Relocating in Las Vegas

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178 N. Pecos Rd, Ste. 205 Henderson, NV 89074 702-313-6460 877-859-5999 relo@theaptsource.com www.theaptsource.com




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Unmatched Quality

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MODERN

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702-399-1100 5525 S. VALLEY VIEW, SUITE 6, LAS VEGAS, NV 89118 BY APPOINTMENT

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PUBLISHER KEITH SAURO ASSOCIATE PUBLISHERS DANIELLE PAPOI MARLA WESTRUP EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ANDREA DARR ASSOCIATE EDITOR BROOKE PEARL CONTRIBUTING WRITERS CORINNE CASAZZA ANNE DEAN GLORIA GALE LISA WATERMAN GRAY MARK JACOBSON DIANNE MCLENDON VERONICA TONEY TAMMY WORTH PHOTOGRAPHERS GARY ROHMAN STEVE SANDERS ROB MILLER ART DIRECTOR DARIN BENSON ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR CAROL CANNING SPECIAL PROJECTS LORI CHRISTIE ASSISTANT TO PUBLISHER TERESA MAYBERRY CIRCULATION MANAGER TERESA MAYBERRY

HENDERSON

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Latin Chamber of Commerce

URBAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Chairman/CEO: D A N I E L M C C A R T H Y CFO: G E R RY PA R K E R General Counsel: S U S A N D E E S E

6 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS


ADVERTISING INFORMATION: Looking to reach future residents of Southern Nevada with your advertising message? Learn more about how cost-effective advertising in Relocating in Las Vegas can be. Call Danielle Papoi 702/233-0034 to find out the many benefits of advertising in a highly targeted, supreme-quality print publication like Relocating in Las Vegas. No time to talk? Write to us at 4121 W. 83rd St., Ste. 110, Prairie Village, KS 66208. NEED ADDITIONAL COPIES of this tri-annual guide for your business or organization? Call 913/648-5757, ext. 10, fax 913/648-5783 or e-mail tmayberry@kc-hg.com. Depending on the time of request, we will gladly accommodate your needs. You can also write to Teresa Mayberry, circulation manager, 4121 W. 83rd St., Ste. 110, Prairie Village, KS 66208.

Outdoor recreation is the hallmark of the master-planned community of Summerlin.

Relocating in Las Vegas is published tri-annually by Network Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Š2009 Volume 11, Number 3. HOW TO REACH US For advertising: 702/233-0034 For subscriptions: 913/648-5757 x10 By fax: 913/648-5783 E-mail publisher: ksauro@kc-hg.com E-mail editor: adarr@kc-hg.com E-mail circulation: tmayberry@kc-hg.com E-mail art department: dbenson@kc-hg.com Mailing & Physical address: 4121 W. 83rd St., Ste. 110, Prairie Village, KS 66208

WINTER 2009 • 7


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Table of Contents

Winter 2009

22

20

16

38 12

13

14

Welcome to Las Vegas

20

Dollars and Sense

44 32

Room to Rent

A heartfelt welcome from one

Las Vegas’ low-tax structure helps

Not ready to buy?

neighbor to another.

businesses and residents thrive.

You’ve got plenty of options.

A Map of Your New City

22

Employment for Everyone

38

The Jackpot of Real Estate

Find your way around

The “trailing spouse” is not behind

Foreclosure growth leads to steals in

Las Vegas easily.

for long in Las Vegas.

the market.

Numbers You Need

24

Commercial Qualities

40

Cities with Substance

A reference guide to getting

A business-friendly climate entices

Pick from these communities that

started in your new city.

entrepreneurs and relocating

you can call home.

companies.

15

What’s great about your new city.

16

42

8 Reasons to Love Las Vegas 26

The Latino Landscape

Outdoor recreation is a

Las Vegas’ international flavor

Summerlin hallmark.

Making the Move

includes a large, well-to-do

Easing the transition from

Hispanic population.

house to house.

28

44

Master-Planned Communities, Las Vegas Style

Someplace Like Home

Living a small-town life in the

Finding an alternative to the

big city.

living-out-of-a-suitcase lifestyle. 8 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

Cover Story



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Table of Contents

V E G A S

Winter 2009

58

74

84

92

86 48

Vertical Living

74

Up is where it’s at in Las Vegas.

52

Retiring in Style

Hospital Health

56

standards and highly qualified

and radio stations.

medical staff.

86 79

Far From Child’s Play

58

A guide to the top courses at

A table of churches, mosques

America’s hottest golf destination.

and synagogues.

90 80

Designing Your Desert Home

Money Matters

Making your home fit your

Bank on Las Vegas financial institutions

new lifestyle.

Back to School

offering competitive checking, savings

The ABCs of educational

and loan options.

92

opportunities in Southern Nevada.

The Great Outdoors With warm temperatures and lots

83 62

The Lush Desert

Houses of Worship

Finding the right day care for your children.

On the Air Your guide to Las Vegas television

Forget Florida! Sunny Las Vegas is the place to be.

84

Vegas hospitals offer high medical

Getting Connected

of sun, Las Vegas offers prime

Good School Guide

Stay in touch with Las Vegas’

conditions for outdoor living.

Quality schools and programs for

advanced telecommunications

everyone in the family.

technology.

95

Sinless Entertainment Alternative options for activities outside of The Strip and casinos.

10 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS



■ I N

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MAYOR’S MESSAGE

OSCAR B. GOODMAN

V E G A S

Welcome to Las Vegas! ore than 40 years ago, my wife and I moved from Philadelphia to Las Vegas with only $87 collectively in our

M

pockets. We did not know a soul in Las Vegas. All we had was each other and the motivation to succeed. We heard Las Vegas was the land of “milk and honey,” where the weather is almost always beautiful and dreams can come true.

As soon as we stepped foot in what was then a small desert town, we fell in love with it. We knew right then, Las Vegas would forever be our home. I hope you feel the same way as you begin your new life in this vibrant and livable city. I believe Las Vegas is the last Western frontier. It is a community of opportunity. It also is a changing community as Las Vegas continues to be one of the fastest-growing cities in the country. Each month, roughly 6,000 people just like you decide to make Las Vegas their new home. As a result, we are becoming a major metropolitan area that’s not only a premier place to visit but the perfect place to live. Dreams do come true here. I began a successful law practice while my wife, Carolyn,

founded

the

only

nonprofit,

nonsectarian private school in Nevada. Our proudest accomplishment has been raising our four children in Las Vegas. All four are college graduates with advanced degrees in medicine, law and human relations. One of our sons currently serves as a Captain in the United States Marine Corps, proving that this is a community in which you can raise a family and firmly set roots. As you settle into your new home and new life, I encourage you to take time to explore the area. I think you will be surprised at all we have to offer. I also encourage you to get involved in your neighborhood and learn about all the programs and services the city of Las Vegas has available. This is an exciting time. Las Vegas is standing at the threshold of greatness. It is ours to seize. I hope you share my love for Las Vegas. I wish you and your family the same great fortune this city has given me.

Mayor Oscar B. Goodman City of Las Vegas

12 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS



SPONSORED BY

IN

LAS

VEGAS

Numbers You Need ELECTRIC

TRASH

WATER

Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, Laughlin NV Energy, 702/402-5555 or www.nvenergy.com

Las Vegas Clark County Sanitation District 702/458-1180 Republic Services of Southern Nevada 702/735-5151

Las Vegas Las Vegas Valley Water District 702/870-4194

Boulder City City of Boulder City, 702/293-9244 Mesquite Overton Power District #5, 702/346-5710 Pahrump Valley Electric Association, 775/727-5312

TELEPHONE Las Vegas EMBARQ, 702/244-7400 MPower Communications, 702/310-3100 Cox Communications, 702/968-0555

Henderson, North Las Vegas, Laughlin Republic Services, 702/735-5151 Boulder City City of Boulder City, 702/293-9244 Mesquite Mesquite City Sanitation, 702/346-2849 Pahrump Nye County Landfill/Pahrump, 775/727-7884

SEWER Henderson, North Las Vegas, Boulder City EMBARQ, 702/244-7400 Cox Communications, 702/968-0555

Las Vegas City of Las Vegas, 702/229-1289 Clark County Sanitation District, 702/458-1180

Laughlin EMBARQ, 702/244-7400

Henderson City of Henderson, Utility Administration 702/267-2500

Mesquite Rio Virgin Telephone & Cable, 702/346-5211 Pahrump Nevada Bell, 877/469-2355

Boulder City City of Boulder City, 702/293-9244

Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, Boulder City Cox Communications, 702/968-0555 WANTV, 800/688-4338 EMBARQ, 702/244-7400

Mesquite Mesquite City Sanitation, 702/346-2849

Mesquite Rio Virgin Telephone & Cable, 702/346-5211 Charter Communications, 702/346-5205 WANTV, 800/688-4338 EMBARQ, 702/244-7400

GAS

Laughlin Clark Cablevision, 702/298-3214 WANTV, 800/688-4338 EMBARQ, 702/244-7400 14 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

North Las Vegas City of North Las Vegas, 702/663-1484 Boulder City City of Boulder City, 702/293-9244 Mesquite Virgin Valley Water District, 702/346-5731 Laughlin Big Bend Water District, 702/298-3113

HIGH-SPEED INTERNET Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, Henderson, Boulder City EMBARQ, 702/244-7400 Cox Communications, 702/968-0555

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS North Las Vegas City of North Las Vegas, 702/633-1484

CABLE/SATELLITE

Pahrump AVS Electronics Inc., 775/751-8336 Satellite Systems of Nevada, 775/727-8998 WANTV, 800/688-4338 EMBARQ, 702/244-7400

Henderson City of Henderson, Utility Administration 702/267-2500

Laughlin Big Bend Water District, 702/298-3113

Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas Boulder City, Laughlin Southwest Gas Corporation, 702/365-1555 Pahrump Shoshone Propane, 775/727-9544 Amerigas Propane Inc., 775/727-4238 Pro-Flame Gas Co., 775/727-5116

Clark County Court House 702/455-4011 Consumer Affairs Division 702/486-7355 Department of Business & Industry 702/486-2750 Las Vegas Mayor 702/229-6241 Library Information 702/734-READ McCarran International Airport 702/261-5211 Nevada/Clark Co. Legal Services 702/386-1070 Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (Driver’s License) 702/486-4368 Nevada Highway Patrol 702/486-4100 Postal Office-Federal 702/385-3837 City of Las Vegas, Dept. of Leisure Services 702/229-6297


8LOVE LASVEGAS REASONS TO

IN

LAS

1

VEGAS

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) is located on a 335-acre campus in the heart of Las Vegas, offering more than 220 undergraduate, master’s and doctoral degree programs. UNLV offers a high-quality, educational experience, strong research programs housed in modern facilities and selected professional programs, plus the highly regarded International Gaming Institute and College of Hotel Administration.

1

5

Master-planned communities are “mini cities,” allowing residents to experience a sense of community with the potential to work, shop and live in one place. The approximately 23 master-planned communities offer unique personalities, myriad amenities, different architecture styles and numerous floor plans, plus community parks, recreation facilities, churches and schools.

2

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Ranked the fifth busiest airport in the nation and 12th in the world, McCarran International Airport serves about 37 million passengers annually. Thirty domestic airlines, 23 international airlines and 21 charter airlines fly into McCarran.

6

Las Vegas’ world-famous neon signs — the tallest, brightest and most elaborate in the world — announce the ultimate in entertainment choices, ranging from superstar performances in intimate showrooms to multimillion dollar production extravaganzas.

3

Southern Nevada retailers and world-recognized designer names have added opulent and affordable shopping in a variety of venues from chic shopping plazas inside luxury hotels to themed malls and outlet shopping.

7

Southern Nevadans are passionate about golf and, well, they should be. They live in a golfer’s paradise. Today, there are more than 40 public and private golf courses, including courses designed by the best in the business: Tom Fazio, Pete Dye, Perry Dye, Ted Robinson, Arthur Hills, Rees Jones, Johnny Miller, Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer.

4

Where Nevada meets Arizona, 34 miles east of Las Vegas, is one of the nation’s most popular tourist destinations: Hoover Dam. The 726-foot-high dam has been proclaimed one of the seven engineering wonders of the world; with 4.4 million yards of concrete, it surpasses the largest pyramid in Egypt.

8

Las Vegas is truly a place for children of all ages, with plenty of nongaming entertainment. The region’s wide range of activities includes museums, theme parks, roller coasters, skydiving, fishing, Lake Mead cruises, Colorado River raft tours, mini grand prix, miniature golf, arcades, a children’s zoo, a dolphin habitat and hot air balloon rides. WINTER 2009 • 15


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Making the Move Easing the transition from house to house. elocating might not crack the top 10

R

all-time stressors, but it should. Uprooting

your

family

presents

difficulties in every facet of your life, from switching schools and communities to making new friends and business networks. It’s certainly an adjustment, but the strain can be eased with a positive experience. That starts with your move. The first thing to focus on is finding a reliable moving company. Horror stories about shady movers abound, but the serious © iStockphoto/Lise Gagne

players in the moving industry have tried hard to clear their names. Word of mouth carries a lot of business in the moving industry, so ask your friends and associates who they’ve had good experiences with. You also could open

GETTING IT BOOKED AND MOVED

the phone book and look at the ads, but that’s

After you’ve found some quality movers,

just the first step. Call the Better Business

interview more than one. “You should talk to

Bureau to make sure the companies are

more than one mover so you have a reference

Most reputable companies will offer free

reputable, and check in both cities, where

point, something to compare to,” says Wade

estimates. They need to get a visual survey of

you’re coming from and where you’re going.

Bute of Ace World Wide Movers. “If you

what items are moving, if there’s any packing

Bill Gould of All American Van & Storage

haven’t moved a lot before, you should ask the

or any special needs like crating for

says that when you get estimates from movers,

same questions to every mover you speak with

pianos, statues or other odd-shaped and

contact major van lines and not brokers. There

to figure out which movers are being honest.

valuable things.

might be a price difference, but don’t let that

Stick with the old adage, ‘If it sounds too good

be your sole determining factor, he says,

to be true, it probably is.’”

If you hire the moving company to pack your belongings, that will usually take place

because brokers will hand off your move to

Paul Nepa, owner of Champion Movers,

the day before the move. Some luxury homes

various companies, with no one taking

concurs and adds that before you begin

might take a full week. The average house

responsibility for your belongings. Claims

talking to movers, you should get a good idea

won’t fill up an entire truck, so moving

with these companies often go nowhere.

of exactly what you need.

companies might find another family moving in

Ask the companies you call if they are

“Before selecting a mover, you should

the same direction to move as well. To prevent

brokers. Or better yet, look up reputable

know the date you would like to move, the

confusion of belongings in this case, every piece

movers on the American Moving and Storage

items you are moving, who will be packing

on the truck is inventoried and stickered, and

Association’s website, www.moving.org. The

your personal items and how many boxes you

crews will give you a copy to check off at your

website ensures that drivers don’t exceed their

might have,” Nepa says. “Then you can

final destination.

hours and that the companies are licensed

compare moving companies by quality, price

and insured.

and professionalism.”

16 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

Notify your driver if you have items that are CONTINUED ON PAGE 17


particularly valuable. This means pieces that

someone to watch them or immediately set up

you can generally hold in your hands that

a TV so you can direct boxes coming off the

are expensive, such as a porcelain doll that

truck. As the boxes stack up, check for

registration number and keep it with you in case

weighs only 5 pounds but costs $10,000. You

damage to your belongings and also to your

you need to call your mover with questions.

might want to take items like that and family

home. Did the crew put a dent in your wall?

TIP 2: Designate the appropriate number of

heirlooms or jewelry with you instead.

Dirty the carpet? These are issues your

boxes as the essentials you will need your first

moving company can resolve, but you have to

few nights, such as towels, sheets and toiletries.

Do not move household poisons like Raid, combustible items that could explode in hot

sign off on it while the crew is still there.

MOVING-DAY TIPS TIP

1: Make note of your shipment

TIP 3: If you need to store some of your

weather, candles that could melt, liquids like

You should ask your moving coordinator if

items, it’s a good idea to tour the warehouse of

laundry detergent that could leak on your

the moving company will do things like

the mover you will be using in order to look for

leather sofa or even water, which could harm

put the bed back together. You’ll be exhausted

cleanliness and organization.

your computer. Damages from improper or

and want a good night’s sleep.

illegal packing on your part will result in an

REDUCING STRESS

unpaid claim.

TIP 4: After you have thoroughly cleaned and dried the inside of your refrigerator, put a handful of coffee, baking soda or charcoal

One of the best ways to stay organized is to

A major key to the moving process is

prepare for your immediate needs. Designate

keeping up with the details of both the home

a box for necessities, such as paper plates, a

you’re moving to and the one you’re moving

TIP 5: Pack your current phone book to take

child’s favorite toy and toothbrushes. This

from. You should set up a disconnect date for

with you. You might need to make

definitely includes important paperwork and

all of your utilities and services a week or two

calls to residents or businesses back in your

keys to your new house. Mark the box clearly

before the move, as well as hook up services at

former hometown.

and point it out to the movers so that it is the

your new location.

last box on the truck and the first one off.

Bute says that many people forget details access into a gated community on moving day.

If you have children, you should hire

inside to keep the interior fresh.

TIP 6: Place pictures in boxes between sheets

like reserving an elevator or getting movers

UNLOADING THE TRUCK

inside a sock or nylon stocking and place it

and blankets to give them added protection. TIP 7: Plates and record albums should be packed on end vertically, rather than placed flat and stacked.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

SECRET SERVICE HIRING A MOVER IN YOUR DESTINATION CITY, RATHER THAN YOUR ORIGIN CITY, IS A LITTLE-KNOWN BUT HELPFUL TIP TO A SUCCESSFUL MOVE.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Las Vegas 888-399-9819

bgould@allamericanvan.com www.allamericanvan.com

CPCN #3156 WINTER 2009 • 17


TIP 8: Make sure to correctly label the contents of all boxes on the side rather than the top of the box. This will help with efficiency when unloading the truck. Also make sure to designate which room in your new house each of the boxes and items will go. TIP 9: Before the van foreman leaves for your destination, give him a phone number where you can be reached. It’s a good idea to provide him with an alternate contact in case you are unavailable. TIP 10: When moving plants to your new residence via your vehicle, try not to let the foliage rest against the windows, as the leaves will scorch. TIP 11: Upon arrival at your new home, let your PC acclimate itself to room temperature before plugging it in.

SECURE YOUR BELONGINGS Whether you’re downsizing or waiting for your new home to be built or become vacant, a storage facility can put your mind at ease about the security of your personal items. When deciding on how much space you need, take inventory of items to be stored. Sizes range from 5x5 to 10x30, and most facilities offer a storage choice on the first, second or third floor. Make sure the facility has a security system: coded keypad entry gate, exit gate and building entrance. Check also for individual door alarms on the unit, video surveillance and an on-site manager. All storage facilities in Nevada are risk-free, so it’s your responsibility to make sure personal items are insured. Just be sure to visit the facility firsthand before making a final decision. Even after you’ve moved in and made yourself at home, storage facilities are better equipped to protect “stuff” than a garage or shed. Most storage facilities are climate-controlled or air-cooled, which means a safer environment for all your belongings, leaving your garage to actually be used as it was intended: for your vehicle.

18 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS



L A S

V E G A S

©

iSt ock pho to/ Tom isla vF org o

I N

Dollars and Sense Las Vegas’ low-tax structure helps businesses and residents thrive. ar from the glamour of The Strip lies

According to the Nevada Development

another side of Las Vegas — one for

Taxes have a direct bearing on how much

FILING TAXES

F

Authority, Nevada offers one of the lowest tax

the everyday resident who lives and

burdens in the nation, and Forbes, Inc and

wealth a person can accumulate. The first

works here. Fortunately, Las Vegas fosters

Money magazines have cited it as having one of

thing when filing taxes that relocators should

prosperity for many.

the best overall business climates in the nation.

be aware of is that Nevada is a community

Nevada’s tax structure is designed to be less

property state. This means that half of

burdensome to both business and employees.

everything married couples earn is deemed to

Because it is a hotspot for vacationers, there are job opportunities in the resorts and casinos. But the city’s employment base is much wider than what’s available on The Strip. An

have been earned by each spouse. This

TAX TIME?

makes it rare that spouses will ever file as

increasing population is spurring growth and

The Silver State is as good as gold as far as

providing jobs in education and health care.

taxes are concerned. Las Vegas has a

When a married couple divorces in Nevada,

Construction jobs to build those new schools

remarkable tax structure that affords its

the community doesn’t end until the final decree

and facilities, not to mention the resorts, are

residents the luxury of not paying certain taxes,

of divorce. In California, for example, it ends

still available regardless of a slower economy.

including corporate income tax, personal

when either spouse moves out.

income tax, franchise tax, inheritance or estate

FROM EMPLOYEE TO EMPLOYER

tax, and gift or chain store tax.

“married filing separate.”

Another example of differences is with medical expenses. They are only

Las Vegas is often ranked one of the best

Property tax in Las Vegas is approximately

tax-deductible to the extent that they exceed

places to start or relocate a business. The Tax

$2.022 per $100 assessed value. Sales tax in

7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income. In

Foundation ranked Las Vegas third in its State

Southern Nevada is 7.75 percent. Nevada

a noncommunity property state, a low-paid

Business Tax Climate Index 2009, while

does not charge sales tax on food items for

spouse with high medical expenses might

Inc.com ranked it third in large cities in its

home use, medicine or service.

benefit from separate returns, but in Nevada’s

Top 25 Cities for Doing Business in America

community property system, the low-paid

in 2008.

spouse is deemed to have earned half of the total income.

20 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS


YOUR ECONOMIC SOURCES For more information about cost of living and economic opportunities in the Southern Nevada area, contact any of these sources: • Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce, 702/735-1616, www.lvchamber.com • North Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce, 702/642-9595 • Henderson Chamber of Commerce, 702/565-8951 • Center For Business and Economic Research, University of Nevada, 702/895-3191, www.cber.unlv.edu • Nevada Development Authority, publisher of Las Vegas Perspective, 702/791-0000 • ACCRA Cost of Living Index, updated quarterly through The Council for Community and Economic Research, Alexandria, Va., 703/522-4980, www.accra.org

Across the Country

A comparison of home prices based on a 2,200-square-foot house with 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, family room and a two-car garage.

