Enter the Vegas Family Insider Cover Kid Contest for a chance to see your child on the front or back cover of Vegas Family Insider magazine. WhatWinnersGet: A professional photo —cover-worthy and frame-worthy. Keepsake copies and digital files to share withfamilyandfriends. A citywide spotlight reaching 200,000+ localfamilies.
Showoffthatsparkle! Upload a high-resolution photo. Share 100 words about what makes your child shine. Submit by the 21st.
OurAprilandMayissuessparkedsomeof themostemotionalandimportant feedbackwe’vereceived We’vehadsome reallymeaningfulconversationsinour pages,atevents,ininboxreplies,and standinginparkinglotstalkingafter resourcefairs.
Itremindedme whylocalstorytelling matters,andwhyweneedtokeepgoing withmoreopportunitiesforkidsand families
Astheownerofthelongest-running indoorkid’smarketinSouthernNevada, I’vewatchedkidsbuildbusinesseswith littlemorethancourage,creativity,and afoldingtable Theydon’tusuallyneed moremotivation.Theyneedopportunity.
Thismonth,wetalktoayoung entrepreneurnavigatingthesurprisingly complicatedworldofpermits,licensing, andregulationswhiletryingtoraise moneyforacause.Herdeterminationis inspiring.Soaretheconversations happeningaroundhowwecanbetter supportthenextgenerationofcreators andbusinessowners.
We’realsocelebratingFather’sDaywith storiesfromlocaldadssharingthefu beautifulrealityofparenthoodbehin scenes.OurannualSummerGuideis packedwithaffordablefun,hiddeng campsandideastosurvivetheannu “Whatarewedoingtoday?”season.
Asalways,thankyouforcontinuingto sendusyourstoryideas,kids’ accomplishments,yourcommunitywins, andthose“I’mnotsureifthisis anything…”emails.Theymattermore thanyouknow
20% off on adult GA at Real Bodies at the Horseshoe with code KIDZONERB $25 off By Your Side Pet Services
$95 off 3 treatment exclusive 60-minute rejuvenating facials from DNAesthetics
$10 off Trash Can Bin Cleaning with 702 Detailing Pro 20% off Cocoa Classroom with code WeLoveVegasKidsZone
off Literary Adventures for Kids. Use code CAFE15 at checkout.
off Capture Moments Photography Book a Dino Party or Encounter with Real Dinosaurs & get $50 OFF T-Rex or Raptor packages with code “VKZ”!
off Maid Service from Picky Performance House Cleaning 35% off Dr. Fish Spa when you mention Vegas Kids Zone
off Dechan, Inc. Printing
Click on the map for updated events in and around Las Vegas.
Imetthisyoungcreatoratalocalkid’smarketthroughTashaDeeof ColorfulGeniusesHomeschoolCooperative,andsheimmediatelystood out.Ateverysinglemarket,ScarletRaeofRaeofSunshineStickersshows upwithsomethingnew.Abettersetup.Anewproductidea.More confidence.Morecreativity.She’sexactlythekindofkidpreneurwho remindsyouthatgrowthdoesn’thappenallatonce Ithappensone market,onelesson,andonebravelittlestepatatime.-KimberleyMcGee
Q
A
What made you decide to start making stickers?
Learning about entrepreneurship at coop. I wanted to do bracelets but then decided stickers. Stickers make me happy and I wanted others to have some.
Q A
What was your first market like?
It was good and I had a lot of fun, I couldn't wait to do it again!
Discoverunique, handmadetreasuresand nurturethe entrepreneurialspiritof thesetalentedkids.
Let’sinspirethenext generationtogether join usatourMonthlyMini MogulMarket!Every2nd SaturdayatFantastic!
Q A
How do you come up with your ideas?
I like to come up with ideas relating to my favorite games or upcoming holidays.
Q A
What has it been like to run your own business?
I've learned a lot, like to smile or wave at every customer that walks by and that sometimes I need to be very patient.
Fuel your child’s big ideas with this dynamic duo! The Kidpreneur Starter Kit and companion Goal-Setting Workbook turns those dreams into action! Help your young entrepreneur set smart targets, track progress, and celebrate wins.
FREE FOOD, DRINKS,& DISCOUNTS ON YOUR BIRTHDAY
If you’ve got a kiddo celebrating this month, we’re making it way more than just cake at home
Join us June 6 at the studio, 8933 W Sahara #100, for our monthly kick off of the magazine and our special Paws & Purpose market! Turn it into a birthday outing they won’t forget.
RSVP and you’ll snag our awesome Goody Bag loaded with fun perks think free kids’ meals from Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar and more little surprises tucked inside.
And because we can’t help ourselves
It’s our favorite time of the year, birthday time! We have found 20+ places to get a free goodie or gift during your birthday month or only when you arrive on your actual birthday
From a cookie or a Bundlet to lipstick, eye makeup and candles, there is an abundance of goodies for you to grab on your birthday!
