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District G Newsletters

 

Welcome to summer! I hope you have an enjoyable season, and take care from the desert heat.  

It has been a year and a half since I took office. I am enjoying the experience, and I have learned a great deal about diverse topics including zoning, water, water reclamation, health, air quality, University Medical Center, McCarran International Airport and many others within the County’s purview.  I have also enjoyed meeting and interacting with many concerned citizens.  The involvement of residents truly helps the commission to make better decisions.  

In our last newsletter, we surveyed residents about District G parks. Thank you to the many people who took time to respond and provide excellent input. Many respondents expressed a desire for overhead cover at Horseman's Park; we also had requests for a crosswalk on Eastern Avenue to access Sunset Park, and a creative idea to place permanent chess tables at parks.  I took a look at all the District G parks and am working with the Parks and Recreation Department and Public Works to act on the recommendations.  

We have a survey included in this newsletter to get input on how we can increase neighborhood identity, as that is one of my priorities. I hope you will take a look at the survey and give some thought on how we can improve our neighborhoods and our sense of community. I look forward to your thoughts!  

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to email or call my office at (702) 455-5561.  

Sincerely,
Mary Beth

In This Issue:

Commissioner Scow Hosting June 27 Neighborhood Meeting at Sunset Park

Commissioner Scow meets with District G residents at a recent neighborhood meeting.

Clark County Commissioner Mary Beth Scow will host a District G neighborhood meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 27, in the administrative building at Sunset Park, 2601 E. Sunset Road.  

Attendees should enter Sunset Park at the Sunset Road and McLeod Drive entrance due to ongoing renovations at the park. The topics of discussion will include Sunset Park and the new amenities being added; the opening of Terminal 3 at McCarran International Airport and its possible impacts on nearby neighborhoods; and the Clark County Water Reclamation District’s proposed Paradise/Whitney interceptor project.  

“District G is a very large and diverse district, and residents have different concerns depending on where they live,” Commissioner Scow said. “I invite as many residents as possible to attend this meeting, especially if you live near McCarran and Sunset Park because we want to update you on new and exciting changes under way at these facilities.”  

Representatives from several agencies will join the commissioner to address resident concerns. The participating agencies will include the Clark County Parks and Recreation Department, including its Park Police and Park Maintenance divisions, Public Works, Water Reclamation, Department of Aviation, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, and the Clark County Public Response Office’s Code Enforcement Division.  

Residents are encouraged to contact Blanca Vazquez in Commissioner Scow’s office at (702) 455-8531 or bva@clarkcountynv.gov if they have any questions about the neighborhood meeting.

McCarran Visitors to Notice Changes With Opening of Terminal 3 June 27

Terminal 3 opens in June at Mcarran. Airport visitors should find out which terminal to go to prior to arrival.

Whether you are flying out for a summer getaway or simply picking up an arriving friend or family member, County residents will soon notice some big changes at McCarran International Airport, which is located in District G.

On June 27, the Clark County Department of Aviation will open McCarran’s impressive Terminal 3 expansion. Spanning nearly 2 million square feet, “T3” will offer 14 new aircraft gates; a pair of security checkpoints with room for up to 31 screening lanes; 15 additional baggage claim carousels; a larger multi-airline lounge, new shops and restaurants; as well as state-of-the-art technology that will improve travelers’ experiences from ticketing all the way into their outbound aircraft.              

The terminal’s debut also will change how locals use the airport. Beginning this summer, drivers will need to know which terminal houses their airline well before they approach McCarran to ensure they enter the correct roadway lanes leading to their desired location. Keep your eyes open for several new digital signs on streets leading to the airport that will help steer you to your flight’s proper location.              

Terminal 3 will enable McCarran to handle more passengers, including international travelers who fly in directly from airports outside the United States. All international traffic will shift to T3 when the new facility opens. By the end of August, seven domestic carriers also will be based at Terminal 3: Alaska, Frontier, JetBlue, Virgin America, Sun Country, Hawaiian and United. All other domestic carriers will depart from Terminal 1.  

The new facilities will ease congestion elsewhere at McCarran, which in recent years has welcomed more passengers than they were originally designed to accommodate. With the opening of T3, Terminal 2 on the north end of the airport will close, and eventually be demolished.              

