feel comfortable and I trust them in every way. They are the perfect example of what kind of leader I want to be.”

Gabriella is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Being the oldest child in my family is a hard obstacle. Trying to always maintain a good image and be a good role model. I always say that I’m the blueprint, not the model.”

In Summertime Fashion

Grow Up! Planting Your Vertical Garden

By  DeDee Birdsall

If you don’t have much of a green thumb or you’re looking for a new and unique outdoor project, vertical gardening can be a fun alternative to traditional plant work. A simple blank wall or small vertical space on the patio can make the most novice gardener feel like a pro by following easy guidelines for simple planting. From living wreaths to DIY planters, a little time and effort will have you “growing up” and adding a savvy garden look to your outdoor spaces.

Planning Ahead

Before you dive into the soil and start decorating with your creative garden masterpieces, there are a few basic considerations to bear in mind when tackling any type of vertical gardening.

Form Up

Ready-to-plant forms can help give you a basic framework to start with. These forms cover everything from regular gardening to wreaths and topiary animals and will lay the groundwork for a couple of our projects. You can find them on line at sites such as www.verticalgardeningsystems.com or www.topiaryartworks.com, both excellent resources for the vertical gardener that offer a variety of forms, ideas, instructions, tools and attachments.

Proper Care

The first two weeks after planting will be a crucial time when roots will take hold, which can be helped along by keeping plants on a flat surface during that period. This will ensure optimal growth, as will maintaining proper exposure to sunlight. Don’t forget to take your local climate into consideration as well since most purchased plants come with moisture, heat and temperature specs. What grows well in the desert may not thrive at cooler temperatures and vice versa.

Water Works

Water is the most important gift you can give your plants. Choose a watering system that’s conducive to your garden; slow and steady release usually works best to tame soil erosion and runoff. A garden hose is ideal for watering trays, and you can use a wand attachment for higher plantings. For those that are out of reach, install an automatic gravity irrigation system, which can be obtained for as low as $28 and runs drip lines through back channels of pockets or trays.

Up, Up, and Away – Vertical Garden Forms

For a simple project involving succulents, a hardy and low maintenance plant for a variety of climates, we purchased a 20×20 vertical garden form at Vertical Gardening Systems. For a reasonable cost of $59, you can get a tray with 45 planting slots that includes a frame for hanging your finished garden. Watering is a snap! Succulents hold water in their leaves, making them easier to grow. When poured into the top watering chamber, gravity aids in the flow as it travels in a side to side journey to the bottom of the module, watering the roots of every plant. Simply lay your form flat, plant and water. Once the roots have taken hold, hang and water as needed.

Small and Elegant – Living Wreaths and Topiary Art Forms

Living wreaths and topiary art forms make great additions to outside walls or patios. Pre-made forms filled with sphagnum moss are available in different sizes and styles and usually work best when planted with succulents. Once you design your arrangement, poke holes in the damp form with a pencil and plant your succulents. Two weeks later, it should be ready to hang. When dry, the wreath can be taken down and watered, laid flat for a few days, then hung back up.

If you’d like a wreath without the hassle of planting it, you can purchase a pre-planted wreath from a variety of sources, including www.vivaterra.com, and buy succulents in bulk from sites such as www.ecrater.com. For a more cost effective option, go DIY by purchasing succulent cuttings in bulk from sites such as www.simplysucculents.com. If you’re more the hunter-gatherer type, you can always take cuttings from your own succulents and allow them to dry for several days until they form a crust on the cut ends of each cutting before you replant them.

Pallet Planter – Easy as 1-2-3

Pay a visit to any warehouse retail store and you’ll see boxes full of merchandise resting atop large wooden pallets. What you probably didn’t know is that these flat structures make ideal starting points for small space gardening that includes annuals, herbs, sedums, vegetables and more. Pallets can be easily cut down to fit any space and are usually not that difficult to find; we got ours from a local building supply store. Once you’ve found your pallet, you can begin!

Lay the pallet face down and cut two pieces of landscape fabric big enough to cover the sides, back and bottom. Leave fabric longer on the bottom, for wrapping over the front of the pallet. Double two pieces and align over the pallet’s back. Using a staple gun, attach fabric every two inches along the top, bottom, and sides, leaving the top open and pulling the fabric tight.

