VKZ Magazine Summer 2024

VEGAS KIDS ZONE PRESENTS

SUMMER 2024

VKZ Magazine

Inc lud $22 ing 5 dea of ls!

LOCAL TRIO EXPANDS TO A NON-PROFIT IN JUST ONE YEAR OF HARD WORK

FIND YOUR BIRTHDAY TWIN & CELEBRATE!

HOW TO PLAN & START YOUR KIDPRENEUR BUSINESS

HOW LOCAL TEAMS INSPIRE KIDS

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 02

Contents 7 9 10 13 15 17 20 23

Editor’s Note VKZ Birthday Club!

VKZ Exclusive Party Deals

VKZ 1-Year Anniversary Party!

Kidpreneur Summer Camp Boys of Summer VKZ Honor Roll Gluten Free Zucchini Muffins Recipe www.vegaskidszone.com

$21 ticke tss

Click here for tickets!

VKZ’s Family Fun Night at The Ballpark!

Join Vegas Kids Zone in rooting on our home team the Las Vegas Aviators.

May 31, 2024 1st Pitch at 7:05 pm Tailgate Party begins at 6pm

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 04

Contents 24

Ohana Spirit & Maui Relief

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Composting Solution!

In Your Neighborhood

Summer Camp Special Section

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E-sports growing in Las Vegas Kids Financial Literacy Deal Pet Care in the Desert Lazy Rivers in Las Vegas Cosplay Corner

Work with VKZ! Want to write for VKZ Magazine? We are currently taking applications for writers and a calendar editor.

Ages 16+ can send their resumes to: Kim@Vegaskidszone.com

www.vegaskidszone.com

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Live in the moment

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Our Staff.

Publisher Kimberley McGee Copy Chief Sara Matteo Contributors Angelina Agasi Clairin deMartini Lauren Grier Calendar Editor Jack Schofield

VKZ Magazine May 2024 Presented by Vegas Kids Zone

©VegasKidsZone. For personal use only, not to be copied, distributed, altered or sold.

About Vegas Kids Zone

Looking for the inside scoop on what’s happening in our community? Look no further than our online publication.

Sure, we've got the information you need, but more than that, we're all about building a community.

I'm in touch with parents daily, and guess what? I'm like your genie in a bottle, granting your wishes for classes, meetups, events, and quarterly resource fairs.

Just say the word, and I'll make it happen!

But wait, there's more! Sign up for our newsletter and get the latest deals plus a freebie for kids every Friday! It's the cherry on top of your week.

Let me know how I can help! Check out the Email anytime!

VKZ shop for Kim@VegasKidsZone free games

-Kimberley

and resources for kids and parents!

Check out the awesome submissions from local children who joined the very first VKZ Writer Digest!

Our next VKZ Writing Contest kicks off June 3! Go here for the latest VKZ Events, Contests & Giveaways! ​I am an affiliate and get a few cents back but it does not affect your price or discounts. I also share updates on advertisers and any specials they may create just for VKZ subscribers. These pages are copyright protected. ©VegasKidsZone. For personal use only, not to be copied, distributed, altered or sold.

Enter for a cha nce t o win a $25 gift c ard!

Get featured in VKZ Magazine!

Do you have a funny story, original poem, drawing or essay about your pet or family?! Send us your creative work and get published in the VKZ Magazine! Every entry is entered for a chance to win 1 of 3 $25 gift cards!

Every published entry receives a certificate of publication.

Send your original creative work to Kim@VegasKidsZone.com for consideration!

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 09

Birthday Bash The VKZ Birthday Bash is a monthly opportunity for local kids to come together and celebrate their birthdays in a fun and memorable way. The party is a fantastic way for kids to make new friends in a fun and inclusive environment.

Each bash features a festive atmosphere with decorations, music, and, of course, a delicious birthday cake for everyone to enjoy.

The entertainment varies each month, with activities like magic shows, puppet performances, or interactive games to keep the kids entertained and engaged.

There are also plenty of games for the children to play, with prizes for the winners.