June birthday kids get an extra birthday surprise from us when you come celebrate.
While you’re there:
Shop kid-run businesses (fair warning: you may leave with slime, bracelets, and a new favorite young CEO)
Enter to win a 4-pack to Dinosaur Outpost (drawings at noon + 2 p.m.)
Let your kids see what’s possible when kids are in charge.
You’re our people Now let’s make sure we celebrate your kiddo too RSVP here for your FREE birthday gift from Vegas Family Insider!
V I E W E N T I R E L I S T ,
Creating opportunities for kids and parents every month!
Entrepreneur spirit at play! This is Quinn, one of our kids who has been to nearly every market, often fresh from a hockey game. She got the bug to make new creations the night before our May 9 market at Fantastic Indoor Swap Meet. These kids. You have to come see for yourself. Can't really explain this energy A few of the kids who stayed to play and help pack up at the last market
So very Vegas! Stopped by Learn the Arts, to catch up with owner Teresa Rios about their summer music and arts programs. Candace Larson from Under the Sea Moss happened to pop in with a fresh crop of healthy products. Love how connected our small business community is and how local biz support one another.
Pop star Tiffany shared a few of her favorite things from her cookbook with local celebrity chef Alicia Shevetone, owner of Dink Cuisine. The longtime friends had a launch party at Petite Boheme for their cookbook “Pop Life,” featured in last month’s issue with recipes.
Chante Bermoy is one of our preferred caterers at our event space!
Heather Criswell, author, speaker, and founder of Heather’s Soul Talks, has over 30 years of experience helping 30,000+ families For more parenting tips, visit heathercriswell.com for free resources.
The Autism & Neurodivergent Resource Guide isn’t your typical list of businesses.
It’s a thoughtfully built, locally rooted guide designed to help families actually find what they need, without the overwhelmed.
Because this journey doesn’t come with a manual.
But it should come with support.
Real stories fro Sensory-friend
Trusted providers from ABA to speech, OT, and beyond
A growing, interactive resource map
Businesses stepping up to create inclusive spaces
Tools, ideas, and moments of connection you didn’t know you needed
This guide is here to make things a little easier, a little clearer, and a lot more connected.
I used to put ice packs in my son's car seat to keep it cool while we were inside. Now he just enjoys holding on to the ice pack.
Cassie McKenzie
Towels to put down on my seat
Grocery bags have many uses
Extra fast food napkins for spills
Mini fan that sprays water Grip socks, Windshield sun cover Extra changes of clothes
During the summer I keep a beach bag with water shoes, pool toys and beach towels.
Jessie Watson
Grippy socks for impromptu indoor playground or indoor lunch for play space trips.
Baseball and bat
Change of clothes for me and child
Hairbrush
Kleenex
Straws because sometimes you don’t get them or someone forgot to grab them on the way back to the car
Sunglasses
Swim suit and towel for Impromptu water play and backup
Reusable grocery bags because I always forget when we go to California
Last week, I found out not to ke gum in the car!! I didn’t even kn it would melt, but it melted in th center console and left a huge m
Courtney Langer
Extra flip flops
A towel for random splash pad detours
Electrolyte packets
Those windshield shades that somehow disappear every single summer. Also snacks. Always snacks. Survival snacks. Chloe Sanders
A Costco-sized emotional support water bottle
Goldfish crumbs from 2022
Sunscreen I swear I’ll remember to reapply
At least one melted crayon creating modern art in the cupholder
Kelly Smith
BySteveLittman
The idea for Dad Tribes in Las Vegas started in a car
Luke Cunningham and I worked together for years doing research and development for an autonomous vehicle company, spending hours every day driving together. Like a lot of conversations between dads, we talked about everything divorce, child custody, relationships, stress, work, parenting, and mental wellbeing.
We both realized something that probably sounds obvious now: a lot of fathers are carrying heavy things.
I came across the Dad Tribes movement, founded by Andrew O'Brien in Texas. The more Luke and I talked about it, the more we realized there was a real need here.
Luke spends many weekends with his son at parks around Henderson or out at Lake Mead. He's a great dad and deeply involved with his child, but like many fathers, he noticed something missing: community.
Our first family meetup was a kids karaoke event. What happened surprised us. The kids immediately started singing together, laughing, encouraging each other, and pulling parents into the fun. Dads who came not knowing anyone were talking like old friends Some of us even grabbed the microphone and joined in.
