In this interview, the Straus? discuss the joys of growing up in Las Vegas during the 1960s and 1970s, and the changes within the community over time, especially in educational opportunities. Both talk about Joyce Straus? career as artist and art educator, and the influence she had on their lives. They also remember Heidi?s father, Jay Sarno, and the impact he had on the local gaming industry. There is also discussion of the founding of Congregation Ner Tamid, the role of Jewish women?s philanthropy within the community, as well as the establishment of The Meadows School.

For decades Joyce Elise Straus opened her home, the "House of Straus," to area youth seeking art experiences. That effort included the opening of the School of Creative Thinking in 1976. Her varied artwork is widely collected in the Southern Nevada community. Straus was married for 56 years to Dr. Neil B. Straus. Her son David Straus and his wife Heidi continue the tradition.

For decades Joyce Elise Straus opened her home, the "House of Straus," to area youth seeking art experiences. That effort included the opening of the School of Creative Thinking in 1976. Her varied artwork is widely collected in the Southern Nevada community. Straus was married for 56 years to Dr. Neil B. Straus. Her son David Straus and his wife Heidi continue the tradition.

For decades Joyce Elise Straus opened her home, the "House of Straus," to area youth seeking art experiences. That effort included the opening of the School of Creative Thinking in 1976. Her varied artwork is widely collected in the Southern Nevada community. Straus was married for 56 years to Dr. Neil B. Straus. Her son David Straus and his wife Heidi continue the tradition.

For decades Joyce Elise Straus opened her home, the "House of Straus," to area youth seeking art experiences. That effort included the opening of the School of Creative Thinking in 1976. Her varied artwork is widely collected in the Southern Nevada community. Straus was married for 56 years to Dr. Neil B. Straus. Her son David Straus and his wife Heidi continue the tradition.

For decades Joyce Elise Straus opened her home, the "House of Straus," to area youth seeking art experiences. That effort included the opening of the School of Creative Thinking in 1976. Her varied artwork is widely collected in the Southern Nevada community. Straus was married for 56 years to Dr. Neil B. Straus. Her son David Straus and his wife Heidi continue the tradition.

For decades Joyce Elise Straus opened her home, the "House of Straus," to area youth seeking art experiences. That effort included the opening of the School of Creative Thinking in 1976. Her varied artwork is widely collected in the Southern Nevada community. Straus was married for 56 years to Dr. Neil B. Straus. Her son David Straus and his wife Heidi continue the tradition.