One of the highlights of the VKZ Birthday Bash is the special gift that each birthday child receives. These gifts are carefully selected to be ageappropriate and exciting, ensuring that each child feels special and celebrated on their birthday.

Get your tickets & celebrate with us! www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 10

VKZ BIRTHDAY CLUB DEALS click here to get your vkZ Deal

click here to get your vkZ Deal

click here to get your vkZ Deal

click here to get your vkZ Deal

From luscious cupcakes to charming cake pops, delectable cookies, and custom cakes for all occasions, our confectionary creations are made with love and care, just for you. Mention VKZ and get 15% off!

Top quality, diverse and interactive birthday entertainment at affordable prices! We have amazing party packages at affordable rates! Get 40% off through March when you mention VKZ! Don't wait till the last minute, book now and lock in the date!

Magical Moments LV will offer 15% off if booked this month for any future event. Just mention VKZ! Magical Moments LV adds color, excitement, and visual appeal to your parties and events.

Get ready to celebrate in style with everything you need for a fantastic party, all in one convenient kit! Our kit includes a colorful banner, fun games, festive decorations, themed invitations, charming bag toppers, delightful cupcake toppers, water bottle wraps, and much more! Don't miss out on this amazing offer to make your birthday celebration unforgettable.

VKZ Magazine

click here to get 15% off!

Summer Edition | page 11

Simply Kimberly Confectionary

Satisfy your sweet cravings with handmade treats. Get 15% off when you mention VKZ! Perfect for Mother’s Day! These chocolates make a sweet bouquet and are a steal at 6 for $5!

Packed with fun things, from puzzles and coloring pages to banners and decorations to create with kids!

Parents like it, too.

s of 8 page and y r o t his more!

nevada coloring & activity pages

trivia, handwriting practice pages about the flag, flora & fauna and Origin of the state constitution

Vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 13

We’re celebrating our first anniversary!

Creative, inspiring and seriously fun!

Over the past year, these remarkable kidpreneurs have not only grown their businesses but have gained invaluable life skills, forged new friendships, and expanded their networks.

come to our 1st year party for prizes, crafts & food!

One of the most rewarding aspects of our Kidpreneur Markets has been witnessing the growth in confidence and self-esteem among our young participants. Many of them have overcome shyness and fear of failure, embracing new challenges with enthusiasm and resilience. This growth mindset will undoubtedly serve them well in all areas of their lives.

We are excited to continue nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit in our young generation.

Want to be a vendor?

Sign up here and get a one month FREE to the VKZ Kidpreneur Club.

Space is Limited!

Join us in the VKZ Kidpreneur Club for networking workshops, discounts and VKZ Biz Box & more!

www.vegaskidszone.com

click here

SUMMER KIDPRENEUR CLUB

Click here to learn more or sign up!

Join us for a fun and educational summer program designed just for kids!

Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore your entrepreneurial spirit in a supportive and engaging environment!

Monthly VKZ Biz Box with exclusive content Monthly workshops to grow your business with a Q&A with an entrepreneur expert.

Frequent opportunities to brainstorm your ideas and receive quality feedback.

Pizza party and activity hour.

Digital download workbook.

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 15

Do you want to start a Business?

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Most importantly, they will gain real-life experience, skills, confidence, and leadership qualities that will set them up for success in the future. Want to join us at the monthly market?

Join here!

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By the end of the program, kids will have identified their ideal business based on their passions and interests. They will have created a comprehensive business plan, understanding the basics of running a business.

P R D ENE I K

GROW

Join us for a fun and educational summer program designed just for kids! Our monthly sessions include exciting brainstorming sessions, where kids can unleash their creativity, followed by a delicious pizza party. Each month, we also host a workshop where kids will learn valuable skills and insights into the world of business.

VKZ

Join a network of local professionals and serious young entrepreneurs!

Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore your entrepreneurial spirit in a supportive and engaging environment!

Camp days start at 11 a.m. and end at 2 p.m. and include a pizza party lunch as well as arts and crafts, robotics and creative endeavors for down time.

www.vegaskidszone.com

At the Meadows Mall!

