Community briefs for June 11, 2004

Friday, June 11, 2004 | 8:24 a.m.

Grant promotes protecting cultures

The Nevada Arts Council says it will award a $1,700 grant to Kulvadee Sompong of Las Vegas to teach two others the traditional flower arranging, fruit and vegetable carving and cooking for ceremonial events of Thailand.

Sompong, originally from Bangkok, is one of 12 master folk artists chosen by the council to teach their skills to apprentices from their own culture. Sompong will instruct Kochasich Phibulphanuvat and Supatra Chemprachum, both of Las Vegas.

In addition, Martha Luevanos of Las Vegas will teach Gerardo Luevanos Mexican folk dances, and Yoko Fitzpatrick of Henderson will instruct Mitsuko Peart and Kumiko Mori, also of Henderson, in Japanese koto music.

The program is aimed at encouraging the preservation of traditional arts.

Reggae in the Desert scheduled

The music and lifestyle of Jamaica and the Caribbean islands will be featured at Reggae in the Desert from 6 p.m. to midnight Saturday at the County Government Center Amphitheater, 500 S. Grand Central Parkway.

Tickets are $15 in advance at all Ticketmaster outlets, and $20 at the gate.

The festival offers authentic Caribbean and Jamaican food for sale as well as Southern barbecue.

The amphitheater features lawn seating and ample free parking. Call 455-8200.

Biddy Basketball league on tap

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Las Vegas' Donald W. Reynolds unit, 2980 S. Robindale Road, is currently signing up valley residents to participate in its first summer biddy basketball league, a fun tournament for youth in grades 2-5.

The Biddy Basketbal philosophy instills in young players a positive attitude, good sportsmanship, confidence and sound basketball fundamentals.

All games will be played Monday through Thursday between 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Cost is $45; $45 for guests.

For more information, call Karry Rathje at 933-7777

Dollar Tree Stores

will be come permanent drop-off points for food collections for the Salvation Army. To locate the closest Dollar Tree Store, call 568-0089.

The program Discover Red Rock Canyon

will be held at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday at the North Las Vegas Library, 2300 Civic Center Drive. Designed for students in second grade and older, the program explores the wonders of Red Rock Canyon. Call 633-1070.