Construction on Terminal 3, the largest modern public works project in the state of Nevada, started in June 2007. The project employed 1,800 skilled workers at its peak. The facility features 245,904 cubic yards of concrete – nearly enough to pave a 4-foot-wide sidewalk from Las Vegas to Oklahoma City.

More information about Terminal 3 is available on McCarran’s website at www.McCarran.com.

Grapevine Springs Neighborhood Park To Open In August

 

Grapevine Springs Park will feature many new amenities when it re-opens in August. To view image as a pdf, select this link. 

 

A "Code Blue" call box, like the one to the left, will be installed at Grapevine Springs Neighborhood Park as part of a pilot program to alert authorities of police or medical emergencies.

I am happy to announce the grand re-opening of Grapevine Springs Neighborhood Park in August 2012. Please stay tuned for the exact date and time.

All District G residents are invited to attend.  

Grapevine Springs is located at the end of Hacienda Ave., at Palm Street. This is a small, three-acre park that gets a lot of use, and was absolutely in need of a renovation and some new neighborhood-inspired amenities.   

Construction started in January of 2012. New amenities include a dog park with three runs, a toddlers’ playground, a covered children’s play area, a walking track with seven exercise stations, a horseshoe pit, several additional picnic tables with pavilion shade structures and barbeques, and a new restroom.   

Another exciting feature at Grapevine Springs is the addition of a new emergency call box, the first to be placed in any County park as part of a pilot program. The call boxes, made by a company called Code Blue, are designed to be vandal-proof, and allow park users to report police or medical emergencies.  

The box at Grapevine will be yellow with “Police” written on it in black letters. Users can push a help button to report emergencies. The box is 14 feet tall and has a blue rotating light on it when activated. The light and a camera, also contained within the unit, serve as an additional crime deterrent.  

Clark County Park Police suggested the addition of the call box because the technology allows people without cell phones or poor cell phone reception to report emergencies. The phones also provide responding authorities with a pinpointed location on where to find the caller. Currently, Code Blue phones are located at UNLV and The District.

County Seeks Input from Businesses Via Online Survey 

Clark County is seeking input from the business community on how to improve our services to help local businesses. Please take the time to fill out this online survey so we can better assess how we do business.

Residents Invited to Participate in District G Neighborhood Identity Survey

Clark County Commissioner Mary Beth Scow is asking residents to fill out a short survey to provide her with input on how to enhance neighborhood identity within District G.  

Every neighborhood in Southern Nevada is unique; carrying with it particular histories, residential architectural styles, defining businesses, and residents with both collective and individual stories to tell.   

Our survey questions are designed to tell us a little about you, your activities and your perception of your neighborhood. We realize that crime, traffic, graffiti, vacant storefronts housing deterioration, and other negative aspects can severely impact neighborhood identity. If these issues impact on your life, let us know in our survey. We also want to hear the good, and how parks, schools, new traffic measures, new businesses, programs, community centers and other positive aspects have helped to possibly create and build neighborhood identity.   

After you fill out the survey, please do not hesitate to add to the comments section any ideas or strategies you think could be implemented to help build neighborhood identity in your community.

Parks Survey Results in Several Great Suggestions

Our office received many good suggestions when we conducted our Parks Improvement Survey in March. We are now working with Clark County staff to search for funding to implement some of the recommendations we received.    

Providing a shade cover to the Horseman's Park Arena was a very popular suggestion. It’s an improvement that would benefit spectators and participants alike, especially during our hottest months.   

We also received comments on providing a crosswalk on Eastern Avenue, so that residents who live west of Sunset Park could access at a safe location. Commissioner Scow has met with the County’s Public Works Director, and a traffic study is being performed now.   

Another suggestion we received included improvements to Dog Fanciers Park. Dog Fanciers is the only “dog-only park” in Southern Nevada, and Commissioner Scow believes it’s time to look at renovating the dog runs at this facility to make them more user-friendly. We appreciate everyone who participated in the Parks Survey for their wonderful comments and suggestions.  We hope that many of the suggestions can be funded and implemented soon.

County Achieves Superior Bond Ratings

Clark County continues to have one of the highest bond ratings in the state of Nevada.  