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 17

Not Your Mama’s lemonade stand Trio turned lemonade into a sweet way to help the community.

From their view on the chalk lines of the ball field, cousins Matthew Lopez (9), Romeo Jimenez (4) and Nathan (Teddy) Jimenez (9), watched as snack vendors flourished. The parched trio came up with a plan.

“We were inspired to start our lemonade stand after seeing other businesses around town selling food from their trailers,” said Mathew, 9, co-owner of The 3 Broskis Lemonade.

The idea was simple, the goal big. Make money for college while selling their handcrafted drinks inspired by their culture to thirsty spectators.The results were as sweet as their handsqueezed lemonade.

Since they first dragged a cooler to the field to a grateful crowd, they have overcome several challenges, including shyness, learning how to serve and work as a team.

In just one year, they have been featured on News 3 for a VKZ article, 8 News Now, Velocity eSports with their Biz Kidz video and started a non-profit, the Tiny Steps Big Hearts Foundation.

www.vegaskidszone.com

cont.

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 18

The boys have expanded to include delicious aguas frescas, horchatas and Jamaicas.

“Our products are made with care and offer a refreshing taste of our heritage,” Teddy said.

Their future goals include buying a trailer to serve their lemonade, getting their products into stores, giving back to the community, and purchasing a mascot costume.

They have inspired other kids and share this advice for those looking to follow in their footsteps.

“Avoid wasting products, be kind, be quick in serving customers, be social to attract more business,” they agreed, “and have multiple payment options to accommodate all cont. customers.” www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 19

SupportThe 3 Broskis & follow the fun here!

The boys give back to the community in many ways and recently launched Tiny Steps Big Hearts Foundation. One of their first collaborations was with Shining Stars, a local nonprofit that helsp children with special needs, autism, and disabilities. They joined Jelly Tots Entertainment to put a fun spin on the event, 3 Broskis style!

“We donated sugar-free lemonade for all the kids,” Romeo said. “We made their day a little brighter.” www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 20

vkz honor roll Celebrate local kids and their accomplishment with a shout out in the VKZ Honor Roll!

Josie Kress Josie is 13, and is a nationally ranked elite springboard and platform diver with Team Rebel Aquatics. She dedicates her afternoons and evenings to training in the pool and in dryland.

Regardless of that time commitment, she is currently ranked #1 at her magnet middle school, Lied STEM Academy, which has taken a great deal of hard work, perseverance - as well as some impressive time management skills!

Sen

du goo s you for d new r s ac han ce to be fea tur ed!

Josie's dedication to her sport, academics, and service to others truly sets an amazing example for those that she is around.

Girl Scout Troop 194 Josie, Tedra, Leah and Bella created a project named Kindness For All. Josie earned her Silver Award, titled “You Are Beautiful, Too.” Their mission is to supply quarterly care packages that includes toiletries and makeup to the residents of Shannon West Homeless Youth Center.

Josie, Tedra, Leah and Bella created a collage of the progress of their Bronze Award.

Local Dance Academy steps up The Lil Tommy Squad Dance Team were part of an event at Paintdrops Art Studio for the Live HipHop Art Event by Kenneth Dorsey, Mauricio Clark and Santangelo Willis. The creative hip-hop dance group/organization from Tommy the Clown Dance Academy empower youth through artistic dance styles and lifeskills mentoring, creating a stronger community, friendships and opportunties for kids.

Tommy the Clown Dance Academy creative hip-hop dance group/organization at Paintdrops Art Studio at the Meadows Mall.

www.vegaskidszone.com

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VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 22

Tips to Choose a Home in Las Vegas There are many reasons for families to move to Las Vegas. Getting to know the area before hand can ease your worries.

That’s what the Vegas Kids Zone Community is all about. We help new residents and those looking to explore home ownership in the valley find a good fit via our vast network of locals and professionals.

We turned to our trusted resource, Realtor Dave, to offer his top tips to find a home in Las Vegas.

