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I don’t know about you, but, even as an adult, I can’t contain my giddiness during this time of the year.
I’ve always loved everything about the holiday season - turning my house into Santa’s village, baking treats, being “extra” while wrapping gifts, watching holiday movies, and participating in age-old family traditions. What can I say, I’m a sucker for heartwarming nostalgia and Henderson does not disappoint!
Our city comes alive at this time of year with beautiful light displays, family fun activities, volunteer opportunities, and more holiday parties than our calendars can contain.
In this issue, we’ve jam-packed the fun with Holiday Happenings for you to take advantage of. We talked to Dr. Harpreet Tsui, owner of Coronado Direct Primary Care, to give us tips on staying healthy through the busy season, and I’ve curated some of my favorite things in case you’re struggling with gift ideas.
As I celebrate one year as the publisher of this magazine, I want to express my gratitude to all of you for reading and to the incredible partners and friends that make this magazine possible. It’s been a true honor and one of the greatest joys of my life to serve you, and I look forward to continuing to share our city, our community, and our stories with all of you in the new year!
From our family to yours, Happy Holidays!
CRISSIE BOWN, PUBLISHER @HENDERSONCITYLIFESTYLE
PUBLISHER
Crissie Bown | crissie.bown@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Paige Candee | paige.candee@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Heather Turk, Stacey Escalante, Vivian Greggory
Crissie J. Bown
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Casey Jade, Bennie Palmore, Virginia Trudeau, Melissa Hom, Tom Donoghue, Erik Kabik
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: DISCOVERY Children’s Museum’s 2024 Magic of DISCOVERY: Soirée Spectaculaire at Resorts World Las Vegas. 2: The evening raised funds for DISCOVERY Children’s Museum mission of sparking a passion for lifelong learning in children and inspiring curiosity in future generations. 3: Neal and Laura Guanci, Jill and Troy Moser, Melissa and Roy Kaiser. 4: Sarah Schroeder, Candance Sartini, Megan Meyers, Courtney Wadhams, Lindsey Lanni, and Jordan Wickman. 5: Garry Goett and Angela Rock Segler (Great Friend to Kids Award Honoree). 6: Scott Magee and Irene Torres with Best Agency Models. 7: Chair of The Board of Trustees Boyd Nelson, Shameeda Abdul-Mumin, and Jermaine Dykes.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
Hope For The City will hold its “Hope For Kids” event this month, a drive-thru holiday lights experience for underprivileged families in the valley. Families can pre-register to receive warm clothes, toys, a holiday meal, and hygiene kits. As the holiday season approaches, the nonprofit is seeking community support through donations to ensure no child is left behind. The community is encouraged to spread joy and hope this season by contributing to this impactful initiative. hopeforthecity.org
Photography by Brian Friedman
The City of Henderson is reminding locals about its Water Smart Students program, an educational initiative aimed at kindergarten through 5th graders. This program teaches young learners about the local water cycle and conservation practices. Water conservation staff conduct interactive workshops in elementary classrooms, focusing on water treatment processes and the importance of reducing grass usage in the region. Interested parties can schedule a class by contacting water_conservation @cityofhenderson.com.
The weather outside might not be frightful, but that doesn’t mean the holiday season isn’t in full swing throughout Southern Nevada.
The Las Vegas Valley has truly been giving The Big Apple a run for its money in recent years as the merriest place to be outside of the North Pole during the holiday season. It doesn’t matter if you’re in Summerlin, Henderson, or South Vegas, or visiting the Strip, holiday cheer can be found around every corner thanks to several seasonal events and attractions that are sure to get even the biggest grinch in the holiday spirit.
Looking for holiday lights? Southern Nevada has plenty of them, including 80,000 square feet of breathtaking light sculptures at Enchant Christmas and more than 1 million lights at World of Illumination. Still need to check off some names on your holiday gift-giving list? Holiday shoppers can support local artisans at several seasonal events in town, including LV Craft Shows’ Nutcracker Night Market, which features a variety of vendors selling unique gifts and delicious treats. Since it’s always better to give than receive, revelers can even celebrate the holiday season while supporting a worthwhile cause at The Magical Forest at Opportunity Village, as proceeds from the annual fundraiser have benefitted those with disabilities in the valley since 1992.