Anchorage, Ala. $337,725

Boston, Mass. $1,493,750

Charleston, S.C. $389,750

San Diego, Calif. $542,500

Kansas City, Mo. $229,000

San Antonio, Texas $253,373

Miami, Fla. $600,000

Las Vegas, Nev. $272,125

Salt Lake City, Utah $389,400

Honolulu, Hawaii $780,000

Albuquerque, N.M. $329,185

Seattle, Wash. $584,500

Chicago, Ill. $863,300

Philadelphia, Pa. $511,750

Phoenix, AZ $288,000

$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ Source: 2008 Coldwell Banker Home Price Comparison Index

WINTER 2009 • 21


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Employment for Everyone The “trailing spouse” isn’t out of options in Las Vegas’ diverse climate. n the past, Las Vegas has welcomed 7,000 new residents on a monthly basis. For every couple who moves here for a job, there is often one partner looking for work in an unfamiliar city with few, if any, contacts or job prospects. For those latter partners, the job outlook isn’t dire. The unemployment rate in Las Vegas hit 12.3 percent in January, but that hasn’t stopped construction of hotels, high-rise buildings and other development projects, according to the Nevada Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation (DETR). Though DETR reports that Nevada’s economy lost a number of jobs during the past year, the state of Nevada, overall, actually gained 240,000 jobs between 2002 and 2007. Some of the top growth industries are leisure and hospitality, education and health services, trade transportation, and professional and business services. As the state’s largest industry, leisure and hospitality added 1,200 jobs in 2008, showing that the demand is still there. And while the construction and real estate markets are slow, health care and educational services are two industries that continue to hire — markets that were not prominent 15 years ago, says Michael Herman, director of staffing for Millennium Staffing Services in Las Vegas. “The influx of other industries has changed the market a lot,” he notes. “We used to be dominated by gaming, but other industries are increasing 10-fold.” With so much going on in Las Vegas, the market continues to be highly competitive, Herman adds. “There is still an influx of lower-tiered workers, but when you get to positions that pay more than $40,000 a year, 22 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

© iStockphoto/Zlatko Kostic

I

it is extremely competitive, and often agencies are recruiting from outside the market,” he says. For this reason, Herman recommends that professionals seeking upper-level management or executive positions begin their search prior to moving to the city.

“Those positions take time to interview and be processed,” he points out. “They can be interviewing over the phone and networking for positions before they arrive.” There are numerous job sites, including jobing.com, the Department of Employment, Nevada JobConnect and the Las Vegas Review-Journal, where individuals can begin


their search prior to relocating. The hospitality industry also is riding the Internet wave, says Bill Overly, manager of the Nevada JobConnect Career Center in Las Vegas. Casinos are required to complete background checks for all employees, making for a lot of back-and-forth before hiring. This has prompted most hotels to create online application systems. “Most applications are done online, so they can accomplish that in months, weeks or days before moving here,” he says. “I can’t think of another industry that has used technology better than hospitality for the purposes of recruiting.” But if individuals wait until they arrive to look for work, there are many venues available. Myriad staffing agencies like Millennium are full-service and others are industry-specific in areas like accounting, health care and executive searches. Herman says agencies allow individuals a fast track for networking, interviewing, evaluation and testing. The JobConnect Career Center also functions much like an employment agency. The center provides job listings and placement, training and education, labor market information, career guidance and résumé preparation. There are three JobConnect locations in the area: Las Vegas, North Las Vegas and Henderson. Overly says anyone new to the city is wise to look in North Las Vegas and Henderson for work because they are within about 15 miles of

’NET-WORKING Helpful sites for job seekers in Las Vegas and surrounding areas: • The

Nevada

Department

of

Employment, Training & Rehabilitation offers Nevada Workforce Informer at www.nevadaworkforce.com, which provides wage information for area jobs, a career information system that is available free to residents and other helpful tools. • Nevada JobConnect lists available jobs, provides area economic and workforce data, and has resources for education and training at www.nevadajobconnect.com. • A listing of available state jobs, public and private jobs by region, and numerous other

resources

can

be

found

at

nv.gov/workinghere_nevada.htm.

Las Vegas and are equipped with their own chambers of commerce and other services. Las Vegas is home to one of the largest chambers in the nation, which is another good place to network, Overly says. There are also job fairs and networking organizations from varied industries, including engineering, teaching and medicine that can be found through a quick Google search. Overly also recommends contacting local colleges and universities to network and find resources in specialty areas. He says the University of Nevada, Las Vegas has a strong engineering program, and the College of Southern Nevada has nursing and health care programs.

• Job listings and career information can be found at the Las Vegas Review-Journal, www.reviewjournal.com/employment. • Individuals interested in starting their own business can find helpful information through the Nevada Small Business Development Center, www.nsbdc.org. • The Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce, www.lvchamber.com, offers a career center, along with a listing of chamber members who provide employment services in sectors ranging from health care to accounting. • Online job sites include lasvegasjobs.com, www.recruitingnevada.com, jobing.com and careerbuilder.com.

Top 10 Las Vegas Employers Clark County School District: Clark County Government: Wynn Las Vegas: Bellagio Hotel: MGM Grand: Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino: Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department: University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV): Caesars Palace: Mirage Casino and Hotel:

www.ccsd.net/jobs www.co.clark.nv.us www.wynnlasvegas.com www.bellagiolasvegas.com www.mgmgrand.com www.mandalaybay.com www.lvmpd.com www.unlv.edu www.caesarspalace.com www.themirage.com

Source: www.nevadaworkforce.com WINTER 2009 • 23


site location services, special loan plans and I N

L A S

V E G A S

limited liability protection. In addition, the city of Las Vegas is a Foreign-Trade Zone or free-trade zone that allows businesses to bring foreign goods or raw materials for manufacturing and/or assembling into the United States without formal customs entry or payment of customs duties and government excise taxes until products leave the zone. This creates a favorable atmosphere for foreign businesses wishing to relocate or expand into the United States. The ability to move merchandise is dependent upon the ability of and access to transportation hubs. In this regard, Las Vegas is superbly suited for receiving and shipping enormous quantities of merchandise. McCarran International Airport handles more than 600,000 pounds of arriving and departing cargo annually. More than 50 motor freight carriers serve Southern Clark County on an extensive transportation network consisting of Interstate 15, U.S. Highway 95 and U.S. Highway

Despite the widespread decline in the economy, Las Vegas is still one of the

© iStockphoto.com / Terraxplorer

few cities creating new jobs. Most of these new jobs are associated with the new resorts scheduled to open this year, including the M Resort and Spa, and CityCenter, projected

Commercial Qualities A business-friendly climate entices entrepreneurs and relocating companies.

to add approximately 1,800 and 12,000 jobs respectively. — CB Richard Ellis’ 2009 Market Outlook

93. In addition, Union Pacific Railroad runs

t’s been said that moving is one of the most

I

According to Tax Foundation, a nonpartisan

stressful situations in life. Moving a

educational organization, Nevada is one of the

business only multiplies that stress, but

top three most business-friendly states in the

Just south of Las Vegas is the city of Henderson.

plenty of opportunity and helpful experts

country. The state doesn’t impose a franchise,

Money magazine has ranked Henderson one of the

along the way can help reduce stress.

corporate income or chain store tax. A

top 20 American cities in which to live.

“The favorable [Nevada] tax structure

collaborative effort between the state of Nevada

Additionally, Yahoo! HotJobs and CNN Money

makes Las Vegas an attractive place to

and the Las Vegas business community

have ranked Henderson among the nation’s top 10

relocate a business,” says Michael W. Gorts

provides business incentives, such as minimal

cities to work and live. Business leaders work

with Realty One Group.

taxation, vocational training programs, no-cost

closely with the city’s economic development staff

24 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

northeast/southwest through the county.


to determine the precise nature of the area’s

question remaining is whether to rent or buy

business climate and resources, market

an existing building.

opportunities and possible incentive programs.

“For a business relocating to the Las Vegas

Within a few miles of downtown Las Vegas

Valley, in order to determine whether to buy or

is the city of North Las Vegas. NLV has

rent, you must first do an analysis that

become the fastest-growing large city in

factors in the costs, appreciation, term of the

America. The Business Retention and

investment and tax advantages,” Felgar says.

Expansion program teams city departments

The office market outlook for 2009 is

with North Las Vegas Chamber members to

cautious, according to the 2009 Market

visit existing businesses and identify obstacles

Outlook by CB Richard Ellis. But there are

or opportunities for growth.

three points to be made that give some hope

The economic development department staff

of a silver lining. First, the construction

works with new businesses to facilitate location

slowdown will keep Las Vegas from facing

needs. Major industries are manufacturing,

significant overbuilding during this time of

distribution and services related to the

lowered demand. Second, tenants are taking

Las Vegas Strip.

advantage of deals like free rent incentives

“There are three or four areas that

and higher improvement allowances. Third,

[manufacturers] can go to and a lot of land in

tenant development costs have come way

the [business] parks,” says Karyne Morris,

down, making it easier for landlords to

owner of KB Morris Real Estate. “For

turnkey tenant space while tenants save

example, the Black Mountain industrial park

capital dollars that used to go toward

in the southeast corner of town is good for

improvement overages.

The Nevada Development Authority (NDA) is a nonprofit agency that works to diversify and improve the economy of Southern Nevada. NDA is dedicated to fostering an attractive, business-friendly environment

through

building

key

relationships while assisting and targeting new and expanding businesses. NDA receives its primary support from business contributions; however, the scope of the organization’s work is realized throughout the entire community. Along with the help of its members, NDA is directly responsible for creating and retaining thousands of stable jobs for Southern

Nevada

residents

through

recruiting new nongaming companies to the area and playing an active role in the local expansion of existing businesses. Contact NDA at 702/791-0000 or 888/466-8293 or visit their website at www.nevadadevelopment.org.

manufacturing because of its proximity to rail lines and the airport. The Las Vegas area is also good for gaming and high-tech, Silicon Valley-type businesses due to the fact that we have become an Internet hub for the West Coast. The [Las Vegas] Valley has been really good for a lot of medical facility people coming in because the cost is a lot lower. An influx of businesses that are focused on the manufacture of products means an increase in the number of workers needed to manufacture those products. Having skilled workers in close proximity to a business means less stress for commuting employees and a more efficient workplace. “The issue is not the size of the labor pool but rather the transportation to and from the location of the manufacturing facility for workers in this type of industry,” adds Dierdre Felgar, a broker with Realty America. “We have a good cross section of the work force available in Las Vegas to service a manufacturing facility of any size.” With all the apparent advantages of moving a business in Las Vegas, the only WINTER 2009 • 25


L A S

V E G A S

© iStockphoto/Aldo Murillo

I N

The Latino Landscape Las Vegas’ international flavor includes a large, well-to-do Hispanic population. he Las Vegas landscape has changed

includes not only the ubiquitous gaming and

dramatically over the past two

entertainment sector but also technology.

Merida, one of the founders of the LCC, is

decades.

Small business plays a significant role in the

a quintessential example of how vision, insight

Hispanic demographic, too.

and determination have helped fuel the

T

Not

only

has

the

world-famous Strip transformed into a

our dynamic Hispanic community.”

mega-entertainment center, the metropolitan

“We have members who are entrepreneurs,

Hispanic dream in Las Vegas. The Cuban-born

area — which is the 28th most populous in

owning restaurants, bakeries, clothing stores

teacher and counselor was hired in 1978 when

the nation — has also experienced

and bookkeeping services,” Merida notes. “We

he was 32 years old to be the LCC’s first —

significant social change and become more

also have professionals like lawyers and

and only — executive director. A former

diverse. Almost 26 percent of Clark

accountants — all people who contribute to

chairman of the Las Vegas Housing Authority,

County’s population is now composed of Hispanics (including Mexican, Cuban and Puerto Rican), and the opportunities for economic, political, social, educational and cultural interests are rich and varied for those moving into the area. Otto Merida, president of the 33-year-old Las Vegas Latin Chamber of Commerce (LCC), says the 1,450 members of the LCC are important contributors to the prolific southern Nevada business climate that 26 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

The Hispanic/Latino profile indicates that Hispanics older than age 18 living in Clark County have household incomes in the following ranges: 22.5% have household incomes of $50,000-$74,999 21.9% have household incomes of $35,000-$49,999 11.9% have household incomes of $25,000-$34,999 14.3% have household incomes under $20,000 10%

have household incomes of $75,000-$99,999

7.5%

have household incomes of $20,000 -$24,999

6%

have household incomes of $100,000 -$125,000

5.9%

have household incomes over $125,000


past member of the State Public Works Board and a current governor’s appointee on the Nevada

Commission

on

Economic

Development, Merida has been instrumental in shaping the LCC’s goal and mission.

When you are looking for a real estate agent in Las Vegas, call us!

The LCC membership has owned the chamber’s headquarters since 2002, which

DENNIS & CAROL PESSIN

Merida uses as another pertinent illustration of how the determination of a collective group can catapult a dream into reality. Today the LCC is a major resource for individuals moving to the Las Vegas area desiring to become linked into the Hispanic community from any number of angles. Merida says today’s challenging economic climate is a good time for entrepreneurs to realize their passions and dreams for owning a small business. “The LCC sponsors a seminar the second Wednesday of the month on how to obtain a business license,” he comments. “We know at this critical time in the national and the local

DENNIS & CAROL believe in treating all of their clients with honesty, integrity and professionalism. They provide outstanding customer service and have been named FIVE STAR — “Best in Client Satisfaction”

To receive this award, Crescendo Business Services contacted 25,000 recent homebuyers and industry professionals.

(702) 610-9123 E-mail: dcpessinlv@gmail.com

www.ThePessinTeam.com

economy that small business is vital to stimulus, and we want to help people motivated to contribute their talents.” Merida

stresses

that

the

LCC’s

commitment to impact the social and political fabric of southern Nevada through economic empowerment helps both Hispanics and those wanting to reach the lucrative Latino market. He encourages residents new to the Las Vegas area to explore resources available through involvement in the LCC and to contact other organizations like the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and the Nevada Development Authority for more information on how to integrate into the Hispanic business community. “Our website has links to the health care plan that the LCC is currently offering, in addition to other programs and initiatives,” Merida explains. “We feature member directories, membership opportunities and even listings of available jobs. It’s a terrific resource for someone moving into the area.” 702/385-7367, www.lvlcc.com

WINTER 2009 • 27


L A S

V E G A S

Homewood Suites by Hilton

Homewood Suites

Someplace Like Home Extended-stay hotels offer an alternative to the living-out-of-a-suitcase lifestyle. ather than making a snap decision on

CANDLEWOOD SUITES

low-priced long distance. Each suite also has a

where to live, residents-to-be of Las

4034 Paradise Road, 702/836-3660 or

fully equipped kitchen, including full-size

Vegas should consider utilizing one

877/226-3539, www.candlewoodsuites.com.

refrigerator, microwave, range, dishwasher,

R

of the numerous extended-stay hotel options

Built in 1999 on Paradise just south of

in the area as a base of operations. This way,

Flamingo, this 250-room hotel is in an ideal

In

instead of living out of a suitcase while

location. One mile from the airport,

complimentary cable TV including HBO or

house-hunting, guests of extended-stay

convention centers and the Las Vegas

the complimentary laundry facilities located

hotels can enjoy amenities like full kitchens

Strip, every suite at Candlewood features

on

and on-site laundry and fitness facilities. The

personalized voicemail, dual phone lines,

equipment includes treadmills, exercise bikes,

following are a few options:

dataport, desk and chair, free local calls and

CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

28 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

coffeemaker, and dining and cooking utensils. the

every

evenings,

floor.

guests

can

Candlewood’s

enjoy

fitness

Photos by Steve Sanders

I N



stepping machines and a universal weight

full-size appliances, and either a king-size bed

Resort & Casino and six miles from

machine. Other amenities include the pool,

or two double beds in every suite. Other

McCarran International Airport. On-site

Jacuzzi and Candlewood cupboard.

in-room amenities include air conditioning, an

amenities include a fully equipped fitness

alarm clock radio, cable television with

center, lagoon-style pool, Jacuzzi, outdoor

EMERALD SUITES

premium channels, a telephone with voicemail

sundeck and laundry facilities. Complimentary

9145 S. Las Vegas Blvd., 702/948-9999

and free local calls, and an iron/ironing board.

transportation to the airport and Las Vegas

4777 Cameron St., 702/365-5500;

Specializing in corporate housing and

Strip is available. Meeting space and catering

www.emeraldsuites.com.

accommodating those relocating, Emerald

are available as well.

Emerald Suites offers complimentary

Suites is conveniently located on the Las Vegas

high-speed Internet access, a kitchen with

Strip, four miles south of Mandalay Bay

HILTON GRAND VACATIONS CLUB 2650

Las

Vegas

Boulevard

South,

702/765-8300; 455 Karen Ave., 702/946-9200; 3575 Las Vegas Boulevard South, 702/697-2900, www.hilton.com The Hilton Grand Vacations Club offers studios, and one- and two-bedroom suites full of luxury and convenience, which include a king-size Hilton suite dreams Serta mattress. The studios include a wet war, microwave, coffeemaker, hair dryer, iron/ironing board and free high-speed Internet. The suites, with a full sofa sleeper and fully equipped kitchen, boast a washer and dryer, living and dining rooms, and a master bath with a deep soaking tub. When you’re out and about, visit the on-site convenience store, gift shop, fitness room,

LAS VEGAS/MIDTOWN

pool and pool table, or take advantage of the

3045 South Maryland Pkwy. Las Vegas, NV 89109 (702) 369-1414

babysitting service and sight-seeing tours.

*Rates vary based on location, room type and length of stay. Subject to availability.

LAS VEGAS MIDTOWN 3045 S. Maryland Parkway, 702/369-1414,

You’re relocating, but you haven’t decided where to 93* live...at Homestead, we (7 Nights at $54 per night) understand. That’s why we offer the perfect interim housing solution without the commitment of a lease. So you can always count on us for a comfortable studio suite room, fully equipped kitchen, workspace with dataport, free local phone calls, personalized voicemail and a staff of professionals who go out of their way to make sure every stay is a pleasant one. For reservations at more than 670 locations nationwide, call 1-800-EXT-STAY or visit us online at www.extendedstayhotels.com. WEEKLY RATES FROM

www.homesteadhotels.com

$384

Designed specifically for extended stays,

99

www.extendedstayhotels.com

HOMESTEAD STUDIO SUITES HOTEL

Homestead offers studio rooms with fully equipped kitchens. With a full-size refrigerator,

stovetop,

microwave

and

coffeemaker, it’s easy to prepare everything from a late-night snack to a full dinner. A personalized voicemail service and work area with computer dataport makes it convenient to catch up on work. Every room has a full-size iron/ironing board, and there is a guest laundry facility on-site. Other free 1-800-EXT-STAY

services include local and 800 phone calls, cable television, and incoming fax and copier

30 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS


at the front desk. All guests may use any of

buffet

daily

the workout facilities next door at the

the 24-hour fitness facilities that include

newspaper, grocery shopping service and

daily.

A

complimentary

Courtyard. Pets are also welcome for a fee. At

an indoor pool, Jacuzzi, saunas and

daily housekeeping are also included. Located

the 150-room Residence Inn location on Dean

fitness equipment.

in the Convention Center area, Residence Inn

Martin Drive, guests may choose from a

offers two different room types: studio and

studio, or one- or two-bedroom suite. Each

HOMEWOOD SUITES BY HILTON

penthouse suites, which feature two-story

comes with a fully equipped kitchen and

10450

Henderson,

lofts. Hospitality hour is available Monday

complimentary breakfast. The property offers

702/450-1045; 230 Hidden Well Road, Las

through Thursday and offers beer, wine, soft

daily housekeeping, valet dry cleaning and

Vegas, 702/407-0075. For group and

drinks and a varying selection of snacks. Join

on-site laundry, as well as an airline and car

corporate

other guests at the weekly barbecue or utilize

rental reservation desk.

S.

Eastern

rates,

Ave.,

call

702/450-1045,

http://homewoodsuites1.hilton.com Providing

the

comforts

of

home,

Homewood Suites by Hilton offers one- and two-bedroom suites fully equipped with kitchens and spacious sleeping and living areas that are large enough for work, study, entertaining

and

relaxing.

Each

suite

contains a ceiling fan, remote-controlled television, iron/ironing board, hair dryer and two telephones with voicemail. The hotel’s amenities include a pool and spa, fitness center, convenience store and grocery shopping service, guest laundry and laundry valet service, wireless Internet service and business center. Start your day with a complimentary USA Today and hot breakfast; end it with a “Welcome Home Reception,” featuring a light meal and beverages. A courtesy van can provide transportation within a five-mile radius of the hotel by appointment. RESIDENCE INN 370 Hughes Center Drive, 702/650-0040; Residence Inn-Henderson/Green Valley, 2190 Olympic Ave., Henderson, 702/4342700; 3225 Paradise Road, 702/796-9300; 5875 Dean Martin Drive, 702/795-7378, www.marriott.com/residence-inn/travel.mi At the Hughes Corporate Center location,

Relocation Rates:

Features:

Rates starting at $229 a week

• Fully Furnished One-and Two-Bedroom Suites • Free High-Speed Internet Access • Free Local & 800 Calls • Located on CAT Bus Line • Pet Friendly • No Lease Required • Meeting Space Available • Complimentary Business Center

Corporate discounts also available Ask for the “RELOCATION” group code. AAA approved

• Pool, Spa & Workout Facility • Fully Equipped Kitchen • Free In-Room Safe • Amenities Vary Slightly by Location • 24-hour Lobby & Coffee service

Residence Inn features 256 suites in three variations: studio, one-bedroom suite and two-bedroom suite. Each is equipped with a full kitchen. The property in the heart of Green Valley offers 126 suites with the same three suite types. In addition, this property features a complimentary hot breakfast

Call our Sales Department

(702) 948-9999 or Toll Free 1- (866) 847-2002 visit us@ www.emeraldsuites.com 2 Convenient Locations to Service You… “The Strip” 9145 S. Las Vegas Boulevard

“Emerald Suites Cameron” 4777 Cameron St. WINTER 2009 • 31


L A S

V E G A S

Photo courtesy of The Presidio

I N

Room To Rent Not ready to buy? Lady Luck is on your side when searching for an apartment. hy rush into buying a home?