“Not every home is going to tick off every need, that is really rare, ” he said.

“But you can set yourself up to find your ideal home by just doing a few things.”

Whether you plan to move to the City of Henderson for its outdoor activities, the cozy villages of Summerlin nestled near the western edge of the valley or the community-centered Centennial Hills, there are three main points to consider price, configuration and location.

Have a real estate story to “ share or want to be featured in the magazine? Email Kim@vegaskidszone.com!

You can boil down the entire process to these three categories because one will be more important than the other two and that is where all of our attention should be focused so that we have a positive result,” he said.

“Knowing the Top 10 things you really want can help you realize that the home you want to look at is a legitimate contender for your next home purchase,” he said.

Recently, a family flew in for a weekend and gave Realtor Dave the task to find them the perfect home in 72 hours. After a brief phone chat, they narrowed their choice to 3 homes to check out in person.

Find out what they chose here.

www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 23

Gluten Free Zucchini Muffins Zucchini season is upon us. If you’ve got a plant (or five) at your house, then that probably means you, your neighbors, and everyone who makes eye contact with you on the street has enough zucchini to last for months! When you’re buried in zucchini up to your eyeballs, bake these delicious glutenfree zucchini muffins to make the most of your harvest. GF in LV info here!

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups (210g) Gluten-Free all purpose flour mix ½ tbsp (15g) Psyllium husk powder 1 ½ tsp baking powder ½ tsp baking soda 2 tsp powdered egg replacer (such Instructions: Yield: 8-9 muffins as the Bob’s Red Mill version) 1 ½ tsp cinnamon 1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, ¼ tsp nutmeg sugar, baking powder, and salt. ⅛ tsp allspice 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ⅛ tsp salt milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla Zest of 1 large orange extract (if using). ½ cup melted margarine or 3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry butter, or neutral oil ingredients and stir until just combined. ⅓ cup (70g) brown sugar Do not overmix the batter. ⅓ cup (75g) granulated sugar 4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over 2 tbsp finely ground flax seeds medium heat. Scoop 1/4 cup of batter 6 tbsp lite coconut milk, HOT onto the pan for each pancake.

1 tbsp molasses 5. Cook until bubbles form on the surface of the 1 tsp vanilla pancake and the edges start to dry out, then 1 cup shredded zucchini (do flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until not wring out the liquid) golden brown on both sides. ½ tsp coarse sugar (Sugar in 6. Repeat with the remaining batter. the Raw, turbinado, etc.) www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 24

9th Island Ohana Savoring Hawaiian Culture in Southern Nevada

By Clairin DeMartini

Kaiāulu means Community Hawaiian Style, and the Las Vegas valley has been kaiāulu for generations. The city earned the nickname "the 9th Island" as a result of the significant population of Hawaiian residents and visitors that call the valley home.

In Las Vegas, many people come together for "ohana" (family) events, enjoying traditional Hawaiian dishes like poke and kalua pig, practicing hula or other cultural arts, and maintaining a spirit of aloha (love, peace, and compassion). It's about fostering a sense of belonging and connection while honoring and perpetuating the unique heritage and spirit of Hawaii, no matter the geographical location.

click here to Learn more about the Loan

In 2024, the spirit of Hawaii continues to thrive in the valley. Thanks in part to local restaurants like Island Flavor Hawaiian restaurants, the community gets a taste of the islands' rich culture and cuisine. But there's more to this story than just delicious food. Island Flavor is spreading important news about the Federal Housing Administration's (FHA) 203(h) disaster relief home loan.

www.vegaskidszone.com

cont.

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 25

Disaster relief for Hawaiians Devastating fires swept through Maui, August 8, 2023, leaving many families without homes.

Two days later, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. approved Hawaii disaster declaration areas affected by wildfires.

The President's action makes Federal funding available to affected individuals in Maui County including access to the FHA 203(h).

This special loan offers 100% financing and covers closing costs for both eligible homeowners and renters affected by the disaster.

What's even more remarkable is that this assistance is available for up to one year after the disaster area is declared.

