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From now until September 1st, Spirit of Nevada wants your vote for your favorite Nevada hero, organization or hidden gem. The location, charity or deserving person with the most tags on this post will be featured in a Spirit of Nevada episode. The two winners will be announced on September 3rd. Richard Harris Law Firm partnered with Foodie Fit, Han-Schneider International Children’s Foundation and others to give the kids at Robert E. Lake Elementary a fresh start to the school year with new backpacks filled with supplies. Please donate and help raise awareness for this campaign by sharing this post so we can help even more kids at other schools.

The mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) is to provide a supportive home away from home for families and children who are receiving inpatient or outpatient medical treatment. Since 1998, Ronald McDonald House of Greater Las Vegas has served more than 4,600 families. This year, the NFL Raiders helped remodel the Ronald McDonald House playroom and revamped the RMHC van, which is used to transport families and deliver lunches to hospitals. “I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.” – Charles Dickens, “A Christmas Carol”

Just north of downtown Las Vegas lies the Old Mormon Fort, the first permanent, non-native structure built by missionaries in the Las Vegas Valley in 1855. Two years later, the mission was abandoned due to harsh weather conditions and challenges with the natives. Today, a portion of the original adobe stockade wall, underground foundations of ranch buildings, and historical artifacts remain in stark contrast with vast and modern Las Vegas. Breathe in the alpine mountain air and learn some Nevada history at the Spring Mountains Visitor Gateway. A memorial honors the Silent Heroes of the Cold War, and Seven Stones Plaza represents the Seven Southern Paiute Native American tribes. Finish the day with a cup of world-famous hot chocolate at the Mt. Charleston Lodge.

Just north of downtown Las Vegas lies the Old Mormon Fort, the first permanent, non-native structure built by missionaries in the Las Vegas Valley in 1855. Two years later, the mission was abandoned due to harsh weather conditions and challenges with the natives. Today, a portion of the original adobe stockade wall, underground foundations of ranch buildings, and historical artifacts remain in stark contrast with vast and modern Las Vegas. Breathe in the alpine mountain air and learn some Nevada history at the Spring Mountains Visitor Gateway. A memorial honors the Silent Heroes of the Cold War, and Seven Stones Plaza represents the Seven Southern Paiute Native American tribes. Finish the day with a cup of world-famous hot chocolate at the Mt. Charleston Lodge.

Thanksgiving is a time of togetherness and gratitude—virtues that unlock the fullness of life. This holiday season, we’re taking time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives. Mt. Charleston is a pleasant retreat from the intensity of Las Vegas. The surrounding Spring Mountains provide a forested, spring-fed haven for wildlife. It’s also the home of the ancient bristlecone pine, the oldest living thing on the planet.

F.E.A.T. (Families for Effective Autism Treatment) of Las Vegas is hosting its Annual Family Picnic & Resource Fair at Mission Hills Park on October 27. The non-profit organization provides support for families of children with autism spectrum disorder (A.S.D.) and related disorders. Get into the Halloween spirit at the Moapa Valley Corn Maze! Day and night activities include zombie paintball, pig races, hay rides, and amazing mazes. Enjoy this spook-tacular, one-of-a-kind attraction where the fields “come alive.”

Majestic palm trees, shimmering lake waters, and beautiful resorts make Lake Las Vegas a desert oasis for adventure, leisure, and outdoor recreation. The breathtaking greenery of Blue Diamond, Nevada, tucked away in massive Red Rock Canyon, makes the town of only 300 people feel anything but small.

Relive the distinctive history of Las Vegas from the 1930s to present at the Neon Museum, chronicled through a one-of-a-kind collection of artistic signs and the unique personalities and stories behind their creation. Head with us to the Valley of Fire, where we run into the Challenger Demons and join Adrenaline ATV Tours for scenic fun in the desert sun.

In the spring of 1844, John C. Fremont discovered a shortcut through a mountain pass on the Old Spanish Trail. Wagon trains soon followed the route over the Spring Mountains. Today, at the top of the pass, the world famous Mountain Springs Saloon is a favorite watering hole for bikers and other travelers. Not all superheroes wear capes, but we found one who does. Join Sam, our very own Wonder Woman, and Nathan Harris, the “Caped Crusader,” on their mission to bring smiles to patients and their families at the Children’s Hospital of Nevada at University Medical Center.

