Some desert plants do pretty well here, even if they're not native to this region of the world. Among them are the Cycads. They may look a lot like palm trees, but as Angela O'Callaghan explains, they are not.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cycad
The fall 2008 Master Gardener training program starts soon. Information sessions are being held on Monday, July 21 and Monday, August 4 from 9-10 a.m. The fall training class begins on September 5, 2008. Classes will be held from 9 a.m. to noon, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. For information call (702) 257-551.