W

“With many new rental units available, it’s

your search by getting a residential

Granted, there might be no

no wonder that people move here and

apartment location guide or go online to

place like it, but before treading

become overwhelmed. While it’s obvious

review locations at your leisure. Then you

into deep water with a mortgage, take a look

that people relocate constantly, it also can be

can meet with a professional apartment or

at what’s available in the rental market.

transient. That’s even more reason to rent

management company that works on your

You’ll be bowled over at the options that

before buying.” Vail’s appraisal correlates

behalf. The good news is that despite the

abound in paradise.

with UNLV’s Center for Business and

housing downturn, rents have stayed

Chandra Vail, publisher of Apartment

Economic Research findings, and the current

relatively flat at about $850 a month for

Finder magazine, realizes that task is one of

apartment market shows far more rent

apartments, and the apartment industry is

the first critical needs that must be met before

stability than what people think.

expected to see a supply shortage in the next couple years, according to a June 2008 report

feeling settled. “Despite the real estate market, Las Vegas is still in a state of

SO MANY LOCATIONS,

by Applied Analysis, a Las Vegas-based

growth,” she says. “It’s definitely a boom

SO LITTLE TIME…

financial consultancy.

town that has exploded not only in

Great properties are offered throughout

Donna Middleton, who handles property

population but in the incredible number and

the Valley, particularly in North Las Vegas,

management and realty for Beasley &

variety of rental properties. You’ll be amazed

the Northwest and the Southwest, where

DeVarreau, Sotheby’s International Realty

at how much is still going on in this town.

there’s a surge of new communities. Start

luxury market, recommends connecting with CONTINUED ON PAGE 34

32 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS



702/736-3700,

888/797-5500

or

www.rentinglasvegas.com. Free service with information on 400 rental communities. BEST RENT FINDERS, 5540 S. Fort Apache,

Ste.

100,

702/222-2288

or

www.bestrealtyfinder.com. Free service for new residents looking for rental properties from apartments to real estate. PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANIES CAMDEN PROPERTIES, 702/454-2068 or www.camdenliving.com. This management company handles about 40 rental communities, including corporate housing, short-term and flexible 12-month apartment leasing. CONAM MANAGEMENT, 702/256-1797 or www.conam.com. With 33 communities in the Las Vegas area, this full-service real

Photo by Steve Sanders

estate/multifamily property firm is one of the largest of its kind in the nation. GREYSTAR MANAGEMENT, 702/4768997, www.greystar.com. Provides service in the multifamily real estate buiness.

a realtor or leasing specialist before striking

the neighbors; test every appliance to make

out on your own. Many complexes have

sure each is in working condition; check the

RENTALS,

properties that are equipped for those who

wiring, air and heat; and make sure your

www.lasvegasluxuriousrentals.com. Fully

seek everything from hydrotherapy spas and

‘gut’ reaction about your apartment is in line

furnished

gourmet kitchens to disability access and

with your intellectual decision. “Renters

convention or vacation renter.

Wi-Fi by outdoor amenities, such as pools

need to feel like they have selected the

and gardens. It’s a good idea to have the

optimum place for their peace of mind,” he

702/990-2790 or www.lasvegasliving.com.

criteria you want in mind before you rent.

says. The Apartment Source even has an

Strikingly handsome architecture highlights

Most people start by looking at location,

‘Apartmints’ link on its website that shares

Ovation’s 15 luxury properties.

usually with easy access to work or school,

more vital information for securing your best

and the property should be clean and

possible rental.

and premium fees.

VEGAS

LUXURIOUS

702/768-6205 homes

OVATION

for

the

or

corporate,

MANAGEMENT

CO.,

PICERNE MANAGEMENT, 702/3674505 or www.picerneaptslv.com. Luxury

affordable. Also keep in mind cost of utilities, security deposits, pet rent, cleaning

LAS

apartments and apartment homes throughout LOCATOR SERVICES APARTMENT

the Las Vegas area. Full-service firm

FINDING

SERVICE,

Steve Antuna, owner of The Apartment

5785 W. Tropicana Ave., 702/876-5111 or

Source, passes along valuable points for

www.lasvegasrentals.com. Locally owned,

anyone considering renting. “We find that

complete

people will have a good idea of the amenities

entire Valley.

locater

service

serving

the

dedicated

to

development,

property

management and ownership. THE PREFERRED GROUP, 702/471-7515 or www.preferredapartments.com. Asset and property management company assisting

they want, whether it’s the fitness center,

THE APARTMENT SOURCE, 105 N.

beautiful grounds, great location or security

Pecos, Ste. 115, Henderson, 702/313-6460 or

RMI MANAGEMENT, 702/737-8580 or

features.” But, he continues, “Potential

www.theaptsource.com. It’s the biggest free

www.rmillc.com. A leasing and management

renters need to consider a number of key

rental locater service in town.

company that also specializes in real estate

factors beyond accommodations and price.” He suggests doing the following: Interview

34 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

APARTMENT RENTALS GALORE, 1515

E.

Tropicana

Ave.,

Ste.

645,

individuals, corporate clients and institutions.

and investment services. CONTINUED ON PAGE 37


Efficiently, Effectively and Responsibly,

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GRI, CRS

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Photo courtesy of Camden Properties

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Ask About Our NEW Babysitting Registry! WINTER 2009 • 37


L A S

V E G A S

Photo courtesy of American West Homes

I N

The Jackpot of Real Estate Foreclosure growth leads to steals in the market. here’s an old saying, “What goes

T

“Las Vegas is a different kind of town,”

the boom in real estate prices, one of the first

up, must come down.” And most

says Chad Hyams, a team leader at Keller

to fall and fell the hardest. But he predicts that

everyone knows that adage has held

Williams Realty in Las Vegas. “Because of the

because of its strong industry and steady

true in the past few years in real estate, but

way the town is run, we still have people

influx of relocators, it will become one of the

nowhere has it been truer than in Las Vegas,

moving here on a regular basis for job

quickest to rebound.

a market where home prices soared, then

opportunities with casinos and other

crashed, and which has consistently held reign

companies that have come to Las Vegas. With

2009

as the No. 1 area for foreclosures in the nation.

that growth, it is only natural that the market

foreclosures in Nevada. Because of these high

will turn.”

rates,

But where there are foreclosures, there are

The website RealtyTrac reported in January that home

there

had

prices

been have

274,399 drastically

also good home values. Industry experts say

Hyams says the area was hit hard with

lowered, and Dan Means, the branch

the market is continuing to grow and is

foreclosures and more are on the horizon.

manager for Las Vegas’ National City

(hopefully) poised for an upturn.

Nevada was one of the first states to realize

Mortgage, says that if home prices haven’t hit

38 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS


© iStockphoto/Sean Locke

Live the Exceptional Las Vegas

rock bottom, they are pretty close. HousingTracker.net tracks and compiles the asking prices of real estate agents from MLS

Lifestyle

from people from all over the world. The population is expected to double over the next 15 years and then continue to grow.

listings. According to the site, the median home

Means says the lending market is also

price in Las Vegas in March 2009 was $160,000,

beginning to turn around. Though it may not be

down more than 40 percent from the same time

as easy to borrow money for a home as it was

the previous year.

during the housing boom, he says loans on

“It is a great time to buy right now in Las

conventional lending are available in the low 5s.

Jane Garras…

Vegas,” Hyams says, particularly in relation to

FHA loans require 3.5 percent upfront and are

Your Las Vegas Relocation Expert

nearby areas like California (where he says

available with an interest rate in the low 5s. All

prices are too high) and Phoenix (which he says

in all, purchases have increased 100 percent

doesn’t have as much to offer homeowners).

from all around the country because of the low

Home prices are turning back to where they

percentages, he says. National City Mortgage is

were in 2003 before the boom, selling for about

working on rolling out new programs to make

$100 per square foot. Means says he sees a lot

it easier and less expensive to borrow.

of brand new three-bedroom, two-bathroom

While

condominiums

and

mixed-use

Make Jane your first call for information on: New Homes • Resale Homes Retirement Communities Golf Communities Mid & High Rise Condominiums Investment Properties

developments are popular, one of the biggest

ReMAX Benchmark

“The average price is close to $200,000 and

sellers right now is the master-planned

it would have been $350,000 three years ago,”

community, according to Hyams. Green Valley

3900 S. Hualapai Way, Suite 200 Las Vegas, NV 89147

Means says. “Sales are picking up and

Ranch,

foreclosures are slowing.”

Providence are all in different areas of town but

homes in the high $190,000s.

Mountain’s

Edge, Aliante

and

He predicts the market will stabilize and

are loaded with shops, parks and a sense of

turn by the end of the year. He says his

community. He says these areas were some of

company’s home loan applications were up

the hardest hit initially but will likely be the

more than 40 percent in November and were

first to turn around.

Cell: (702) 498-8965 Fax: (702) 688-6368

Email: janegarras@cox.net

BENCHMARK REALTY Each office independently owned & operated

WINTER 2009 • 39


L A S

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©iStockphoto

I N

Cities with Substance Southern Nevada is made up of many distinctly different communities you can call home. hen you think of Las Vegas, you

W

NORTH LAS VEGAS

and world-class shows. While

portion of the Las Vegas Valley in Clark

and cultural amenities. Covering 78 square

Las Vegas is home to a multitude of

County. Characterized by its motto, “Your

miles, the city fully enjoys Nevada’s warm

attractions, it’s just one part of the great

Community of Choice,” the city is home to

weather, with sunshine 86 percent of the year

Southern Nevada desert. Suburban cities have

more than 215,000 people.

and average daily temperatures of 55 to

priorities include well-planned growth,

probably envision lights, casinos

North Las Vegas is situated in the northern

economic development, community services

blossomed in this community, making up much of what the “Real Vegas” is all about.

Considered the fastest-growing city in the U.S., according to the Census Bureau, it is

80 degrees. Visit www.cityofnorthlasvegas.com and

The foremost part of choosing a place to

predicted to have a population of 586,548 by

live in Southern Nevada is considering each

2035. In 2008, the city won an award for its

community’s amenities. Reasonably priced

reporting of performance data to the public

housing, low cost of living, quality schools and

and a transformation award for significant

Known by its motto “A Place to Call

close proximity to work are available in many

improvement in citizen satisfaction in code

Home,” Henderson is located seven miles

cities. Outstanding recreation, picturesque

enforcement and parks and recreation

from the Las Vegas Strip and less than a mile

locales and friendly neighbors are some

services.

from Lake Mead in Clark County. The city

added perks. Want to sample some of Southern Nevada’s finest communities? Let’s take a drive... 40 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

www.nlvchamber.org.

HENDERSON

North Las Vegas, incorporated as a city in

occupies the entire southern rim of the Las

1946, continues to attract new industry and

Vegas Valley, stretching east of Boulder

improve the quality of life for its residents. Its

Highway to east of Interstate 15.


PAHRUMP

more than 270,000 and the U.S. Census

Located in the southwest corner of Nye

Bureau continually names Henderson as one

County, Pahrump can be found about 60

of the fastest-growing cities in the United

miles northwest of Las Vegas and eight

States. Henderson has been named by

miles from the California border. The

Money magazine as one of America’s Best

town is situated in a 28-mile valley

Places to Live.

surrounded by the Spring Mountains and

Henderson is known throughout the nation

Nopah Vista Mountains.

for its master-planned residential communities,

It has a country-like atmosphere and an

progressive business development, new roads

easy-going lifestyle. It also offers low taxes,

and transportation projects, and outstanding

no

recreation facilities.

affordable housing. Former farming land

Henderson, incorporated as a city in 1953,

is

personal being

or

corporate

developed

into

taxes

and

housing

at

encompasses 95 square miles with an

the highest rate in the state. Major

elevation of 1,940 feet.

housing developments are currently under

Visit www.cityofhenderson.com and www.hendersonchamber.com.

Photos courtesy of Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority

Henderson has a growing population of

construction and will eventually provide more than 10,000 new homes in the Valley. Pahrump rests at an elevation of 2,695

MESQUITE

feet, where the skies are blue and sunny. In fact, the area is second only to Yuma, Ariz.,

mesquite tree, which is believed to be a

in the number of sunny days in the United

symbol of good luck by Native Americans. A

States, with 300 per year. Pahrump is in the

growing community outside of Las Vegas,

nation’s driest region, enjoying the lowest

Mesquite has seen a population explosion.

average relative humidity in the country.

Since 1990, when a scant 674 people lived in town, the population has grown to

Photo courtesy of the City of Henderson

The city of Mesquite was named after the

Visit www.pahrumpnv.org and www.pahrumpchamber.com.

more than 19,000. Location could play a role in the community’s population growth. The

BOULDER CITY

city is located on Interstate 15 halfway

Boulder City, located 25 miles southeast

between Salt Lake City to the northeast and

of downtown Las Vegas, enjoys a distinctive

San Diego and Los Angeles to the west

heritage, beginning as a construction town

and south.

when Boulder Dam was built in the 1930s.

LAUGHLIN Located on the banks of the Colorado River 90 miles south of Las Vegas, Laughlin is

situated

on

the

bordering

corner

The majority of the city’s employment is

Now, Boulder City has evolved into the

related to the entertainment and retail

headquarters for several federal agencies

of Nevada, California and Arizona. The

industries, while the rest is in government,

involved

population is approximately 8,000.

health and industrial.

power operations.

with

the

dam’s

water

and

The entertainment industry has had a large

Mesquite, incorporated as a city in 1984,

Approximately 15,000 people make

impact on the community. Considered Nevada’s

established an Economic Development

Boulder City their home. Its residents are

third-largest gaming area, Laughlin is home to

Commission in 1997 to attract new business,

vigilant toward maintaining a high quality of

more than a dozen resorts and hotels.

retain and expand current business, and

life. Gambling is prohibited by city charter,

Residents’ quality of life is impressive with

increase economic development capabilities.

resulting in a community atmosphere unlike

affordable housing, gorgeous parks and

The number of business licenses has

most any municipality in Nevada.

uncrowded schools.

increased 525 percent since the EDC’s

Low property taxes and reasonable utility

Visit www.enjoylaughlin.com,

inception. Visit www.mesquitenv.com and

rates make Boulder affordable.

www.visitlaughlin.com and

www.mesquite-chamber.com.

Visit www.bcnv.org and www.bouldercity.com.

www.laughlinchamber.com.

WINTER 2009 • 41


A

42 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

D

V

E

R

T

I

S

E

M

E

N

T


I

f outdoor recreation is your thing, the master-planned community of

Summerlin is a great place to live and play. The community is in a league of its own when it comes to recreational amenities in the Las Vegas Valley, according to Kevin Orrock, top division executive of The Howard Hughes Corporation, developer of Summerlin. “Summerlin

boasts

more

outdoor

recreational amenities than any other master-planned community in Las Vegas,” he says. “An active, adventurous lifestyle is easily a Summerlin hallmark.” With more than 150 parks of all sizes, Summerlin has a court or field to

Summerlin is home to more than 150 parks that feature a variety of sports facilities. The Willows Paseo Park features two lighted tennis courts, a half basketball court, children’s play areas and trails.

accommodate just about any sport, including basketball, volleyball, soccer, baseball, T-ball, football __ even bocce ball

as the community’s No. 1 amenity.

of its immediate adjacency to this popular

Summerlin’s trail system also has garnered

outdoor area.

and shuffleboard.

national attention, which earned The Howard

The Summerlin Council, the nonprofit

Hughes Corporation the American Trails

organization that oversees the community’s

Summerlin currently boasts more than 150

Developer Award in 2008.

social, cultural and recreational activities,

miles of completed trails ideal for walkers,

also plays a role in promoting the healthy

runners and cyclists. The trails that wind

The community’s three pools accommodate a variety of water sports __ from deep-

through neighborhoods and villages not only

water synchronized swimming to fitness

Each year, The Summerlin Council coordinates

provide great places to enjoy the outdoors,

lap swimming and water lounging. And

dozens of recreational activities and athletic

they link neighbors to each other and

Summerlin is home to no fewer than nine

competitions for residents, including 5k

residents to major community amenities.

golf courses, including Nevada’s only two

marathons, community basketball tournaments

Tournament Players Club (TPC) courses.

and a variety of sports leagues for residents

tennis,

Famous

for

its

meandering

trails,

Summerlin’s recreational amenities have always earned high marks in homebuyer

“There’s no excuse for not staying fit or

Summerlin lifestyle, according to Orrock.

of all ages.

the

keeping active in Summerlin with immediate

On a professional level, Tournament

Summerlin trail system, which offers

access to a broad range of recreational

Players Club (TPC) at Summerlin has hosted

miles of uninterrupted and varied scenery,

options,” Orrock says. “We constantly

the PGA Tour’s Las Vegas Invitational (now

evaluate Summerlin’s list of amenities,

the Justin Timberlake Shriners Children’s

looking for ways to make the community’s

Hospital Open) for more than 15 years. In

offerings even better. The community’s close

fact, Tiger Woods won his first professional

proximity to Red Rock Canyon National

tournament at TPC Summerlin in 1997.

surveys.

In

fact,

residents

rank

Conservation Area and the Spring Mountain

Developed by The Howard Hughes

Range make it a true recreational haven

Corporation, an affiliate of General Growth

for those who appreciate an active outdoor

Properties Inc., Summerlin began to take

lifestyle.”

shape in 1990 and has ranked as one of

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation

communities for more than a decade.

destinations for rock climbing, cycling Geographic Adventure named Las Vegas as

Homes are available in a variety of styles __ from single-family homes to townhomes, condominiums and lofts __ priced from the

the country’s top city to live and play based

high $100,000s to more than $2 million.

on its proximity to world-class recreational

Custom homesites in The Ridges are priced

venues. The article, published in September

from the $500,000s. For more information on

2007, cited Summerlin specifically as one

Summerlin, visit www.summerlin.com or call

of the Valley’s best places to live because

702/791-4500.

and mountain biking. In fact, National

The numerous lighted trails are Summerlin’s No. 1 amenity.

the top 10 best-selling master-planned

Area is considered one of the country’s top

WINTER 2009 • 43


I N

L A S

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Master-Planned Communities, Las Vegas Style Live a small-town life in a desert oasis. lmost 40 years ago, Las Vegans were introduced to a new standard in single-family home living: the master-planned community. In 1969, Pardee Homes created Spring Valley, a 1,160-acre development in the southwest area of Southern Nevada. Today, some 6,000 families live in Pardee-built neighborhoods, complete with tree-lined walkways, parks, schools, churches and retail centers. Encouraged by the success of Spring Valley, homebuilders and developers have created more than 25 master-planned communities and planned residential developments, offering Southern Nevadans a wide range of housing choices and lifestyles, from waterfront homesites to country club living.

A

IN THE WEST SUMMERLIN Summerlin is a 22,500-acre master44 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

planned community located along the western rim of the Las Vegas Valley, just east of the Spring Mountain Range and Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. The community began to take shape in 1990, and by 1992, it ranked as the country’s best-selling master-planned community, a distinction it held for a decade. The community features an unparalleled number of amenities that contribute to the quality of life for which Summerlin is known. These include more than 100 neighborhood and village parks that feature a variety of athletic fields and courts; nine golf courses, including Nevada’s only two Tournament Players Club courses affiliated with the PGA; more than 120 completed miles of the Summerlin Trail System; more than 20 public and private schools; a dozen houses of worship; shopping centers; business and office parks; restaurants; medical centers, including Nevada Cancer

Institute and Summerlin Hospital Medical Center; and cultural facilities, including the Summerlin Library, Performing Arts Center and Nevada Ballet Theatre. Residents also enjoy a strong sense of community fostered by a full calendar of social events, along with a variety of classes, activities, camps and workshops offered by The Summerlin Council, the nonprofit arm of the Summerlin Community Association. Summerlin features homes in a variety of styles, from single-family homes to townhomes, condominiums and lofts. The diverse housing options have already attracted nearly 100,000 residents and will attract 100,000 more by 2020. Visit www.summerlin.com.

IN THE SOUTHWEST MOUNTAIN’S EDGE This 3,500-acre master-planned community celebrates the rich history of the Valley. Within


RHODES RANCH Rhodes Ranch is a 1,300-acre community featuring executive, semi-custom and custom homes around an 18-hole, semi-private Ted Robinson-designed golf course. From the guarded-gate entry, water features, fountains and lakes, and the hundreds of palm trees and shrubs, Rhodes Homes’ visionary Jim Rhodes has created an oasis in the desert. Visit www.rhodeshomes.com. SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS A master-planned masterpiece, Southern Highlands comprises 2,300 acres set in the foothills just 10 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip. With beautiful tree-lined streets, Southern Highlands is an active community with planned amenities, such as bike and jogging trails, miles of hiking, public

and private schools, community parks, a marketplace for everyday shopping and a business center housing commercial and professional offices. For those seeking private living, The Estates is an enclave of neighborhoods within the guard-gated country club setting of the Southern Highlands Golf Club. Ranging from one-half acre to two acres and priced from $600,000 to more than $1 million, homesites within The Estates feature incredible views of the mountains, the 18-hole Robert Trent championship golf course and the Las Vegas Strip. The Villages at Southern Highlands are a showcase of impressive home designs by more than a dozen of Las Vegas’ premier builders. Each home is a successful union of style and value, recognized for meticulous craftsmanship and high standards of quality. Visit www.southernhighlands.com.

IN THE NORTH ALIANTE American Nevada Company and Del Webb Communities have collectively developed more than 40,000 homesites within Southern Nevada’s finest master-planned communities. Aliante, encompassing more than 1,900 acres, reflects that tradition for quality, combining the intimate feel and human-scale quality of a small town with the sophistication and connectedness of a smart city. This multiphase project will ultimately encompass approximately 7,500 homes. Home prices range from the high $100,000s to the low $700,000s. In addition, Del Webb Communities is building the age-qualified Sun City Aliante community, which ranked No. 3 of top 100 places to retire by Where to Retire magazine in 2007. Visit www.aliantehomes.com.

IN THE NORTHWEST PROVIDENCE Providence is a Focus Property Group master-planned community whose principles will be found in the celebration of the optimism of American frontiers and the American West, a way of life deeply rooted in the traditions of small-town America. Plans for Providence, a 1,200-acre masterplanned community located at the North I-215 beltway and Hualapai Road, include an

Photo courtesy of Focus Property Group Mountain’s Edge

the community’s boundaries lies a portion of the Old Spanish Trail from which explorers first discovered the Las Vegas Valley. Several famous explorers traveled that path through Southern Nevada. All of the parks planned for Mountain’s Edge will be named in tribute to those explorers and others who first settled the area. Located at the intersection of Buffalo Drive and Blue Diamond Road in southwest Las Vegas, Mountain’s Edge’s master plan allows for more than 500 acres of parks, trails and open space, as well as public facilities, four schools and a fire station. The focal point of Mountain’s Edge is Exploration Peak, which rises to 2,846 feet at the entrance to the community. Nature created a rich fossil find along Exploration Peak, and prior to the community’s groundbreaking ceremony, Focus Property Group restored the mountain with nearly 10,000 native plants. Exploration Park, the park sitting at the base of Exploration Peak, will include an Old West town, Native American play structures, an archeological dig area, a water play area and other attractions. The community also will be home to a nearly 300-acre regional park located near the center of the community. Mountain’s Edge has zoned 50 acres of land for mixed-use commercial and 48 acres as retail and office professional. Visit www.mountainsedge.com.

