The Feb. 13 Dazzle Prom is a Valentine from Las Vegas to the intellectually disabled community and those who love them — a free, inclusive dance and celebration designed especially for them.
Geared toward those 14 and up, the Dazzle Prom takes its cue from the Joy Prom, a similar annual event at the M Resort in west Henderson, about 30 miles from the northwest valley.
“Dazzle Prom started with one simple idea from a Ward 4 resident, Kyle, who loved Joy Prom but wished it were closer to home,” said Las Vegas Councilwoman Francis Allen-Palenske, a sponsor of the event. “The community rallied around it and Dazzle Prom was born. It’s local, it’s intentional and it’s built around creating a magical night where everyone truly belongs.”
Attendees can expect a warm welcome, music, dancing and laughter. There will be areas for crafts, watching movies and hanging out — with quiet spaces available for those who need a break. Last year’s inaugural effort was called “pure magic” by one participant and included a surprise engagement of one of the prom royalty.
“It was completely unexpected and incredibly emotional,” Allen-Palenske said.
Dazzle Prom kicks off at 5 p.m. on Feb. 13 at the LDS church at 10070 Azure Drive, just south of the Hualapai exit off the 215. To register or for more information, call (702) 229-5463.
Along with the city and Allen-Palenske, the event is also sponsored by Councilwoman Nancy Brune and the JustServe community volunteer network.
SNOW COMPETITION: The Winter Olympics might be 5,800 miles away in Italy, but expect medalists aplenty in Las Vegas.
The Little Air & Style friendly ski and snowboard competition for kids between the ages of 4 and 16 returns to the Lee Canyon resort on Feb. 21. Participants can register for free on site at Southern Nevada’s only ski resort, a 40-minute ride up the mountain from the northwest valley.
The competition runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., followed by an awards ceremony. Participants will be grouped by age — 12 and under and 13 to 16 — and compete on courses designed for their skill levels.
“Lee Canyon is committed to fostering outdoor opportunities for local youth,” said Johnny DeGeorge, Lee Canyon’s marketing manager. “This event celebrates their enthusiasm for learning and adventure.”
You can get more information at leecanyonlv.com.
FINDING CLOSURE: The South Unit of the Tule Springs Fossil Beds is temporarily closed to visitor access because of construction south of Grand Teton Drive, between Tule Springs Parkway and North Fifth Street. Trailheads remain open, according to the National Park Service.
Doug Puppel is a writer and model and longtime Las Vegan. Reach him at [email protected]