A drowning can occur in seconds, in any water that cover’s a child’s nose and mouth including pools/spas, inflatable pools, bathtubs, toilets, buckets or natural bodies of water. It is extremely important for everyone to remember the simple rules to stay safe around the water. 

THE A B C & D’S OF DROWNING PREVENTION 

A is for Adult Supervision 

B is for Barriers (for your pool) 

C is for Classes (Swim Lessons & CRP) 

D is for Devices (PFD’s/Life Jackets and Rescue Tools) 

It is also a smart idea to make sure you have a phone by the pool. In the case of an emergency, you do not want to have to run back into the house to look for a phone. 

Here are some helpful links for more information: 

Drowning Prevention – http://www.gethealthyclarkcounty.org/injury_prev/drowning.html 

The ABC & D’s of Drowning Prevention – Simple Rules to Stay Safe Around Water  http://www.gethealthyclarkcounty.org/injury_prev/abc_drowning.htm 

Please be safe.

We were thrilled to see the excitement from all the Realtors touring our new models. The feedback from the Realtors was great. We received numerous comments in regards to the gourmet kitchens with center islands and huge pantries, spacious secondary bedrooms, luxurious master suites with enormous closets, and the large casual and formal living areas. Realtors were also thrilled to see that we kept with the standard that is offered at all our American West communities and that is pool-sized backyards. 

Here are some great articles about the event: 

Real estate expert sees recovery in LV market – Las Vegas Sun 

It’s reset time for valley real estate, official says – Las Vegas Review Journal

The beautiful floorplans were unveiled to the public on Friday, May 8^th. We received tons of traffic and wrote six sales over the week-end. In fact, American West led the way in terms of sales for new home builders in Las Vegas last week!

 In case you missed the article on our Grand Opening, here is it: 

RESERVE AT CORONADO RANCH: American West adds homes – Las Vegas Review Journal 

The American West Reserve homes are most definitely a must see. For more information on the homes visit our website at www.americanwesthomes.com . The sales office is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The number to the sales office is (702) 853-4586. 

We put together a video from some of the Realtors feedback – enjoy!

Things You Can Do:

● Use programmable thermostats and recommended temperature and settings.

● Reduce idle electricity use (unplug or shut off unused electronics, set your computer to hibernate, turn off unused lights). Every year, U.S. households spend $100 to power devices while they are in “standby” mode.

● Waste less food.

● Reduce incandescent bulbs with CRL’s.

● Maintain your vehicle properly (oil grade, engine tuning, tire inflation).

● Attend to water leaks and cut heat loss (use caulking/weather stripping).

● Use hot water more efficiently in your home (lower the temperature setting of water heater, wash in cold water, use efficient faucets and showerheads).

● Opt for Energy Star appliances when replacing a refrigerator or dishwasher. 

Some interesting facts and tips for you from simplesteps.com : 

FACT: If a quarter of the households in the United States replaces incandescent with one CFL, it would save as much CO2 as planting 257,215 acres of forest.
TIP: CFL’s with a Kelvin temperature between 3,000k and 3,500k will give off the familiar warm glow of incandescents.

FACT: Up to 50 percent of the average household’s energy consumption goes to heating and cooling the home.
TIP: Seal all window edges and cracks with caulk, reducing the energy consumed to maintain indoor temperature.

FACT: Every year, the U.S. uses 100 billion plastic bags consuming about 12 million barrels of oil.
TIP: When shopping at the grocery store, or even the mall, bring a reusable bag.

FACT: Americans threw away more than 100 million cell phones in 2006. Recycling them could have saved enough energy to power approximately 194,000 U.S. households for one year.
TIP: It’s one of the 3 R’s! Reduce, Reuse and Recycle!

In the words of Dr. Seuss in his classic book, “The Lorax”. 

“But now,” says the Once-ler,
“Now that you’re here, the word of the Lorax seems perfectly clear.
UNLESS someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better.
It’s not.” 

Let’s help to make this Earth Day the most successful one yet. Happy Earth Day!

The great news is that the total number of ENERGY STAR qualified homes in 2009 was equivalent to the following:

● Eliminating the emissions from 45.08 vehicles

● Saving 272,688 lbs. of coal

● Planting 74.52 acres of trees

● Saving homeowners $41,124 on their utility bills. 

American West’s homes are designed with desert living and energy efficiency in mind. Our architects design our homes while considering the environment and energy conservation. 