MASTER-PLANNED COMMUNITIES WEST Canyon Gate The Lakes Peccole Ranch Summerlin SOUTHWEST Mountain’s Edge Rhodes Ranch Southern Highlands Spanish Trails NORTH Aliante Eldorado NORTHWEST Coyote Springs Desert Shores Kyle Canyon Lynbrook Painted Desert Providence Silverstone Ranch SOUTHEAST (HENDERSON) Anthem Green Valley Green Valley Ranch Inspirada Lake Las Vegas MacDonald Ranch Seven Hills Silverado Ranch Tuscany EAST Las Vegas Country Club Stallion Mountain WINTER 2009 • 45


Photo courtesy of American West Homes

architectural styles and amenities in which neighborhoods are centered around public parks and gathering spaces. It is a community where seven 200- to 250-acre residential villages featuring choices from brownstones to estate homes will surround an approximately 300-acre city center filled with restaurants, shops, offices and other commercial amenities. Inspirada combines the benefits of traditional city neighborhoods with the conveniences, amenities and visual appeal of modern life. Inspirada goes beyond city and suburb alike to deliver a completely new way to live in Las Vegas. There are community parks, landscaped streets and architecture not dominated by garages. Visit www.focuspropertygroup.com.

estimated 7,500 single- and multifamily units in 36 subdivisions as well as 16 acres of commercial development. Focus Property Group has committed to placing more than 4,000 large shade trees throughout Providence to provide a unique arbor quality to the community. Wide tree-lined boulevards and formally planted landscapes in paseos and parks visually reinforce the classic American literary theme of westward exploration from every perspective. The Providence master plan allows 33 acres for parks, 10 miles of trails systems, and 63 acres for schools consisting of two elementary schools and one middle school, in addition to the existing Centennial High School. Visit www.providencelv.com.

is to have 30,000 residents when completed. Anthem celebrated its grand opening in 1998, and includes five distinctive communities: Anthem Country Club, a guardgated country club community; Sun City Anthem, for active adults 55 and better; Coventry Homes at Anthem, for first-time buyers; Anthem Highlands; and Solera, an active adult retirement community. Anthem’s common amenities include commercial centers, nature trails, 55-acre city park and landscaped common areas. The private Anthem Country Club is home to the first Keith Foster/Hale Irwin-designed golf course in Southern Nevada. The Revere at Sun City Anthem was designed by Greg Nash and Billy Casper. Visit www.delwebb.com

IN THE SOUTHEAST (HENDERSON)

INSPIRADA Located in the southern foothills of the Las Vegas Valley, Inspirada is a nearly 2,000-acre town unto itself, a blend of

ANTHEM Quietly nestled in the foothills of the Black Mountains is 5,000-acre Anthem, which 46 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

TUSCANY Tuscan charm meets modern design in this residential village. The community is centered around a golf course designed by Ted Robinson Jr., with homes of all types in nine subdivisions. Available to all residents is La Vita Tuscana, which houses a recreation center, fitness gym, billiards room, meeting rooms, tennis and basketball courts, and a pool. Visit www.rhodeshomes.com LAKE LAS VEGAS With a Mediterranean theme reflected in the overall design and ambiance, Lake Las Vegas Resort is a $5-billion, 2,600-acre residential and resort community surrounding a privately owned, 320-acre lake with 10 miles of shoreline. Internationally recognized as one of 10 significant projects that will define contemporary urban life in the 21st century, Lake Las Vegas Resort will, at full build-out, include up to six luxury hotels, two public golf courses, several private golf courses, world-class shopping and dining, estate and single-family custom and semi-custom homes, and a 20-acre wetlands park. Visit www.lakelasvegas.com.


Great Company…Great Service…Great Communities!

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Call (702) 616-8786 www.PicerneAptsLV.com

WINTER 2009 • 47


L A S

V E G A S

CityCenter

Vertical Living Up is where it’s at in Las Vegas. hile homeowners and buyers

W

are now priced from $174,190 and have easy

allows homeowners to be as creative and

look for the bottom of the

access to Interstate 15, Las Vegas Boulevard

self-expressive as they want.

housing market, there are deals

and downtown. If you’re willing to raise the

to be had at some of the hottest condos and

stakes, check out the tower suites and

CityCenter

mixed-use communities in the area. In a city

two-story penthouses.

866/722-7171, www.citycenter.com CityCenter is preparing to open in late

known for its glitz and glamour, newcomers want to live close to the action that can only

C2 Lofts

Dec. 2009. The urban resort destination was

be found in Vegas, baby. Here’s our list of

702/646-6000, www.c2lofts.com

designed (with sustainability in mind) by

top picks.

Ready for an immediate move-in? C2 Lofts

offers

residents

that

eight world-renowned architects and is a

luxury.

“city within a city.” The $7-billion project is

Allure Las Vegas

Compliments of award-winning developer

housed between the Monte Carlo and

866/699-8080, www.allurelasvegas.com

Christopher Homes, C2 Lofts feature open

Bellagio casinos and is “destined to redefine

Allure Las Vegas isn’t just a place to live,

floor plans, brick walls and exposed

the skyline,” as its website states. It’s also

it’s a domestic partnership. The 41-story

mechanical ductwork that give residents an

the largest privately funded development in

tower not only offers studio and penthouse

authentic loft experience. Buyers can choose

U.S. history. Included in this mass luxury

options, it also provides residents with a VIP

between the Summerlin or Upper West Side

project is the 57-story Vdara Condo Hotel,

concierge service that handles everything

locations, both of which start in the

with a nongaming atmosphere that offers

from grocery shopping to chartering an

$300,000s and offer Energy Star ratings,

1,495 professional turnkey rooms and suites,

aircraft. Its 428 units and 15 distinct studio

low-e dual pane windows and private

pool, fitness center, 24-hour concierge and

and one-, two- and three-bedroom options

terraces. It’s a loft-living experience that

in-room dining. Veer Towers, inclined at CONTINUED ON PAGE 50

48 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

Photo courtesy of CityCenter Land LLC

I N


L A S V E G A S R E L O C AT I O N S E RV I C E C A R D Please complete the following questionnaire and mail back to us or visit our website at www.relocatinginlasvegas.com Name Address City

State

Phone Day (

)

I Plan to Relocate in: 1-3 months 4-6 months I presently:

own

I’m presently:

Number in household:

more than 6 months

rent

married

Age: 18-25 26-35 36-45 46-55 56-65 66 and over

Zip

Evening (

single

adults

children ages

When I Relocate I plan to: build a home buy a home rent a home/apartment lease/buy commercial property

)

Email

Gross annual income (household): $20,001-$35,000 $35,001-$50,000 $50,001-$75,000 $75,001-$100,000 $100,001-$200,000 $200,000 and up Are you Relocating: Your business With new employer With current employer Other

How did you find out about Relocating in Las Vegas? Internet Chamber of commerce Extended stay hotel Real estate office/agent Newsstand Personnel/relocation office Model home Other When I relocate I plan to: Live in urban areas Live in suburban areas

❒ C H E C K B O X E S F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N ❏ University of Phoenix

ACCOMMODATIONS ❏ Bluegreen Club 36

53 ❏ University of Southern Nevada

❏ Emerald Suites

31 ❏ UNLV College of Business MBA Program

❏ Homestead Suites

30

❏ Residence Inn

54

66-67

60 ❏ News 13 MOVERS/STORAGE ❏ All American Van & Storage

FINANCIAL SERVICES ❏ Community One Federal Credit Union

18

APARTMENTS/RENTAL SERVICES ❏ Camden Property Trust

33

❏ Picerne Management

47

❏ The Source Companies

19

❏ Move U 4 Less

7

81

❏ Rio Secco

87

HEALTH & BEAUTY

❏ Summerlin

HOME PRODUCTS/SERVICES

77 ❏ Aquascape Pools 42-43 ❏ Braza Stone ❏ Discount Flooring Outlet

EDUCATION ❏ Challenger School

IFC

37

13, 59 ❏ Walker Furniture

❏ Deluxe Properties Ltd.

35

❏ Keller Williams-Pessin

27, 96 39

RELOCATION CONSULTING

91 ❏ Relocation Consulting Services

69, 71 ❏ Nannies & Housekeepers

❏ College of Southern Nevada

IBC

49

53

72 ❏ Inside Style

27

REAL ESTATE AGENTS/OFFICES

93 ❏ Re/Max Benchmark Realty

65 ❏ Dream Home Flooring

❏ Clark County School District ❏ Henderson International School

25

76

❏ CORT ❏ The Adelson Education Campus

❏ City of Henderson Economic Development

73 ❏ The Stirling Club

6 1

37

❏ St. Rose Dominican Hospital

❏ Mira Villa ❏ Quintessa Condominiums/Camden Homes

ORGANIZATIONS

62-63 ❏ North Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce

61

55

❏ Boulder City Chamber of Commerce

❏ HCA-Sunrise Hospital

4 ❏ Westfield Eye Center

❏ Pardee Homes

❏ Storage One

❏ Las Vegas National Golf Club

❏ American West Homes

17

47 ❏ Extra Space Storage

GOLF COURSES

2 ❏ Four Seasons Dental & Med Spa

COMMUNITIES/BUILDERS

36

3

ADULT COMMUNITIES/RETIREMENT HOMES ❏ Heritage Springs

MEDIA

91

RESTAURANTS

5 ❏ Via Brasil Steakhouse

94

11 TELECOMMUNICATIONS

9

❏ The International School of Hospitality

70

❏ The Meadows School

60 ❏ St. Anthony of Padua Parish

❏ Montessori Visions Academy

70

❏ Embarq

HOUSE OF WORSHIP 68

BC, 29


The Guide For Making The Move! I N

L A S

V E G A S

www.relocatinginlasvegas.com For faster response to your questions, visit our website at:

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One Queensridge Place

Photo courtesy of C2 Lofts, a Christopher Company

Photo by Erin O'Boyle Photographics Copyright 2009

C2 Lofts

dramatic opposing angles, is made up of two

at Centennial Hills. With 15 floor plans, and

One Queensridge Place

37-story glass towers, each containing

one- to four-bedroom options, residents can

702/646-6377, www.oneqrp.com

approximately 350 residences, along with a

pick and choose what works best for them:

choice of a studio, deluxe studio, one or two

upgraded

and

architecture. On the inside, each unit, whether

bedrooms, or a penthouse spanning anywhere

cabinetry; home theater and surround sound;

it’s a garden, terrace or courtyard level or even

from 500 to 1,800 square feet. The Residences

steam shower; soft water equipment; alarm

the upper terrace penthouse, enjoys rich

at Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas offer high-end

system;

electric

finishes, materials and fixtures. Customize the

everything

surrounded

by

a

flooring,

storage

countertops

spaces;

and

One Queensridge Place merges art with

Zen-like

barbecue outlet. If it’s convenience that’s

kitchen, bathrooms, bedroom, powder and

atmosphere that continues to the elevated

desired, Echelon is just steps away from

laundry rooms, and wet bar/wine cellar with

pool, fitness center and elegant salon.

shopping and entertainment venues, not to

your own taste, upgrading to your desire. The

But if you’re an out-of-towner, be sure to

mention the 24-hour gated security and

development, inside and out, features

check out the Aria Resort and Casino, with

surveillance system, Echelon Club, heated

ironwork, statues, fountains, columns and

its 4,004 guest rooms; 150,000 square feet of

pools and spas, garage parking and

mosaics designed by local and international

gaming; pools and cabanas; a European-

concierge services within the development.

artists, with inspiration provided by the Trevi

style pool; 16 restaurants and 10 bars and

Fountain in Rome, the Champs-Elysees in

lounges that includes a nightclub; an 80,000-

The Mercer

Paris and the Parthenon in Athens. Guests can

square-foot, two-level spa and salon with 62

877/365-6372, www.themercerlv.com

stay in one of three Queensridge Casitas,

individual spa treatment rooms; deluxe

At The Mercer, residents experience the

which include a bedroom, bath, living room

fitness room; meditation and relaxation

urban lifestyle with numerous benefits,

and kitchenette, while residents enjoy views

rooms; separate men’s and women’s spa

including hardwood floors, central air and

all year long of the Las Vegas Strip and the

with eucalyptus steam rooms and redwood

heat, low-e insulated windows, high-end

Red Rock Mountains.

saunas; and, as if that’s not enough, the

appliances, custom vanities, semi-private

1,800-seat theater that includes the musical

elevators, underground parking, gated

Panorama Towers

celebration of Elvis Presley from Cirque du

courtyard, clubhouse, fitness center, and a

702/736-5008, www.panoramatowers.com

Soleil. To mix things up a bit, take a stroll

pool and Jacuzzi. With one-, two- and three-

over to the much-talked-about retail outlet,

bedroom floor plans starting in the

Panorama Towers offers penthouse suites that

Crystals, which will house high-end

$400,000s, residents can enjoy the comfort

range from 700-4,400 square feet. As Dean

restaurants, retailers and entertainment not

of their home in style. Plus, what’s better

Martin was a Las Vegas icon, the Panorama

found anywhere else.

than having 12,000 square feet of retail

Towers hope to follow in his footsteps; they

conveniently on-site? When you want to

are, after all, located on Dean Martin Drive.

Echelon at Centennial Hills

catch a glimpse of the city’s bright lights,

Once settled inside, residents enjoy 10-foot

702/432-8333, www.echelonlasvegas.com

spend some time on your private balcony or

ceilings, stone-slab countertops, concierge

deck or in your garden.

services

Customization is a key factor at Echelon 50 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

Starting

from

and

the

onsite

low

$300,000s,

his-and-her

spas.


Surrounded by terraced grounds and carefully

Turnberry Place

detailed landscaping and green space,

702/784-4601, www.turnberryplace.com

Panorama Towers left room for pools, ponds

Located between Paradise Road and

and waterways with the hope of creating a

Karen Avenue, Turnberry Place features

village-within-a-city feel. Residents also take

contemporary-designed spaces that range

advantage of the racquetball court, fitness

from 530-1,550 square feet and cost

center, massage and steam rooms, laundry and

$530,000-$5 million. It’s sold out, but check

concierge services, large-screen theater room

in quick because resales are available. If it’s

and multi-level parking. But if you spend

quality you want, you’ll find it here with

most days inside your home, the suites are

Italian marble, whirlpool baths, Sub-Zero

fully equipped with custom-made cabinetry,

and

granite

and

wrap-around balconies with expansive views

additional

of the city. Amenities include a $40 million

attention paid to lighting, flooring and

private club, valet, concierge services and

other details.

limo service, as well as a guard-gated entry

and

high-end

marble

countertops,

appliances,

with

Gaggenau

appliances,

and

glass

and a 24-hour staffed lobby. Plus, it’s Sky Las Vegas

only a three-mile drive from McCarran

702/877-4SKY, www.skylasvegas.com

International Airport.

Sky Las Vegas is a condominium development that includes 409 units, ranging

Turnberry Towers

from 870-5,500 square feet and priced from

702/732-9797, www.turnberrytowers.com Ranging from $500,000-$1.3 million,

million, with penthouse units and three-story suites with rooftop garden patios as additional options. The most luxurious — Tower suites, penthouses and SkySuites — will be designed with added luxury upgrades

Photo courtesy of Trump Hotel Las Vegas

approximately $500,000 to more than $5

Turnberry Towers literally offers technology at your fingertips. With a push of a button, residents can request their car from valet, reserve a tennis court, schedule maintenance, Trump Tower

and order food and a city guide for dining,

above and beyond those already included,

best of the best materials and appliances,

entertainment, movies and events — now

such as hardwood floors and upgraded

contemporary furnishings, custom-designed

that’s convenience. Turnberry Towers,

sumptuous marble flooring. Residents can

vanities, twin sinks, marble countertops, spa

situated on 10 acres and located on Paradise

enjoy an outdoor recreation area with pool and

tub, Italian marble flooring, flat-screen TV,

Road next to the Las Vegas Hilton resort

garden space complete with putting green,

and 24-hour concierge and service staff.

hotel in the heart of Las Vegas, debuted in

outdoor fire pit and barbeque area. Indoor

The Trump Hotel Las Vegas is 64 stories,

2008, offering a guard-gated entry and

amenities include a spa and fitness center,

housing 1,232 furnished suites, along with 50

24-hour staff. Dual towers will be 45 stories

business center with private meeting room,

penthouse suites. With top-notch amenities,

high and offer one-, two- and three-bedroom

private screening room, billiard room with bar,

especially the glass windows gilded in gold,

luxury condos and penthouses. Each

valet parking, concierge services and security.

The Trump Hotel offers out-of-towners an

Turnberry Tower will have its own fitness

experience of a lifetime. The five-star Trump

facility, pool and sundeck.

Trump International Hotel and Tower

Hotel Condominium program, on the other

The top 12 floors in each tower will

Las Vegas

hand, offers maintenance-free living for

house only three-bedroom condos. Each

877/878-6711, www.trumplv.com

visitors — if one of the units’ homeowners

condominium holds the Turnberry standard of

Show him the money and Trump will

isn’t around, they can give permission to

luxury with Snaidero cabinetry, whirlpool tubs,

show you high-quality, luxurious one- and

have their space rented out to Las Vegas

granite

two-bedroom units; studio units; and one-,

guests. Residents receive lock-out closets for

appliances. What sets Turnberry Towers apart is

two- or three bedroom penthouse suites.

security

the

the electronic concierge service, mentioned

Each

combination — living in luxury and making

above, and residents also have a membership to

money the Donald Trump way.

the Stirling Club located at Turnberry Place.

space

includes

floor-to-ceiling

windows, a European-style kitchen with the

and

privacy.

It’s

quite

countertops

and

top-of-the-line

WINTER 2009 • 51


the adjoining courtyard that provides an outdoor gathering space for up to 250 guests I N

L A S

for formal or informal gatherings. The Active

V E G A S

Adult Center also includes two multiuse classrooms, computer classroom with 16 student computer stations, library and office space. The participants utilize the indoor pool, gymnasium, dance room and fitness/weight room in the main community center. By adding the Active Adult Center, the city has an opportunity to capture the new emerging seniors and provide the services and programs they want. The city is able to © iStockphoto/Spencer Gordon

offer innovative programming at a superior level to meet the needs of this influential demographic. One key factor is that staff will continue to actively listen to participants and develop programs that meet the needs and desires of the varied age groups. New

Retiring in Style

programs being developed include rafting trips, hikes, digital camera classes, overnight camping and fishing trips. Participants also

Forget Florida! Sunny Las Vegas is the place to be.

are involved in rock climbing, indoor sky

alm trees and casinos. Warm weather

national average of 2,500. Las Vegas has

diving, and a wide range of exercise and

and great food. Amazing night life and

1,700 acres of park space and more than

fitness programs. For less active and older

no income tax. These are just a few of

40 recreation facilities.

senior residents, traditional programs like

P

card games and crafts are still offered.

the reasons so many relocators are retiring in

The Department of Leisure Services

Las Vegas. Nevada is now the most popular

offers a menagerie of classes, programs,

The city also offers community events.

retirement destination in the United States,

activities, outings and special events each

Each year in May, the Helldorado Evening

followed by Arizona and Florida. The

month for seniors and active adults at

Parade brings people together. Helldorado

50-plus population is continually growing in

seven different centers. A specific division

days began in 1935 to bring tourists to town to

Las Vegas, and with its 24/7 atmosphere,

within Leisure Services is dedicated to

celebrate the completion of the Hoover Dam.

there is always something to do and

providing high-quality, affordable activities

It has evolved into an esteemed event that

someone to do it with.

to entertain, educate and help adults ages 50

unites locals with community spirit and raises

According to Richard Wassmuth of

and better stay active. Whether it’s going on

money for local charities. Festivities include

the city’s Planning and Development

a hike, learning a new skill or gaining

the parade, fireworks show, art show and

Department, the Las Vegas Strip is, for the

information on health and wellness, the

silent

most part, not located within the city limits

programs offer options to enrich life.

Golf Tournament and the Texas Hold ‘em

auction,

the

Shootout

Charity

Poker Tournament.

of Las Vegas. Even when you remove the

In the fastest-growing area of the city,

glitz and glamour of The Strip, there’s still

Centennial Hills Community Center features

Esther Boyter, with the City of Las Vegas,

plenty to do in this town.

an Active Adult wing and is programmed

was the vice president of the Freemont

specifically

Street Experience for 10 years and currently

In February 2008, Las Vegas was recognized as one of the Top 20 American

for

the

increasing

baby

boomer population.

works on Helldorado days. “I would love to

cities for helping promote healthy living to

Within the Active Adult Center, there

see more of the community and businesses

its residents by Cooking Light magazine.

is a multiuse room with a commercial

involved in the parade as well as attending

The city boasts three acres of open space

appliance-equipped kitchen, designed as a

the parade as spectators,” she says.

per 1,000 residents, which is above the

teaching/demonstration kitchen, as well as

52 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

CONTINUED ON PAGE 54


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With so many varied activities, the dry

about

the

city’s

Leisure

Department

ACTIVE ADULT COMMUNITIES

climate and a festive atmosphere, it’s

programs, go to www.lasvegasnevada.gov. To

DESTINATIONS

no wonder Las Vegas is now the most

learn more about Helldorado days, check out

Visit www.destinationsliving.com to find

sought-after place in the U.S. to retire.

www.elkshelldorado.com.

information on its nine area locations. SIENA

Perhaps the best reason is expressed by

After a full day of activities, retirees

Boyter: “I would really like people to know

deserve to go home to the best in

702/240-5700 or 800/856-7661

we do care about a community in a big city.”

living arrangements. Las Vegas provides

SOLERA AT ANTHEM

many quality communities for you and

800/764-9322, www.delwebb.com

your family.

SOLERA AT STALLION MOUNTAIN

For

more

information

on

the

mayor’s Healthy Lifestyle initiative, visit

702/457-0722, www.delwebb.com

www.gethealthylasvegas.com. To learn more

SUN CITY ALIANTE 800/843-4848, www.delwebb.com SUN CITY ANTHEM

Relocating? Stay at the Marriott Residence Inn Where caring people make you feel at home. • Spacious studio and one & two bedroom suites with up to 850 square feet of living space. • Full-size, fully-equipped kitchen. • Daily housekeeping service. We even do the dishes! • Complimentary daily breakfast buffet. • Evening reception Monday - Thursday. • Outdoor Pool / Hot Tub / Exercise Room. • On site laundry facility. • Plus, complimentary grocery shopping service & FREE morning newspaper.