In the spring of 1844, John C. Fremont discovered a shortcut through a mountain pass on the Old Spanish Trail. Wagon trains soon followed the route over the Spring Mountains. Today, at the top of the pass, the world famous Mountain Springs Saloon is a favorite watering hole for bikers and other travelers. Not all superheroes wear capes, but we found one who does. Join Sam, our very own Wonder Woman, and Nathan Harris, the “Caped Crusader,” on their mission to bring smiles to patients and their families at the Children’s Hospital of Nevada at University Medical Center.

Six years ago, Tony and Linda Bonnici started a scholarship fund for aspiring students to pursue their dreams in broadcasting. This year, the Nevada Broadcasters Association & Foundation and the Tony & Linda Bonnici Broadcasting Scholarship Fund will award 32 scholarships to talented and dedicated Nevada students. Just west of the Las Vegas Strip is Chinatown, the only place in Las Vegas where you can get truly authentic Asian ethnic cuisines. Grocery stores with live fresh seafood and imported Asian foodstuffs add to the vibrant mix.

Six years ago, Tony and Linda Bonnici started a scholarship fund for aspiring students to pursue their dreams in broadcasting. This year, the Nevada Broadcasters Association & Foundation and the Tony & Linda Bonnici Broadcasting Scholarship Fund will award 32 scholarships to talented and dedicated Nevada students. Just west of the Las Vegas Strip is Chinatown, the only place in Las Vegas where you can get truly authentic Asian ethnic cuisines. Grocery stores with live fresh seafood and imported Asian foodstuffs add to the vibrant mix.

The boomtown of Goldfield was once the largest city in Nevada and hosted a world championship boxing match. Home of legendary lawmen, Wyatt and Virgil Earp, the mining town never recovered from a devastating fire from an exploding moonshine still in 1923. Local hero Amy Meyer-Terry is the founder of White Horse Youth (WHY) Ranch, a program devoted to helping socially-challenged children. WHY Ranch inspires and empowers youth by giving them the opportunity to interact with horses and other animals.

Four winners of the 9th annual Spirit of Nevada Scholarship Contest are celebrated for Discovering Both Sides of Nevada. Enjoy the historic Spring Mountain Ranch State Park with hiking and tree-shaded picnic spots by day and live outdoor Super Summer Theatre by night.

Four winners of the 9th annual Spirit of Nevada Scholarship Contest are celebrated for Discovering Both Sides of Nevada. Enjoy the historic Spring Mountain Ranch State Park with hiking and tree-shaded picnic spots by day and live outdoor Super Summer Theatre by night.

With spectacular sandstone cliffs, challenging rock climbing, and peaceful hiking, Calico Basin is an exquisite preserve right outside Las Vegas. Hope flies high with Miracle Flights. The Las Vegas-based nonprofit helps seriously ill children and their families overcome the impossibility of distance to see lifesaving medical specialists throughout the country.

With spectacular sandstone cliffs, challenging rock climbing, and peaceful hiking, Calico Basin is an exquisite preserve right outside Las Vegas. Hope flies high with Miracle Flights. The Las Vegas-based nonprofit helps seriously ill children and their families overcome the impossibility of distance to see lifesaving medical specialists throughout the country.

The DISCOVERY Children’s Museum provides vibrant and engaging exhibits and programs redefining Las Vegas as a city that values culture and the arts. Children participate in playful learning experiences igniting a love of lifelong learning.

Tonopah, Nevada is a historical mining town with equal parts Wild West, remote desert hideaway and hotbed for prospecting politicians and corporations. Tonopah is home to one of Nevada’s most historic hotels, the Mizpah, built in 1907. This “Jewel of the Desert” takes you back in time with occasional visits from guests who never checked out. You may not believe in ghosts, but one thing is certain, the Mizpah Hotel has a spirit that will never die.

The magnificent Hoover Dam, in the Colorado River’s Black Canyon on the border between Nevada and Arizona is one of the seven wonders of the industrial world. Constructed during the Great Depression and dedicated by President Franklin Roosevelt, Hoover Dam tamed one of the world’s most dangerous and unpredictable rivers and created Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States.