It's heartening to see the community come together to support those in need. Island Flavor isn't just a place to enjoy delicious food; it's a hub of information and support for those facing tough times. So next time you're craving some island flavor, remember that your meal might just be helping a family rebuild their lives in the aftermath of tragedy.

www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 27

New to the Valley?

Click here to get your moving organizer for $2

What can we do to help you?! Here are a few of the most popular downloads in the VKZ Shop locals are using!

COMPLETE MOVING ORGANIZER Keep all your info together in one space with a moving organizer with checklists, planning pages for everything from what needs to be done a month out to the day of the move. The 40+ page moving organizer includes a contact list of all utilities and services in and around the Las Vegas valley that you need to call, email or drop in on and many more convenient resources. Use code VKZFRIEND to get 40% off this complete moving organizer! ere kh Clic get to r you er te n u vol or $1 f kit

VOLUNTEER WITH EASE This Volunteer Kit is designed to help kids and teens get the most out of volunteering and be prepared. When volunteering, be prepared to answer questions with the prompts provided.

Volunteering can help prepare kids and teens to work in a field they are considering. It can also help them realize their strengths and weaknesses. www.vegaskidszone.com

Utilities & Services Go here for updated direct links to each business Electric: NV Energy Tel: 702-367-5555 website: www.nvenergy.com Cable/Telephone: Centurylink Tel: 702-244-7400 website: www.centurylink.com Cox Cable Tel: 702-383-4000 website: www.cox.com Gas: Southwest Gas Tel: 877-860-6020 website: www.swgas.com Garbage: Republic Services Tel: 702-735-5151 website: www.republicservices.com Sewer: Clark County Tel: 800-782-4324 Las Vegas Tel: 702-229-6281 Water: Las Vegas Valley Water District (Las Vegas) Tel: 702-870-4194 website: www.lvvwd.com City of North Las Vegas (North Las Vegas) Tel: 702-633-1275 website: www.cityofnorthlasvegas.com City of Henderson (Henderson) Tel: 702-267-5900 website: www.cityofhenderson.com/departmetns/utility-services Education: Clark County School District Tel: 702-799-7573 website: www.ccsd.net Miscellaneous: US Postal Service Tel: 800-275-8077 website: www.usps.com Department of Motor Vehicles Tel: 877-368-7828 website: www.dmvnv.com These pages are copyright protected. ©VegasKidsZone. For personal use only, not to be copied, distributed, altered or sold. vegaskidszone.com

Click here for the full updated list!

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 29

Benefits of Composting Composting can be time-consuming and require space and effort. A compost company eliminates the need for you to manage the composting process yourself.

Supporting a compost company can contribute to the local economy and promote sustainable practices in your community. Viva La Compost is an expert in creating high-quality compost that is properly balanced and free of contaminants.

click here or call (702) 738-3521

Easily divert food waste and reduce your carbon footprint Viva La Compost’s convenient composting solutions turns materials destined for landfills into valuable resources that enrich soil and nourish crops.

How It Works: Fill up your bucket with any organic material (if it grows, it goes!).

Drop it outside.

We'll take care of the rest!

As a Partner for a Sustainable Nevada, we are proud to help Las Vegas accomplish its sustainability goals. Join us in making a difference today! www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 30

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS So many reasons the Las Vegas valley is a great place to call home.

BLOOM BUDDIES! Local students are nurturing success through gardening!

Sponsored by the national nonprofit Green Our Planet, this program in the Clark County School District has students tending to gardens all year long.

Their efforts culminate in a big event that celebrates their hard work and dedication!

TECH ALL ACCESS PASS Unlock a world of possibilities with an all-access pass to 3D printing, robotics, E-sports, DJing, and more at the Becker Technology Center! For just $35, youth can explore these exciting opportunities, with financial assistance available. This offer coincides with a milestone celebration at the center, located at 2221 Maverick Street. www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 31

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS So many reasons the Las Vegas valley is a great place to call home.