888/786-2489, www.delwebb.com SUN CITY MESQUITE www.suncitymesquite.com SUN CITY SUMMERLIN 702/966-1408, www.delwebb.com ASSISTED/INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITIES ACACIA SPRINGS 702/942-8700, www.acaciasprings.com ATRIA SEVILLE 702/804-6800 www.atriaseniorliving.com ATRIA SUNLAKE 702/256-6500 www.atriaseniorliving.com ATRIA SUTTON 702/436-9000 www.atriaseniorliving.com HERITAGE SPRINGS 702/360-6023 www.heritagespringsseniorliving.com OAK HILL SENIOR LIVING 702/732-0652 www.oakdaleheights.com CONTINUED CARE COMMUNITY LAS VENTANAS

HENDERSON – GREEN VALLEY 2190 Olympic Avenue, Henderson, NV 89014

702-434-2700 Please ask for the Henderson rate when booking your reservation.

702/207-4215 or 888/252-5706 www.lasventanas-lifecare.com MODULAR HOMES THE MEADOWS 702/876-0486 www.lasvegasmeadows.com

54 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS


RESOURCES FOR RETIREES AARP of Nevada 702/938-3225, www.aarp.org/states/nv Nevada Division for Aging Services 702/486-3545, www.nvaging.net Nevada Care Connection 866/687-6822, www.nevadacareconnection.org ACTIVITY CENTERS Centennial Hills Active Adult Center 6601 N. Buffalo Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89131 702/229-1702 Derfelt Senior Center 3343 W. Washington Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89107 702/229-6001 Doolittle Senior Center 1930 J St. Las Vegas, NV 89106 702/229-6125 Dula Gymnasium 441 E. Bonanza Road Las Vegas, NV 89101 702/229-6307 East Las Vegas Community/Senior Center 250 N. Eastern Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89101 702/229-1515 Howard Lieburn Senior Center 6230 Garwood Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89107 702/229-1600 Las Vegas Senior Center 451 E. Bonanza Road Las Vegas, NV 89101 702/229-6454 Northwest Senior Center 6841 W. Lone Mountain Road Las Vegas, NV 89108 702/229-4794

WINTER 2009 • 55


I N

L A S

V E G A S

Far From Child’s Play Finding the right day care for your children. as Vegas is a city synonymous with luck. But, if you’re one of the 7,000 folks moving here each month, finding the proper day-care provider or day school for your child is not something you want to leave to chance. To ensure a proper fit, your choice should be driven by the specific needs of your child, according to Paula Speir, director of a KinderCare Learning Center in Henderson, catering to children 6 weeks to 12 years. KinderCare offers a free Child Care Decision Guide, available at KinderCare centers across the nation. “Where to send your child to day care can be one of the most angst-ridden issues facing parents making a move to a new city,” says Speir, who suggests doing a little homework in advance of your move. The good news is that there are a number

L

56 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

of resources available to help get you started in your search for a reliable and nurturing provider and equip you with the right questions to ask. Check out one of many child-care directories online like www.vpmom.com, or access information from Child Care Aware (CCA), a nonprofit committed to helping parents find the best information on locating quality child care. You should also determine if the provider you’ve chosen has been accredited by a national organization. The National Association for Family Child Care, www.nafcc.org, is one of the largest. It’s also a good idea to ask your real estate agent because some, like Prudential’s Gail Kelly, offer full-service relocation packages that include child-care information customized to the client. It will comfort you to know that — unlike

many areas of the country — in the Las Vegas area, all child-care providers must be licensed and are subject to the scrutiny of state and federal laws that ensure safety. Additionally, Nevada mandates that all-day child-care centers post menus and notify parents of communicable diseases, as well as regulate teacher-to-student ratios, which vary by age. All facilities must meet minimum standards established for the protection of the children receiving care. Licensed day-care centers in Las Vegas must have annual fire marshal inspections and monthly fire drills. Full-time employees must be certified in CPR and first aid. Whether your child-care decision is driven by necessity or choice, Debra Martinez, district director for La Petite Academy, one of the nation’s premier child-care centers (6 weeks to 10 years), encourages parents to ask questions and underscores that some things can be learned only by a site visit. La Petite Academy offers a parent handbook online at www.lapetite.com, outlining things parents should know about a provider. Additionally, parents can enter their new zip code to locate, learn more about and actually schedule a site visit in their new neighborhood. If it’s a nanny, housekeeper, baby nurse or babysitter you’re looking for, Absolute Best Care, www.absolutebestcare.com, is an agency that places highly qualified and thoroughly screened nannies with families who want one-on-one care for their children. “I believe we have the strictest guidelines of any agencies in this town,” says owner Jayson Bernstein. Absolute Best Care requires three years of prior child-care experience caring for other people’s children. Then there’s a written application and face-to-face interview, which Bernstein says, “We probably eliminate nine out of every 10 candidates who come through after that process.” Once interviewees make it to the next round, the agency verifies references, reaching as far back as 10 years, checks criminal and driving history, and completes a social security trace and sex offender search. In Las Vegas, there’s a virtual smorgasbord of child-care alternatives from which to choose, ranging from private in-home care to day-care facilities and preschools. Once you’ve chosen a suitable environment, remember to stay involved by visiting and volunteering to ensure you’re comfortable with the person caring for your child.


Ask these Questions when evaluating Child-Care Providers

The following governmental agencies provide licensing services for child-care providers, as well as referral listings for parents: • The City of Las Vegas — childcare licensing inside the city limits. (Department of Business Activity, Privilege License Division, Child Care Licensing, 400 Stewart Ave., 3rd Floor, Las Vegas, NV 89101) 702/229-6281, www3.ci.las-vegas.nv.us/bus-license • The Child Care Licensing Office within the Clark County Social Services Department — licensing agency for child-care providers in the unincorporated areas of Clark County (Child Care Licensing Office, 1600 Pinto Lane, Las Vegas, NV 89106; 702/455-3894.

Referral Service, 702/734-0504) Visit www.co.clark.nv.us/businesslicense and click on Child Care Licensing Office to check a provider’s license. • The Nevada Division of Child and Family Services — child-care licensing in the incorporated cities of Boulder City, Henderson, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. (Nevada Division of Child and Family Services, 711 E. Fifth St., Carson City, NV 89701; 775/684-4463 or 800/992-0900) You can download a list of licensed child-care facilities throughout the state (by county and city) at www.dcfs.state.nv.us or call the State of Nevada Bureau of Services for Child Care’s main office in Las Vegas at 702/486-7918.

1

Are you licensed or registered? Ask to see their license or certificate of registration. How long have you been providing care?

2

How many children do you care for?

3

Is there an open-door policy allowing parents to drop in at any time for a visit?

4

What programs/curriculum will children be taught at school, and how do the parents participate at home?

5

What is the student-teacher ratio at the school?

6

How is discipline handled?

7

What hours are the facility open?

8

What is the cost of care?

9

Is there a place for children to play outdoors? What activities/exercise is the child allowed on inclement weather days?

10

What kinds of meals/snacks are served?

11

What are the qualifications of the teachers/care providers, and how long have they been in this setting?

12

What is the vacation/illness policy?

13

Can you provide a list of references?

14

How does the staff communicate with parents about the child's day?

15

What is the program's philosophy, and how is the day structured?

WINTER 2009 • 57


L A S

V E G A S

Photo by Steve Sanders

I N

Back to School The ABCs of ongoing educational opportunities in Southern Nevada. IMMUNIZATIONS

he first 12 or so years of academic

T

immunization records. The following records

preparation are perhaps the most

also expedite the enrollment process and

All school-age children must be up-to-date on

important developmental years of every

ensure proper placement if your child is

all of their immunizations in order to enroll in

child’s life. Consequently, picking the right

transferring

or

Las Vegas area schools. According to the Clark

school for your child is of utmost importance.

district: previous school records showing

County Health Department, kindergartners need

Follow these valuable tips for students enrolling

placement in any special classes or programs,

five DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis and Tetanus)

in kindergarten through college to make the

a recent report card showing the name and

vaccinations, four Polio vaccinations and two

transition smooth and simple.

address of the former school, the most recent

MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella)

achievement test scores and any information

vaccinations. For people moving to the area from

about special health conditions.

out of state, it’s usually the last one that gets

ENROLLMENT Children must be 5 years old on or before

from

another

school

Under state law, to enter first grade, a child

them. Most states only require one MMR.

September 30 to enroll in kindergarten in the

must

state-approved

Although they are not required, the Health

Clark County School District.Parents in Clark

kindergarten program or pass a development

Department also offers Hepatitis A and Chicken

County need to have the following information

test. After assembling the required information,

Pox vaccinations free of charge. Parents of all

in order to enroll their child in school: two

parents can access zoning information at

school-age children can take advantage of these

forms of proof of residence (utility bill, lease or

www.zoning.ccsd.net or call 702/799-6430

two opportunities anytime, not just during the

rent receipt, and sales contract), child’s

to locate their assigned school, then call

back-to-school rush. Matriculating college

the school to find out when registration will

freshmen also need to make sure to get Tetanus

be held.

and MMR boosters.

identification

(original

certified

birth

certificate, passport or certified birth card) and

either

attend

a

CONTINUED ON PAGE 60

58 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS



Photo by Steve Sanders

There are several health centers throughout the Las Vegas area and all offer free immunizations. Call 702/383-1351 to find a location nearest you. The Shadow Lane facility is the busiest by far, serving 500 children a day during the back-to-school rush. For added convenience, the Health Department sponsors mobile immunization clinics at area malls, beginning in early August. Parents need to be sure to bring children’s current immunization

Photo by Steve Sanders

records to any location they choose to visit.

SPECIAL PROGRAMS The Clark County School District offers a wide range of specialized programs to meet the diverse needs of its student body. The district offers a variety of magnet schools and programs at all grade levels to which students may apply based on their interests and abilities. There are three elementary magnet schools, two middle school magnet programs and seven high school magnet programs. Areas of emphasis include science and mathematics, teacher preparation, fine and performing arts, technology, tourism, aerospace and aviation. 60 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS


Direct and support services are provided for students with disabilities ages 3 to 21. School teams collaborate with families and the community to offer quality learning experiences for students with disabilities to prepare them for life after school. Student success is the focus as trained teaching staff, supported by social workers, mentor teachers and vocational counselors, challenge students to meet the district’s educational speech therapists, psychologists, occupational and physical therapists, nurses, adaptive physical education and assistive technology. Additional programs offered by the district include Gifted and Talented Education; transitional bilingual and English as a Second Language programs; specialized reading programs; Credit by Exam; distance learning; independent study; community college high schools, in which students are able to earn college credit for elective courses; alternativesetting high schools to help reduce dropout rate; and two vocational schools. The district also uses outside resources to meet students’ needs. With the help of federal grants, for example, the district provides supplemental programs, such as Safe

and

Drug-Free

Schools,

Indian

Education, School-to-Careers, and Math and Science Enhancement.

STATEWIDE TESTING All Nevada students in the fourth, eighth and 10th grades take the TerraNova test in October. The TerraNova is a norm-referenced test taken by children in many states to assess student achievement in reading, language, math and science. In addition, during 11th or 12th grade, all Nevada high school students are expected to pass the Nevada High School Proficiency Exam in reading, writing and math. Students in the Clark County School District typically perform near the national average on these standardized tests, with math scores usually higher than reading or language scores. College-bound students generally perform at or above the national averages on the SAT or ACT. WINTER 2009 • 61


What is aDental Spa? W

hen you consider relocating to Las Vegas, you probably know that people from all over the world fly into Las Vegas for first class dining and entertainment. What you probably don't know is that discerning individuals come to Las Vegas specifically for the highest caliber of dental care. When you move to the desert, you will find that Las Vegas has some very unique treasures for its residents. One of the hidden gems is Four Seasons Dental & Med Spa™, created by Dr. James Wright and his wife Debby, who moved to sunny Las Vegas, from the windy city of Chicago. They loved Chicago, but don't miss the winters. Originators of the Dental Spa concept in Las Vegas, their vision was to create a unique dental practice offering state-of-the-art dental care, with the latest innovations in hi-tech equipment and medical training. You will find their five star cast to be highly trained, helpful and compassionate. Dr. Wright's artistic talent and reputation for beautiful smiles is the main reason that celebrities and residents alike choose to have their smile makeovers done at this relaxing oasis in the desert. Upon arrival at the Four Seasons Dental & Med Spa, you are welcomed by posh, lavender scented surroundings, a 1,500 gallon salt water aquarium, soft soothing music, and a friendly, caring staff. Complimentary spa amenities are provided to relax and soothe patients prior to dental appointments. Arrive a little early for some relaxation, sip a latte’ or chai tea while you enjoy a luxurious massage chair or Aquamassage™ (the unique water massage bed gives patients a comforting full body massage while they remain fully clothed and dry). Your initial dental visit starts with a relaxing warm hand treatment of hydrating paraffin or soy, which are perfect for our dry desert climate. Next you will receive a full mouth set of digital x-rays, laser cavity detection, oral cancer screening, periodontal diagnosis, and a comprehensive examination with the doctor. Your visit concludes with cleaning and

BY A L I G U G G E N H E I M

polishing. The patient rooms are equipped with the latest diode laser technology, and advanced digital x-rays which reduce radiation exposure up to 90%. Patients can watch TV shows, cable news, or even a movie on a flat screen monitor, which is also used to show patients x-rays, intra-oral photos, and educational dental videos. An unpretentious, kind and gentle man, Dr. James Wright explains, “I always work in microscopic surgical loupes (binocular microscopes used in surgery). Our focus is on delivering the finest quality of dentistry, whether the procedure is Invisalign™ braces , dental implants, Lumineers™ (which patients love because there are no shots and no painful grinding down of their natural teeth), traditional veneers, a crown, or a single white filling. Although it may slow me down a bit, I am a perfectionist, and prefer to work at a very precise and exacting standard.” A proponent of mercury free holistic dentistry, Dr. Wright offers his patients special protocols to protect against their exposure to mercury during mercury, amalgam filling removal. In addition to this, patients are educated about pharmaceutical quality nutraceutical products to cleanse heavy metals from their system and support dental and gum health. Dr. Wright explained, “Cosmetic and extreme makeovers are my favorite procedures. These cases can be upper and/or lower veneers or full mouth reconstructions, where I am restoring the patient’s mouth to its ideal functional form. The before and after photos tell amazing stories of patients whose lives have changed dramatically. But, listening to their stories is the best … they are so gratifying.” The noise of drilling has always contributed to dental anxiety. In order for the Dental Spa experience to be more relaxing, Dr. Wright sought out virtually noiseless, hi-tech precision drills. Prepare to be pleasantly surprised by the soothing sounds of the Dental Spa, an eclectic environment, designed for you to step out of your hectic life into calm, nurturing surroundings, where worries and anxiety disappear.


Graduating at the top of his class, Dr. Wright received his Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the highly acclaimed Marquette University. He interned with a Pankey Master Dentist for one year to obtain advanced training in bite equilibration (bite correction) and Temporal Mandibular Joint (TMJ) Therapy. He enjoys advanced dental training and attends seminars regularly. Recently, Dr. Wright attended Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, and the Dawson Academy for Dental Excellence. His artistic talent, 21 years experience, and advanced training, make him a master at creating comfortable beautiful smiles. Dr. Wright married Debby 6 years ago, and they work together to create a dental experience that patients rave about. Patients are not alone in their accolades of Dr. Wright. He was selected for listing in “Treasures of Nevada,” as Nevada Woman Extreme Makeover Dentist and voted by his peers as Las Vegas “Top Dentist Award Winner”. He currently serves on the Nevada Dental Society's Peer Review Board. In order to create the practice of their dreams, like-minded, well-rounded doctors and professional staff were required. Together the Wrights set out to find the best and the brightest. They agreed that if Dr. Wright was going to focus on cosmetic and holistic dentistry, then they would need to find the highest caliber dentist to provide “in network” PPO services for patients who are limited to insurance plan benefits. Lewis Kulik, D.D.S. was recruited to serve as their “in-network” PPO insurance provider. He graduated from the New York College of Dentistry in 1970, and has accumulated a collection of educational accomplishments and honors. All of their patients enjoy Dr. Kulik’s sence of humor and dental expertise. He was recently appointed as a disciplinary screening officer for the Nevada State Dental Board. Ed De Andrade, D.D.S. was recruited as their board certified periodontist, limiting his practice to implantology and periodontics. Dr. De Andrade is a gentle caring doctor who is known for his precision and expertise in gum surgery and

J A MES P. W RIGHT, DDS

dental implants. He is very informative, kind and easy to talk with. His patients say they feel comfortable and confident in his care. Dr. De Andrade graduated at the top of his class from the New York University College of Dentistry in 1995. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology (the highest level of professional achievement in periodontics) a distinction achieved by very few periodontists. While you are at the Dental Spa, check out their Med Spa services, which include a variety of facials, relaxation and anti-aging treatments, manicures and pedicures. Med Spa services are available before, during and after dental treatments. You may of course choose to book a separate appointment to indulge yourself for several hours of pampering. Some differences between this Med Spa and a regular day spa are the use of medical grade sterilization and medical grade products for every treatment. “IS Clinical” and “OBAGI” are among the superlative products used for facials and post facial treatments. Using these high quality products and medical grade sterilization, clients can relax and have a manicure, pedicure or facial in a private room with confidence that they are getting the very best care. The Med Spa features the Stateof-the-art Perfector™. It is the latest in non-invasive micro, nano and pico current facial treatments for anti-aging. Using wands or gloves, their spa aestheticians use the Perfector’s many programs to naturally induce your body to repair sagging skin and fill in areas with natural collagen. This amazing technology was imported from Europe, where it was created by the inventor of the pacemaker. It is a medical device which is bringing hi-tech energy medicine into modern holistic medicine. Patients find the Perfector treatments to be very relaxing and love achieving results without painful injections. Debby Wright explains, “The Dental Spa aspect enables our patients to have a better experience with us, and for some people it is the difference between going to the dentist, or avoiding the dentist. A beautiful, healthy smile can change a person’s life. Debby sums up their founding philosophy, “Four Seasons Dental & Med Spa is about more than terrific teeth and a stunning smile. With a gorgeous new smile, patients are more confident, smile more, and look years younger.” Four Seasons Dental & Med Spa is located at 8855 W. Flamingo Road, (between Durango and Ft. Apache), Las Vegas, NV 89147. You can reach them at 702-309-4600 or visit their web site at www.FourSeasonsDentalSpa.com


I N

L A S

V E G A S

Good School Guide Quality schools and programs for everyone in your family. COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES The Art Institute of Las Vegas

2350 Corporate Circle, Henderson, NV

702/369-9944

www.ailv.artinstitutes.edu

College of Southern Nevada

6375 W. Charleston Blvd., Las Vegas, NV

702/650-2276

www.csn.edu

Everest College-LasVegas

170 N. Stephanie St., Henderson, NV

702/567-1920

www.everest.edu/campus/henderson

The International School of Hospitality

3614 E. Sunset Road, Ste. 110, Las Vegas, NV

702/947-7200

www.tisoh.com

National University

2850 W. Horizon Ridge Pkwy, Ste. 301, Henderson, NV

702/531-7800

www.nu.edu

Nevada State College

1125 Nevada State Drive, Henderson, NV

702/992-2000

www.nsc.nevada.edu

Regis University-Henderson Campus

1401 N. Green Valley Pkwy, Ste. 100, Henderson, NV

702/990-0375

www.regis.edu

Sierra Nevada College

999 Tahoe Blvd., Incline Village, NV

775/831-1314

www.sierranevada.edu

Touro University-Nevada

874 American Pacific Drive, Henderson, NV

702/777-1751

www.tu.edu

University of Nevada, Las Vegas

4505 S. Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV

702/895-3011

www.unlv.edu

University of Nevada, Reno

1664 N. Virginia St., Reno, NV

775/784-4700

www.unr.edu

University of Nevada School of Medicine

2040 W. Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas, NV

702/671-2240

www.medicine.nevada.edu

University of Phoenix-Las Vegas Campus

7455 W. Washington, Ste. 301, Las Vegas, NV

702/638-7279

www.phoenix.edu

University of Southern Nevada

11 Sunset Way, Henderson, NV

702/990-4433

www.usn.edu

5100 W. Sahara Ave., Las Vegas, NV

702/799-5000

www.ccsd.net

The Alexander Dawson School at Rainbow Mountain

10845 W. Desert Inn Road, Las Vegas, NV

702/949-3600

www.alexanderdawsonschool.org

Bishop Gorman High School

5959 S. Hualapai Way, Las Vegas, NV

702/732-1945

www.bishopgorman.org

Challenger School-Lone Mountain

9900 Isaac Newton Way, Las Vegas, NV

702/878-6418

www.challengerschool.com

Challenger School-Silverado

1725 E. Serene Ave., Las Vegas, NV

702/990-7300

www.challengerschool.com

The Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Educational Campus

9700 W. Hillpointe Road, Las Vegas, NV

702/255-4500

www.adelsoncampus.org

Faith Lutheran Jr./Sr. High School

2015 S. Hualapai Way, Las Vegas, NV

702/804-4400

www.faithlutheranlv.org

Foothills Montessori School

1401 Amador Lane, Henderson, NV

702/407-0790

www.foothillsmontessori.com

The Henderson International School

1165 Sandy Ridge Ave., Henderson, NV

702/818-2100

www.hendersonschool.com

International Christian Academy

8100 Westcliff Drive, Las Vegas, NV

702/673-4746

www.icalv.net

Kids ‘R’ Kids

1640 Patrick Lane, Henderson, NV

702/547-3555

www.kidsrkidsgreenvalley.com

Kids Turf Academy Center

7885 W. Rochelle Ave., Las Vegas, NV

702/579-9133

not available

Kinder Prep Academy

5695 N. Rainbow Blvd., Las Vegas, NV

702/656-3737

www.kinder-prep.com

Las Vegas Day School

3275 Red Rock St., Las Vegas, NV

702/362-1180

www.lasvegasdayschool.com

The Meadows School

8601 Scholar Lane, Las Vegas, NV

702/254-1610

www.themeadowsschool.org

Merryhill Elementary School

2160 Snow Trail, Las Vegas, NV

702/242-8838

http://summerlin.merryhillschool.com

Montessori Visions Academy

3551 E. Sunset Road, Las Vegas, NV

702/451-9801

www.montessorivisions.com

Mountain View Christian Schools

3900 E. Bonanza Road, Las Vegas, NV

702/452-1300

www.mvcs.net

New Horizons Academy

6701 W. Charleston Blvd., Las Vegas, NV

702/876-1181

www.nhalv.org

PUBLIC SCHOOL Clark County School District

DAY AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS

64 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS


A

S P E C I A L

A D V E RT I S I N G

S E C T I O N

HIGHER EDUCATION THE UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA,

facilitating the incorporation of a variety of

understand what is presented in the classroom

LAS VEGAS

learning activities other than the traditional

in an actual clinical setting.

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas, is located on a 337-acre campus in the heart of

lecture format.