ARTICLE BY HEATHER TURK
“A Very Vegas Christmas” It doesn’t matter if you're in Summerlin, Henderson, or South Vegas, or visiting the Strip, holiday cheer can be found around every corner thanks to several seasonal events and attractions.
Enjoy beloved holiday tunes like “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” and “Christmas Time is Here” when the Las Vegas Philharmonic presents “A Very Vegas Christmas” at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts on December 7. The holiday concert will include performances from a variety of talented guest singers as well as a heartwarming cameo by 12 legendary Las Vegas showgirls.
http://www.thesmithcenter.com/ tickets/las-vegas-philharmonic
Tivoli Village “The Nutcracker” Enchant Christmas
Celebrate the holiday season at Tivoli Village this December with complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides throughout the retail center Thursday through Saturday, December 5 through 21. For those visiting on December 5, 12, and 19, guests can also do some holiday shopping at LV Craft Shows’ Nutcracker Night Market. The free event features unique gifts for sale, plus live entertainment, and dazzling lights.
http://www.tivolivillagelv.com
A cherished holiday tradition in Las Vegas since 1981, Nevada Ballet Theatre’s production of “The Nutcracker” dances into The Smith Center on select dates December 14 through 27. Audiences can join Clara and her prince as they travel to a land of toy soldiers, mischievous rodents, and visitors from faraway lands while listening to a full orchestra perform the score during select performances.
https://nevadaballet.org/ performances/the-nutcracker
Enchant Christmas will continue to illuminate the Las Vegas Ballpark through December 29. Guests can step inside the original story “Reindeer Games” to search for bell-shaped light sculptures hidden throughout the World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze, shop for unique wares from local artisans, go ice skating, visit with Santa, and more during the event, which has been a Summerlin favorite since 2021.
www.enchantchristmas.com
Through December 29, families venture to the M Resort in Henderson to experience the world’s largest animated drivethru audio-visual experience: World of Illumination. The theme for this year’s milelong course is “Candy Rush,” featuring hundreds of light displays synched to holiday music—including a gingerbread village and sweets as far as the eye can see.
Make merry memories this holiday season while supporting Southern Nevadans with disabilities at The Magical Forest at Opportunity Village. Running select evenings through December 31, the fundraiser invites guests to stroll through a colorfully lit forest, play carnival games, take photos with Santa and enjoy a variety of other activities, including rides on the Forest Express Passenger Train.
Get into the holiday spirit by drinking some holiday spirits at the fifth annual Miracle on Spring Mountain. The immersive experience transforms The Sand Dollar Lounge on Spring Mountain Road into a Christmas-themed bar through December 31, with seasonal cocktails, nightly entertainment, pizza pop-ups with celebrated local chefs and kitschy décor that would put the Griswolds’ holiday decorations to shame.
www.miracleonspringmountain.com
A holiday staple since 1994, Sam’s Town’s Mystic Falls Park winter wonderland display will bring Christmas cheer to guests through January 1, 2025. The free attraction not only features wintry décor, including an 18-foot Christmas tree decorated with thousands of twinkling lights, but also a nine-minute laser light show set to holiday songs that runs hourly from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
www.samstownlv.com
Of course, Las Vegas wouldn’t be the Entertainment Capital of the World without some festive holiday productions, and The Smith Center for the Performing Arts is hosting several holiday shows this December. A few of Las Vegas’ biggest headliners are also getting into the holiday spirit, with special holiday shows like Barry Manilow’s “A Very Barry Christmas” at Westgate Las Vegas December 5 through 7 and 12 through 14, and Terry Fator’s “A Very Terry Christmas” running December 1 through 3, 5 through 7, 11 through 16 and 19 through 24 inside The STRAT.
With so many festive events and attractions to choose from, what the Las Vegas Valley lacks in snow it definitely makes up for in holiday cheer.