MORE TO LOVE! A community event was held April 13-14 at Doc Romeo Skate Park, 7400 Peak Drive. The colorful event gave skate park patrons a chance to meet the artists and help paint the park.

USHER EXPLORES HISTORIC WESTSIDE Usher warmed up Super Bowl audiences with a profound and moving feature on the Historic Westside that immediately preceded the game. During the feature, Usher hops into a car and tours the historic Westside, talking about its past, its present and its future. More on this story can be found here. www.vegaskidszone.com

Click here to learn more

Vegas Kids Zone Recommends Click here Summer Fun! to learn more

i9 Sports One of the top sports programs in the valley, i9 Sports offers seriously fun and engaging youth sports leagues, camps and clinics for kids ages 3 and up.

Winter season starts January 20 and Spring camps are available in March! Use code Sports24 through February 29 to get $15 off the registration fee for any of the i9Sports leagues on the weekends! Visit i9sports.com or call 702-763-5608 with any questions.

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 35

Summer Camp 101

click here to find a summer camp!

When looking at a summer camp or week-long class, ask a few questions. A good camp wants to hear from the parents so ask these questions:

From sleepaway camps to dance, theater, tech, art and a diverse day camp, there is a summer camp in Las Vegas that will spark your child’s interest.

If you aren’t sure about sending your littles or bigs off to a class, full-day or overnight camp, then here are few things to make the decision a fun and safe one.

What kind of child would thrive at this camp? Shy or active?

Is there a sibling discount?

What is the staff-to-camper ratio?

What kind of training is required of your staff? CPR certification?

May parents observe their child at the camp?

How many kids leave before camp ends and why?

www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 36

rise of esports in LV click here for more info!

With its state-of-the-art facilities, growing e-sports scene, and a supportive community, Las Vegas has firmly established itself as a top destination for esports.

“This is a new kind of sport, competition and it is more than a hobby,” said Zachary Fite, coowner of Vegas Inferno and Despite not having a Chief Revenue Officer for traditional background in Valhallan Esports. esports, Fite became involved in the industry At Valhallan Esports, the through his passion for emphasis is on fun as well as gaming, video production, online safety. and competition.

“Healthy habits with being online, not talking to random people, is important to know and have boundaries,” he said.

“We also teach correct finger placement on the keyboard and other things that you need to master to be good at esports.”

“I realized working in a game story, learning how to manage people and a business, would help me make a career out of esports, not just being a good player on a great team,” he said. .

www.vegaskidszone.com

cont.

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 37

ESports’ Rise in LV E-sports has become a billion-dollar industry, surpassing the combined revenue of the Super Bowl, movie, and music industries.

But education is key to be a successful esports player.

Interested in esports but not necessarily as a player?

Pursue careers in the business side of the industry, which requires professionals in areas such as law, editing, and accounting..

“I highly recommend a good education to be a smart esports player,” he said.

Some schools offer scholarships for esports.

Valhallan offers training programs and coaching services to aspiring gamers to improve their skills and pursue careers in esports.

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www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 39

Go here to get your vkZ Deal

literary adventures for kids If you haven't taken advantage of the free resources on Literary Adventures for Kids, go there now! Literary Adventures for Kids is an award-winning language arts curriculum that is easy to implement and fun to experience -- an adventure through a great book!

A schedule is provided and all the planning has been done for you. Get an EXTRA 15% off with code CAFE15!!!

Go here to get your vkZ Deal

great books homeschool We just started using Great Books Homeschool and absolutely love it! It’s clear, easy to use and truly affordable. It covers everything! We get many of our books from the library or Amazon. The curriculum is broken down by day and subject, love it. My twins like it because it’s not overwhelming. My early riser can get started because it’s easy to follow independently. My reluctant reader feels the workload is manageable and the choice for books and subjects interesting (read: worth his attention!). You can get 30% off here.

www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 41

Kindness in Small Things

By Lauren Grier

It’s the little things that can add up to big problems and missed opportunities.