With its high-quality, comprehensive

The early pharmacy practice and clinical

programs and exceptional faculty, USN has

nursing experiences are designed to enhance

emerged as a leading educational institution

In addition to the nearly 30,000

and support the didactic curriculum by

in Nevada.

students enrolled in academic degree

allowing students to actually see, feel and

Las Vegas.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 68

programs, another 19,000 people participate in continuing education classes at the University. UNLV offers 180 undergraduate, master’s and doctoral degree programs, with classes taught by faculty with degrees from the nation’s most prestigious institutions. UNLV is known internationally as the leader in hotel administration education and offers among the finest physics, business, engineering, computer science, biological science, environmental studies and performing arts programs in the nation. UNLV also is home to the School of Dentistry and the William S. Boyd School of Law. UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN NEVADA Founded in 1999, the University of Southern Nevada is a private, nonprofit higher learning institution located in Henderson. The University offers high-quality degree programs such as Doctor of Pharmacy, Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Science in Nursing. USN sets itself apart from other institutions by offering degree programs in a block curriculum system. This learning format was developed to emphasize a student-centered, active-learning environment, where students participate in experiential education from the very beginning of their programs. Rather than multiple courses spread out through semesters or quarters, the curriculum is organized into blocks that allow students to focus on one subject at a time. The block system also provides opportunities for students to be active participants in the learning process by WINTER 2009 • 65




THE COLLEGE OF SOUTHERN NEVADA At the College of Southern Nevada, education

is

driven

by

and job skills demanded by commerce

Las Vegas community, offering a state-of-the-

and industry.

art, on-campus patient health care clinic staffed by practicing faculty members. The University

progressive,

faculty-crafted learning environments in

TOURO UNIVERSITY NEVADA,

also welcomes the community to its

state-of-the-art facilities and is coupled with

HENDERSON

multidisciplinary Center for Autism and

comprehensive student services and energetic community partnerships. CSN is the fourth-largest two-year college of its kind in the United States and Nevada’s

Touro University Nevada was established to

Developmental Disabilities. The center is

help address critical needs in health care and

designed as a one-stop source for diagnostic

education as well as a resource for community

services, therapy, a supportive resource for

service in the state of Nevada.

families dealing with autism and other

largest institution of higher learning. The

A nonprofit, private institution affiliated with

developmental disorders and also serves as a

College employs more than 2,800 people

an international system of higher education, the

learning laboratory for students across many

while operating three main campuses and

University opened its doors in 2004 with 78

academic disciplines.

multiple learning centers. The staff includes

medical students. Today, the innovative

about 500 full-time faculty (nearly a third with

suburban campus is not only home to the state’s

UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX,

doctorates) and more than 800 part-time

largest medical school but also hosts nearly

NEVADA CAMPUS

instructors in more than 125 career fields.

1,300 students in a wide range of degree

University of Phoenix offers online learning

CSN programs reflect the latest educational

programs in allied health sciences, education

experiences as well as a classroom experience

developments in public and private sector

and osteopathic medicine. The University’s

that is specifically designed for working adults

professions. In surveys, students testified to the

programs in physician assistant studies and

and one that encourages collaboration between

value of CSN’s hallmarks: talented faculty,

occupational therapy are the first of their

students and faculty. Smaller classes combine

small classes, individual attention, student

kind in the state.

individual and group activity to foster

success services, and studies relevant to career

Touro University Nevada also serves the

teamwork and meaningful discussion among

Looking for a Roman Catholic Parish welcoming newcomers? Try St. Anthony of Padua . . . A new parish in the Diocese of Las Vegas! N.W. Corner Centennial Parkway & Hualapai Way Parish Office located across the street from Santa Fe Station Casino At: 5081 N. Rainbow Blvd, Suite 107 MASS TIMES Saturdays at 4:00 PM Every Sunday at 8:00 & 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM (Noon) at Centennial High School Auditorium and 5:00 PM at Parish Chapel

702-399-6897

Email: stanthony@saplv.com www.lasvegas-diocese.org/parishes 68 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

Rev. Sam Falbo Administrator


students who bring varied experiences and

Leadership Supervision, The Art of Food &

learning styles to the classroom. The University

Beverage and more.

takes an applied approach to teaching with faculty who are experts in their fields and who

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

can help students make the connection between

LAS VEGAS DAY SCHOOL

theory and real-world applications. With a

Accredited by the Northwest Association of

one-course-at-a-time approach, students are

Schools and Colleges, Las Vegas Day School

able to master concepts. Students are able to

was founded in 1961 and was the first

attend class and learning team meetings once

nonsectarian private school in Nevada.

per week or on their own time in the online

Las Vegas Day School enjoys a long

learning environment, and most earn their

history of educational excellence, offering

degrees within two to three years.

self-contained

class

instruction

from

The Nevada campus opened in March

preschool through fifth grade and a fully

1994 and has grown to more than 3,800

departmentalized middle school program

students, with five Las Vegas locations and

for sixth through eighth grades.

one in Reno. The campus offers bachelor’s

The accelerated curriculum and college-

and master’s degrees in accounting, business,

preparatory format allow the school to offer

counseling, criminal justice, education,

a disciplined and challenging academic

human services, management, technology

environment. A certified teaching staff

and teacher education. University of Phoenix

provides quality instruction in the basics, as

Online offers more than 90 degree programs

well as humanities, arts, sciences, computer

at the associates, bachelor’s, master’s and

literacy, Spanish and physical education.

doctoral levels. University of Phoenix is the largest private university in the nation and

THE MEADOWS SCHOOL

reaches more than 250,000 students at 170

The mission of The Meadows School is to

campuses and learning centers across the

develop in its students a love of and respect for

United States as well as in Puerto Rico and

learning, inspiring them to seek knowledge

British Columbia.

independently and preparing them for higher academic pursuits.

THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY

The school maintains high standards, recognizing and attending to the various needs

The International School of Hospitality

of its students, while also providing optimal

educates and trains students in the hospitality

intellectual, emotional, social and physical

industry. With an emphasis on practical

challenge, and development. It is the only

learning, this school is a little different than

school in Nevada to place 100 percent of its

others. It places a high priority on teaching

students in four-year colleges or universities.

students in the most effective and efficient

The school seeks to instill in its students the

way possible. Developed by industry

concept that education carries with it an

professionals and university professors, the

obligation to self, family and community. It

curriculum is tailored to teach current

encourages each student to become a

industry demands with classes offered in the

compassionate and productive member of

classroom and online. Students get the chance

society. Programs cover four divisions:

to interact with their peers and learn valuable

Beginning School for 3-, 4- and 5-year-old

lessons through internships. Certificate

students;

programs include Conference Management &

kindergarten through fifth; Middle School for

Event Planning, Wedding Coordination &

sixth through eighth grades; and Upper School

Design, Concierge, Hotel Operations, Hotel

for ninth through 12th grades. The Meadows

Services,

Guest

Relations,

Hospitality

Lower

School

for

grades

CONTINUED ON PAGE 70

WINTER 2009 • 69


Photo by Steve Sanders

School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to the students.

Share the Vision!

Now Enrolling 2 1/2 Years Old through High School

MONTESSORI VISIONS ACADEMY The academy is a private preschool, elementary and middle school serving students age 2 through eighth grade. Founded in 1999 by the desire to offer an education that encourages the development of the whole child, Montessori Visions Academy is dedicated to the philosophy developed by Dr. Maria Montessori. To ensure quality education, the school is a full member of the American Montessori Society (AMS). Each student is a unique individual with a

• Montessori Curriculum • Individual Instruction • Self-Confidence • Independence • Responsibility • Hands-on Learning

distinct background whose learning methods

3551 E. Sunset Road • 451.9801

her peers. Thus, the Montessori environment

(East of Pecos)

is structured so that it will address the needs of

www.montessorivisions.com

and abilities will undoubtedly vary from his or

each individual. Students are invited to learn at the pace

70 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS


Photo courtesy of The Meadows School

that suits them without peer competition.

world languages (Spanish, French, Latin

Each classroom has a carefully prepared

and Mandarin).

environment that seeks to stimulate students’

Dawson teachers have, on average, 10 years

creativity and academic ability. Montessori

of teaching experience and more than 40

Visions Academy strives to support the

percent have earned advanced degrees. Small

development of the whole person, build a sense

classes enable teachers to address each

of community and ignite a lifelong love

student’s strengths and needs. Dawson

of learning.

graduates have been accepted to some of the best secondary schools in the nation, including

THE ALEXANDER DAWSON SCHOOL

Deerfield Academy, Exeter, St. Andrew’s

AT RAINBOW MOUNTAIN

(Delaware), Chatham Hall, Thacher, the Webb

The Alexander Dawson School at Rainbow

Schools and the Orme School as well as

Mountain is a not-for-profit, independent

local private and public high schools.

school for students age 4 through eighth

Admission to Dawson is based on assessment,

grade. Dawson offers a challenging college

recommendations

preparatory curriculum that engages, enriches

performance.

and

previous

school

and empowers each student. The school aims to teach students to think

THE DR. MIRIAM AND SHELDON G.

critically, express themselves with clarity

ADELSON EDUCATIONAL CAMPUS

and embrace the world with an independent

The goal of The Adelson Educational

spirit. Excellent programs in core academics

Campus is to instruct and inspire new

are blended with fine arts and language

generations of students who will draw

instruction

ceramics,

strength from a rich, Jewish heritage;

woodworking, chorus, jazz band and four

CONTINUED ON PAGE 72

in

photography,

WINTER 2009 • 71


use their knowledge, values and vision to fulfill their own potential; and build a better world. The

Dr.

Miriam

and

Sheldon

G.

Adelson Educational Campus is the only pre-kindergarten (starting at 1 ½ years old) to 12th grade Jewish school in Nevada. The lower school consists of pre-kindergarten through fourth grade at The Milton I. Schwartz Hebrew Academy, grades 5 through 8 make up The Adelson Middle School, and The Adelson Upper School consists of grades 9 through 12. HENDERSON INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL The Henderson International School is an independent, nondenominational, collegepreparatory school for students in preschool through high school. Administrators and teachers at Henderson International believe that every child has the potential to be a leader, educator, community builder, entrepreneur and steward of the earth. Beginning in preschool and continuing through high school, every aspect of the Henderson

International

experience

is

designed to inspire each child to explore the full extent of his or her abilities. Henderson

International

views

extracurricular activities as a critical component of building well-rounded students; therefore, the school offers a challenging college-preparatory academic curriculum, along with a growing array of athletic programs, travel opportunities and club activities. Its team of educators provides students with the individual attention they need as they begin to take responsibility for their own learning. Henderson International believes that the best schools have a small-town feel, where love, honesty, courage, integrity, humor and gratitude are the qualities most admired. The schools encourage families to take an active role in the educational process with town hall meetings, an interactive website for parents to track their child’s schoolwork and opportunities for the school president to meet with individual families. 72 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS


Photo by Steve Sanders

CHALLENGER SCHOOL Challenger School embraces a curriculum centered on fundamental American values that stress excellence, individual achievement, strong logic and thinking skills, and self-reliance. Its uniquely structured classes yield astonishing results in young students. For example, Challenger students typically score at the 90th percentile on standardized tests. In other words, the average Challenger student out-performs 90 percent of all students nationally who take the Stanford Achievement Test (SAT). More than that, Challenger School offers programs from preschool through eighth grade that will prepare children to live happily

and

successfully

throughout

their lives. Challenger’s mission is to prepare children to become self-reliant, productive individuals; to teach them to think, speak and write with clarity, precision and independence; and to inspire them to embrace challenge and find joy and self-worth through achievement. WINTER 2009 • 73


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and surgery. Southern Hills Hospital’s intricate network of digitally advanced systems makes for shorter hospital stays and improved patient safety benefits. Southern Hills Hospital & Medical Center provides top-quality health care for their patients including: An Accredited Chest Pain Center — part of the only network of Accredited Chest Pain Centers. The Nevada Neurosciences Institute, home of award-winning physicians specializing in the treatment of spinal disorders. Sunrise Children’s at Southern Hills, providing express emergency care for life’s little bumps and bruises. An Emergency Department with shorter waits, shorter stays and nine fast track beds to help expedite care. Maternity services that feature private rooms, a Level-II NICU and high-risk OB services. G

Photo courtesy of Sunrise Hospital & Sunrise Children’s Hospital

G

Hospital Health Las Vegas hospitals offer high medical standards and highly qualified medical staff. ith approximately 2 million residents and hundreds of thousands more living in surrounding rural areas, plus more than 350,000 visitors per day, Las Vegas has good reason to offer high medical standards and highly qualified medical staff. “We look to achieve indicators that put us on a par with hospitals in cities that people are moving from, such as Chicago or L.A.,” says Amy Dirks Stevens, system vice president for the Sunrise Health Market, a division of Hospital Corporation of American (HCA). “We’ve had to build really high-end [medical] systems.” Now celebrating more than 50 years in the community, Sunrise Hospital & Medical Center provides the most sophisticated, quality health care in Southern Nevada. As Las Vegas’ largest acute care facility, Sunrise provides comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services to the community including: Accredited Chest Pain Center — part of the only network of Accredited Chest Pain Centers.

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74 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

The Nevada Neurosciences Institute, the region’s first Joint Commission certified Primary Stroke Center and only full comprehensive stroke center featuring the area’s most prestigious neurologists and neurosurgeons. Comprehensive Cancer Center recognized by the American College of Surgeons. An innovative, comprehensive Breast Center with advanced services for the diagnosis, treatment and management of all types of breast disease. A Level-II Trauma and Emergency Services Department. Specialty services in women’s health, pulmonology, critical care, complex surgery and rehabilitation. Expertise of Sunrise Children’s Hospital, the only children’s hospital in Nevada. G

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MountainView Hospital is a state-of-theart, full-service medical facility located in the heart of northwest Las Vegas, one of the fastest-growing areas in the Valley. MountainView Hospital offers a full range of specialized services including: Accredited Chest Pain Center — part of the only network of Accredited Chest Pain Centers. The Nevada Neurosciences Institute, home of award-winning physicians, specializing in the treatment of spinal disorders. Bariatric Program Center of Excellence, part of an elite group of programs, which means they have demonstrated successful outcomes in weight loss surgery. Sunrise Children’s at MountainView, providing families of northwest Las Vegas expert pediatric care. Family Centered Emergency Department with a pledge to be seen by a highly skilled healthcare provider within 30 minutes of arrival. Outpatient imaging services offered through Red Rock Radiology, providing comprehensive diagnostic services. G

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Southern Hills Hospital utilizes advanced digital technology and a top-notch medical staff, Southern Hills Hospital provides the communities of southwest Las Vegas with services for adult and pediatric emergencies, OB-GYN, diagnostic imaging

For the Children Sunrise Children’s Hospital, Nevada’s only children’s hospital, is a 244-bed facility dedicated to caring for infants, children, adolescents and expectant mothers. As the leading pediatric and maternal provider in the region, Sunrise Children’s Hospital partners with physicians and hospitals


Photo courtesy of Sunrise Hospital & Sunrise Children’s Hospital

throughout the Southwest to offer the most comprehensive and experienced maternal and child health programs. Specialized services include: A 24-hour dedicated pediatric Emergency Department that treats only kids. The only specialized in-house pediatric and neonatal transport team. The state’s largest, most comprehensive Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. A dedicated Pediatric Pharmacy with specially trained pharmacists and technicians who prepare medications only for pediatric patients. A dedicated Oncology Unit. The heart care leader in Nevada, performing 100 percent of the state’s pediatric open heart surgeries. A Labor & Delivery Unit that provides the safest, most advanced care from routine to complex deliveries. G

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The Siena Campus of St. Rose Dominican Hospitals recently opened the first Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in the Southern Valley, with 15 beds and complete neonatal treatment for medically fragile infants, while other St. Rose hospitals offer Level II NICUs. Summerlin Hospital Medical Center, in the master-planned community of Summerlin, is considered Valley Health System’s ‘pediatric hospital,’ while Sunrise Children’s at MountainView Hospital opened in February 2009. The Largest Local Health System With five hospitals located throughout Southern Nevada, The Valley Health System offers a comprehensive array of medical

services, including cardiovascular, maternity and women’s health, emergency, surgery and specialty programs in stroke, chest pain, pediatrics, diabetes, wound care, bariatric surgery, rehabilitation and transfusion-free medicine. Its hospitals include Centennial Hills Hospital (northwest), Desert Springs Hospital (southeast), Summerlin Hospital (west), Spring Valley Hospital (southwest) and Valley Hospital (central). The Valley Health System also offers free physician referrals and a Senior Advantage program for adults ages 55 and better.

Boulder City Hospital 901 Adams Blvd., Boulder City 702/293-4111 www.bouldercityhospital.org

Not-for-Profit Medical Care St. Rose Dominican Hospitals are the only not-for-profit, religiously sponsored hospitals in Southern Nevada. “It’s the spiritual aspect that really makes us different,” says Andy North, director of Public Policy and External Affairs. “[The hospitals are] very aesthetically pleasing, with several healing gardens, and the only public labyrinth in Southern Nevada is at San Martin campus.” St. Rose Dominican de Lima campus and San Martin campus have newer Level II NICUs, which treat 32-week and older preemies, while Siena campus recently opened a Level III NICU for premature infants. St. Rose de Lima offers mini-gastric bypasses for patients who are 100 pounds or less overweight, and the Siena campus provides award-winning open-heart surgery and cardiology programs, according to HealthGrades, an independent health care ratings company, plus it’s well-known for joint replacement services. San Martin’s opened an open-heart surgical center in late 2007 and also offers joint replacement.

MountainView Hospital 3100 N. Tenaya Way, Las Vegas 702/255-5000, referral line: 702/233-5300 www.mountainview-hospital.com

Centennial Hills Hospital Medical Center 6900 N. Durango Drive, Las Vegas 702/835-9700 www.centennialhillshospital.com Desert Springs Hospital 2075 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas 702/733-8800, referral line: 702/388-4888 www.desertspringshospital.net

North Vista Hospital 1409 E. Lake Mead Blvd., North Las Vegas 702/649-7711 www.northvistahospital.com Southern Hills Hospital 9300 W. Sunset Road, Las Vegas 702/880-2100, referral line: 702/880-2700 www.southernhillshospital.com Spring Valley Hospital Medical Center 5400 S. Rainbow Blvd., Las Vegas 702/853-3000 www.springvalleyhospital.net St. Rose Dominican Rose de Lima Campus 102 E. Lake Mead Pkwy, Henderson 702/564-2622 www.strosehospitals.org CONTINUED ON PAGE 78

WINTER 2009 • 75




Alternative Medicine Balancing your health care with holistic treatments. study conducted by Dr. David M. Eisenberg of Boston’s Beth Israel Hospital indicates that people in the U.S. are beginning to make greater use of alternative health care techniques. The survey concluded that 34 percent of Americans said they used at least one alternative therapy and that Americans are spending nearly $14 billion a year for this treatment, most of which comes out of the patient’s own pocket. Also noteworthy is that the National Institutes of Health (www.nih.gov) has created an Office of Alternative Medicine whose purpose is to research alternative healing methods and establish their value. Already, many healing techniques formerly considered ineffective by the medical establishment have been proven valid by this new office. These include chiropractic, acupuncture and homeopathy, and other modalities soon will be studied. Chiropractic treatment has been growing in popularity and acceptance. At Bio-Mechanics of Las Vegas, Dr. Kintaro Oku and his associates are all chiropractic physicians certified in Active Release Technique. This is a patented soft tissue therapy that breaks down scar tissue and adhesions in injuries involving muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves. “It’s great for separating, releasing and stretching scar tissue adhesions that have formed and are restricting normal function,” Dr. Oku says. “It restores oxygenated blood to the area, promotes tissue healing and increases range of motion, flexibility and strength.” Dr. Oku has about a 90-percent success rate within about nine to 12 visits. This is usually with chronic complaints like long-standing low back pain. The doctors at BioMechanics don’t use any mechanical or metal instruments; instead, they use skilled hands to manipulate soft tissue. Treatment is hands-on, and patients spend the bulk of their office visit with the chiropractor. “I tell patients that we aren’t your typical chiropractors because we don’t just adjust the spine, we look at the whole body to determine how it’s functioning and treat from a whole-body perspective, instead of just the spine,” Dr. Oku notes. Acupuncture is another modality that Westerners are turning to. It can be used to treat acute and chronic pain; migraines, tension cluster and sinus headaches; bladder dysfunction; bed wetting; cervical, mid-back and low shoulder pain; tennis elbow; post-operative pain; gastric problems; asthma; allergies; skin conditions; hemorrhoids; abnormal blood pressure; fatigue; anxiety; and various eye problems. Setsuko Hadano Sage, O.M.D., of the Pain Clinic, uses disposable acupuncture needles for a patient’s safety. The extreme slenderness of the needles used in acupuncture makes the procedure painless. Most patients report the effects are less than a mosquito bite and the results are more than worth it. Dr. Valorie Davidson of the Renaissance Medical Center is a naturopathic doctor and an advanced practitioner of homeopathy. Her philosophy is to find the root cause of an illness versus using a symptoms-based approach. “If you don’t find the cause, symptoms might disappear only to re-manifest in a different way,” she explains. Dr. Davidson treats many women in her practice. Common themes are weight loss, fatigue, issues with libido, thyroid and menopause. Her patients get good results with the natural remedies she prescribes, and many see great improvement in just four to eight weeks. “Homeopathy uses like to cure like,” she says. “It’s very gentle and has a low occurrence of side effects, but it’s individualized to meet the needs of every different body.” Dr. Davidson feels that some people are seeking alternative treatments to improve the quality of their lives, such as feeling good, being able to enjoy activities with their families and having energy. Others are interested in the prevention of chronic illnesses like diabetes or cardiovascular diseases without the expense or side effects of pharmaceuticals. While insurance companies are beginning to cover some alternative therapies, many offices still find their patients paying privately. “People have to know they are worth the best treatment,” she says. “We have to treat our insides right if we choose to have longevity.” Learn more at www.biomechlv.com, www.painclinic-lv.com and www.iwholehealth.com.