ARTICLE BY STACEY ESCALANTE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BENNIE PALMORE
‘Tis the season to pass around the turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing and often the seasonal cold or flu virus, too. Exchanging germs over the holidays can take a toll on one's immune system. So, how can we all stay healthy to enjoy the festivities? We asked Dr. Harpreet Tsui from Coronado Health Direct Primary Care for some tips on staying healthy during this hectic holiday season.
1. Get enough sleep. Running around doing holiday shopping and holiday cooking can lead to fatigue. Your immune system can go down, leaving you susceptible to a virus.
2. Focus on antioxidants from fruits and vegetables to help boost your immune system. Blueberries, green tea, salmon (zinc) and citrus (vitamin C) all contain healthy antioxidants.
“YOUR WELLNESS JOURNEY SHOULDN’T BE A STRESSFUL ADVENTURE. WE’D LIKE TO THINK OF THE DIRECT CARE MODEL AS A LEISURELY STROLL.”
3. Exercise. Keeping your body moving! Manage stress. We all know that stress levels can be high during this time. Taking time to destress, through a simple meditation, a walk alone, and not overscheduling yourself can keep the stress low.
4. Wash your hands. During this time, we are usually around family and keeping your hands clean is the best way to stop the spread of germs.
To further enhance our understanding of winter wellness, we asked Dr. Tsui to debunk some common medical myths.
Q: IF YOU FEEL A TICKLE IN YOUR THROAT, IS IT HELPFUL TO GARGLE WITH WARM SALT WATER AND HYDROGEN PEROXIDE?
A: While I don't recommend gargling with hydrogen peroxide, warm saltwater gargles have been shown to be beneficial. Hydrogen peroxide gargles aren't always safe as people tend to swallow it and it can be very irritating.
Q: IS IT TRUE THAT IF YOU GO OUT IN THE COLD WEATHER WITH WET HAIR, YOU CAN GET SICK?
A: This is an age-old myth. No, if you go out with wet hair you will not get sick.
Q: DO NASAL SPRAYS OR SWABS SUCH AS ZICAM SHORTEN THE LENGTH OF A COLD?
A: The studies on Zicam are small and limited. Honestly, there's not a lot of evidence that shows these products’ work. Also, Zicam isn't FDA approved. I feel like a diet high in vitamin C, zinc, and antioxidants do more than products such as Zicam.
Q: CAN YOU WORK OUT WHEN YOU HAVE A COUGH OR COLD?
A: Yes, you can. If you feel fatigue, have a cough with associated shortness of breath, muscle aches, dizziness, or headaches I would suggest taking a break from working out. But if you feel like you have the energy to get through a short work out, then go ahead.
CONTINUED >
Dr. Harpreet Tsui, DO, FACOI completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Central Florida in Molecular and Microbiology. She then went to Touro University California for medical school and completed her internal medicine residency in Las Vegas at Valley Hospital. Dr. Tsui has been practicing in the Henderson area since 2011 and now calls the city home. She is a fellow of the American College of Osteopathic Internists; in 2020 she became board certified by the American Board of Obesity Medicine. Disease prevention and management are her main passions in healthcare. Dr. Tsui meets her patients where they’re at and actively works toward health goals, one step at a time. She is committed to establishing a great rapport, providing empathy alongside clinical insight, and bringing her patients together to build better physical, mental, and emotional health. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and exploring new finds in the city.
Q: IF A PERSON SUSPECTS AN ILLNESS, LIKE THE FLU OR A COLD, WHAT SHOULD THEY DO?
A: There are antiviral medications out there for viruses such as influenza and COVID-19. If you suspect an illness, call your doctor so we can get you started. Especially if you have an associated high fever, muscle aches, headaches, fatigue. During the winter months, viruses spread in close contact so if you have been around someone with similar symptoms increase your intake of fluids, take over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol or Ibuprofen or fevers, headaches, or body aches, stay away from others who are more susceptible from getting sick such as young children or elderly family members or those who are immunocompromised.