High bond ratings issued by Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s Investors Service, the world’s preeminent bond ratings agencies, mean governments pay less to finance debt. S&P maintained the County’s “AA+” rating, which is comparable with or above every government agency in the state, while Moody’s affirmed its similarly positive “Aa1” rating.  

“We’ve had to make some tough cuts over the last few years and these ratings reflect strong fiscal management, which benefits our taxpayers,” said County Manager Don Burnette.  

In making its determination, S&P cited the County’s “maintenance of strong reserves, which have been prudently managed, despite significant assessed value and corresponding tax revenue declines” as well as “strong financial policies and practices that have remained in place through economic cycles” and “moderate overall debt with reduced capital pressure as new development in the county has slowed significantly.”  

Meanwhile, Moody’s said its “rating primarily reflects the County's favorable long-term credit characteristics that include a still large tax base and a narrowed but still satisfactory financial position despite recent revenue pressures that have been offset in part by expenditure adjustments implemented by management. Additionally, the rating reflects the County's notable financial flexibility that is supported by significant though diminished reserves available to support operations as well as consistently conservative budget practices. Lastly, the County's net direct debt burden remains modest.”  

Moody’s said the County’s rating outlook remains “stable” and “primarily reflects nascent improvement in the County's cyclical economy that remains dependent on tourism-related activity. The County's tax base remains large compared to similarly-rated peers, and the rate of decline for property values continue to moderate from prior levels. Additionally, Moody's expects that the County's financial position will remain consistent with peers and benefit from the County's practice of managing operations with conservative budgetary practices. Lastly, it is anticipated that the County's debt profile will remain manageable.”  

Moody’s said some challenges remain, citing “protracted housing market pressuring property values, though the pace of declines has slowed;” “continued budgetary challenges stemming from softness in economically sensitive revenues and an anticipated slow economic recovery;” and “reduced property tax levy potential amid assessed valuation (AV) declines, and potential narrowing of levy rate margin available under statutory limits.”  

The County Commission in May approved a general fund budget of $1.2 million for the fiscal year starting July 1. The County’s total budget is $6.2 billion.

New St. Jude’s Ranch CROSSINGS Opens to Serve Young Adults

Commissioner Mary Beth Scow (right) participates in the opening of St. Jude’s Crossing on June 11. Others pictured from left are representatives of St. Jude’s Ranch for Children: Christina Vela, Nevada regional director; Christine J. Spadafor, chief executive officer; Bill Morley, chairman, National Board of Trustees.

Commissioner Mary Beth Scow participated in the recent opening of a new independent complex for young adults who have been homeless or in foster care.  

The affordable housing facility, called St. Jude’s Crossings, was built by St. Jude’s Ranch for Children in partnership with Building Hope Nevada, a nonprofit developer, and Clark County. The development will serve 18-25 years olds who have been homeless or have aged out of the foster care system and have limited resources and help. Nationally, seven out of 10 children aging out of foster care end up homeless within 18 months.  

“Working together to provide these young people the support they so desperately need to become contributing members of our community will ultimately save our community tens of thousands of dollars, and more importantly, will give these young adults a chance to succeed,” Commissioner Scow said. “We must work together as a community to make changes and create positive outcomes. You know the saying, 'It takes a village…' Well, it really does – we are all in this together.”  

Clark County provided almost $2 million in funding for the $3.3 million facility through federal stimulus money from HUD’s Neighborhood Stabilization Program.   

The facility has 15 units and a manager’s unit. Young adults in the program will live there for up to 24 months, have a lease, pay rent and be responsible for securing a job, enrolling in school as a full-time student and managing a budget. Residents also will receive support services including case management, employment and medical assistance.

Protect Your Family, Report Green Pools

Commissioner Mary Beth Scow participated in a news conference with Commissioners Susan Brager and Larry Brown and county staff to urge the public to report green pools in their neighborhoods.

Clark County Commissioners are asking for the public’s help in the fight against the health threat of green pools.

Commissioners Mary Beth Scow, Susan Brager and Larry Brown held a news conference in May to remind residents that green pools are breeding grounds for mosquitoes, which carry potentially serious diseases like the West Nile virus. The return of summer temperatures means neglected pools are turning greener faster, and giving mosquitoes ideal breeding areas.