78 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

Photo courtesy of Sunrise Hospital & Sunrise Children’s Hospital

A

St. Rose Dominican San Martin Campus 8280 W. Warm Springs Road, Las Vegas 702/492-8000 www.strosehospitals.org St. Rose Dominican Siena Campus 3001 St. Rose Pkwy, Henderson 702/616-5000 www.strosehospitals.org Summerlin Hospital Medical Center 657 Town Center Drive, Las Vegas 702/233-7000 www.summerlinhospital.org Sunrise Children’s Hospital 3186 S. Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas 702/731-KIDS, referral line: 702/233-KIDS www.sunrisechildrenshospital.com Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center 3186 S. Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas 702/731-8000, referral line: 702/233-5454 www.sunrisehospital.com University Medical Center 1800 W. Charleston Blvd., Las Vegas 702/383-2000, referral line: 702/383-2060 www.umc-cares.org Valley Hospital Medical Center 620 Shadow Lane, Las Vegas 702/388-4000, referral line: 702/388-4888 www.valleyhospital.net


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SYNAGOGUES MOSQUES

CHURCHES

Houses of Worship Apex Church

6125 W. Sahara Ave., Ste. 2C, Las Vegas, NV 89146

www.apexchurch.org

Assembly of God Calvary Community Church

2900 N. Torrey Pines Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89108

702/656-2900

Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church

10265 Bermuda Road, Las Vegas, NV 89183

702/260-7660

Bethany Baptist Church

210 Wyoming St., Boulder City, NV 89005

702/293-1912

Canyon Ridge Christian Church

6200 W. Lone Mountain Road, Las Vegas, NV 89130

702/658-2722

Central Christian Church

1001 New Beginnings Drive, Henderson, NV 89011

702/735-4004

Christ the Servant Lutheran Church

2 S. Pecos Road, Henderson, NV 89074

702/263-0802

Church at South Las Vegas

3051 W. Horizon Ridge Pkwy, Henderson, NV 89052

702/361-1579

Community Lutheran Church

3720 E. Tropicana Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89121

702/458-2241

The Crossing, a Christian Church

7950 W. Windmill Lane, Las Vegas, NV 89113

702/947-2080

Cornerstone Christian Fellowship

5825 W. Eldora Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89146

702/871-5050

Crossroads Community Church

1481 W. Warm Springs Road, Ste. 136, Henderson, NV 89014

702/435-7337

Faith Community Lutheran Church

2700 S. Town Center Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89135

702/921-2700

First Presbyterian Church

1515 W. Charleston Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89102

702/384-4554

Green Valley Baptist Church

270 N. Valle Verde Drive, Henderson, NV 89074

702/434-1906

Green Valley Presbyterian Church

1798 Wigwam Pkwy, Henderson, NV 89074

702/454-8484

Holy Trinity African Methodist Episcopal Church

700 Lola Ave., North Las Vegas, NV 89030

702/877-0790

Hope Baptist Church

180 E. Pebble Road, Las Vegas, NV 89123

702/896-5924

Las Vegas Church of the Nazarene

3825 S. Pecos McLeod, Las Vegas, NV 89121

702/451-6000

Metropolitan Community Church of Las Vegas

1140 Almond Tree Lane, Ste. 302, Las Vegas, NV 89104

702/369-4380

One Body in Christ Christian Church

5367 Jay Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89130

702/658-9792

Orchard Baptist Church

1460 Treeline Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89142

702/432-3711

Paradise Bible Baptist Church

2525 Emerson Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89121

702/732-8555

Redeemer Lutheran Church

1730 N. Pecos Road, Las Vegas, NV 89115

702/642-7744

St. Anthony’s Parish

10200 Centennial Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89130

702/399-6897

St. George's Anglican Church

7676 W. Gilmore Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89129

702/395-4576

St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church

5300 S. El Camino Road, Las Vegas, NV 89118

702/221-8245

Summerlin Community Baptist Church

2100 Snow Trail, Las Vegas, NV 89134

702/256-8868

Summit Ridge Church

6285 Royal Brook Court, Las Vegas, NV 89149

702/395-1200

Trinity Life Center Assembly of God

1000 E. St. Louis Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89104

702/734-2223

Trinity United Methodist Church

6151 W. Charleston Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89146

702/870-4747

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Las Vegas

3616 E. Lake Mead Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89115

702/437-2404

Unity Baptist Church

545 Marion Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89110

702/459-2263

Valley Christian Center

3110 S. Durango Drive, Ste. 204, Las Vegas, NV 89117

702/644-9435

Masjid As-Sabur

711 Morgan Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89106

702/647-2500

Mosque of Islamic Society of Nevada

4730 E. Desert Inn Road, Las Vegas, NV 89121

702/433-3431

Adat Ari El

4675 W. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89103

702/221-1230

Chabad of Southern Nevada

1261 Arville St., Las Vegas, NV 89102

702/259-0770

Congregation Ner Tamid

55 N. Valle Verde Drive, Henderson, NV 89074

702/733-6292

Congregation Shaarei Tefilla

1331 S. Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89104

702/384-3565

Kabbalah Centre

3824 Jones, Las Vegas, NV 89103

702/243-0559

Midbar Kodesh Temple

1940 Paseo Verde Pkwy, Henderson, NV 89012

702/454-4848

Temple Beth Knesset Bamidbar

P.O. Box 33503, Las Vegas, NV 89133

702/391-2750

Temple Beth Sholom

10700 Havenwood Lane, Las Vegas, NV 89135

702/804-1333

Temple Sinai

9001 Hillpointe Road, Las Vegas, NV 89134

702/254-5110

Valley Outreach Synagogue

2045 Grouse St., Las Vegas, NV 89134

702/436-4900

Young Israel of Las Vegas

9590 W. Sahara Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89117

702/360-8909 WINTER 2009 • 79


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Money Matters Bank on Las Vegas providing competitive checking, savings and loan options. BANK

LOCATION

BANK OF AMERICA

300 S. Fourth St., Las Vegas

702/654-7900

www.bankofamerica.com

BANK OF NEVADA

2700 W. Sahara Ave., Las Vegas

702/248-4200

www.bankofnevada.com

BANK OF THE WEST

4813 S. Eastern Ave., Las Vegas

702/740-4473

www.bankofthewest.com

CITIBANK

3900 Paradise Road, Ste. M, Las Vegas

800/627-3999

www.citi.com

CITY NATIONAL BANK

6085 W. Twain Ave., Las Vegas

702/948-1961

www.cnb.com

CLARK COUNTY CREDIT UNION

9311 W. Sunset Road, Las Vegas

702/228-2228

www.ccculv.org

COLONIAL BANK

4640 S. Fort Apache Road, Las Vegas

702/304-3770

www.colonialbank.com

COMMUNITY ONE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

2699 N. Tenaya Way, Las Vegas

702/968-1100

www.communityonefcu.com

FIRST REPUBLIC BANK

8310 W. Sahara Ave., Las Vegas

888/216-6888

www.firstrepublic.com

IRWIN UNION BANK

401 N. Buffalo Drive, Ste. 200, Las Vegas

702/531-7740

www.irwinunion.com

M&I BANK

3993 Howard Hughes Pkwy, Ste. 100, Las Vegas

702/737-3910

www.mibank.com

NEVADA STATE BANK

750 E. Warm Springs Road, Las Vegas

702/383-0009

www.nsbank.com

SILVER STATE SCHOOLS CREDIT UNION

9325 W. Sahara, Las Vegas

702/733-8820

www.silverstatecu.com

SOUTHWESTUSA BANK

4043 S. Eastern Ave., Las Vegas

702/853-4700

www.swusabank.com

SUN WEST BANK

5830 W. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas

702/949-2265

www.swbnv.com

TOWN & COUNTRY BANK

8620 W. Tropicana Ave., Las Vegas

702/252-8777

www.tcbanknv.com

U.S. BANK

261 N. Las Vegas Blvd., Ste. 110, Las Vegas

702/382-3473

www.usbank.com

USAA SAVINGS BANK

3773 Howard Hughes Pkwy, Ste. 190N, Las Vegas

702/862-8891

www.usaa.com

WACHOVIA

1958 Village Center Circle, Ste. 6, Las Vegas

702/242-0216

www.wachovia.com

WASHINGTON FEDERAL SAVINGS

9340 Sun City Blvd., #103, Las Vegas

702/638-1236

www.washingtonfederal.com

WELLS FARGO

3800 Howard Hughes Pkwy, Las Vegas

702/791-6353

www.wellsfargo.com

80 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

PHONE

WEBSITE


hen moving to a new city,

W

Locations include the Central Regional Office

however they choose through the nation’s

residents-to-be need to find

located at 2700 W. Sahara, the Southwest

largest financial services network, including a

a house, schools, doctors,

Regional Office located at 3985 S. Durango

website that provides online banking access to

insurance agents and much more. Included on

Drive, its Henderson Regional Office located

14 million active users. Bank of America’s

that to-do list is finding a new bank or credit

at 2890 N. Green Valley Pkwy, a Northwest

commitment to Las Vegas extends beyond

union. The following are a sampling of

Regional Office located at 7251 W. Lake Mead

products and services. Each year it makes

financial institutions in the Las Vegas area:

Blvd., and the Aliante Regional Office at 6915

charitable contributions of more than $1

Aliante Pkwy in North Las Vegas.

million to Nevada-based organizations.

BANK OF AMERICA IN NEVADA

CLARK COUNTY CREDIT UNION

BANK OF NEVADA Bank of Nevada, formerly BankWest of Nevada, is the oldest and largest premier

With more than 50 branches and 200 ATMS

Clark County Credit Union is a member-

community bank in Southern Nevada. It takes

in Las Vegas, Bank of America is the city’s

owned alternative to traditional banking that

pride in its ability to offer new residents a

leading financial institution. Located in

offers better rates, more free services and a

bank with financial stability, experience and

every part of Las Vegas, Bank of America

share in the dividends at the year’s end.

expertise of its founders, board of directors,

offers the ease of nationwide banking in

management and staff.

any neighborhood.

Savings accounts, checking, certificates, money market, IRAs, and VISA debit and

Its staff knows how Nevadans think and

It is committed to making banking work for

credit cards are available, as well as extensive

what they need. So, the products and services

customers and clients and provides individuals,

financing choices for auto and recreational

it offers are designed with the success of your

small businesses and corporate clients new

vehicles, real estate purchases that include first

personal and business affairs in mind. Bank of

and better ways to manage their financial lives.

and second mortgages, home equity lending,

Nevada operates 15 offices locally, armed

The company enables customers to do their

land purchases, home construction and

with friendly, experienced professionals.

banking and investing whenever, wherever and

CONTINUED ON PAGE 82

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commercial needs. Each branch offers a real

Solutions — for Life!” Silver State Schools

estate expert to explain the mortgage lending

Credit Union (SSSCU), founded in Las Vegas

process and a Members Auto representative to

in 1951, is a premier financial cooperative

find your next new or used car without

owned and operated by its members, with

the haggle.

products and services geared to members’

CCCU offers six full-service branches and

personal financial management needs.

more than 56 ATMs in the Las Vegas Valley,

Typically, credit unions serve groups who

plus 24/7 account access with online banking,

have something in common, such as where

bill

statements.

members work, live or go to church. Silver

Ownership is open to medical professionals

State Schools Credit Union was formed

and employees of Clark County, City of Las

originally to serve a particular employer group:

Vegas, City of Henderson and City of North

the Clark County School District. Now, state

Las Vegas.

charter grants membership eligibility to any

payer

and

electronic

individual who is associated (such as faculty, COMMUNITY ONE

staff, volunteers or students 16 years or older),

FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

with any Nevada educational organization, as

For almost half a century, Community One

well as immediate family of eligible members.

Federal Credit Union has been serving the

Currently Nevada’s largest credit union, with

financial needs of Clark County residents

more than $1 billion in assets, SSSCU has 18

committed to the credit union philosophy of

locations across the Las Vegas Valley and three

“people helping people.”

in Reno. SSSCU is also a member of the

At other financial institutions, you receive

Shared Branching network and the CO-OP

an account, but at Community One, you

ATM network, offering nationwide access to

receive a commitment. As a member-owner of

member accounts.

its

not-for-profit

financial

cooperative,

Community One will assist with financial

WELLS FARGO BANK

needs, from traditional savings, checking,

Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. serves more

money market and certificates to lending

than 550,000 customers through more than

needs, including home mortgage loans, home

130 banking, mortgage and financial stores

equity lines of credit, auto loans and credit

in Nevada.

cards. The credit union also offers small-

Wells

business loans. Community One takes great pride in its

Fargo

&

Company

is

a

diversified financial services company with $483 billion in assets, providing banking,

personalized member service and has five

insurance,

convenient locations. It offers a full range of

consumer finance to more than 23 million

free electronic services so you can manage

customers from more than 6,100 stores and the

your accounts online. As a member, you also

Internet

have access to hundreds of shared branching

America and elsewhere internationally.

facilities and thousands of free ATMs across the country.

investments,

(wellsfargo.com)

mortgage

across

and

North

Wells Fargo Bank has the highest possible credit rating, “AAA,” from Moody’s Investors Service and the highest credit rating given to a

SILVER STATE SCHOOLS CREDIT UNION “Excellent Member Service and Financial

82 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

U.S. bank, “AA+,” from Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services.

What is the difference between a credit union and a bank? t first glance, a bank and a credit union appear to do the same things — hold deposits, make loans, pay checks and provide other consumer banking services. But the way they do business is very different. Silver State Schools Credit Union (SSSCU) offers some tips to clarify.

A

• A bank is for-profit; a credit union is not-for-profit. A credit union is a financial cooperative that offers its services to individuals sharing a common bond or affiliation, such as a common employer. These individuals are members and, quite literally, owners of the credit union. Individual member-owners purchase shares (funds on deposit), and the credit union pays dividends out of earnings. Earnings, minus operating expenses, are returned to members in the form of higher interest rates and lower loan rates. On the contrary, the profits of a bank, minus operating expenses, are divided among the stockholders of the bank, based upon the total value of their stocks. Bank customers do not own a financial interest in the bank. • Members have a “voice.” As owners, members of a credit union elect their fellow members to serve on a board of directors. These unpaid volunteers guide the credit union. On the other hand, only people who own stock in a bank can vote for the board of directors. The customers who use the bank don’t have a say. • Deposits are insured, but not by FDIC. Funds on deposit at credit unions can be insured by the NCUA (a government agency that oversees a similar insurance fund for many credit unions) or by other insurers, such as American Share Insurance, a company that has been insuring credit unions’ funds on deposit since 1974.


I N

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iSto ckp hot o/O livie r

Blo nde au

Getting Connected ©

Stay in touch with Las Vegas’ advanced telecommunications technologies. here was a time when wiring up your

T

owners who want to get up-and-running

comparable to hardwired phones. This being the

home office or small business was as

immediately. This allows a business to move

case, there are still some aspects of VOIP that

easy as connecting a telephone or a

forward right away with their advertising and

need to be addressed when considering this

business phone system. That is no longer the

business cards. In addition, the company can

type of telephone service. If there were an

case because 21st-century technology has

set up an immediate, temporary wireless

interruption in the Internet, phone service also

created myriad communication choices.

Internet and e-mail solution until a business

would be interrupted.

Your first concern should be the Internet, but e-mail, Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP)

and

videoconferencing

are

additional essential tools for any business. The two major choices for high-speed Internet access in Las Vegas are Embarq and

is hardwired.”

Another consideration is that a modem is

Cox and Embarq offer competitive

powered by electricity. Although there is a

business packages based on need and budget.

battery backup for the modem in case of a power

In general, cable Internet access offers the

outage, the battery will only power the modem

fastest speeds on the Internet. DSL works best

for a specific number of hours. Wired phone

where cable Internet access is not available.

service, on the other hand, is powered by the

Cox Communications. Embarq offers DSL

The next consideration is phone service.

phone line itself. A localized power outage will

Internet access (Digital Subscriber Line)

Embarq is the largest wired phone service in

not affect phone service unless the internal

through existing Embarq telephone lines.

Las Vegas. Several other phone companies

business phone system is powered by electricity.

According to Vicki Soares, Embarq

lease their telephone access lines from

Cox Communications offers Cox Digital

media relations manager, communication is

Embarq. Depending on the size and budget of

Telephone (CDT) service. CDT does not utilize

Embarq’s core business. “We simplify life’s

your business, it could be more advantageous

the public Internet. A CDT telephone modem

connections by integrating your home/

to choose an alternate phone company. Keep

converts your voice into digital “voice packets.”

business/wireless phones, voicemail, video

in mind that the customer and technical

These voice packets are sent over the Cox fiber

and Internet service,” she says.

service hours of these alternate companies

optic/coaxial cable network to the CDT switch

might

gateway, where they are connected to the Public

Cox Communications offers Internet access and phone service through cable lines.

not

be

convenient

for

your

business needs.

CBS (Cox Business Services) can set up a

Voice Over Internet Protocol telephone

virtual office if a cable connection does not

service is connected to phone lines through a

presently exist for a relocating business.

cable or DSL modem, which is then

According to CBS spokesperson Juergen

connected to the Internet. Telephone service

Barbusca, “CBS can host a virtual phone

over the Internet has become more

number with remote call forward for business

reliable in recent years, and the quality is

Switched Telephone Network. Unlike VOIP, this type of telephone service does not rely on the public Internet. Whichever services you choose, Las Vegas is wired up and waiting for you.

WINTER 2009 • 83


I N

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V E G A S

© iStockphoto

On the Air Your guide to Las Vegas television and radio stations. TELEVISION

Then, at 5:30 p.m., when other stations

the issues of the day that impact Southern

KVBC 3 (NBC)

switch to national network news, FOX5

Nevada. LV ONE has two additional original

stays local, continuing live coverage from

programs: “Face to Face with Jon Ralston”

Las Vegas.

is a daily half-hour program featuring

Channel 3 and NBC broadcasts all summer and winter Olympic Games through 2012. The Emmy award-winning News 3

FOX5’s morning news features four full

interviews with Nevada’s movers and

covers issues that are important to Southern

hours of live, local news each weekday

shakers, while “In Business: Las Vegas”

Nevadans.

morning. Nightly news runs at 10 p.m. and

focuses on the key sectors of business,

Healthline 3 with Sue Manteris digs into

11 p.m. FOX5 also features other exciting

including financial, health care, commercial

the latest medical advances; Kids First with

programming such as “The Morning Show

real estate, gaming, technology, retailing,

Kendall Tenney keeps you up-to-date with

with Mike and Juliet” and “Trivial Pursuit”

professional services and sales, in addition

what’s happening in the school systems;

as well as some of the hottest prime-time

to local business news. Las Vegas ONE

Crime Tracker 3 with Sophia Choi helps

network shows like “American Idol,”

also simulcasts all channel 8 Eyewitness

keep track of crime trends; and reports by

“House,” “The Simpsons” and celebrity

News programs.

Jim Snyder in “Saving You Money” keep

coverage program “TMZ on TV.” KLAS-TV (CBS)

more money in your wallet. In addition, News 3 is the only local TV station with its own rooftop heliport.

Channel 8, Eyewitness News is where

Las Vegas ONE Las Vegas ONE is Las Vegas’ first

you’ll find more news coverage than any

and

other local television station. Eyewitness

information station. It is a partnership of

News is the first local news broadcast in

FOX5 has taken its powerful news

Cox Communications, the Las Vegas Sun,

high-definition (since September 2006), and

franchise to the next level as it is the only

KLAS-TV 8 and can be seen on Cox Cable

combined with CBS programming, channel 8

station in Las Vegas to offer a full hour of

channel 19.

offers

and KVVU FOX5

only

local

24-hour

news

more

than

85

hours

of

HD

programming to enjoy.

local news at 5 p.m. “FOX5 News at 5 &

News ONE airs weeknights from 9-10

5:30” covers live and local top stories,

p.m., delivering a one-hour newscast and

Channel 8’s top priority is to bring you

late-breaking news and FOX5 Weather 24/7.

provides the latest news and information on

breaking news as it happens — live — plus

84 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS


important investigations and compelling

straight to your living room. Friday nights on

stories that touch your life. Channel 8 is

My LVTV is where you can now find one

where you’ll see prime-time favorites like

of

“Survivor,” the super-hit “C.S.I. (Las Vegas)”

and most entertaining TV events: WWE

and “Late Show with David Letterman.”

Smackdown.

KTNV-TV 13 (ABC)

daytime back-to-back court block, featuring

America’s

My

highest-rated

LVTV

offers

programs

the

best

Channel 13 Action News strives to solve

“Judge Maria Lopez,” “Judge Hatchett,”

everyday problems that make life frustrating

“Christina’s Court,” “Judge Mathis” and

in Las Vegas. Whether it’s education funding,

“Judge

health care, your commute, or issues

“Seinfeld,” “Two and a Half Men,” “King of

affecting your kids and family, Action News

Queens,” “South Park” and “George Lopez”

tackles problems that government and

round out a lineup that offers something

big business ignore.

for everyone.

David

Young.”

Sitcoms

like

Channel 13 invites viewers to let them know the things that emotionally charge

Vegas PBS

everyone the most then they’ll go out to see

In its 40th year, Vegas PBS is dedicated

if it can be fixed, and if so, how it will

to

happen. They ask the tough questions and

programming, media and media delivery

hold those in authority accountable. Channel

technologies to Southern Nevadans, teachers

13 is also the home to ABC programming in

and emergency management professionals.

providing

quality,

LAS VEGAS ON THE DIAL

commercial-free

Call Sign

Frequency

Format

KCEP

88.1 FM

Urban Contemporary

KNPR

88.9 FM

NPR

KCNV

89.7 FM

Classical

KSOS

90.5 FM

Christian Contemporary

KUNV

91.5 FM

Traditional Jazz

KOMP

92.3 FM

Active Rock

KQOL

93.1 FM

Oldies

KMXB

94.1 FM

Hot Adult Contemporary

KWNR

95.5 FM

New Country

KKLZ

96.3 FM

Classic Hits

KXPT

97.1 FM

Classic Rock

KVEG

97.5 FM

Hip Hop

KLUC

98.5 FM

Current Hits

KQMR

99.3 FM

Spanish

100.5 FM

Southern Nevada, including favorites like

Vegas PBS is the area’s foremost producer

KMZO

“Charles Gibson,” “Good Morning America”

of local television programming, which

KWID

101.9 FM

Hip Hop

and “Desperate Housewives.”

includes “Nevada Week in Review,” “Outdoor

KSTJ

102.7 FM

‘80s Rock

Nevada,” “Wonders of the West,” “Inside

KISF

103.5 FM

Spanish

Education,” “Homework Hotline,” capitol

KJUL

104.3 FM

Nostalgia

Channel 33, Cable 6 is home to the newest

issues, election debates and coverage, and

KBGH

104.7 FM

Spanish

TV broadcast network, The CW. The CW

daily live classes for the CCSD Virtual

KQRT

105.1 FM

Spanish

Las Vegas brings hit network shows like

High School.

KOAS

105.7 FM

Smooth Jazz

KSNE

106.5 FM

Adult Contemporary

The CW Las Vegas, KVCW

“90210,”

“Everybody

Hates

Chris,”

“Smallville,” “Supernatural” and “America’s

Univision Las Vegas

Adult Hits

KXTE

107.5 FM

Alternative

ATRN

107.9 FM

All-Talk

television station in Las Vegas, providing the

KDWN

720 AM

News Talk

local

and

KNXT

840 AM

Talk

CW Las Vegas offers a variety of syndicated

international programming. Univision offers

KLSQ

870 AM

Spanish

programming with “Family Feud,” “Judge

audiences a variety of shows such as the

KBAD

920 AM

Fox Sports

Judy,” “Dr. Phil,” “Law & Order: CI” and

sitcom “Estamos Unidos.”