The moment that stayed with me most happened after. Multiple dads said thanks for organizing the event, grateful simply because someone created a place for fathers and families to connect One father I spoke with opened up about losing much of his family to suicide. He wasn't asking for advice. He just wanted someone to talk to. That conversation changed something for me. It reminded me that sometimes the most important thing you can give another person is simply the knowledge that someone is willing to listen That's what surprised me most about building the Las Vegas Dad Tribes chapter. Fathers aren't necessarily looking for another app, another social media group, or another thing on their calendar. What many of them are looking for is connection. Real connection.
Manydadsdon'tsayoutloudthattheyfeelisolated.Theyshowupbecausetheywantsomethingfunfor theirkids,orsawaneventonline,orcurious Butonce there,somethinghappens Conversationsstart Friendshipsform.Wallscomedownalittle.Andinaworldwheresomanypeoplefeeldisconnected,that matters
"DadTribeswasbuiltbecausetoomanyfathersarecarryingthe weightoflifealone,”saidAndrewO'Brien,thefounderofDadTribes. “Societyhascreatedendlessspacesforpeopletoconnectdigitally,yet somanydadshaveneverfeltmoreisolated.
DadTribeshasexpandedfromasingleFacebookgroupinTexasintoaglobalmovementwithmorethan 30chapters,thousandsofactivemembers,andaninternationalapp.
“WebuiltDadTribestobringmenbacktogetherintherealworld notaroundnegativityorcomplaining, butaroundfamily,friendship,support,andsharedexperienceswiththeirchildren,”O’Briensaid “Atits core,DadTribesexiststoremindfathersthattheywerenevermeanttodofatherhoodalone.Strong fathersbuildstrongfamilies,andstrongfamiliesbuildstrongcommunities"
DadTribesgavemeconnection,purpose,support,and opportunitiesduringatimewhenItrulyneededthem Beingsurroundedbyfatherswhogenuinelycare,showup foroneanother,andstrivetobecomebettermen,fathers, andleadershasmadeameaningfulimpactonmylife.I'm incrediblygratefulforthisgroupandthepeoplewithinit.PrestonDuron
It'sgreattohavesomethingfordadstomeetbecausewe sacrificesomuchtimeforworkandfamily.Everybody knowshowharditistomeetnewpeople,andIhavemet peoplefromdifferentstatesanddifferentcountriesallwho couldusesomefriendstogetoutofthehousesometimes.Danny"TheRealDeal"Rogers
Creators Club
Preview Night
June 5
8933 W. Sahara Kids can preview our new monthly membership program for creativity and confidence.
Father's Day Fun Run
June 14
5100 Las Vegas Blvd. S. Whether you’re a Dad or you want to accomplish something special with Dad, this is the perfect way to celebrate swag bag included
Friday Night Fireworks
June 5
1 N. Main St. The Plaza Hotel & Casino launches its weekly fireworks shows, which include a pool party.
Heritage & Harmony
June 19
3215 S. Rancho Immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of freedom in a dynamic event filled with art, music, and culture that honors Juneteenth
Paws & Purpose
June 6
8933 W. Sahara A pet play day, with local vendors, food, and hands-on experiences, like leash training Raffles too!
Las Vegas Juneteenth Festival
June 20
361 Symphony Park Ave. Step into a night of pure soul, rhythm, and celebration Hear R&B legend
Christopher Williams along with other artists
Kidpreneur Market
June 13
1717 S. Decatur
Local kid entrepreneurs sell their handmade treasures and curated items.
Mini Mogul Market at The Studio
June 27
8933 W. Sahara
Second event for kidpreneurs to sell their handmade items. Food trucks, face painting, balloon animals, raffles, and more for all families
Traveling this summer?
Take us with you! We have free games, travel planners for Disney and resources for kids and parents!
Enjoy huge savings. Learn about local events
Get access to homeschool resources.
Subscribers get FREE bonus activity kits for kids every Friday. Sign up to the Vegas Family Insider newsletter here.
The Mini Mogul Playbook & Goal-Setting Workbook is a powerful combo kids can use to take their ideas from “what if” to “look what I built.”
It walks them step-by-step through creating and launching their first business, with simple lessons on money, marketing, and making it happen.
It’s fun, practical, and designed to build realworld skills in a way kids actually enjoy—and parents appreciate.
Start small. Dream big. Build something of your own.
It may seem daunting at first, but it’s not that difficult if you know what you need to do.
Homeschoolinglawsvarybystate.InNevada, parentsorlegalguardiansareresponsiblefor choosingandoverseeingtheirchild’s education.
Familiesmustfileaone-timeNoticeofIntent toHomeschoolwiththeirlocalschooldistrict whentheirchildreachescompulsoryschool ageorwhenwithdrawingfromapublic school.
Nevadadoesnotrequirestandardizedtesting, teachercredentials,orstate-approved curriculumforhomeschoolfamilies.Parents havethefreedomtochooseandchange curriculum,schedules,andteachingmethods asneededwithoutongoingreporting requirements
We’veputtogetheralocalguidefilledwith resources,tips,andnextstepsfor homeschoolinginLasVegasandHenderson: HowtoStartHomeschoolinginLasVegasand Henderson
Curious about graduation requirements? Learn more here!
