Community briefs for Feb. 11, 2003

Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2003 | 9:19 a.m.

Donations of hygiene products sought

The Salvation Army is asking for donations of personal hygiene products: shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrushes, antiperspirant, soap, baby products, and similar items.

All products donated will go toward helping the less fortunate in the Las Vegas Valley. The Salvation Army has facilities at Owens Avenue and Main Street where those less fortunate, both individuals and families, can come to receive these products. In addition, the hygiene products will be distributed by The Salvation Army's Home League and League of Mercy.

For pickup of large donations or additional information, call Charles Desiderio at 870-4430, Ext. 23.

Also, The Salvation Army is offering senior low-income apartments at its new Silvercrest housing project at 2801 Equador St., North Las Vegas.

Seniors in need of the special housing are urged to call 643-0293 to secure an application.

As part of an ongoing effort to raise awareness

of the growing need for adult mentors, and especially during Black History Month, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Nevada is seeking more black mentors for the more than 100 boys who are on the waiting list. For more information or anyone interested in becoming a mentor, call 731-2227.

Pennsylvania has Punxsutawney Phil,

and Las Vegas has Mojave Max. The desert tortoise's emergence each year in his Red Rock habitat is a local indicator of the arrival of spring. Max was last seen Oct. 22, when he entered his burrow for winter hibernation. Clark County students are encouraged to research Mojave Desert weather and conditions to estimate when Max will emerge and enter their guesses at www.mojavemax.com. The winner's class will receive prizes. Call 363-1922.