The commissioners want residents to help fight this backyard blight by reporting green pools to local code enforcement agencies. Residents of unincorporated Clark County should report green pools by calling (702) 455-4191 or filing a complaint through the County website at www.ClarkCountyNV.gov – enter the keywords “green pool” in the search box.

“Mosquitoes are a nuisance and a serious health threat,” Commissioner Scow said. “Please help us protect our community by reporting green pools to your local government.”

Since 2010, Clark County has drained more than 350 green pools, including more than 30 this month. Mosquito larvae thrive in warmer water, making the summer months the busiest time of the year for dealing with the problem.

Mosquitoes can carry a number of diseases, although perhaps the most widely feared is the serious West Nile virus. There were 11 cases of the West Nile virus reported in Clark County last year after zero in 2010. Removing breeding areas for the mosquitoes is one of the best defenses against the spread of mosquito-borne disease to people.

Safety Advice Offered for Pools, Summer Heat

 

 

 

 

 

 

Enjoy your summer but keep safety in mind. It’s especially important to watch children carefully around swimming pools.

Now that summer is here, Clark County Commissioner Mary Beth Scow wants to remind residents of ways they can stay safe near swimming pools and in the desert heat.  

Pools

Pool drownings are always a concern in our community, especially in the summer. Most drowning victims are 4 years old or younger. Pools, spas and hot tubs are required to be completely enclosed with access barriers of at least five feet. Gates in the fence must be self-closing and self-latching. Clark County’s Fire and Building departments are sponsors of the Health District’s annual ABC&D’s of Drowning Prevention campaign. Safety tips include:  

  • Always assign a designated child watcher when children are near any pool or body of water.
  • Close and lock all doors, windows and gates leading to pools when not in use.
  • Keep a phone near the pool to ensure children are not left unattended if the phone rings.
  • Never swim when thunder or lightening are present. Never dive into unfamiliar or shallow bodies of water.  

Summer Heat

Heat can pose serious health risks to anyone in our region, especially children, the elderly and people with poor circulation and weight problems. Most heat disorders occur because victims have become dehydrated after spending too much time in the heat. To avoid heat-related health problems, drink more water than usual and seek shaded or cool areas during the hottest times of day.  

Children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles. Temperatures in a car can rise to 120 degrees when outdoor temperatures are in the 90s. Pets also should have access to lots of shade and water when outdoors. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps and dizziness. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Listed below are important things to remember during the hottest months of the year:  

  • Drink water even if you don’t feel thirsty. Limit intake of alcoholic beverages, which contribute to dehydration.
  • Always carry plenty of water with you and a mobile phone. You never know what might happen during the day that could keep you outdoors longer than anticipated.
  • Dress for summer. Clothing that is loose, lightweight and light-colored reflects heat and sunlight.
  • Use sunscreen with a high SPF to protect against sunburn and skin cancer.
  • Look in on friends and family, especially the elderly who may need help adjusting to the heat.
  • Limit errands and outdoor activities to before noon or in the evening to avoid being out during the hottest part of the day.
  • Stay indoors as much as possible. If air conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine.
  • Take frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas if you must work outdoors.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day. Get plenty of rest to allow your natural "cooling system" to work.
  • Eat small, well-balanced meals and eat more often.
  • Protect windows. Hang shades or draperies on windows that receive morning or afternoon sun. Outdoor awnings can reduce the heat entering the house by as much as 80 percent.
  • Avoid extreme temperature changes. A cool shower immediately after coming in from hot temperatures can result in hypothermia, particularly for elderly and very young people.
  • Check on your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat.
  • Learn the symptoms of heat disorders and know how to give first aid.
  • Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio for critical updates from the National Weather Service (NWS).

Free Fourth of July Fun Offered at County Pools

Residents can celebrate Independence Day with free admission on Wednesday, July 4, at all 12 Clark County outdoor pools and water parks, and the Hollywood Recreation Center's skate park.

Hollywood Skate Park near Sahara Avenue and Hollywood Boulevard will be open on July Fourth from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and requires parents or guardians to sign waivers for entry into the park. The County’s other 12 skate parks are free of charge and will be open. Helmets are available for rent at Hollywood Skate Park, and are encouraged for use at all skate parks.