Q: WHAT ABOUT COVID-19 RISKS DURING FLU AND COLD SEASON?
A: While COVID-19 has become endemic it is still a risk to many people. If you suspect you have a cold, I suggest taking a COVID-19 test and calling your doctor if you're positive. You may be a candidate for Paxlovid. While guidelines for COVID19 have changed over the years you can't go wrong with masking around friends and family to decrease the spread.
Q: WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND WHEN YOUR PATIENTS ARE ILL?
A: I counsel patients to avoid alcohol and caffeine when they're sick. A diet rich in plants, like the Mediterranean Diet, can keep you healthy as you go through the holiday season. I recommend a cool mist humidifier in the winter to keep the moisture up. The most important thing with humidifiers is to use filtered or distilled water and clean it weekly as recommended on the instructions. This way you lower the risk of standing water growing bacteria and spreading it out.
Q: WHAT IS YOUR GENERAL PHILOSOPHY AS A PHYSICIAN AND WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR PRACTICE?
A: I maintain an open, safe environment where patients can take the time they need to address their goals and feel respected and secure in their doctor-patient relationship. I look forward to working alongside my patients in their continued healthcare goals. Most of all, your wellness journey shouldn’t be a stressful adventure. We’d like to think of the direct care model as a leisurely stroll.
EXPERT MAKEUP TIPS TO BOOST YOUR CONFIDENCE
As the holiday season approaches, it's time to elevate your makeup game and dazzle at every festive gathering. Whether you're attending office parties, family dinners, or New Year's Eve celebrations, looking your best can boost your confidence and help you make lasting memories. To ensure you're ready to shine, we've sought advice from esteemed cosmetologist Esmeralda Agius, who shares her top tips for creating stunning holiday looks.
With over two decades of experience in the beauty industry, Esmeralda is a seasoned professional who has worked with celebrities, such as Paris Hilton, and at prestigious events like the Golden Globes and SAG Awards. As the founder of Vegas Hair & Makeup by Esme, Esmeralda offers a wide range of services, from bridal styling to production work.
As a mother of four who balances family life with her passion for beauty, Esmeralda understands the importance of self-assurance and radiance. Her passion for beauty began at a young age, experimenting with different styles on friends and family. "I fell in love with the creativity and personal connections that this profession offers," she explains. "It has been incredibly rewarding to help people feel confident and beautiful."
ARTICLE BY VIVIAN GREGGORY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASEY JADE
For this holiday season, Esmeralda shares five essential tips to achieve a radiant makeup look:
1. Prep Your Skin: Start with a clean, moisturized face. Use a hydrating primer to create a smooth canvas for your makeup. This helps the makeup adhere better and last longer, giving you a luminous glow. Consider using a primer with a subtle shimmer for added radiance.
2. Focus on the Eyes: The holidays are a great time to play up your eye makeup. Use warm, festive colors like golds, deep reds, or emerald greens to create a captivating look. Don't forget to define your eyes with eyeliner and finish with volumizing mascara. False lashes can also add extra drama.
3. Glow with Highlighter: To achieve that holiday glow, apply highlighter to the high points of your face: cheekbones, brow bones, the bridge of your nose, and the Cupid’s bow. Cream or liquid highlighters can provide a more natural, dewy finish, while powder highlighters can add intense shimmer.
4. Choose a Festive Lip Color: A bold lip can elevate your entire look. Opt for classic holiday shades like red, berry, or deep plum. Use a lip liner to define your lips and to prevent feathering and consider a long-lasting formula to keep your lips looking perfect throughout the festivities.
5. Set It All: To ensure your makeup lasts through holiday parties and celebrations, finish with a setting spray. This will help lock in your look, control shine, and provide a radiant finish. Choose a setting spray with a dewy or glowing effect for that extra sparkle. Esmeralda also recommends packing a small touch-up kit with essentials like lipstick, powder, and travel-sized hair spray to maintain your look throughout the evening.
This holiday season, let these expert tips guide you to create stunning, festive looks that will have you shining bright at every celebration.