ByTriciaBrookover
“DoIreallyhavetoread?!”Who wantstofightwiththeirkids aboutreadingoverthesummer? Notme!Thebestkindof summerreadingisthereading kidsactuallywanttodo.Here areafewsimpletipsandbook ideastohelpmakereadingpart ofyourfamily’ssummerfun.
1.Itallcounts.Rereadingold favorites.Comicbooks. Audiobooks.Jokebooks. Eventhemagazineyou’re currentlyreadingcounts Summerreadingdoesn’t havetolooklikeaschool assignment!
2 Turnonanaudiobookthe nexttimeyou’redrivingto thepool,runningerrands, orstartingonasummer adventure.Youmaybe surprisedhowquickly everyonegetsinvestedin thestory
3.LittleFreeLibrariesturn readingintoatreasurehunt. Halfthefunisspottingnew onesandseeinghoweach oneisdesigned Don’tforget tobringafewbookstoleave behindforthenextreader
ForKidsWhoWantAnAdventure
Whetheryou'rehittingtheroadthissummeror stayingclosetohome,anadventureawaitsyourkids inthesebooks.
BearGryllsAdventures,TheInkwellChronicles,One CrazySummer,TheLastMapmaker,AsBraveAsYou
ReadIt,ThenMakeIt
Withnothingbuttimeonyourhands,summeristhe perfectopportunitytoworkonthosekitchenskills.
TheCompleteCookbookforYoungChefs,HowToCook EverythingFast,TasteofHome5IngredientCookbook
ForBrowsingWhenThey’reBored Thosehotsummerafternoonswhenkidshitthe“I’m bored”phase?Pointthemtowardthecoffeetable scatteredwithbooksthatareeasytoflipthrough& hardtoputdown
SubparParks:ExtraordinaryNationalParksandTheir LeastImpressedVisitors,What'sInsideAFlower?And OtherQuestionsAboutScience&Nature,Everything& Everywhere:AFact-FilledAdventureforCurious Globe-Trotters
ReadIt,RememberIt
Somestoriesjustfeellikesummer.Thesefamilyfriendlyseriesareperfectforlisteningtotogetheron roadtrips,hotafternoons,orslowsummerevenings.
ThePenderwicks,RamonaQuimby,TheMysterious BenedictSociety,ASeriesofUnfortunateEvents,How toTrainYourDragon
This month, our shop is bursting with spring fun, activities, local flora and fauna study units, planners to clean your whole house without the whining and, of course, coloring pages!
Not subscribed yet? Join our community of creative families and grab your free bundle today.
“Where EveryCup Supports aPup”
Permittingisconfusingand expensiveformostsmall businesses.Whenyou’reachild withalemonadestandwiththe solepurposetohelpanon-profit, itcanfeellikean unsurmountablemountain
When12-year-oldAhnalise Alvarezdecidedtojoinhermom atherlocalvendoreventtosell lemonadetohelpalocalrescue, shewasreportedtotheSouthern NevadaHealthDistrict.When shehitawalltryingtolegally operatePrettyPawsLemonade, shecouldhavepackedupher manylemonsandwalkedaway. Instead,theyoungentrepreneur turnedasetbackintosomething muchbigger.
“Myparentstaughtmenotto giveup,”Ahnalisesaid.“What keptmegoingweretheanimals atlocalsheltersthatstillneeded peoplelikeme.”
Herresolvegainedfollowers Whileshecouldn’tmake lemonadewithouthundredsof dollarsinpermitsandlicensing, alocalvendorfriend,knownas ChopsBarbershop,chippedin withadviceonhowtopivother product.
“Wecreatedstickersinstead withdifferentslogansto representourjourney,”Ahnalise said
Moresmallbusinesses gotwindoftheLilCEO whocould.Itbecamea citywiderallycry.
“Thefirstpeopletohelpand supportmeweremyfamilyand myvendorcommunity,”she said.“Theybecamemyvillage.”
MyVegascommunity reallyshowedupforme duringthistime
Especiallythevendors thatImetalongtheway, includingJoDrizzle,Aloha Mulan,DogosElViejon, LuckyBamboo,andmany more AndalsoAboveThe Crust.Theyhelda fundraiserjustforme, andalsobenefiting AnimalHelpAlliance becausetheyknowthat, inmyheart,Ilovegiving backtothem Ahnalise Alvarez Pretty Paws Lemonade
“Theamountofloveandsupportshockedus,”saidher mother,SavannaAlvarez,ownerofDirtySodaLLC
“Completestrangersbecamesupportersovernightfor mylittlegirl.Itremindedushowpowerfulcommunity canbewhenpeoplecometogether”
Thehardestpartwaswatchingherdaughterprocessthe disappointmentwhilestillrefusingtoquit
“Asaparent,youneverwanttoseeyourchild discouraged,especiallywhenherintentionswere pure,”shesaid.“ButIwasamazedbyherstrength.”