Outdoor pools within unincorporated areas in the Las Vegas Valley will operate from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on July Fourth. Hours at rural locations on Independence Day vary.

The County’s water parks include twisting slides, gushing fountains, play areas and shallow pools for young swimmers. Pool rules include: proper swim attire required; children age 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult; and no alcohol or glass containers allowed.

Fireworks Pose Threat During Wildfire Season

 

Only fireworks labeled “safe and sane” are available for use from July 28 to July 4 in unincorporated County Areas. No fireworks of any kind are allowed on federal land, including Red Rock and Mount Charleston.

With Fourth of July celebrations coming soon, the Clark County Fire Department is reminding residents that wildfire season is upon us, and fireworks labeled “Safe and Sane” are only legal for use from June 28 to July 4 when it’s legal for authorized dealers to sell them.  

Wildfire danger is highest during the spring and summer months when vegetation is driest. Fire officials encourage residents to clean up dry debris and brush around their property to limit the availability of fire fuels.              

In addition, any fireworks that shoot into the air are illegal for use in Clark County unless they are part of a permitted fireworks show. Otherwise, only “safe and sane” legal fireworks are permitted for sale and use in Clark County during the week prior to July 4. Legal fireworks include sparklers and fireworks that keep to a small, circular area on the ground and don’t explode in the air. Illegal fireworks include firecrackers, roman candles, sky rockets – any item made of highly combustible materials.   

Any fireworks purchased from vendors located outside of Clark County jurisdictional boundaries (which include unincorporated Clark County, North Las Vegas, Las Vegas, Henderson and Boulder City) are illegal to possess and store.   

View the Fire Departments web pages for fireworks safety tips. The following actions also are recommended to reduce the threat of brush and wildfires:

  • Properly soak and dispose of cigarette butts, charcoal briquettes and any materials that can start fires.
  • Adhere to posted fire restrictions in National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Bureau of Land Management areas in Southern Nevada, including Red Rock, Mount Charleston and Lake Mead. No fireworks are allowed on public lands anytime during the year.
  • Equip all terrain vehicles (ATVs) and similar vehicles with spark arrestors.
  • If you are warned that a wildland fire is threatening your area, listen to your battery-operated radio for reports and evacuation information. Follow the instructions of local officials.           

For more information about wildfire safety, visit Nevada’s multi-agency “Living With Fire” website at www.livingwithfire.info.

Pedestrians and Motorists Urged to Use Caution

Motorists and pedestrians need to use caution to keep our streets and crosswalks as safe as possible.

Summer is also an important time to remind the public about the need for pedestrian safety on streets and sidewalks.  

During the first four months of 2012, there already have been 19 deadly pedestrian accidents. University Medical Center’s Trauma Center also has seen a significant increase in serious, nonfatal pedestrian accidents since 2010. (There were 194 pedestrian-vehicle accidents in 2010; 233 in 2011; and 86 so far this year.)  

The statistics for children are especially alarming. In 2010, 26 children under the age of 15 were taken to UMC’s Trauma Center after being struck by a vehicle. This year, UMC’s Trauma Center has already seen 18 children who were struck by a vehicle.  

The following are some safety tips for drivers and pedestrians:  

Drivers:

  • Don’t drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Don’t text or talk on a cell phone while driving.
  • Be especially careful around playgrounds, community centers and pools, and at intersections.
  • Anywhere two streets intersect the pedestrian has the right of way. There does not have to be a painted crosswalk.
  • Always yield to pedestrians who are crossing streets.
  • If you see a vehicle stopped in close proximity to a pedestrian sign, by law you cannot pass that vehicle until you fully understand why the car is stopped.  