Turn the pallet over and pack your plants into the top opening as tight as you can, almost to the point of using a shoe horn to place the last plant. Pour potting soil into the pallet; depending on the size of the pallet, you may need more than one bag. Push soil down to fill the bottom cavity and form a trench for planting. Plant your first row and pack the soil against the plants.  Repeat the process, moving upward. Water, water, water. After two weeks, it should be ready to stand.

Shutters, Gutters, and Other Found Things

Salvaged finds such as gutters and shutters also serve as excellent and unusual bases for vertical gardens. Attach them to a bare fence, building or outside structure and you’re ready to plant. With gutters, you can simply drill holes for drainage, attach it to your structure, fill with soil and start planting. Shutters work well for succulent plants. All you need to do is cover the back of the shutter with landscape fabric, fill with succulent soil mix and tuck your succulents in the slots. Other planter options include buckets, burlap bags or just about anything else you can think of.  Keep in mind, anything that can hold soil and hang can become a vertical garden.

If you’re feeling challenged in the creative area, you can always bring your form to a local greenhouse or nursery and enlist of the help of a horticulture specialist to get you started. Whether pursued on your own or with the help of a mentor, vertical gardening lets you dig into a new hobby and discover fun and unique ways to add some green flair to your home décor.

Out N About

Indoor Summer Fun

Now that summer has arrived, temperatures are rising. While hanging out by the pool or visiting the park can still be nice, things can heat up pretty fast. If you’re looking to escape the three digit mercury readings, here are some suggestions for local fun in the great (air conditioned) indoors.

Pole Position Raceway

Challenge your friends to a couple of laps around the track in a Formula EK20 electric kart and enjoy some fast paced family fun. Put the pedal to the metal and feel the need for speed! Visit www.polepositionraceway.com for info.

CSI: The Experience

Test your inner sleuth with the whole family at this interactive exhibit at the MGM Grand that’s based on the hit TV show. The experience features murder scenes, crime labs and other forensic challenges. Visit www.mgmgrand.com for info.

DaVinci – The Genius

This stunning exploration of the legendary artist comes to life at The Venetian through an interactive experience with full scale interpretations of his inventions and unparalleled exhibits of his masterworks. Visit www.venetian.com for info.

Old West Musical Revue

Take a trip back in time at Bonnie Springs with this vaudeville style show full of belly laughs, old time music and grand entertainment. Don’t forget to bring your appetite for the chuck wagon dinner! Visit www.oldwestmusical.com for info.

The Mob Museum

Explore the history of organized crime in America from both sides of the law as you tour through this expansive, detailed account of the mob’s legacy, including their rise and fall in our very own Las Vegas. Visit www.themobmuseum.org for info.

Hitting the Books

Did you know that by reading for just 20 minutes per day over the summer, children of all ages dramatically improve their comprehension? On the flip side, students who skip summer reading may find themselves losing up to 20 percent of the knowledge and skills gained during the previous year, a setback known as the “summer slide.” To help combat this downturn, the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District Foundation hopes to recruit children from across the valley into its Toddlers to Teens Summer Reading Program to help keep eager young minds active.

Librarians have provided reading lists for all age groups while encouraging families to enroll their kids in the program in order to qualify for prizes in different age levels such as rubber duckies, board books, gold medals, gift cards and even a Sony eReader. Help the little ones in your life discover the joy of reading and sign them up for the Summer Reading Program on line or at your neighborhood branch library. Visit www.lvccld.org for registration and more info.

Ocean Blue

2 oz. rock candy syrup
6 oz. fresh lemon sour
1 oz. DeKyuper blueberry schnapps
3 oz. Hpnotiq liqueur
2 oz. Stoli Blueberri vodka
2 oz. Bacardi Razz rum
Gummi Sharks
Dry ice

Add all ingredients into a shaker. Add dry ice to the bottom of a glass goblet. Add ice, mix Gummi Sharks into ice and pour cocktail over ice. Add more Gummi Sharks on top.

Recipe courtesy of Sugar Factory.

Did You Know?

Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, longtime friends and founding fathers, both died on the Fourth of July in 1826 within several hours of each other. Allegedly, the last words Adams spoke were, “Thomas Jefferson lives,” unaware that Jefferson had died before him.