Evenduringthetoughestmoments,Ahnalisestayed focusedonsolutions.
Thoselifeskillsandlessonscamebecause ofthelocalbusinesseswhoralliedaround theyoungentrepreneur
DJGMinor,alsoknownasRickGonzalez, saidthesituationstruckapersonalchord
“Whenyouseeayoungpersonchasinga dreamwithgoodintentions,youshowup forthem,”saidGonzalez,formerDJonHot 97.5KVEG,whocurrentlyDJsforTao Nightclub.“AnythingIcandotopourback intoouryouth,I’mgoingtodoit”
Asthefatherofa12-year-olddaughter, GonzalezsaidAhnalise’sdetermination immediatelystoodouttohimHebelieves she’sproofthatyoudon’thavetobebigto createmeaningfulchangeinyour communityorinspirethepeoplearound youtothinkdifferentlyaboutwhatkidsare capableof
“Iamallfor thatandmost ofallthe supporther parentsare givingher,”he said.“Hatsoff tothegirl’s parentsand brother”
RickGonzalezandhis daughter,MaliaG
“Shekeptaskinghowwecouldfixitandcomebackstronger,”Alvarez said“Shehandleditwithmorematuritythanmostadultswould”
AstheywoundthroughthecomplicatedNevadalicensingand permittingprocess,Alvarezknewtheyweregainingmuchmorethan theywerelosinginmountingfeesandfrustration.
“Iwantedhertounderstandtheimportanceofresilience, accountabilityandbelievinginyourselfevenwhenpeopledoubtyou,” Alvarezsaid.“Mostimportantly,Iwantedhertoseethatyoucanturn hardmomentsintosomethingpositive”
Thoselessonscamethrough.
“I’mproudandhonoredtobeakidwhoownsabusinessanddidn’t giveupbecausesomeonethoughttheycouldmakeme,”Ahnalisesaid. “Themostproudmomentwasgettingmybusinesslicenseandofficial bankaccount.”
“She’sproofthat youdon’thave tobebigto create meaningful changeinyour community”
When Nick Barkin, owner of Above the Crust eatery, heard about her plight through the small business grape vine, he was surprised.
“What made me want to step in and help is to show the world and the community there is still good people around and good things come full circle,” he said. “As small business owners in Las Vegas, we rise together. Sometimes we don’t even have to talk. We see someone who needs support, and we step in to help.”
That spirit of compassion and connection is exactly what continues to inspire both Pretty Paws Lemonade and Animal Help Alliance, the non-profit Ahnalise supports with each cup.
“Pretty Paws is literally helping us save dogs with every donation,” said Janelle Tate, fundraising coordinator for Animal Help Alliance.
The rescue specializes in helping the underdogs injured pets, senior dogs, animals with disabilities, behavioral challenges, or lifelong medical conditions.
“These animals are often the most grateful and loving companions,” Tate said. “They just need someone willing to believe in them.”
Animal Help Alliance also believes young people learn valuable life lessons through volunteering and community service. You can learn more, and adopt or foster at our June 6 Paws & Purpose event.
“We think Ahnalise has learned that our Las Vegas community is strong,” Tate said. “When you support your community, they support you back ” JenelleTate,Ahnaliseandafriendvendata recentfundraiserforPrettyPawsLemonade
ForAhnalise,thejourneybecameaboutmuchmore thanlemonade.
“Istartedthisbusinesstohelpmycommunityaswell asanimalsandrescues.Andtomakealittlemoney insteadofsittingaround,”shesaid.
Hermotherhopestheexperiencesticks.
“Vegasshowedourdaughterthatpeoplehereroot forresilienceand(they)loveseeingyoung entrepreneurssucceed,”Alvarezsaid.“Thatsupport issomethingwe'llneverforgetAndVegasdidn'tjust supportasmallbusiness.Theyshowedalittlegirl thatherdreamswereworthfightingfor.”
Ahnalisedreamsofowningherownlemonadetrailer andsomedaystartinganonprofit.Andifherstory hasprovenanything,it’sthatLasVegashasasoftspot forkidswillingtoworkhardforsomethingthey believein.
“Keepgoing,”Ahnalisesaid.“Justbecauseyouhita rockinahardplacedoesn’tmeanyoucan’tdrive overit”
–KimberleyMcGee
PhotosbyCaptureMomentsPhotography
“Keepgoing,”Just becauseyouhita rockinahardplace doesn’tmeanyou can’tdriveoverit.”