The environment and energy conservation are extremely important to us as a company which is why our energy-efficient features are included in our homes. These features include a 14-SEER natural gas heat and electric central air-conditioning with Puron®; radiant heat barrier roof sheathing; programmable setback thermostat; R-13 insulation in exterior walls and R-30 insulation in ceilings; Prime-Wrap® house wrap protects your home against air and moisture infiltration; fiberglass front-entry door; vinyl-framed, dual-pane low-e windows and sliding glass door; 50-gallon quick-recovery natural gas water heater; and Super-Flow water management system.

As a builder, we go beyond the ENERGY STAR® certification in that our homes are also certified as Energy Plus. This additional certification means that each home is at least 30 percent more energy efficient than current National Home Building Standards and 15% more energy efficient than homes that qualify only as ENERGY STAR®.” 

As we approach the celebration of Earth Day, rest assured that American West is doing our part in helping the environment.

Here is a list to get you started: 

Air Conditioning – Schedule service with a licensed Heating and Cooling (HVAC) contractor. Air filters should be changed monthly. 

Roof – Visually inspect for any damage and trim any trees if necessary. Replace any broken tiles. Inspect mastic at all roof penetrations and reseal if necessary. Check all roofing vents for bird nests. Remember, you can hire a licensed roofing contractor to perform an annual roof inspection. 

Chimney – Visually inspect for any damages to cap, flashing and masonry. 

Smoke Detectors – Change batteries if necessary. 

Garage Door Opener – Check operation of unit and lubricate per manufacturers instructions. 

Exterior – Check condition of paint and caulk. Check metal railings and paint as needed. Check all fascia and trim for deterioration. 

Clothes Dryer – Clean lint from duct and from unit per manufacturers instructions. 

Refrigerator – Clean coil, drain pan and check drain. 

Range Hood – Clean filter and wash blades. 

Bathroom Exhaust Fans – Clean grill and fan. 

Bathroom Tile – Check for voids in grout, caulk if necessary. 

Plumbing – Check for any leaks at fixtures, traps and piping. 

Shower and Tub Drains – Clean out hair and other debris. 

Water Heater – Draw sediment from tank as needed. 

Sprinklers, irrigation – Start system, drain and check for leaking heads or tubing.  

If you need assistance with any of your home maintenance items, please contact Home Service Plus at (702) 795-3758 or visit them at www.HomeServicePlus.net

A bit of Spring inspiration for you:

So rest assured that your new American West home is recognized throughout the country as being superior in both design and construction quality. 

The awards are nice, but what really matters is the over 15,000 families who have already moved up to the best home money can buy. Our commitment to cutting-edge design is highlighted by the amazing architectural features found in each of our homes. As you explore our homes, you will notice the pot-shelves, the arched windows, the built-in media niches, the gourmet state-of-the-art kitchens, the tri-level designs or the split-levels with included elevators. We are constantly finding ways to enhance family lifestyles. 

Industry recognition and customer referrals prove that American West understands the wants and needs of our homebuyers. We firmly stand behind what we do and know how important it is to build it right the first time. 

Some of our award highlights: 

ACE Award 

            Our commitment to quality was evaluated by a team of professionals who assessed over 2,000 builders across the country. They checked every facet of the building process, from construction techniques to quality-control systems to materials and the people on the field. American West surpasses expectations and became the only homebuilding company in the country to win the Award for Construction Excellence (ACE) – twice. 

Gold Nugget Award

            American West is proud to say that we are 8-time winners of the Gold Nugget Awards! Gold Nugget Awards honor creative achievements in architectural design and land-use planning for residential, commercial and industrial projects from the 14 western states and all countries bordering the Pacific Ocean. 

Homer Award

            Awarded by the Southern Nevada Home Builders Association (SNHBA), the Homer Awards honor and recognize the outstanding achievement and design excellence of the homebuilders of Southern Nevada. American West has won an astounding 24 Homer Awards for Best Single Family Detached homes in a variety of square footage categories, along with a 3-time win for Best Land Planning.

For informaton of all our homes and neighborhoods, visit our website at www.AmericanWestHomes.com or call (702) 308-1111.

“I love Las Vegas.  I think this is a wonderful place to live and raise a family.  And I always have.  Since the day I got here, I’ve worked hard to make Las Vegas a beautiful place.  My personal involvement is simply a carry through of my philosophy to help make a better Las Vegas,” said Canarelli

For Larry Canarelli, being part of Las Vegas means giving back to the community. He has raised his family here. He has coached over 20 children’s sports teams. He participates with school boards and actively gives to local schools. He has served on the board for many local charities. In recognition of his role as a leader and supporter of the Las Vegas community, a school in Coronado Ranch is named in his honor…The Lawrence and Heidi Canarelli Middle School.