The Must Do List

Editor’s Picks

July 13
K.D. Lang and the Siss Boom Bang
The Smith Center continues its exemplary showcase of great entertainment with this performance by Grammy winning singer-songwriter K.D. Lang and her new band, the Siss Boom Bang. This incredible evening of music spans Lang’s entire career, from classics such as “Constant Craving” to songs from her new album, Sing it Loud, Lang’s first record made entirely with a band of her own since her early days with the Reclines. With influences that span everything from pop and country to jazz and blues, there’s something to entice fans of any musical genre. Along with opening act The Milk Carton Kids, this concert is sure to be one to remember. Call 982-7805 or visit www.thesmithcenter.com for tickets and more information.

July 28 & August 18
Music on the Mountain
When the mercury starts to peak and the Strip gets too crowded with summer tourists, escape up to Lee Canyon for this concert series presented by the Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort. Bring a blanket, pack some snacks and tag along with the whole family for some musical fun in the fresh mountain air. “Guitarmageddon” plays on July 28^th, featuring amazing finger picking acts such as Guitar Shorty, Chris Bell and Stoney Curtis. The sounds kick up again on August 28^th with a rock and roll and zydeco extravaganza featuring Porterhouse Bob & Down to the Bone, Blues Storm, the Howlin’ Hounds and more. While you’re here, you can even treat yourself to a scenic chairlift ride! Visit www.skilasvegas.com for tickets and more information.

July 11-28
Oliver!
Relax under the stars at Spring Mountain Ranch as Super Summer Theatre presents this musical adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic Oliver Twist with music and lyrics by Lionel Bart. A young orphan remains diligent and optimistic in a world filled with sorrow in this spirited coming of age tale filled with delightful songs, quirky characters and heartwarming fun for all ages. The outdoor tradition continues in August with Andrew Lloyd Webber’s rock opera Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Call 594-7529 or visit www.supersummertheatre.org for tickets and more information.

July 13-22
NBA Summer League
Las Vegas may not have its own professional basketball team, but local fans can still see some of the NBA’s top players shine thanks to this summer game series held at the Thomas & Mack Center. Twenty-four teams including the Atlanta Hawks, Los Angeles Lakers, Washington Wizards and more will compete in a 60 game schedule featuring thirteen of the top fourteen picks in this year’s NBA draft. Get your tickets in time for tip-off and don’t miss a moment of the action! Call 739-FANS or visit www.unlvtickets.com for tickets and more information.

August 5
World Football Challenge 2012
It may be known as “soccer” in the United States, but to the rest of the world, it’s football. Las Vegas fans can now experience some of the thrilling European sports action at this exciting event as recently crowned La Liga champions Real Madrid take on Italy’s Juventus Football Club in this epic match at Sam Boyd Stadium, part of Real Madrid’s U.S. preseason tour. Gear up in your favorite colors and watch the best of the best take the field. Call 739-FANS or visit www.unlvtickets.com for tickets and more information.

SUMMER FUN

Springs Preserve Events

There are plenty of cool things happening this summer at the Springs Preserve (www.springspreserve.org), and we’re not just talking about air conditioning. Don’t miss out on these exciting exhibits and events:

Envenomators: The Venemous Snakes of North America

This exhibit, which runs through September 16^th, tells the story of four venomous snakes indigenous to North America: Copperhead, Cottonmouth, Coral and Rattlesnake. Visitors will explore the secret lives of these unique and venomous beauties, learning all about the benefits they provide to the natural world and the startling misconceptions these intriguing creatures have earned through fear rather than facts.

Bugs!

New to the Big Springs Theater, this show runs from July 16^th to August 31^st and explores the creepy crawly things of the Mojave that love to hiss, sting and slither. The show features all manner of insects, arachnids and invertebrates such as the desert tarantula, bark scorpion and centipede. Get up close – or don’t! – and find out why our desert could not survive without them.

Summer Camps

Skip the daycare and explore 180 acres of summer fun at one of the Springs Preserve’s many day camps, running now through August 24^th. Campers will learn about nature, archaeology, animals, plants and more and will even get to do a little swimming at the neighboring YMCA. Activities are led by education specialists and field experts to give campers a unique and educational experience that makes for a great summer memory.

CHARITY

Winder Farms Goes Pink for the Cure

The fight to raise money and awareness for breast cancer is a constant battle, but it’s a battle that has found another ally. Winder Farms, Las Vegas’ “Farmer’s Market on Wheels,” will make a donation to Susan B. Komen for the Cure for every container of their Strawberry Milk sold between now and October 31^st to help with breast cancer screening, treatment programs and research. To remind customers of the charitable initiative, labels on the 16oz. and half gallon bottles will now feature the Susan G. Komen for the Cure pink ribbon.