Manyfirst-timeentrepreneursaresurprisedbythecostsand regulationsthatcomewithrunningabusiness,evenonasmall scale,saidLoriKarbel,CertifiedSCOREMentor,ViceChair, SCORELasVegas.
“ThemostcommonunknownI’veseenisthecostofinsurance,” shesaid “Manyfolksdon’tthinkaboutthetypesofinsurance theyneedfortheirbusiness.”
Foodbusinessesoftenfaceadditional requirementsmanyfamiliesdon’tinitially realizeexist.
“They(canbe)surprisedatwhatfoodpreparationtheymustdo atacommercialkitchenversusintheirhomeoratthelocation wheretheyaresellingthefinalproduct,”Karbelsaid.“Food vendorshaveanadditionallevelofregulationsfromthe SouthernNevadaHealthDistrict.”
Businessownersmayneedseparatelicensesdependingon wheretheyoperate
“(They)mayneedseparatelicensesforLasVegas,NorthLas VegasandHenderson,”Karbelsaid.
Forfamiliesencouragingkidstolaunchbusinessesoftheir own,Karbelrecommendsstartingsimpleandlearningstepby step
“Startsmall,”shesaid.“Testthemarketforyourproductbefore launchingfull-scaleproduction.TheKidpreneurmarketisa greatopportunitytodothis.”
Shealsopointedoutthatsomefooditemscanlegallybe preparedathomeunderNevada’sCottageFoodrules,which canhelpyoungentrepreneursavoidsomeofthelargerstartup hurdles.
“TofindoutwhatcanbesoldwithaCottageIndustrylicense, lookattheSouthernNevadaHealthDistrictwebsite,”Karbel said.
–KimberleyMcGee
Treat yourself this summer and hire a professional to swipe the dust from those blinds and do all the dirty work while you chill! Professional cleaners free up your time, allowing you to focus on work, family, hobbies, or simply relaxing without the stress of cleaning. They also do it better! Maid services employ trained professionals who know the best techniques and products to use, ensuring a thorough and efficient clean.
Picky Performance Cleaning is offering 4 hours of maid service for $150 when you mention VKZ!
Get 4 hours of house cleaning for $150 when you mention VKZ!
ByJenGammons-Mujica
Summeristheperfecttimetogrowherbsindoors,prepsoil,experimentwithsmallcontainergardens, andstartplanningforathrivingfallharvest.
Thegrowingconditionsaredifferentthisyear It’salittlecooleraswebeginJune,oneofthemost bountifulmonthsforkitchengardens.Youshouldbeharvestingtomatoes,peppers,zucchini,grapes andwarm-seasonherbs
Melons
Cantaloupe
Honeydew
Watermelons
Squash
Zucchini
ButternutSquash
SpaghettiSquash
Flowers
Sunflowersofallkinds!Plantsthesefromseedsforalongwallofflowersthatprovideprotection, foodandshadeforourfeatheredfriendsandotherplantsduringtheHOTsummersinVegas!
Bothsquashandmelonsgrowinverylong upto20feetlong vines Besuretoplantinagarden spacethatisFULLSUNandallowsroomforthevinestogrow.
Allofthefruits,veggiesandflowerscanbeplantedfromseedsorseedlings(smallplantsyoubuyat thenursery).Plantsquashandmelonplant4-6feetapartinrows.
Startwitheasygrowerslikebasil,mint,parsley,greenonions,lettuce,orcherrytomatoes.They’re forgiving,useful,andmakeyoufeelwildlyaccomplishedwhenyousnipsomethingfreshfordinner
Asunnywindowhelps,butmostindoorgardensthrivewithextralight Evenasmallgrowlightcanturn asadlittleherbintoakitchensuperstar.Aimfor6-8hoursoflightaday.
Indoorplantsusuallydiefromtoomuchwater,nottoolittle.Checkthesoilfirst.Ifitstillfeelsdamp,let itbe.Yourbasildoesnotneedemotionalsupportwateringeveryfourhours.
