Briefs

Winter pruning classes on tap at master gardener orchard

University of Nevada Cooperative Extension's Master Gardener Orchard in North Las Vegas is offering two winter pruning classes this month. During the sessions, participants will learn how to prune their fruit trees correctly for high-quality fruit production.

The first session, Dec. 10, will focus on peaches and nectarines. The second session on Dec. 17 will focus on apricots, plums and pluots.

Classes begin at 9 a.m. and repeat each hour until noon.

Robert "Bob" Morris, professor emeritus for Cooperative Extension and horticulturist, will lead the classes.

Reservations are not required. A $5 donation is requested for the classes to help support educational research at the orchard.

The orchard is located at 7700 Horse Drive, North Las Vegas, about 100 yards east of the intersection of North Decatur Boulevard and Horse Drive.

For more information, contact Jonathan Chodacki at 702-257-5532 or email chodackij@unce.unr.edu.

Artisan Group raises $32,000
to help Homes for Our Troops

Artisan Group countertop fabricators across America raised $32,000 at the group's first national granite yard sale, "Counters for a Cause," to help Homes for Our Troops to build specially adapted homes for veterans.

During the sale, homeowners purchased pieces of stone remnants and slabs at discounted prices, with proceeds benefitting veterans.

Artisan Group Executive Director Chad Seiders recently presented the check to Marine Cpl. Neil Frustaglio, a Homes for Our Troops representative and Marine who received a home from the organization.

"These Marines have given their blood, sweat, tears and in some cases part of themselves to defend our rights and freedoms in this country," Seiders said. "It is a privilege to give something back to them."

"Homes for Our Troops appreciates the fundraising efforts of the Artisan Group," said John Gonsalves, president and founder of Homes for Our Troops. "Because of the support from patriotic companies across the nation, we are able to restore freedom and independence back to our severely injured veterans through the gift of a specially adapted home."