Pedestrians:

  • Try to cross at intersections or marked mid-block crosswalks because this is where you have the right of way and drivers should expect to see you.
  • Always look both ways before and while you are crossing the street.
  • Try to make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them. Do not assume that because you can see the driver, the driver can see you.
  • Plan a safe walking route that uses sidewalks, and crosses as few streets as possible.
  • Never allow children under the age of 10 to cross a street alone. Teach children to never run out into a street for a ball, a pet or any other reason.
  • Don’t ever assume because you have right of way that vehicles will stop for you. You must stop at every edge (lane line) and make eye contact with the driver.
  • When getting off a bus, walk to the nearest marked crosswalk or intersection before crossing the street.
  • Keep looking as you cross the street, never think because one driver stopped for you any other car will.
  • Wear bright or white clothing to help motorists see you, and if dressed in dark clothing assume no motorist will see you.
  • Put all your belongings in a backpack or bag so you are not tempted to “dart” out to grab something that has gotten away from you.

Ground-Level Ozone Advisory In Effect Through September

 

Summer weather conditions and motor vehicle exhaust contribute to the formation of ozone pollution.

An advisory for ozone pollution is now in effect through September in the Las Vegas Valley.  

Clark County’s Department of Air Quality issued the advisory on May 1 to cover the late spring and summer months when weather conditions and levels of pollutants can trigger a build up of ground-level ozone during afternoon hours. At ground level, ozone is a key ingredient of urban smog during the hottest months of the year. Sources that contribute to the formation of ozone pollution include automobile exhaust, regional wildfires and pollutants transported from other areas.

Air quality officials say the County is very close to exceeding a new standard for ozone that was adopted by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2008. Failure to meet the standard would result in new measures to reduce emissions that will incur costs.              

“We meet the new health-based standard for ozone, but just barely,” said Lewis Wallenmeyer, Director of the County’s Department of Air Quality. “We need to remain vigilant in our efforts to reduce ozone pollution.”

Unhealthy doses of ground-level ozone can reduce lung function and worsen respiratory illnesses such as asthma or bronchitis. Exposure to ozone also can induce coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath even in healthy people. When ozone levels are elevated, officials advise everyone to limit strenuous outdoor activity. The following actions help reduce the formation of ground-level ozone:  

  • Fill up your gas tank after sunset.
  • Plan errands so they can be done in one trip.
  • Try not to spill gasoline when filling up, and don’t top off your gas tank.
  • Keep your car well maintained.
  • Use mass transit or carpool.
  • Don’t idle your car engine unnecessarily.
  • Walk or ride your bike whenever practical and safe.
  • Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Less fuel burned at power plants means cleaner air.       
  • Consider low-maintenance landscaping that uses less water and doesn’t require the use of gas-powered lawn tools to maintain.

Residents can sign up for free text and email advisories and air quality forecasts through the department’s EnviroFlash service at www.enviroflash.org. The service has more than 2,100 subscribers. Daily air quality reports and forecasts also are posted on the Department of Air Quality website. Five-day forecasts cover ozone as well as carbon monoxide and dust.

DMV Kiosks Allow Motorists to Beat Office Lines

The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles has released special printable maps that show locations of its popular self-service "DMV in a Box" kiosks at www.dmvnv.com/kiosk. Locations are also listed on the DMV’s iPhone application.  

“Avoid the drive to a DMV and the lines inside by using a 'DMV in a Box' in your neighborhood,” said Director Bruce Breslow. “They’re fast, fun and, most importantly, convenient.  There’s a kiosk near you.”  

If you have lost your driver’s license or ID card, you can now order a duplicate at a kiosk and have it mailed to you. Kiosks can also renew your car registration and dispense the license plate decal on the spot. The other kiosk transactions are license and ID card renewals, driver history printouts and insurance suspension reinstatements.

There are 45 statewide "DMV in a Box" kiosks locations in DMV offices, AAA offices, supermarkets, convenience stores and university campuses.

RTC Seeking Public Input On Transportation Projects

RTC is the transit authority, transportation planning agency and regional traffic management agency for Southern Nevada.

The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) is seeking public input through July 9 on the projects slated to receive Job Access Reverse Commute (JARC) and New Freedom grant funds from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA).  

The projects proposed for JARC grants support the development and maintenance of transportation services that improve access to jobs and employment related activities for welfare recipients and eligible low-income individuals. The grants also seek to support the transportation of residents in urbanized and non-urbanized areas to suburban employment opportunities. The New Freedom grants assist with the expansion of transportation mobility options available to people with disabilities beyond the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  

A public hearing on the JARC and New Freedom projects will also be held on Monday, July 9, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Regional Transportation Commission Administration Building, Room 108, 600 S. Grand Central Pkwy.  