ARTICLE BY CRISSIE J. BOWN
GET INSPIRED WITH THESE FAVORITES FOR HER
The Native Hat Co. Everywhere Tote
True to its name, I’ve taken this tote everywhere and for good reason! Ample space for travel essentials and straps to attach to your suitcase and hold a hat, make it great for trips and daily use. http://www.thenativehatco.com
Get Your Pink Back Crew Neck - The Angela
This cute and cozy crew neck for a cause raises awareness for ovarian cancer in memory of GYPB founder Lindsey Gurk’s mother, Angela. Proceeds from these sweatshirts will be made to the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition. https://getyourpinkback.com
The Henderson Candle
This 100 percent soy wax candle is the signature scent of The Treatment Skin Boutique Henderson. The sultry combination of leather, plum, and golden amber scents are made from all natural, GMO-free wax with no additives. https://shop.getthetreatment.com
Pariz Salon Oribe Gold Lust Dry Shampoo
Perfect for girls on the go. This dry shampoo extends blowouts, prevents damage, absorbs product buildup, oil, and impurities while restoring strength and softness. Want touch ups from the pros? Grab a gift card at http://www.ParizSalon.com
Carmina
We all need a signature scent, and Creed will find the perfect match. The Carmina is a best seller - Rose de Mai and Cashmere wood over a base of amber and musk. Visit Creed at Crystals. http://www.CreedBoutique.com
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
Lee Family Forum | 7:00 PM
Join the excitement as the legendary television game show, The Price Is Right™, comes to life in the valley with a live event. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the show, this is your chance to be a part of the action and win incredible prizes. Tickets are on sale at www.leesfamilyforum.com and www.AXS.com.
Water Street District | 5:00 PM
The WinterFest on Water Street annual tradition returns with two nights this year. The first evening will include a tree lighting ceremony and a drone show. The second night’s highlight will be the Electric Light Parade. Plus holiday entertainment including the Henderson Symphony Orchestra, and festive illumination of holiday décor at the Water Street Plaza. Learn more at www.cityofhenderson.com
DECEMBER 6TH
20th Annual Library
Tree Lane Gala
Paseo Verde Library | 6:00 PM
Join Honorary Chair Trish Nash in celebrating the 20th Annual Library Tree Lane Gala and Silent Auction on December 6th from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Plus, the Seasonal Boutique will be open from December 1st through December 6th from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Proceeds benefit Henderson Libraries. Tickets available at www.hdplfriends.org.
DECEMBER 7TH
The Dreamboats
Holiday Concert
Water Street Plaza Amphitheater
7:00 PM
Get ready for an amazing night of holiday classics with a fun, modern twist The Dreamboats deliver a high energy show inspired by the talents of the 50s and 60s rock-n-roll culture. This quartet performs everyone's favorite songs while honoring this beloved retro style of music. Learn more at www.cityofhenderson.com
You’re Training Too Hard!
Zone 2 is a “lower” heart rate zone where Doctors who understand healthspan recommend you spend 80% of your time. This is where your body chooses fat for fuel, supercharging your metabolism, priming your body for fighting off chronic disease and injury.
Do you know what your True Zone 2 is? Our Primary Care team of longevity obsessed Doctors have the tools to help you discover your personalized Zone 2 for smarter, more effective workouts.
CONTINUED
DECEMBER 14TH
Night of Lights
St. Jude’s Ranch for Children | 5:00 PM
Don’t miss this winter wonderland holiday event for the whole family! The 18th Annual Night of Lights is set for Saturday, December 14th from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Get ready for a fun holiday experience complete with lights, s’mores, games, entertainment, arts and crafts, and more. Help spread holiday cheer by exploring sponsorship opportunities at https://stjudesranch.org.
DECEMBER 15TH
Santa Weekend
Green Valley Christian Center | 9:00 AM
Join the Green Valley Christian Center for Santa Weekend! Enjoy free pictures with Santa for all families at every weekend service; 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., and 5:00 p.m.https://www.gvchristian.com