Take in the spectacular mountain peak views and discover some of Nevada’s history at the Spring Mountains Visitor Gateway. A memorial honors the Silent Heroes of the Cold War and Seven Stones Plaza features the Seven Southern Paiute Native American tribes. Finish the day with a cup of world famous hot chocolate at the Mt. Charleston Lodge.

Each week Spirit of Nevada recognizes local heroes, activists and caretakers of our heritage who embody the essence of what it means to be battle born.

Originally built in 1834 as a stopover for wagon trains on the Old Spanish Trail, Bonnie Springs Ranch is located in the heart of Red Rock Canyon and includes a zoo, restaurant and replica of an 1880’s mining town.

Tucked away in the Spring Mountains, Lee Canyon offers a fun winter sports getaway and a cozy lodge. Don’t worry if you forgot your winter gear, the resort has daily rentals and even offers free beginner sessions.

It’s not possible to tell the history of Las Vegas without noting the influence of organized crime. The National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement nicknamed the Mob Museum says “there are two sides to every story — and then there’s the truth.”

Following 1 October, we were humbled to be part of a community that rose in the face of tragedy and came together. Vegas Strong showed the world that Las Vegas has a heart.

“I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. I will live in the Past, the Present, and the Future. The Spirits of all Three shall strive within me. I will not shut out the lessons that they teach.” – Charles Dickens from A Christmas Carol

Less than an hour’s drive from lively Las Vegas is majestic Mt. Charleston, the tallest point in Southern Nevada, with year-round scenic vistas and outdoor activities. It’s the home of the ancient Bristlecone pine, the oldest living thing on the planet.

Nestled in the Bullfrog Hills 120 miles northwest of Las Vegas lies the once booming town, Rhyolite.

Nevada PEP empowers families with children with disabilities through education and encouragement.

Following 1 October, Las Vegas proved to the world we are a strong community. Police Wives of America is a remarkable group who support law enforcement families all year long with love, experience, compassion and strength.

Families for Effective Autism Treatment (F.E.A.T.) provides information on treatment resources for families with children diagnosed with autism, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and related conditions. The program consists of 200 volunteers and 18 programs benefiting the autistic community in Nevada.

Attention: Marvel Fans The only Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. (Scientific Training and Tactical Intelligence Operative Network) in the United States is located inside Treasure Island on the Las Vegas Strip.

Across from McCarran International Airport is one of the largest parks in Las Vegas, Sunset Park. This year, the Age of Chivalry Renaissance Festival returned for the annual three-day event that takes festivalgoers back in time to the medieval era of knights, hand-crafted art and epic jousting battles. Mark your calendars for next fall to join in on the fun!

Just off Dean Martin Drive in Las Vegas is McKee Ranch, a working ranch in a rural setting. This family owned, non-profit foundation is committed to education, ranch preservation, and the adopting and caring of animals. There is no better way to experience fall in the desert with their traditional harvest themed pumpkin patch.

In the midst of the Las Vegas Strip mass shooting and in the hours and days following, incredible stories of heroism and selflessness emerged. Lines of donors formed at UMC and United Blood Services. It was all hands on deck, coming together to provide compassion and help.

Nevada is constantly evolving. The pioneers and trailblazers of yesterday are gone, replaced with tourists and adventuresome locals. Join us as we seek the Spirit of Nevada among the ruins of a lost city, St. Thomas, which reemerged on the receded shores of Lake Mead.

Jump in and buckle up! Head out to Valley of Fire as we tag along with a Southern Nevada car club for some scenic fun in the desert sun. On the highway or off the beaten path, let Spirit of Nevada take you where you want to be!

While it’s true not all heroes wear capes, we found one in Las Vegas who actually does. Join Sam, our own Wonder Woman with Nathan, the “Caped Crusader” on a mission to bring smiles to patients and their families at the Children’s Hospital of Nevada at UMC.

Lying on the outskirts of Northwest Las Vegas you’ll find Tule Springs, a place where Southern Nevada’s history, both prehistoric and modern, are intertwined with the surrounding oasis and wildlife.