Comments on these projects will be accepted via email to josephs@rtcsnv.com, telephone at (702) 676-1820, fax at (702) 676-1518, and online at rtcsnv.com. Comments can also be submitted in person or via U.S. mail to RTC, 600 S. Grand Central Parkway, Suite 350, Las Vegas, Nev., 89106-4512, Attention: Transit Special Services/JARC., or to the Bonneville Transit Center, 101 E. Bonneville Ave., Las Vegas, Nev., 89106.

Additionally, the RTC will hold an open house on Thursday, July 12, from 4 to 7 p.m. for residents to get updates on various transportation projects in the region and provide public comments about the agency’s Public Participation Plan during the meeting.  

The meeting will be held in interior lobby of the Bonneville Transit Center, 101 E. Bonneville Ave. The RTC is accepting public comments on the Public Participation Plan until 3 p.m. on Wednesday, July 25 p.m. Comments will be accepted via email to stidhama@rtcsnv.com, telephone at (702) 676-1606, fax at (702) 676-1589, online at rtcsnv.com and in person or mail via USPS to RTC, 600 S. Grand Central Parkway, Suite 350, Las Vegas, Nevada 89106-4512, Attention: Public Participation Plan (MPO).

Nate Mack Elementary Student Wins Mojave Max Contest

 

Pictured with Commissioner Scow are Quinten Larry, the winner of this year’s Mojave Max contest, his teacher Holly Baugh and Quinten’s parents.

First-grader Quinton Larry of Nate Mack Elementary School in District G won the 2012 Mojave Max Emergence Contest.

Commissioner Mary Beth Scow visited the school to tell Quinton and his class the good news. More than 3,800 students participated in the contest, now in its 13th year. Mojave Max officially emerged on April 17 at 12:41 p.m. and Quinton guessed 12:30 p.m. making him the student with the closest entry.

In May, Quinton and his entire class were treated to a field trip to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area where they were able to meet Mojave Max, a live desert tortoise. As part of the festivities, the students also received a pizza party, Olympic-style medals, and T-shirts. Quinton received a laptop, digital camera, outdoor adventure backpack, and a year-long pass to Red Rock for making the winning prediction. His teacher also received a laptop.  

Like other Southern Nevada reptiles, Mojave Max enters a burrow to brumate (the reptilian form of hibernation) every winter and emerges every spring. Mojave Max’s emergence marks the beginning of spring-like weather in Southern Nevada. Warmer temperatures, longer daylight hours and an internal clock are factors that contribute to his emergence every year.

As part of the emergence contest, students study Mojave Desert weather, temperatures and conditions to scientifically estimate when they believed Mojave Max will emerge. Mojave Max’s emergence well into April this year indicated a late arrival of spring in Southern Nevada. Until this year, the latest Mojave Max has come out of its burrow was April 14 in 2008. The earliest he has emerged is Feb. 14, 2005.  

The Mojave Max Education Program is provided by a partnership among Clark County, the Clark County School District, the Bureau of Land Management, the Red Rock Canyon Interpretive Association and Friends of Red Rock Canyon. For more information about the Mojave Max Emergence Contest, visit www.ClarkCountyNV.gov or www.mojavemax.com.

Whitney Area Residents Participate in Neighborhood Cleanup

Commissioner Scow and neighborhood volunteers help paint over graffiti during a recent cleanup in District G.

Clark County Commissioner Mary Beth Scow joined residents for a neighborhood and graffiti cleanup in the Whitney area of District G on April 21.              

The Commissioner worked with area residents to organize the cleanup near Stephanie Street and Boulder Highway. Dozens of volunteers pitched in to pick up trash, debris and paint over graffiti.             

“I want to thank all the volunteers who helped make this cleanup a success,” Commissioner Scow said. “ It was a pleasure to work side by side with residents on a project that benefits so many people.”

Metro Invites Public to Visit Substations Every First Tuesday

The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department's 1st Tuesday program invites citizens to visit neighborhood substations and get involved with their police department.