FarmerJenGammons-Mujicaisawriter,gardeneducatorandmarketingspecialistwhorunstheNew VistaRanchgardenprogramsandownsFarmerJenorganics,teachinghomeownersandchefshowto growhealthy,organicfood.Visit@farmerjenorganicsonFacebookandInstagram.FortheSummer2026 CalendarofEvents,sendanemailto:FarmerJenOrganics@gmailcom
Lori Douglas of By Your Side Pet Services shares her tips
Ourpetsfeelthesummerheatjustasmuchaswedo.LoriDouglas,ownerofByYourSidePet Services,sharesessentialsummercaretipstokeepyourfurrycompanionscool,safe,andhappy allseasonlong
“Justlikeus,petsneedconstantaccesstofresh,coolwater,”saysDouglas “Ialwaysrecommend leavinglarge,deepbowlsofwaterbothindoorsandoutside.Tossinafewicecubestohelpkeep itcoollonger Ifyourpetstaysoutsideduringtheday,tryputtingoutalargebowlofice Itmelts slowlyandgivesthemsomethingcoldtolaynearordrink”
“Awell-groomedcoatcanactuallyhelpyourdogstaycooler,”Douglasexplains.“Butnevershave themdowntotheskin Theirfurofferssunprotection,kindoflikeanaturalsunblock”
Signsincludeheavypanting,drooling,vomiting,andextremetiredness “Ifyounoticeanyof thesesymptoms,moveyourpettoashadedorair-conditionedarea,andcallyourvetright away,”Douglassays
Douglassuggestsfreezingpet-safesnackslikefruitslicesorbrothcubes
“And,whenit’stoohottogooutside,puzzletoysorindoorgamesaregreatforkeepingyourpet activeandhappy,”saysDouglas,whohastrainedwiththeDogWhispererhimself,CesarMillan.
Healthy nibbles include::
Meatandchicken(cooked,deboned) Fish(boiled,deboned/fillet)
Tunafish(occasionally,onetbs)
Egg(boiled/scrambled)
Ham,bacon(insmallamountsandcooked) Shrimp(cooked)
“Trytoavoidwalksbetween10amand4pmThat pavementgetshotfastandcanseriouslyburntheir paws,”Douglaswarns.“Walkongrassifyoucan or investinsomecutedogbooties!”
Sherecommendscrocsthateasilysliponorabalmfor theirpaws,suchasHICCPet.Get10%offwithcodeVKZ atcheckout
Andnever,everleavetheminthecar.
“Evenwiththewindowscracked,yourcarbecomesan ovenwithinminutes,”sheadds“It’sjustnotworththe risk.”
Withthoughtfulplanningandalittlehelpfromexperts likeDouglas,youandyourpetscanenjoyeverysunny summermomentsafely.
By Your Side Pet Service recommendseasydogcrocs forhotsummerwalks
By Kimberley McGee
MosquitoesarehavingamomentinSouthern Nevada,andit’snotgood
Withmoreneighborhoodparks,backyardwater features,andunpredictableweatherpatterns, localmosquitopopulationsareboominginways longtimeresidentshaven’tseenbefore.Two speciesareshowingupthemost:theSouthern HouseMosquito(Culexquinquefasciatus)and theaggressivedaytime-bitingEgyptianMosquito (Aedesaegypti).
Thedaytimebitingsomehowfeelsruder.
“TheAedesaegyptireallybecamemore noticeableafterthesummerstormsthatcame throughfromthePacificCoast,including HurricaneHilaryin2023,”saidEricClapper, ownerofTri-XPestManagement.
“Theycanbreedinsomethingassmallasateaspoonofwater,”hesaid “Peopledon’trealizehowlittle waterittakes.Youalwayswanttobelookingforstandingwaterandpossiblebreedingspots.”
Thatmeansbirdbaths,cloggedgutters,planttrays,forgottentoys,petbowls,andeventinypuddles aroundirrigationsystemscanbecomemosquitonurseriesalmostovernight
Unfortunately,mosquitoesaremorethanjustannoyingbackyardcrashers AccordingtotheSouthern NevadaHealthDistrict,bothmosquitospeciescancarrydiseasesincludingWestNilevirus,Yellow Fever,Zika,andmalaria.
Clapperrecommendsstayingproactiveduringwarmermonthsbymaintainingpoolsandwater features,checkingirrigationsystemsforleaks,dumpingstandingwaterregularly,andconsidering professionalmosquitotreatmentsduringpeakseason.
“Porchlightsattractmanyinsects,”Clappersaid.“Beingmindfulaboutlightingandlimitinghowoften doorsandwindowsareopenedatnightcanhelpreducemosquitoesgettingindoors.Alsocheckthat screens,weatherstripping,anddoorsweepsareallingoodshapetohelpkeepthemout.”
Summer has a funny way of making us notice all the little things around the house. The scuffed patio furniture suddenly stands out when friends come over for barbecue season The guest room becomes important when cousins visit. Even the kitchen starts begging for a refresh after weeks of popsicles, snack raids, and kids home all day. There’s something about longer days and brighter light that makes people want their space to feel lighter, calmer, and a little more pulled together too.
The good news is you don’t have to overhaul your entire house to make it feel new Seasonal sales and local deals make it easier to finally say yes to pieces and projects sitting on your wish list. Sometimes, all it takes is one upgraded room, one organized corner, or one backyard refresh to make your home feel more functional, welcoming, and fun for the season ahead
1) Indoor garden to grow so many good things; 2) Turtle Wind Chime - Less than $10 to bring a taste of the Islands to your patio; 3) Cozy lamps to bring down the bright light for cooler nights; 4) Portable AC for rooms that just don’t quite cool down; 5) 50% off a smart toilet that begs to be called commode
By Heather Wikle Gonzales at fearlessfaithfulmom.com
“Hey Heather, are you excited about the BBQ tomorrow?”
