Sign-ups under way for Games

     By W.G. Ramirez
     View staff writer
      Sounds from the 1998 Greater Las Vegas Inner-City Games Closing Ceremonies last October can still be heard.
      The thunderous bass from the speakers during Public Announcement's performance; the hip-hop flavor screaming from dance troupe Culture Shock's energetic routine; KLUC-FM's (98.5) Bo Jaxon and his emcee flair throughout the event; and, of course, the shrieks from youths upon seeing Arnold Schwarzenegger, founder and chairman of the Inner-City Games Foundation.
      "You all are winners because you have made the right choice," Schwarzenegger said to the more than 4,500 participants in attendance at Cashman Field that day.
      Officials from the event are hoping local youths will make the right choice once again, as registration for the 1999 Games is under way.
      For the fourth consecutive year, Las Vegas will host a six-month festival of free educational and athletic programs. The Inner-City Games is designed to provide a well-rounded experience that allows the participants to learn and practice a variety of skills.
      The Games host sporting events in three geographical zones, a concept designed to increase participation and provide long-term programming for children.
      Zone 1 is for those who live north of Bonanza Road, east of Rancho Road and north of Decatur Boulevard; Zone 2 is for residents who live east of Interstate 15 and south of Bonanza Road, or in Henderson; and Zone 3 is for those who reside west of North Simmons Road and west of Interstate 15.
      All participants must be 7 years old by April 1, and the pre-registration deadline is March 5.
      Games participants will have an opportunity to take part in seven athletic programs, including: soccer, track and field, tennis, volleyball, hip-hop dance, swimming and basketball.
      Chess joins the forum this year, replacing martial arts.
      Every participant in an Inner-City Games clinic or competition receives a medal and T-shirt.
      The Games also offer a well-rounded educational program that includes Art, Creative Writing and Music.
      Since its inception in 1996 in Las Vegas, the Games have involved more than 15,000 Southern Nevada inner-city children.
      Adding something new to the 3-year-old event, participants are taught values with each sport.
      Soccer players made it their goal to learn respect; tennis players were taught that honesty wins both on and off the court; self-discipline was achieved through martial arts; hip-hop dancers treated each other with kindness; volleyball players helped each other score and defend; swimmers competed with courage; runners discovered they are responsible for their own efforts; and basketball players displayed trust for their teammates.
      The Games are made possible with assistance from community aspects such as schools, local governments, businesses, civic organizations, churches, media and law enforcement agencies.
      The Clark County School District has been in an invaluable partner to the Games, assisting in registration drives and providing transportation for participants. Many schools also serve as host sites.
      Schools involved with this year's Games include: West Middle School, Smith Middle School, Rancho High School, Las Vegas Academy, Martin Middle School, Las Vegas High School, Valley High School, Orr Middle School, Chaparral High School, Cimarron-Memorial High School, Garside Middle School, Hyde Park Middle School, Clark High School, and Cashman Middle School.
      In addition, the Games receive support from more than 50 corporate sponsors throughout the valley, each of which donates a minimum of $5,000 annually.
      Those interested in participating, attending or volunteering for the 1999 Greater Las Vegas Inner-City Games can call 223-5300.