“I hear all the time, ”Mrs. Cary, do you have a pencil and notebook? I don’t have money for one,’ ” said Mrs. Leslie Cary, a bilingual teacher at Ed Von Tobel Middle School. The one that stings comes almost daily, “I’m hungry.”

The need she saw was greater than a pencil drawer filled with go-to items. She cleared a closet to create a pantry full of staples for her kids to have at any time. Her closet has filled their backpacks with supplies, but the bigger benefit is only visible through their smiles.

.

“I want to build the students’ confidence and make it where they are able to focus on their studies, instead of worrying about toothbrushes or deodorant,” the longtime local said. “Even something as simple as enough school supplies can provide much needed comfort to a child in our community.”

www.vegaskidszone.com

Contribute to Mrs. Cary’s Closet

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 42

Teacher Appreciation week Deals May 6-12 is National Teacher Appreciation week. Make sure to have your teacher ID! ·Buffalo Wild Wings: teachers and school staff get 20% ·edible: teachers, school staff and graduates of all ages get a buy-one-getone dipped fruit cone Monday through Friday until June 7.

Firehouse Subs: Join its Firehouse Rewards loyalty program and app and get BOGO Hook & Ladder Subs (Wed.) and two medium sandwiches for $12 or two large sandwiches for $18 (Fri.).

Golden Corral: 20% discount for teachers with a valid educator ID. KIND Snacks: Teachers get 15% off their purchases on the website all year long.

Learning Resources: has a slew of classroom products at discounted prices for teachers including Alphabet Soup Sorter (50% off) and Snap and Learn Fruit Sorter for fine motor skills on Amazon.com.

Potbelly: free Potbelly cookie or a free regular fountain drink with an entrée purchase.

Shake Shack: teachers get a free milkshake with purchase through Sunday.

www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 44

Financial Literacy for Kids Teaching kids and teens about money might seem like a snooze, but it's the key to turning their chore and odd job earnings into a rock-solid financial future!

VKZ Fave!

This small business budgeting course is an excellent tool for teaching middle schoolers and teens financial literacy.

Budgeting is a fundamental skill. It can help kids learn early how to save, invest and grow their funds.

We liked how easy it is to use and apply for an allowance or a young entrepreneurs growing business. The lessons can be done at once or in more manageable, 15 minute chunks.

Kids can immediately apply the concepts they learn to their own potential or existing small businesses, making the learning experience more relevant and engaging.

Teens can learn how to track income and expenses, prioritize spending, and plan for the future.

www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Budgeting teaches teens how to identify potential risks to their business and how to mitigate them.

Learning about budgeting in the context of a small business can help teens develop an entrepreneurial mindset, encouraging creativity, innovation, and problem-solving skills.

Summer Edition | page 45

This small business budgeting course provides kids and teens with valuable skills and knowledge that will benefit them both personally and professionally.

The full financial course is less than $50 with the VKZ Deal. It takes just a few hours, is easy to use for kids and parents to create financial success in the future.

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 46

Summer Pet Care

The desert climate can be hard for pets, but with some simple precautions, they can stay click cool and happy in the heat. here for Keep pets in during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

The pavement can become extremely hot in the summer sun, which can burn their paws. Walk on grass or use booties to protect their feet. When hiring a professional pet service, make sure they make it a priority to care for your pets in the summer heat.

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More info!

VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 47

backyard pet care

Click here for more tips on summer pet care

When the weather gets warmer, it can bring more bugs and not-so-nice smells to your outdoor play areas.

Hiring a trusted pooper scooper service is a smart choice. They can quickly and properly clean up after your pets, keeping your outdoor spaces clean and safe for you to play in.

With their help, you can enjoy your summer adventures without worrying about messy yards.

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VKZ Magazine

Summer Edition | page 48

Best Lazy Rivers in LV Top 3 in Las Vegas

Lazy rivers are the unsung heroes of summer fun. A good lazy river offers a serene and leisurely experience that's perfect for all ages.

These are our Top 3 favorite winding waterways in the valley to escape from the heat, unwind and enjoy the scenery.

Cactus Creek Cowabunga Canyon & Cowabunga Bay It’s a tie! Each has lazy rivers that are fun for the whole family. Local tip - Get into Cowabunga Bay free with your Pogo Pass! Half off with code VKZ!

click here for More info!

Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino The lazy river wraps around the lush 11-acre aquatic oasis. Local tip - go mid-week early to beat the crowds.

MGM Grand Pool Oasis Go for the lazy river and stay for the three whirlpools, multiple swimming pools, bridges and waterfalls.

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VKZ Magazine click here to read the full story

Summer Edition | page 49

Cosplay Cool Spotlight on Ziggy Cosplay

Since 2008, Ziggy Cosplay has turned thrift store finds into wearable art inspired by various shows and video games. As part of our monthly dive into local cosplayers and creators, we asked Ziggy to share what inspires them.

How did you get started?

I started by going to thrift stores and buying/altering clothes. I didn't know how to sew, so I made sure to pick characters that were at my skill level. For example, my first cosplay was L from Death Note, who wears a plain white t-shirt and jeans. I taught myself to sew, work with EVA foam, prime and paint, and other skills.

Each costume teaches me something new.

What do you enjoy about cosplay?

Cosplay is a type of art that combines my joy of creating with my love of anime, video games, and all things nerdy. Making costumes challenges me. I put lots of work, sweat, and tears into each costume.

Being able to wear it and fully embody the character is so fulfilling! I look at myself in the mirror and am like, "wow...I made all of this."

Favorite local cosplayer?

Shuvimari is a great Vegas cosplayer!

Their makeup skills are insane. They literally transform into each character.

What advice can you offer someone looking to start?

If you want to start making your own costumes, I always recommend thrift stores and doing projects that are within your skill range. Start with simpler projects to learn and create a great cosplay while avoiding frustration. Cosplay is meant to be fun, and it's hard to have fun when you're too overwhelmed! Gaining skills takes time, so don't rush it and start with things you're comfortable doing. If you are unsure how to do anything, YouTube and TikTok are fantastic resources and most likely have a tutorial for whatever you might need.

VKZ 123 - Top 3 Local Faves Fave Restaurant: Connection Thai Sushi. “Don't sleep on their garlic green beans. Seriously the best thing I've ever eaten.”

Fave Hangout: Manga Hole. “They host events where you can find vendors selling all sorts of art and apparel that appeal to us nerdy folk.”

Fave Events: LVL Up, Anime Las Vegas, and Sin City Anime. “It's a great place to show up in cosplay and meet other cosplayers!”

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What locals raved about at the VKZ Fair!

GET IN ON THE VKZ LISTINGS & BRING MORE PEOPLE TO YOUR DOOR! LISTING LOVE

CONTACT US 702-326-9953 Kim@VegasKidsZone.com

JOIN OUR NETWORK As part of the VKZ Family Resource Fair, you will gain exposure via the online magazine featured post, mentioned in the VKZ weekly newsletter and press release and tagged in social media.

Once you submit the application form, you will be notified within 48 business hours if you have been selected for the fair. We are so excited to partner with you and showcase your business!

OUR WHY We have a wide array of local resources, programs, services and activities around the valley and parents actively seeking these types of businesses.

Get in on the search! Families are constantly searching for things to do, resources and businesses in the valley. From longtime locals to new residents, VKZ narrows their search and delivers info straight to interested subscribers and readers.

BECOME AN EXCLUSIVE VKZ KIDPRENEUR SPONSOR! PREMIER EVENT The VKZ Kidpreneur Market is a premier event specifically to equip and position kidpreneurs to be leaders in business, technology and philanthropy.

VKZ FAMILY RESOURCE FAIR ATTRACTS 100S OF LOCALS LOOKING FOR YOUR BUSINESS QUARTERLY FAIRS

The VKZ resource fairs bring families from around the valley, including Henderson, Mountains Edge, Summerlin, Centennial Hills and Nellis.

We want to hear from you!

Email Kim@vegaskidszone.com for inquiries and to share your local story! Send your info before the next magazine deadline! Ad space available.

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