“This is one more way for Winder Farms to help the community and it is our hope that this fundraiser makes it easy for our customers to give back,” said Tyler Wallis, marketing director for Winder Farms. “It also seems like a natural fit since our Strawberry Milk is a wonderful shade of pink, the symbolic color for the organization and the fight against breast cancer.” To place an order or for more information, visit www.winderfarms.com.

VOLUNTEERING

American Cancer Society Seeks Drivers

Cancer affects the lives of thousands of people across Las Vegas, many of whom don’t have readily available transportation to and from their own treatment. The American Cancer Society Road to Recovery program is changing that by providing round trip rides to cancer treatment for patients who don’t have the means to get around. While the program is already in place, only twenty-five drivers have enrolled so far, and with over 100 needed to meet current demands, the call for help is going out wide.

“We’re in desperate need of volunteers,” says Debra Armstrong, Quality of Life Manager in Las Vegas. “It’s the perfect opportunity for students, members of retirement communities or anyone with just a few hours a week to to step forward.” Any driver with a valid license, proof of insurance and a safe, reliable vehicle can participate and help those suffering from this terrible disease get the care they so desperately need. Contact Debra Armstrong at 891-9023 for more information.

Meet The Neighbor – Ken Rubeli

 By Callie Thomas

“Life’s battles don’t always go to the strongest or fastest man, but sooner or later the man who wins is the fellow who thinks he can.” – Steve Prefontaine

Ken Rubeli has more than just running in common with long-distance legend Steve Prefontaine.  Although he is a passionate and avid runner himself, it is Ken’s drive and entrepreneurial spirit that have moved mountains and have made the Boys & Girls Clubs of Henderson thrive.

The Boys & Girls Clubs enable all young people, especially those who need it most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens. The decision to work with them was not merely a random choice for Rubeli; in fact, it has been a longtime association that goes back to his own childhood in Scottsdale, Arizona. Rubeli has maintained a strong connection with the Boys & Girls Clubs even while cultivating an impressive career in corporate finance with Bear Stearns in New York and Enron in Houston, not to mention working with gaming establishments in Las Vegas and forming his own national energy consulting business.

After serving as a very active board member since 2005, he took on the full time position as the Chief Executive Officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Henderson. Over the last year, with his dedication and can-do philosophy, the organization has nearly doubled their membership and has expanded from five locations to nine operating sites across the valley, including a new Summerlin site at the Alexander Dawson School. There is even a Teen Center named for Rubeli at the Mary & Sam Boyd Boys & Girls Club. He shares his enthusiasm for the future of the organization and how tackling his own childhood obesity led him to a passion for running.

How did you first become involved with the Boys & Girls Clubs?

“When I was 11, I started coming in the summertime just as something to do to keep busy all day long. I kept going to the club every summer after school. At 14, I got my first job at the club as a snack bar clerk. I worked for the club every summer through high school and college until I began my pursuit of the capitalist dream and moved to New York.”

What is your most memorable moment associated with the organization?

“The day the Rubeli Teen Center opened at the Mary & Sam Boyd Boys & Girls Club. I’m passionate about helping teens and it gave me chills to see the teens’ faces light up when they entered their own part of the Club.”

What types of offerings are at the Center?

“It includes a games room, education room, arts & crafts area, an area especially for teens and a kitchen.”

You’ve been able to see first-hand the effects of your involvement.

“Yes, I love seeing the tangible benefits of giving both time and money to a cause. While it feels good to be financially supportive, it’s magical when you can devote time, which is ultimately the most valuable commodity we all possess to help others who need it most.”

What do you think drives you the most?

“The words ‘quit’ and ‘can’t’ simply don’t exist in my vocabulary.”

You’ve persisted in not only making things happen for the Boys & Girls Clubs but for yourself, too.

“I’ve tackled my own unhealthy lifestyle and took up running four years ago. I was 40 pounds heavier and couldn’t even run one mile without stopping. I now routinely compete in 100 mile ultra-marathons and other extreme running events. Even when I’m stressed, I’ll go for a run on the Red Rock Scenic Loop.”

You must be proud of your accomplishments.

“I’m proud of my two wonderful kids Tanner and Amanda, of tackling childhood obesity through exercise and being able to push beyond perceived limits.”