On the first Tuesday of every month, police open the doors to local substations from 7 to 8 p.m. for the community to have an open forum of communication with the police officers who patrol their neighborhoods.

Each month Metro highlights a different area of the police department to help the public become more familiar with its divisions. Upcoming topics include Metro’s K-9’s unit (July), National Night Out (August), emergency/disaster preparedness (September), crime prevention (October.)The substations in and closest to District G include:

Convention Center Area Command
750 Sierra Vista (at Swenson)
Las Vegas, NV 89169
(702) 828-6430

Northeast Area Command
831 N. Mojave
(702) 828-3403

South Central Area Command
4860 S. Las Vegas Blvd. (at Las Vegas Boulevard South and Russell)
(702) 828-8272

Southeast Area Command
3675 E. Harmon Ave.(At Pearl and Harmon)
(702) 828-3206   

Enterprise Area Command
6975 W. Windmill Lane
(702) 838-2843

BLM to Waive Fees at Red Rock on Upcoming Days

Visitors will get to visit the Red Rock National Conservation Area for free on the upcoming dates:

  • Sept. 29 – National Public Lands Day
  • Nov. 10 to 12 – Veteran’s Day weekend 

Red Rock is managed by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. Fees at all U.S. Department of Interior public lands will be waived on the same days.  

The regular fee for a scenic drive day pass at Red Rock is $7 for cars and $3 for bicycles, motorcycles and pedestrians. An annual pass at Red Rock is $30. Fees are used on-site to provide for public enjoyment and visitor experience, enhance recreational opportunities and protect Red Rock resources.

Red Rock Canyon features a visitor’s center, miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, rock climbing, horseback riding, road biking, picnic areas and nature observing opportunities.

Summer Fun at Springs Preserve

Article and graphics courtesy of Springs Preserve 

Bet on the Farm! Farmers
Market
Every Thursday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

  Bet on the Farm! Farmers Market is a sustainable local farmers market created by B&B Hospitality Group partners Mario Batali and Joe Bastianich. It features a variety of fruits, vegetables and herbs, as well as nuts, dairy products, coffee, and more—all grown and produced locally or regionally. Admission to the Farmers Market is free. Vendors accept cash only. Regular admission prices apply for access to the Springs Preserve’s museums and galleries. For more information, call (702) 822-7700 or visit www.betonthefarm.com. 
Summer Adventure Camps at the Springs Preserve
Weekdays, through Aug. 24		 Springs Preserve Summer Adventure Camps provide young campers with new activities weekly: nature, archaeology, animals, plants, history, drama, crafts, and even swimming at the neighboring YMCA. Camps are daily, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and are led by education specialists and field experts to give campers a unique and educational experience. Summer camps are presented in partnership with Drama Kids International and the YMCA. Enrollment is $200 per week ($180 for Springs Preserve members). After-hours care is available from 6:30 to 9 a.m. and 4 to 6:30 p.m. for an additional $25 weekly fee. For more information, call (702) 822-7700.
Envenomators: The Venomous Snakes of North America at the Springs Preserve
Now through Sept. 16, 2012, 10 a.m.  to 6 p.m.

"Envenomators" tells the story of four venomous snakes indigenous to North America: Copperhead, Cottonmouth, Coral and Rattlesnake. Visitors to the exhibit will explore the surprising secret lives of these venomous beauties, while dispelling our misconceptions of these very beneficial animals whose reputations are unfortunately based more on fear than fact. Admission is free for members or included with general admission. For more information, call (702) 822-7700.
Bugs! at the Springs Preserve
Daily from July 16 to Aug. 31, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.		  

They crawl. They sting. They hiss. And we run! Let's face it, desert tarantulas, bark scorpions and centipedes aren't exactly the most charming creatures. But our desert can't do without them. See them up close in this twice-daily live animal show (11 a.m. and 1 p.m.). Admission is free for members or included with general admission. For more information, call (702) 822-7700.

Whitney Recreation Center

Whitney Senior and Recreation Center is located at 5712 E. Missouri Ave. near Boulder Highway and Missouri, south of Tropicana Avenue. Call (702) 455-7576 or visit the center's website for information about programs, activities and special events for youth, teens, adults and seniors. Rooms of different sizes and with or without kitchen privileges are available for special events.

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