KNUU

970 AM

Business News

KKVV

1060 AM

Religious

Next Top Model.” It’s also home to the daily

Univision TV 15 is a Spanish-language

version of “Deal or No Deal” as well as Arizona Cardinals pre-season football. The

community

with

national

“Scrubs.” The 10 p.m. hour offers Las Vegas

Univision programming also includes

viewers the most current local news, national

several variety shows that incorporate

KWWN

1100 AM

ESPN Sports

news and weather updates with News 3 on

games and feature some of the hottest Latin

KSFN

1140 AM

Hot Talk

The CW Las Vegas seven nights a week.

recording artists. Univision Las Vegas offers

KLAV

1230 AM

Talk

children’s educational programming with

KDOX

1280 AM

Spanish

shows like “Plaza Sesamo,” or “Sesame

KRLV

1340 AM

Spanish

Street.” This station also has a local newscast

KSHP

1400 AM

Shopping

LVTV. Tuesday night reality shows like

at 6 p.m. and 11 p.m., seven days a week,

KENO

1460 AM

Sports

“Street Patrol” and “Jail” reveal both gritty

which is rated No. 1 over all of their English-

sides of the law. Thursday nights bring the

language competitors.

My LVTV, KVMY Channel 21, Cable 12 is home to My

Source: onthereadio.net

biggest and freshest Hollywood Blockbusters WINTER 2009 • 85


L A S

Photo courtesy of Stallion Mountain Country Club

I N

V E G A S

The Lush Desert A golfer’s guide to the top courses in America’s hottest green destination.

L

as Vegas is not just for gambling

ANGEL PARK GOLF CLUB 702/254-4653,

2,500 stands of towering palms and 100,000

anymore, at least not just in the casinos. A

www.angelpark.com

tropical plants. Designed by Lee Schmidt

high-stakes bet on a round of golf might

Angel Park is home to two Arnold

and Brian Curley in 2000, the par-71 course

cost you as much as a few high-stakes hands of

Palmer-designed golf courses — the

is rated by Golfweek as one of the Top 40

poker, but it is certainly better to be on the

Mountain and the Palm — and has been

Resort Courses in the U.S.

greens. Las Vegas is known for its golf courses

billed as the world’s most complete golfing

BEAR’S BEST 702/804-8500, www.bearsbest.com

located in the Valley, shadowed by the

experience. The club also offers a lighted

The Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course

surrounding mountains. The following are just a

12-hole short course, an all-natural grass

features a collection of holes from celebrated

few championship golf courses beckoning you

putting course and a beautiful clubhouse.

courses like Castle Pines, PGA West and

to play:

BADLANDS GOLF CLUB 702/363-0754,

Cabo del Sol. Each Bear’s Best course offers

www.badlandsgc.com

a different 18-hole selection by Jack

PUBLIC COURSES

Designed by golf legend Johnny Miller

Nicklaus from his more than 200 course

ALIANTE GOLF CLUB 702/399-4888,

with consultation from Senior Tour star Chi

designs open for play worldwide. The course

www.aliantegolf.com

Chi Rodriguez, Badlands Golf Club was

is located just minutes from the Las Vegas

Located in the master-planned community

voted one of Nevada’s Top 10 Public Golf

Strip at the base of the Red Rock Mountains.

of Aliante in North Las Vegas, this 7,000-yard

Courses by Golf Digest. This 27-hole course

BOULDER

course features meandering arroyo that

features beautiful desert scenery and a

702/294-6534, www.bouldercreekgc.com

comes into play on 14 holes. The Gary

target-style layout.

Panks-designed course is highlighted by

BALI HAI GOLF CLUB 888/427-6678,

opened January 2003, with open fairways, no

numerous water features, generous landing

www.bali-hai-golf-club.com

blind shots and no hidden hazards. The Desert

CREEK

GOLF

CLUB

Mark Rathert designed the course, which

areas and the strategic use of trees not

Located right on the Las Vegas Strip, Bali

Hawk #9 hole uses a combination of oasis

commonly found in most desert courses, such

Hai is highlighted by seven acres of water

and desert themes, allowing golfers to use all

as pear and purple locust trees.

features, a total of 4,000 trees that includes

clubs in their bags; Coyote Run 9 is defined CONTINUED ON PAGE 88

86 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS



Photo courtesy of Rio Secco

Photo courtesy of Royal Links Golf Club

by wide fairways and playability; Eldorado

the first private Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf

features the Devil’s Triangle — three holes

Valley

Course in Nevada, is a 6,917-yard course,

on the back nine that can make or break

surrounded by deep, natural sand bunkers.

which offers up to five tee settings per hole.

a game.

CASCATA 702/294-2005,

LAS VEGAS GOLF CLUB 702/646-3003,

RHODES RANCH GOLF CLUB

www.harrahs.com/golf/cascata-golf

www.lasvegasgc.com

702/740-4114, www.rhodesranchgolf.com

features

a

challenging

layout

Located

in

the

Rhodes

Ranch

Cascata, Harrah’s par-72 golf course in

The oldest golf course in the Valley, Las

Boulder City, was designed by Rees Jones

Vegas Golf Club received a $5 million

master-planned community, this 6,900-yard,

and offers 18 holes surrounded by nature’s

renovation, which included a new clubhouse

Ted Robinson-designed course is played in the

finest — a 3,600-foot peak at Red Mountain,

and course upgrades. A lighted driving range

gentle slopes of the Spring Mountains and

lush fairways, and picturesque lakes and

with lessons is available.

features play that showcases the natural

streams. The Tuscan-style, 37,000-square-

LAS VEGAS NATIONAL GOLF CLUB

beauty of Southern Nevada.

foot clubhouse and golf shop offer a variety

702/734-1796, www.lasvegasnational.com

RIO SECCO GOLF CLUB 702/777-2400,

of services to all guests.

One of Vegas’ favorite layouts, Las Vegas

www.riosecco.net

DESERT PINES GOLF CLUB 888/427-6678,

National Golf Club features a classic design

Designed by Rees Jones, Rio Secco is an

www.desertpinesgolfclub.com

with rolling fairways, glistening lakes and

18-hole championship course and home of

Desert Pines is described by many as

smooth, well-protected greens. Home of the

the Butch Harmon School of Golf. The

“The Pinehurst” of Las Vegas. The par-71

newly constructed Las Vegas Hall of Fame

par-72 course offers great views of the

course features thousands of mature pine

exhibit. Also the site of Tiger Woods first

Las Vegas Valley.

trees lining the fairways. White sand bunkers

PGA tour win.

ROYAL LINKS GOLF CLUB 702/450-8123,

protect large greens with water coming into

LAS VEGAS PAIUTE GOLF RESORT

www.royallinksgolfclub.com

play on nine out of 18 holes. Desert Pines is

702/658-1400, www.lvpaiutegolf.com

Royal Links was built to honor the rich

located just minutes from downtown. A

The Paiute features three Pete Dye courses

history and tradition of the game of golf. This

20,000-square-foot, two-tiered, climate-

— Snow Mountain, Sun Mountain and Wolf.

links-style course features holes inspired by

controlled practice facility is also available.

Each course is a par-72. The Snow Mountain

the British Open rotation courses, such as the

LAKE LAS VEGAS RESORT 702/564-1600,

and Sun Mountain courses both received a

Road Hole of St. Andrews and the Postage

www.lakelasvegas.com/golf.asp

4.5-star rating by Golf Digest in 2006,

Stamp from Royal Troon.

ranking them among the top 200 best daily-fee

REVERE AT ANTHEM 702/259-4653,

Reflection Bay and The Falls, and one private,

courses to play in North America.

www.reveregolf.com

SouthShore. Reflection Bay is the first public

LEGACY GOLF CLUB 702/897-2187,

resort golf course in Nevada designed by Jack

www.thelegacygc.com

This resort offers three courses: two public,

The Revere at Anthem offers 36 holes of golf created by Billy Casper and Greg Nash.

Nicklaus. Designed by Tom Weiskopf, The

The Legacy is an 18-hole championship

The two, par-72 courses, the Lexington

Falls is a par-72 course. SouthShore Golf Club,

golf course, designed by Arthur Hills, which

and the Concord, wrap through the desert

88 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS


canyons

and

valleys

of

the

Las

allow golfers of all handicaps to make playable

Vegas foothills.

shots off the tee, with preserved natural rock

SIENA GOLF CLUB 702/341-9200 or

outcroppings, desert washes and strategically

888/689-6469, www.sienagolfclub.com

placed bunkers.

Located in Summerlin, the Siena Golf Club features six lakes and 85 white sand

RED ROCK COUNTRY CLUB 702/304-5600, www.redrockcountryclub.com

bunkers on its par-72, 6,816-yard course. The

Red Rock Country Club is located in the

course was designed by Brian Curley and

master-planned community of Summerlin.

Lee Schmidt and offers views of the Spring

The country club community features two

Mountains, Red Rock Canyon and The Strip.

private Arnold Palmer-designed, 18-hole

Opened in 2000, this course has variety in the

championship courses, the private Mountain

routing and pacing of the holes.

Course and the public Arroyo Course.

SILVERSTONE GOLF CLUB 702/562-3770,

There is also a practice facility with a

www.silverstonegolfclub.com

double-ended driving range, putting green and

This 27-hole facility opened in summer

chipping areas.

2001 to the public and was designed by

PRIVATE COURSES

Mountain Spa, a European-style community

ANTHEM COUNTRY CLUB

in northwest Las Vegas and gives a

5000, www.anthemcc.com

702/614-

spectacular view of the Sheep Mountain

Built at an elevation of 3,000 feet, this

Range. The course is made up of three

course, which was designed by Keith Foster

rotating championship-style nines, with four

and player consultant Hale Irwin, features

sets of tees to allow all levels of play.

many holes played through canyons and

TOURNAMENT PLAYERS CLUB AT THE

highlighted by waterfalls. The par-72 course is

CANYONS 702/256-2500, www.tpc.com

the first course created by Foster and Irwin in

Photo courtesy of Rhodes Ranch

Robert Cupp. The course is located in

Southern Nevada.

7,381-yard, par-72 golf course designed

Canyons is a resort and daily-fee golf

CANYON GATE COUNTRY CLUB

through a rare collaboration by golf legend

facility. The TPC at The Canyons, designed

702/363-0303, www.canyon-gate.com

Robert Trent Jones Sr. and his equally

The Tournament Players Club at The

talented son, Robert Trent Jones Jr.

by Bobby Weed and player consultant

The foothills of the Spring Mountain

Raymond Floyd, can be described as desert

Range and Red Rock provide the backdrop

STALLION

elegance. The 18-hole course features a

for the golf course at Canyon Gate Country

CLUB 702/450-8077

multitude of trees, elevation changes, steep

Club. This private, Ted Robinson-designed

SEMI-PRIVATE COURSES BLACK COUNTRY

MOUNTAIN CLUB

GOLF

&

702/565-7933,

www.golfblackmountain.com

COUNTRY

This private club features three distinctly

and

different 18-hole courses that provide

features 70 sand traps and 12 lakes.

challenges to players of all levels. In 2001,

Membership is available by invitation only.

new greens were added, featuring Bermuda

SHADOW CREEK GOLF CLUB

putting surfaces, and in 2004, design

866/260-0069, www.shadowcreek.com

modifications were made by the team of Lee

golf

ravines and a canyon lake.

MOUNTAIN

course

spans

6,742

yards

Designed by Tom Fazio, Shadow Creek

Schmidt and Brian Curley. Play at this

One of the oldest courses in the area,

features creeks, waterfalls and more than 200

private club is available to guests at member

Black Mountain just received a $2 million

varieties of trees framed by mountains. The

resort hotels or to groups.

renovation. The Black Mountain range is the

course, which opened in 1989, is located on a

TOURNAMENT PLAYERS CLUB AT

backdrop for this course, which features wide

350-acre site, where every hillside, creek, lake

SUMMERLIN

fairways, small greens and many trees.

and waterfall were carefully built by hand. To

702/256-0111, www.tpcatsummerlin.com

DRAGONRIDGE GOLF AND

play, you must be a guest at one of the MGM

COUNTRY CLUB

Mirage properties.

Summerlin

702/614-4444 or www.dragonridgegolf.com

SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS 702/263-1000,

championship golf course and features a

www.southernhighlands.com

practice facility. It is located in the northwest

DragonRidge Golf and Country Club marks

The

Tournament is

a

Players private

Club

at

18-hole

the first collaboration between architects Jay

The Southern Highlands Golf Club, located

section of the Valley in Summerlin and home

Morrish and David Druzisky. The par-72

in the scenic foothills just 10 minutes south of

annually to the PGA TOUR’s Michelin

course’s design offers wide fairways, which

the famed Las Vegas Strip, features a

Championship at Las Vegas. WINTER 2009 • 89


L A S

V E G A S

Photo courtesy of Inside Style

I N

Designing Your Desert Home Making your home fit your new lifestyle. ou’ve decided to relocate. Maybe

Y

you know about your current space,

programs at The Art Institute of Las Vegas,

you’ve found your new home, maybe

prospective space and existing furniture, the

suggests focusing on one of the hottest and

you’re just beginning to look. No

better equipped you will be to make design

most sensible design trends — going

matter where you are in the process, chances

decisions, but keep in mind it should be a

green. “Money invested in energy-efficient

are you’re facing the stressful reality of

process that’s fun, too. “Designing your home

appliances,

moving — that is, deciding how to fit your

doesn’t have to be difficult,” says Jill

water-conserving fixtures and window

existing lifestyle into your new home.

Abelman, interior designer for Inside Style.

applications to block the Las Vegas heat and

New Nevadans are moving into three

“Make it a space you feel excited and

sun can save you significant money in the

primary types of developments: retirement

comfortable to be in.” Also, be aware that Las

long run,” she says. “Cover those basics and

communities, traditional suburban homes, and

Vegas might offer smaller-scaled homes

worry about other design decisions like paint

condominiums or other high-rise properties.

than what most new residents are used to,

and furniture once you have moved in.”

While each of these presents a distinct design

warns interior designer Keven Weber, ASID,

Light, color and texture have huge impacts

challenge, you can follow some basic design

with Henderson-based Martin Thomas

on a space, according to Bohnett and

principles that will help you avoid possible

Interior Design.

Abelman. In a warm and sunny climate like

pitfalls in the design process and help turn your new space into a place to call home. When you are looking to move, the more 90 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS

fans

for

air

circulation,

If you’re able to give feedback in the

Las Vegas, you need to select window

initial building stages of your home, Nancy

treatments and materials that will reflect your

Bohnett, academic director of interior design

sense of style, as well as provide needed


protection from the sun and heat. “Fabrics will deteriorate more quickly with the intense sun, so use a matchstick blind or roller shade with natural materials instead,” Weber says. Limiting the types of flooring and utilizing complementary colors throughout the home will help create a unified sense of space and make a home feel larger, but not everything always has to match. “Think about how color is going to affect your space,” Abelman says. “Your walls

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don’t always have to be a neutral color or finish. Consider a faux finish to create an effect on your interior space that will accent and highlight your furnishings and accessories. What colors make you feel good? Design is very personal. Don’t be afraid to try a new color on your walls and carry the scheme out with colorful pillows. I always say follow your instincts and don’t

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ask too many others for their opinion. If a

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certain color or style makes you happy,

702.401.4464

it works.” Once you are settled in, live with your

R e l o c a t i o n C o n s u l t i n g . b i z

existing furniture and home awhile to see how everything works in your new space. When you’re ready to make your design move, set your budget and take your home and furniture measurements with you to the store. “Investing in a good sofa is an anchor, the No. 1 element in a room, then you can fill in as you go,” Weber says. Bohnett adds,

Discount F O LOORING

UTLET

“You don’t have to redesign everything at once. Start in the rooms where you spend the most time.” “The Midwest and East Coast have more of a traditional flavor, and that’s generally going to be the biggest change for anyone moving here from those regions,” Weber says. “The West has cleaner lines and not as much pattern.” But no matter what anyone tells you, decide what feel your home should be for you, whether it’s comfort, sophistication, simplicity or something else, and design around that. The most important design decision you can make is to create a home that reflects

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your personal sense of style, complements your lifestyle and can be a retreat for you

WOOD | LAMINATE | STONE | TILE |

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and your family, Bohnett says. WINTER 2009 • 91


L A S

V E G A S

Photo courtesy of Poolscapes,LLC

I N

The Great Outdoors With warm temperatures and lots of sun, Las Vegas offers prime conditions for outdoor living.

A

h, the breeze blowing through your

Today’s consumers have an incredible

complete outdoor master plans. “We’re like

hair as you sit poolside, gazing up

selection of products to upgrade their homes

interior decorators for the outside,” he says.

at desert palms and tropical plants.

— there’s practically nothing you can do

“All our projects have continuity of flow

Warm Las Vegas weather certainly makes

indoors that you can’t do outside. Las

from the architecture of the existing home. If

outdoor living appealing. The concept of

Vegans are building stone patios with

there are travertine floors and stone

outdoor living is a rapidly growing lifestyle

outdoor kitchens, complete with large,

fireplaces, these come outside to create one

phenomenon, with an entire “leisure

built-in grills, refrigerators and work areas.

harmonious environment.”

lifestyle” industry raking in $6.2 billion a

They’re

outdoor

Many families spend lots of time outside

year. Outdoor living no longer means a few

fireplaces or fire pits to extend the season

if they have a pool, but because Las Vegas is

folding chairs, picnic table and grill — it

and adding luminous outdoor lighting to

a desert and water is an issue, some residents

comprises all the comforts of the indoors.

extend the evening. Technology has even

cut back on size. “Pools don’t need to be big

And Southern Nevadans get a good dose of

moved outdoors, including televisions and

to be enjoyable,” says Debbie Gifford,

usage, with six months of enjoyable

stereos, as well as other things usually

founder and president of Green Valley Pools.

weather, or more, depending on amenities

placed under cover, such as art.

“A 300-square-foot pool is a good size.

and personal constitution.

installing

luxurious

Ivan Friedmutter of Poolscapes offers

People are tending to go smaller and find CONTINUED ON PAGE 94

92 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS


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that the pools are more than adequate.” In addition to aiding in water conservation, the Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) partners with the pool industry to offer rebates on water-saving pool covers and other products. Las Vegas’ pool industry has also been creative with additional amenities, including sunken barbecues that allow swimmers to sit at a counter and eat while submerged, beach entries, sun-bathing decks and waterfalls. Spas with comfortable chairs continue to be a big seller for Friedmutter. “Adding the heat of a spa extends the use of the pool,” he notes. “Instead of only using it six months of the year, the homeowner can now enjoy it all year long.” Plants and Landscapes While humans can go inside during inclement weather, plants can’t, so you have to consider an appropriate landscape plan for your outdoor living space to get the best results. “We have extreme weather,” says Michele Wise, a certified Master Gardener trained specifically for this region by the Department of Agriculture. “The temperature can reach 114 degrees in the summer, and at other times, it can be very windy. Plants must be able to survive in these conditions, which limits what can live here.” As a designer, she creates illusion with her plants and designs, from desertscapes to tropical themes. “It’s the design and placement of the plants that differentiates the look,” she says. “Placing plants alone gives a desert look and feel; placing them in groups gives them a wispy, tropical look.” Wise uses palms, bottle brushes, lantana, cape honeysuckle and Mexican Bird of Paradise to bring color to the landscape. But for those homeowners who like to keep it simple, artificial grass is a growing trend in the Southwest. “It’s great because you don’t have to water it,” Wise says. That’s important in Las Vegas’ climate, where you want to be spending more time living in the outdoors and less time maintaining it. 94 • RELOCATING IN LAS VEGAS


I N

L A S

V E G A S

Photo from Nevada Ballet Theatre/photo by Jerry Metellus Inc.

University on the national map as a destination for musical and theatrical events. The Center consists of the Judy Bayley Theatre, Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall, Alta Ham Fine Arts Complex and the Lee and Thomas Beam Music Center. The Las Vegas Contemporary Dance Theatre, The Las Vegas Philharmonic and the Las Vegas Jazz Society are among famous group performers. The Nevada Ballet Theatre, another to grace the Center’s stage, is the largest professional ballet company and dance academy in the state, with 37 dancers who have been recruited from around the world and include artists with international performing experience. Beginning in 2011, it will be a resident company, along with the Las Vegas Philharmonic, in the new world-class Smith Center for the Performing Arts.

Sinless Entertainment hhh, Las Vegas. A city filled to the brim with attractions and activities. But there’s much more to Las Vegas than the neon lights, casinos, nightlife and The Strip. Take a look into the culture that also resides within Sin City’s boundaries by exploring numerous museums, theaters and historic sites. More information on area attractions can be found at www.lasvegastourism.com or www.visitlasvegas.com.

A

Las Vegas Art Museum www.lasvegasartmuseum.org In 1950, a dedicated art group founded the Las Vegas Art League located in Lorenzi Park. Taking it a step further, the League was renamed the Las Vegas Art Museum in 1974,

which made it the first fine art museum in Nevada. Today it’s located in the Sahara West Library Fine Art Museum building and offers close to 8,000 square feet of exhibition space for up-and-coming and internationally known contemporary artists. It also offers education programs for adults and children. Other museums to visit include the Lost City Museum of Archaeology, the Nevada State Museum & Historical Society, Las Vegas Natural History Museum, the Atomic Testing Museum and the Guinness World Record Museum. UNLV Performing Arts Center http://pac.unlv.edu Built in 1966, the Center for the Performing Arts helped put Las Vegas

Las Vegas Little Theatre www.lvlt.org Founded in 1978, Las Vegas Little Theatre is a small but powerful space. Located on Schiff Drive, the amateur theater company welcomes supreme theatrical performances, from classics to modern playwrights and musicals. It has grown throughout the years, presenting critically acclaimed and awardwinning plays such as “Master Harold...and the Boys,” “Purple Hearts,” “The Woolgatherer” and “A Streetcar Named Desire.” Hoover Dam www.hooverdamtourcompany.com Another part of Vegas that most people don’t think about is the vast open desert lands that draw quite a crowd. Just 35 miles from Las Vegas, Hoover Dam is located in Black Canyon and attracts about one million people a year. A tour of this National Historic Landmark will take visitors around the highest concrete dam in the Western Hemisphere as it stands more than 725 feet above the Colorado River, providing panoramic views of the river and Lake Mead. Additional historic and scenic Sin City sites include Red Rock Canyon, Desert National Wildlife Refuge Complex and the Great Basin National Park. WINTER 2009 • 95


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