NV Energy recently awarded a $25,000 grant to Spread the Word Nevada, a children's literacy nonprofit organization serving low-income children and families in the Las Vegas Valley and Clark County School District.

The grant will allow Spread the Word Nevada to continue providing children's books, family literacy events, and reading mentors to the 23 elementary schools adopted since the organization started in 2001.

"We are grateful for NV Energy’s continued financial support and belief in our children’s literacy programs," said Lisa Habighorst, Executive Director of Spread the Word Nevada. "Our mission of distributing books and promoting reading to the underprivileged children within our communities is so successful due to community partners like NV Energy.

Escobedo Middle School and Legacy High School's Chamber Ensemble claimed top honors at the "Notes to Grow" music competition for local middle and high schools Saturday at Leavitt Middle School.

Both schools received $8,000 for their first-place finishes. A total of $36,000 in prize money sponsored by Las Vegas area Walmart and Sam's Club stores was divided among seven area schools’ music programs.

Local middle school and high school musical groups submitted applications and performance video for the contest for online evaluation and public voting.

Las Vegas's Lindamood-Bell Learning center will be hosting an informational open house this Thursday, March 24th at 6pm. The center focuses on literacy research, remediation, and professional development, and throughout the evening staff will be available to answer questions parents have about the center and classes. Children are welcome at the open house, as there will be demonstrations and activities available.

The event is free and open to the public.  Individuals interested in attending can RSVP at (702) 228-6942 or by emailing lasvegas.center@lindamoodbell.com.