Tucked between the towering sandstone cliffs of Red Rock Canyon and the bustling neon-lit Las Vegas Strip lies the small village of Blue Diamond. This important desert oasis has quenched the thirst of ancient Native Americans, Spanish explorers, pioneers, miners as well as today’s travelers seeking to re-connect with the Spirit Of Nevada.

Southern Nevada is the fast lane – with lights, gambling and all that comes with it – the exception is just beyond the valley: Boulder City.

Oh, the cool places we have been, the great people we have met! Our greatest hits, this week on Spirit of Nevada!

They used to be the heart of the community – barber shops were the place to debate politics, trade a few jokes and get a real haircut and the closest shave of your life. In Las Vegas, they are few and far between but the good ones are doing just fine.

In springtime, Red Rock comes alive with wildflowers. But in the summertime, Red Rock comes alive with music. It’s a Las Vegas tradition.

Discover what it means to be “Battle Born!” It was a day to remember for the five winning students who submitted their most creative work describing what it takes to embody the Spirit of Nevada. Our host, Sam, shines a spotlight on the Students with a Cause Scholarship event.

Find it hard to believe that world-class grapes can thrive in the desert? Believe it! Our host, Sam, explores the award-winning Pahrump Valley Winery, Nevada’s winery in the desert.

Celebrate the Wild West frontier history of Las Vegas! Our host, Sam, visits the cowboys and cowgirls of Helldorado Days, our town’s longest-running civic event.

Day tripping! Less than 45 minutes from Las Vegas, you can step back in time to the Pioneer Saloon, where miners threw down a cold one more than 100 years ago and Clark Gable waited for news of his wife Carole Lombard’s missing plane. Haunted? Probably!

It’s a vivid burst of colors amid a scenic desert backdrop that will catch your eye and capture your imagination. Our host, Sam, checks out Seven Magic Mountains, the larger-than-life outdoor art exhibit south of Las Vegas.

With flowing natural springs, sandstone cliffs and spectacular desert scenery, it’s an exquisite sanctuary right outside Las Vegas. Our host, Sam, visits Calico Basin in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.

The mission of the Nevada Test Site Historical Foundation is to preserve and foster public accessibility to the history associated with the Nevada Test Site and the nation’s nuclear weapons program. The NTS Historical Foundation promotes and supports cultural, educational, and scientific programming to encourage the development and public exchange of views regarding the Nevada Test Site and its impact on the nation. The major program of the Nevada Test Site Historical Foundation is the National Atomic Testing Museum.

Three Square’s mission is to provide wholesome food to hungry people, while passionately pursuing a hunger-free community. The non-profit organization combines food banking (warehousing canned and boxed goods), food rescue (obtaining surplus or unused meats, bread, dairy and produce from hospitality and grocery outlets), and ready-to-eat meals to be the most complete food solution for Southern Nevada.

The Pinball Hall of Fame is an attempt by the members of the Las Vegas Pinball Collectors Club to house and display the world’s largest pinball collection, open to the public.

Ivy’s Hope provides support, education and assistance to Cerebral Palsy families to enrich the lives of children affected by the disability.

The Goodie Two Shoes Foundation provides disadvantaged children and children in crisis with new shoes and socks, as well as other items deemed essential for good health and positive development.

By the St. Baldrick’s Foundation working closely with leading pediatric oncologists, they determine the most promising research to fund and create funding priorities to make the greatest impact for children with cancer. Here are some creative ways they’re doing just that: Providing hospitals the funds to open high-impact clinical trials for rare disease types, placing more children on studies to increase the rate of progress, while also increasing the likelihood for a child to receive the best treatment plan in a hospital near home. Funding researchers to work together, so that research currently underway by the best and brightest investigators is shared between institutions, and even across continents, giving all children with cancer the best chance for a cure. Training the next generation of researchers—in 2005, a shortage of pediatric oncologists was predicted, and the St. Baldrick’s Foundation stepped in to ensure that every child with cancer will have a doctor and tomorrow’s research will not be interrupted. Funding supportive care research to improve the quality of life for patients and survivors. Supportive care research addresses the side effects of treatment, long-term effects faced by survivors, psychosocial aspects of childhood cancer and more.