Larry’s philosophy and commitment has also carried through in his company’s efforts and activities. 

“As a home builder, we have the opportunity to benefit the community in many ways.  By helping schools, building parks and being involved with community programs, we can help provide an environment where people feel comfortable raising their children,” Canarelli said.

American West has built over 15,000 homes in Las Vegas over the past 25 years.   Canarelli’s concern for the community is reflected through his involvement in every planning stage of each American West neighborhood.

“Our commitment to making a better Las Vegas is seen in each of the homes we have built since day one,” Canarelli said.   The company has won numerous local and national architectural design awards since its beginnings in 1984. 

“We want to see Las Vegas developed where quality of life is preserved and enhanced, at its highest possible level.  For us, that starts with making our communities absolutely beautiful.  We do that in part with superior architectural designs, greenbelts, entry monumentation, state-of-the-art schools and larger yards,” he said.

“As we enter 2010, home shoppers are continuing to discover that they can get more for their money when buying a brand-new home from American West,” Canarelli said. “American West offers more included features than other builders for some of the best prices per square foot in Las Vegas. We anticipate 2010 to be a great year as more and more homebuyers discover that their dream of owning an American West home can come true.”

American West is currently selling at 9 communities located throughout the Las Vegas valley. Home designs range from 1,216 to 4,770 square feet with prices starting as low as $188,500. The builder’s collection of beautiful home designs reflect American West’s tradition of architectural excellence, quality construction, innovative floorplans, pool sized backyards and superior customer service. These are some of the reasons why American West is one of the most successful, privately owned homebuilders in the nation.  Our sales centers are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. For community directions and more information, please visit www.AmericanWestHomes.com or call (702) 308-1111.

“As we enter 2010, home shoppers are continuing to discover that they can get more for their money when buying a brand-new home from American West,” Canarelli said. “American West offers more included features than other builders for some of the best prices per square foot in Las Vegas. We anticipate 2010 to be a great year as more and more homebuyers discover that their dream of owning an American West home can come true.”

The difference in an American West neighborhood is unmistakable. The pride of ownership in the homes is overwhelming. “I have been dreaming of owning an American West home since 2002”, said Andrea Jordan, American West homebuyer. “For seven years I have wanted to be the owner of an American West home and now my dream is coming true. This is huge for my family, it will be the home we grow old in. This is the best Christmas ever for my family.”

“We’ve listened to our buyers and met their demands for the newest and best amenities offered in new homes,” Canarelli said.  “Incorporating our buyers’ needs and dreams into all of our homes… That’s the key to American West’s unprecedented success. We build to meet the needs of Las Vegas families.  We combine unmatched value, outstanding locations, our trademark huge homes, and the newest amenities to create an unparalleled new home package.”

American West is currently selling at 9 communities located throughout the Las Vegas valley. Home designs range from 1,216 to 4,770 square feet with prices starting as low as $188,500. The builder’s 2010 collection of homes will continue the tradition of architectural excellence, quality construction, innovative floorplans, pool sized backyards and superior customer service. 

“Each American West community is a little different and appeals to different types of buyers. First-time home buyers, growing families, empty nesters and those seeking luxury residences are all discovering homes that meet their personal needs at American West neighborhoods,” Canarelli said.

“Today’s home buyers are seeking homes constructed by quality builders with established track records, who stand behind their homes. We are a privately owned business that has been building in the Las Vegas Valley for over 25 years with thousands of happy homeowners. American West Homes is the only builder in the nation who has won the ACE Award for construction excellence twice. We look forward to continue providing quality homes and to exceed the expectations of our buyers in 2010,” he said.

“We’re offering amenities that no other builder in our price range can offer,” said Canarelli.  “For example, our included elevators take our split-level homes to a whole new dimension. Because of their cost, they are usually limited to very expensive custom homes but we include them in the base price of our homes.”  Included elevators can be found in homes offered at Kensington, Silverado Springs, Windsor and Woodbridge.

The homes built by American West are certified as not only Energy Star® but also Energy Plus. American West was the first builder in Las Vegas to receive both these certifications. With the Energy Plus certification, American West homes are twice as energy efficient as a home that only qualifies as Energy Star®.

All of American West’s energy-efficient features are included in their homes. These features include: Carrier® 14-SEER natural gas heat and electric central air-conditioning with Puron®, the environmentally sound refrigerant; R13 insulation in exterior walls and R30 in ceilings;  energy-efficient radiant-heat barrier roof sheathing; PROInstaller E2S Complete Weatherproofing System; fully-insulated, fiberglass, front-entry door; vinyl-framed, dual-paned, Low-E windows and sliding glass doors; 50-gallon, quick-recovery, natural-gas water heater; and water-conserving Moen faucets and showerheads.