“Yeah…Ican’twait.”Butthatwasalie.I wasactuallydreadingit.
Don’tgetmewrong,Iwantedtoseemy friends ButBBQsandpotluckscanbea nightmare for someone with celiac disease!
Thisseriousautoimmunediseasecauses a person’s immune system to attack theirownbodywhentheyingestgluten. Even trace amounts of gluten can lead toareaction.
“Something as small as a few stray crumbs getting into gluten-free food is enough to do it.
ThatmeansthatafunBBQcanfeellikeaminefieldofdangerstopeoplewithceliacdisease.
Withafewsimplestepsyoucanmakeyourfriendswithceliacdisease,orfoodallergies,feelsafeand welcomethissummer!
Askyourfriendswhatyoucandotomakethemfeelsafeandincluded. Bewillingtoswapyourusualbrandsforsafegluten-freeones Holdontopackagesandingredient labelsforyourfriendstoread. Haveaseparateareaforpreparingandservinggluten-freeandallergy-friendlyfoods,with separateutensils.
Peoplewithceliacdiseasedon’twanttomissoutonthesummerfun.Welovehangingoutwithour friendsandenjoyingagreatmealtogether.Thegoodnewsisthatwithjustalittleeffortyoucanhelp everyonefeelsafeandincluded!
Heatherisawifeandmomto 5beautifulchildren Head overtoFearlessFaithfulMom toreadmoreaboutAllergySafeSummerGrilling.
By Sarah Tarantino, owner of Tarantino’s vegan restaurant
Summer salads should feel bright, fresh, and full of life. That’s exactly the feeling you get walking into Tarantino’s Vegan eatery. The colors are vibrant, the ingredients are thoughtfully layered, and behind every dish is a story rooted in compassion, conviction, and community.
A local vegan favorite known for its crave-worthy dishes, Tarantino’s is one of Las Vegas’ most beloved vegan eateries. Owner Sarah Tarantino is sharing a fresh, colorful salad that’s as easy to make as it is beautiful on the table all summer long.
3 cups of spinach
Half a cup of craisins
Half a cup of walnuts
Half of a Granny Smith apple
2 strawberries cut in halves
2 tablespoons of vegan feta
Sprig of mint
6 ounces fresh raspberries
¼ cup olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
SarahTarantino,farright,owns Tarantino’sVeganrestaurantwithher husband,Michael,picturedwiththeir children
You don’t have to spend big to make big memories. Whether it’s splashing in city fountains or discovering a lizard on a dusty trail, Las Vegas is full of free or affordable family fun just waiting to be explored.
Clark County libraries are straight-up magic in the summer: storytimes, LEGO clubs, anime drawing workshops, and free performances plus books to borrow Did we mention the free part? Huge list in our calendar of library and freeindoorevents
Places like the Discovery Children’s Museum or Nevada State Museum often offer resident pricing, special events, or freeentry days Follow them on social media for updates they’re sneaky with those lastminutepromos
Vegas knows how to do water fun right! From Downtown Summerlin’s pop-jet plaza to Centennial Hills Park, splash pads are free, shaded(ish), and perfect for little ones with big energy Here’s a list of splash pads in the Las Vegasarea Pro Tip: Pack snacks and sunscreen Lots of it Desertsun spicy
Regal, AMC, and Cinemark theaters offer $1-$3 family movies on select weekday mornings It’s AC, entertainment, and popcorn you don’t have to share with strangers
Full list of free and $1 moviesandmorehere
VKZ creates summer scavenger hunts (yes, including prizes!) at each of its events, like the Kidpreneur Markets every 2nd Saturday at Fantastic Indoor Swap Meet! Pick a neighborhood, download the list and hunt for murals sculptures and fun facts It’s like Pokémon Go but with sunscreen andlearning
Keepithandyallseasonlongand discovernewadventures, supportlocalbusinesses,and creatememoriesyourkidswillbe talkingaboutlongaftersummer ends.
Insideyou'llfind:
Summercampguidesandregistrationinformation
Puzzlepagesandactivitiesforkids
Summerdeals,discounts,andfamilyperks
Splashpads,pools,andwaystobeattheheat
Freeandlow-costeventsthroughoutthevalley
Family-friendlydaytripsandstaycationideas
Trustedlocalbusinessesandeducationalopportunities
The POGO Pass is one of the best deals in town to get into a host of places (that don’t usually offer discounts for a steal! Use discount code VKZ to get 50% off!
Grab a few to give as gifts! Once activated the passes can be used for a whole year!
