VKZ Magazine Summer 2024

Including d$225of eals!

LOCAL TRIO EXPANDS TO A NON-PROFIT IN JUST ONE YEAR OF HARD WORK FIND YOUR BIRTHDAY TWIN & CELEBRATE!

$21 tickets $21 tickets Click

Wednesdays@ WigglinOut

Wee Wednesdays@ WigglinOut

Work Wed with LLV

Wee Wednesdays@ WigglinOut

Wee Wednesdays@ WigglinOut Aviators Game

OurStaff.

Publisher

Kimberley McGee

Copy Chief

Sara Matteo

Contributors

Angelina Agasi

Clairin deMartini

Lauren Grier Calendar Editor

Jack Schofield

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!

Check out the VKZ shop for free games and resources for kids and parents!

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! Get featured in VKZ Magazine!

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!

click here to get your vkZ Deal

VKZBIRTHDAYCLUBDEALS

Fromlusciouscupcakestocharmingcakepops,delectable cookies,andcustomcakesforalloccasions,ourconfectionary creationsaremadewithloveandcare,justforyou.Mention VKZandget15%off!

click here to get your vkZ Deal

click here to get your vkZ Deal

Topquality,diverseandinteractivebirthdayentertainmentat affordableprices!Wehaveamazingpartypackagesat affordablerates!Get40%off throughMarchwhenyou mentionVKZ! Don'twaittillthelastminute,book nowand lockinthedate!

click here to get your vkZ Deal

MagicalMomentsLVwilloffer15%offifbookedthismonthfor anyfutureevent.JustmentionVKZ!MagicalMomentsLV addscolor,excitement,andvisualappealtoyourpartiesand events.

Getreadytocelebrateinstylewitheverythingyouneedfora fantasticparty,allinoneconvenientkit!Ourkitincludesa colorfulbanner,fungames,festivedecorations,themed invitations,charmingbagtoppers,delightfulcupcaketoppers, waterbottlewraps,andmuchmore!Don'tmissoutonthis amazingoffertomakeyourbirthdaycelebration unforgettable.

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

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

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 h overcome shyness and fear of fail embracing new challenges w enthusiasm and resilience. This grow mindset will undoubtedly serve th wellinallareasoftheirlives.

We are excited to continue nurtur the entrepreneurial spirit in our you generation.

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.

Do you want to start a Business?

Join a network of local professionals and serious young entrepreneurs!

Joinusforafunandeducational summer program designed just for kids! Our monthly sessions include exciting brainstorming sessions,wherekidscanunleash their creativity, followed by a delicious pizza party. Each month,wealsohostaworkshop where kids will learn valuable skills and insights into the world ofbusiness.

By the end of the program, kids will have identified their ideal businessbasedontheirpassions and interests. They will have created a comprehensive business plan, understanding thebasicsofrunningabusiness. Most importantly, they will gain real-life experience, skills, confidence, and leadership qualitiesthatwillsetthemupfor success in the future. Want to join us at the monthly market? Joinhere!

VKZKIDPRENEUR G ROWYOURBIZ SUMMERCAMP

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 endat2p.m.andincludeapizza party lunch as well as arts and crafts, robotics and creative endeavorsfordowntime.

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.

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.

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. cont.

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

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

Their future goals inc buying a trailer to serve lemonade, getting products into stores, gi back to the community, purchasingamascotcostu

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 customers.”

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!

SupportThe 3 Broskis & follow the fun here!

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

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

JosieKress

Josieis13,andisanationallyrankedelite springboardandplatformdiverwithTeamRebel Aquatics.Shededicatesherafternoonsand eveningstotraininginthepoolandindryland. Regardlessofthattimecommitment,sheis currentlyranked#1athermagnetmiddleschool, LiedSTEMAcademy,whichhastakenagreat dealofhardwork,perseverance-aswellassome impressivetimemanagementskills!

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.

LocalDanceAcademystepsup

TheLilTommySquadDanceTeamwerepartofan eventatPaintdropsArtStudiofortheLiveHipHopArtEventbyKennethDorsey,MauricioClark and SantangeloWillis.Thecreativehip-hopdance group/organization fromTommytheClownDance Academyempoweryouththroughartisticdance stylesandlifeskillsmentoring,creatingastronger community,friendshipsandopportuntiesforkids.

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

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

Tommy the Clown Dance Academy creative hip-hop dance group/organization at Paintdrops

Art Studio at the Meadows Mall

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 considerprice, 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.

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.

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

2tsppowderedeggreplacer(such astheBob’sRedMillversion)

1 ½ tsp cinnamon

¼ tsp nutmeg

⅛ tsp allspice

⅛ tsp salt

Zest of 1 large orange

½ cup melted margarine or butter, or neutral oil

⅓ cup (70g) brown sugar

⅓ cup (75g) granulated sugar

2 tbsp finely ground flax seeds

6 tbsp lite coconut milk, HOT

1 tbsp molasses

1 tsp vanilla

1 cup shredded zucchini (do not wring out the liquid)

½ tsp coarse sugar (Sugar in the Raw, turbinado, etc)

Instructions: Yield: 8-9 muffins

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract (if using)

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt

2. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined Do not overmix the batter

3. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Scoop 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake

4. Cookuntilbubblesformonthesurfaceofthe pancakeandtheedgesstarttodryout,then flipandcookforanother1-2minutesuntil goldenbrownonbothsides

6.

5. Repeat with the remaining batter

9th Island Ohana

By Clairin DeMartini

Kaiāulu means Community Hawaiian Style, and the Las Vegas valley has been kaiāulu for generations. The city earned thenickname"the9thIsland"as a result of the significant population of Hawaiian residents and visitors that call thevalleyhome.

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.

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.

Savoring Hawaiian Culture in Southern Nevada

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 intheaftermathoftragedy.

New to the Valley?

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 valleythatyouneedtocall,emailordropinonand many more convenient resources. Use code VKZFRIEND to get 40% off this complete moving organizer!

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.

Utilities & Services

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

Click here for the full updated list!

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.

Supportingacompostcompanycancontribute to the local economy and promote sustainable practicesinyourcommunity.VivaLaCompostis anexpertincreatinghigh-qualitycompostthat isproperlybalancedandfreeofcontaminants.

VivaLaCompost’sconvenientcompostingsolutions turnsmaterialsdestinedforlandfillsintovaluable resourcesthatenrichsoilandnourishcrops.

HowItWorks:

Fillupyourbucketwithanyorganicmaterial(ifit grows,itgoes!). Dropitoutside. We'lltakecareoftherest!

AsaPartnerforaSustainableNevada,weareproudto helpLasVegasaccomplishitssustainabilitygoals.Join usinmakingadifferencetoday!

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

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

BLOOM BUDDIES!

Local students are success through g Sponsored by the nonprofit Green Our P program in the Clar School District has tending to gardens all Their efforts culminat event that celebrates 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.

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.

i 9 S p o r t s

Oneofthetopsportsprogramsinthevalley,i9Sports offersseriouslyfunandengagingyouthsportsleagues, campsandclinicsforkidsages3andup.

WinterseasonstartsJanuary20 andSpringcampsare availableinMarch!UsecodeSports24throughFebruary 29toget$15offtheregistrationfeeforanyofthe i9Sportsleaguesontheweekends! Visiti9sportscomor call702-763-5608withanyquestions

Summer Camp 101

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.

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: 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?

rise of esports in LV

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 Chief Revenue Officer for Valhallan Esports.

At Valhallan Esports, the emphasis is on fun as well as online safety.

click here for more info!

Despite not having a traditional background in esports, Fite became involved in the industry through his passion for gaming, video production, 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.” cont.

“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. .

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.

“I highly recommend a good education to be a smart esports player,” he said. Some schools offer scholarships for esports.

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..

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

Ifyouhaven'ttakenadvantageofthefree resourcesonLiteraryAdventuresforKids,go therenow!LiteraryAdventuresforKidsisan award-winninglanguageartscurriculumthatis easytoimplementandfuntoexperience--an adventurethroughagreatbook!

Ascheduleisprovidedandalltheplanninghas beendoneforyou GetanEXTRA15%offwith codeCAFE15!!!

WejuststartedusingGreatBooksHomeschooland absolutelyloveit!It’sclear,easytouseandtruly affordable.Itcoverseverything!Wegetmanyofour booksfromthelibraryorAmazon Thecurriculumis brokendownbydayandsubject,loveit Mytwinslike itbecauseit’snotoverwhelming.Myearlyrisercanget startedbecauseit’seasytofollowindependently.My reluctantreaderfeelstheworkloadismanageable andthechoiceforbooksandsubjectsinteresting (read:worthhisattention!) Youcanget30%offhere Go here to get your

Deal

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.”

Contribute to Mrs. Cary’s Closet

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.

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!

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.

VKZ Fave!

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.

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 useforkidsandparentstocreate financialsuccessinthefuture.

Summer Pet Care

The desert climate can be hard for pets, but with some simple precautions, they can stay cool and happy in the heat.

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.

backyard 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.

Best Lazy Rivers in LV

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!

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.

Cosplay Cool

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.

Whatadvicecanyouoffersomeonelookingtostart?

If you want to start making your own costumes, I always recommendthriftstoresanddoingprojectsthatarewithin your skill range Start with simpler projects to learn and createagreatcosplaywhileavoidingfrustration.Cosplayis meant to be fun,andit'shardtohavefunwhenyou'retoo overwhelmed!Gainingskillstakestime,sodon'trushitand startwiththingsyou'recomfortabledoing.Ifyouareunsure how to do anything, YouTube and TikTok are fantastic resources and most likely have a tutorial for whatever you mightneed.

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!”

What locals raved about at

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.

LISTINGS &

MORE PEOPLE TO YOUR DOOR!

LISTING

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.

The VKZ Kidpreneur Market is a premier event specifically to equip and position kidpreneurs to be leaders in business, technology and philanthropy.

QUARTERLY FAIRS

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