“It’s an impressive list of energy-conserving products. These products are in addition to the building practices and products we already utilize to meet Energy Star standards and they come at no extra cost to the homebuyer,” said Canarelli.

As a home builder for over 25 years, Canarelli cited buyers’ appreciation of their homes as a great source of satisfaction.

 “I put my name on every home American West builds.  I’m proud of that.  Knowing from our homeowners that they’re pleased with their home brings the greatest delight to me as a home builder,” Canarelli said. “My dream has always been to provide beautiful, affordable homes that all families could live in. That dream turned into a reality and can be seen throughout the 70 neighborhorhoods that American West has built throughout the Las Vegas valley.”

Creating attractive communities and sound investments for homeowners is no new venture for American West. “By using foresight, we only build in the best areas,” said Canarelli.  “For example, we’re adjacent to the master-planned areas yet we’re able to give the buyer much more house for the money.  Factoring in all the new schools, parks, shopping and dining, buyers get every bit the livability of master-planned communities without the high monthly fees,” he said.

Canarelli refers to L.I.D. fees.  “We think it’s proper for a developer to pay the infrastructure fees up front, rather than passing them onto the homeowner through expensive monthly L.I.D. fees.”

 The company is in the process of developing a planned community in the southwest, Highlands Ranch.  Upon completion, it will include over 2,000 homes and will be home to three schools and two parks. The builder is currently selling at 5 neighborhoods – Lexington, Fairmont, Kensington, Newcastle and Windsor. These neighborhoods feature two-story and split-level home designs ranging from 1,216 to 4,770 square feet with up to six bedrooms.

Another planned community in the southwest part of the valley is Coronado Ranch, the jewel of the southwest. American West is currently selling at Kingsbridge, Promontory and Woodbridge. The two-story and split-level home designs range from 1,486 to 4,770 square feet with up to six bedrooms. Due to the demand of this area, the builder will be starting a new community, The Reserve, after the first of the year.

The planned community of Silverado Ranch in the south, adjacent to Green Valley was pioneered by the builder and currently features Silverado Springs with two-story and split-level home designs ranging from 2,363 to 3,790 square feet with up to 5 bedrooms.

Founded in 1984, American West has become one of the most successful, privately owned homebuilders in the nation.  American West sales centers are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. For community directions and more information, please visit www.AmericanWestHomes.com  or call (702) 308-1111.

1. He’s aware. He sees you when you’re sleeping. He knows when you’re awake. For goodness sake!
2. He’s organized. He’s got a list. He checks it twice.
3. He knows exactly what the customer wants. He received and read your letter. He excels at keeping up with constantly changing customer demands.
4. He’s not afraid of hiring those who are different: Rudolph. Red Nosed. Reindeer. Enough said.
5. He inspires his staff with a singular mission. They fulfill their duty with passion and a smile. They wear cool hats to remind them they’re on a team. They’re often known for singing while they work.
6. He has integrity as a core virtue. His leadership core is based on knowing who’s naughty and nice.
7. He’s reliable. He shows up. He’s coming to town. We know that. There’s even a song about his reliability.
8. He has mastered organizational logistics. His delivery system puts FedEx to shame.
9. His is mindful of work/life balance. Some people take a few weeks off for a holiday. Some might take off a month. Santa takes off entire seasons to recoup from his big night.
10. He has maintained the essence of brand name over a span of several hundred years despite massive change. He regularly transitions his brand to the next generation. As each generation becomes aware that Santa plays a different role in their lives, they ensure that the next generations have deep loyalty. No other leader can pull off this feat!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

 Dear Editor,

            I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, “If you see it in The Sun, it’s so.” Please tell me the truth is there a Santa Claus?

            Virginia O’Hanlon

Virginia,

 Your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except that which they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men’s or children’s are little. In the great universe of ours, man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect as compared with the countless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole truth and knowledge.

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! How dreary would the world be if there were no Santa Claus! It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginia. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies. You might get your papa to have men watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if you did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that’s no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders that are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You tear apart the baby’s rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which the strongest men, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived could tear apart. Only faith, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernatural beauty and glory beyond. It is all real! Ah Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding

No Santa Claus?

Thank God! He lives forever.

A thousand years from now Virginia, nay 10 times 10,000 years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of a childhood.

“The best gifts around any Christmas tree is the presence of a happy family all wrapped in each other.” – Burton Hills

WE WANT TO WISH EVERYONE A VERY SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON!