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As we welcome the arrival of spring, our March "Home" issue celebrates the sanctuary that is our personal space. Home is more than just a physical structure; it's where our hearts reside, where memories are crafted, and where we find solace from the outside world.
In this issue, we explore the multifaceted concept of home and how it shapes our lives. From the moment we step through our front door, we enter a realm of comfort, creativity, and endless possibilities. It's where we laugh, love, and sometimes shed tears. It's where we gather with family and friends, creating bonds that last a lifetime. Home is our refuge, our canvas, and our stage – a place where we can truly be ourselves.
We're excited to bring you a collection of articles that explore various aspects of home life. Dawn Houlf, Broker at EXIT Realty Number One and Vital Property Management, shares her expert insights and innovative strategies for navigating the ever-changing Las Vegas real estate market. For those looking to protect their homes, Andrea Duran, owner of the American Family Insurance-Andrea Duran Agency, offers valuable guidance on the complex landscape of coverage options.
But home is more than just bricks and mortar – it's also about the experiences we create within its walls. We rediscover the joy and health benefits of preparing meals in our own kitchens, exploring how cooking can be a form of self-care and family bonding. For the green thumbs among us, we delve into the world of indoor veggie gardening, showcasing how this hobby can promote fun, health, and sustainable living.
As we spend time in our homes, we're constantly shaping and reshaping our environments to reflect our personalities and meet our changing needs. Whether you're a long-time homeowner or just starting your journey, we hope this issue inspires you to make your space truly your own.
Here's to making our houses homes, and to filling them with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Warmly,
PAIGE CANDEE, EDITOR
PUBLISHER
Camilla Dorand | Camilla.Dorand@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Paige Candee | paige.candee@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kimberly Blaker, Vivian Greggory, Alexander Fraser, Kimber Patterson, Sienna Sinclair, Andres Molina
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
SugarMill Studios
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
1: The Public Education Foundation (PEF) hosted its annual Golden Apple Gala at Paris Las Vegas. 2: The evening launched the Clark County School District (CCSD) Alumni of the Year Awards, highlighting graduates' achievements. 3: PEF unites the community to inspire support of local public schools.
4: The evening highlighted the CCSD Alumni of the Year Awards. 5: CCSD Alumni of the Year Bo Bernhard, Ph.D. and Alex Bybee were honored.
6: Emerging Alumni of the Year, Adrian Gonzalez, founded Country Bars, a natural soap brand using family goat milk. 7: In partnership with CCSD, PEF invests in education to meet the immediate, critical needs of students, families, and educators.
Photography by The Public Education Foundation
Tenant/Buyer Representation, Project Positioning & Owner Representation
Bridget Richards, SIOR CCIM Principal | Broker
br@brandrealest.com
+1 702 290 8838 B.176
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill opened its eighth Las Vegas Valley location at The Bend, bringing authentic Greek cuisine to the Southwest area. Owned by local restaurateurs Nick Della Penna and Trent Jones, the restaurant offers traditional dishes like tzatziki, hummus, gyro, and baklava in a fast-casual setting. The new location will serve delicious Mediterranean fare daily from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. thegreatgreekgrill.com
Photography by The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill
“The goal is to keep real estate in the hands of private individuals and teach people how the game works so they can become financially independent through real estate acquisitions and long term real estate holdings.”
SR Construction has completed the West Henderson Hospital project on time and under budget, utilizing their innovative SR Built Process. The $230 million, 7-story facility with 150 inpatient beds opened in December 2024, just 33 months after breaking ground. This achievement, which would have taken 12 to 18 months longer using traditional methods, highlights the efficiency of SR Construction's collaborative approach, bringing together all team members and trade partners from the project's inception. srbuilt-usa.com
by Levi Ellyson
The Collaboration Center in Las Vegas opened The Collaboration Café as part of its expanded adult vocational training program. The grab-and-go eatery, located in The Helms Helps Hub, provides comprehensive training for individuals with intellectual, developmental, physical, and learning disabilities. Participants gain hands-on experience in food service operations, customer service, and essential workplace skills. The café also serves as a welcoming space for families and community gatherings, fostering inclusion and connection on campus. collablv.org
Photography by The Collaboration Center
Dawn Houlf, broker at EXIT Realty Number One and Vital Property Management, brings expert insights and innovative strategies to the Las Vegas real estate market. With a focus on working with sellers, owners, absentee owners, and tenants, Dawn’s full-service real estate and property management brokerage is helping clients navigate the complexities of the current market.
"Don't get lost in the real estate shuffle," says Dawn, echoing EXIT Realty's motto. This philosophy is more relevant than ever as Las Vegas faces notable economic changes and rapid population growth.
Dawn notes that recent economic trends have had a substantial impact on the local housing market. "Inflation has hit the real estate and property management market," she explains. "I have seen families combining incomes and moving in together to make ends meet."
Despite these challenges, Dawn remains optimistic about the Las Vegas real estate landscape. "We are still seeing properties fly off the market as long as they're priced right and look good," she states. "If the property needs work or does not show well, they stay on the market."
For sellers looking to maximize their property value, Dawn offers practical advice. "Remove personal belongings and all bulky furniture. Remove items from shelves - less is more," she advises. "Kitchens and bathrooms are the big things, along with backyards. Clean, fresh, and new is key. Curb appeal is a big draw."
Addressing the current mortgage rate environment, Dawn provides a sobering perspective. "In the last 20 years, we have seen low interest rates. In my professional opinion, we will not see a low interest rate in our lifetime," she predicts. "Our country is not able to survive; this is why inflation is so high. The lowest, I think, will be around 5.5 percent."
However, Dawn is quick to point out that there are still opportunities for buyers. "We do have down payment assistance programs and sometimes have home buyers classes to show how they can obtain $10K in down payment assistance," she reveals. "There are many other strategies I can assist with as well."
The influx of new residents to the valley is keeping the market dynamic. Dawn observes, "Many people are moving into Vegas, and it's still a good time to buy and sell." She cautions, however, that market conditions vary. "Many investors that are flippers are low-balling sellers with homes that have been on the market, thinking the sellers will let go of their equity."
CONTINUED >
To help sellers in this situation, Dawn has developed innovative solutions. "I do have programs that will help sellers increase their price and improve their property without upfront money," she says. "I go into detail about this with clients."
“WE ARE STILL SEEING PROPERTIES FLY OFF THE MARKET AS LONG AS THEY'RE PRICED RIGHT AND LOOK GOOD. IF THE PROPERTY NEEDS WORK OR DOES NOT SHOW WELL, THEY STAY ON THE MARKET.”
For those interested in learning more about real estate investing, Dawn will be holding a class on March 12th from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at 316 South Jones Boulevard, Las Vegas. This presents an excellent opportunity for both novice and experienced investors to gain valuable insights from a seasoned professional.
As Las Vegas continues to grow and evolve, Dawn Houlf and EXIT Realty Number One stand ready to guide clients through the intricacies of the local real estate market. With her extensive experience and commitment to client success, Dawn embodies the company's other motto: "Safeguard Your Investment."
Whether you're buying, selling, or investing in Southern Nevada real estate, Dawn’s expertise and innovative approaches offer clarity in an often complex market. As she puts it, "Many people are moving into Las Vegas, and it's still a good time to buy and sell." With Dawn’s guidance, navigating the Las Vegas real estate market becomes an opportunity rather than a challenge.
ARTICLE BY SIENNA SINCLAIR
In an era of fast food and instant gratification, the simple act of cooking a meal at home has become a powerful antidote to the stresses of modern life. More than just a means to satisfy hunger, home cooking is emerging as a therapeutic ritual that can boost mental health, improve physical well-being, and strengthen family bonds. As we dive into the world of home-cooked meals, we'll explore how this age-old practice is making a comeback, offering a recipe for a healthier, happier lifestyle.
The ritual of cooking at home is a multisensory experience that engages both mind and body. As you chop vegetables, stir sauces, and season dishes, the repetitive motions can have a meditative effect, helping to shift focus away from daily worries. The kitchen becomes a sanctuary where the troubles of the outside world fade into the background, replaced by the soothing rhythms of culinary creation. This mindful engagement in cooking can significantly reduce stress levels, with 78 percent of Americans reporting that they find the act of cooking to be calming.
Beyond its stress-relieving properties, home cooking offers a host of health benefits. By preparing meals at home, you gain control over ingredients, allowing you to make healthier choices that can boost energy levels and contribute to overall well-being. The simple act of incorporating more vegetables into your diet can have profound effects on your health. Leafy greens like spinach and kale are packed with vitamins and minerals, while colorful bell peppers and carrots provide essential antioxidants. Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and Brussels sprouts offer cancer-fighting compounds, making them excellent additions to any home-cooked meal.
As you sauté garlic and onions or roast a tray of mixed vegetables, your home fills with enticing aromas that can lift your mood
and create a welcoming atmosphere. These scents not only make your space more inviting, but also trigger the release of feel-good hormones, enhancing the overall cooking experience.
When it comes to protein sources, salmon stands out as a nutritional powerhouse. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, this fish supports heart and brain health while adding a delicious centerpiece to your meal. For a comforting option, chicken dishes offer versatility and familiarity. Whether you're roasting a whole bird or preparing a quick stir-fry, chicken provides lean protein that can be paired with a variety of healthy sides.
The beauty of home cooking lies in its flexibility. It can be a solitary, meditative act or a joyful family affair. For those seeking inspiration, the internet has become a treasure trove of healthy recipes. Websites and apps offer countless ideas for nutritious meals, catering to various dietary preferences and skill levels. Searching for recipes can itself become a relaxing activity, allowing you to plan meals and explore new culinary horizons from the comfort of your home.
Cooking with family members adds another layer of benefit to the home cooking experience. It provides an opportunity for quality time, teaching valuable life skills to children, and creating lasting memories. As you work together to prepare a meal, you're not just nourishing your bodies, but also strengthening familial bonds.
The health benefits of home cooking extend beyond the immediate satisfaction of a good meal. Studies have shown that people who regularly cook at home tend to have lower body mass indexes (BMIs) and a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as Type 2 diabetes. This is likely due to the increased consumption of whole foods and better portion control that comes with preparing meals yourself.
In addition, the sense of accomplishment that comes from creating a delicious, healthy meal can enhance self-esteem and contribute to overall emotional well-being. Cooking allows individuals to take control of their diet, moving away from processed and corporate-prepared foods and embracing a more personal approach to nutrition. This empowerment extends beyond nutrition, encouraging self-reliance and sparking creativity in the kitchen.
For those new to cooking or looking to expand their culinary repertoire, starting small is key. Begin with simple recipes that incorporate a variety of vegetables and lean proteins. Experiment with herbs and spices to add flavor without excess salt or fat. As your confidence grows, you can tackle more complex dishes and techniques.
Ultimately, the resurgence of home cooking represents more than just a culinary trend; it's a return to a fundamental human practice that nourishes both body and soul. Whether you're whipping up a quick stir-fry or spending a leisurely Sunday preparing a family roast, each meal cooked at home is an investment in your health and happiness. So, don your apron, sharpen your knives, and rediscover the joy of cooking – your mind, body, and taste buds will thank you.
ARTICLE BY ALEXANDER FRASER
In the sprawling and ever expanding suburbs of Las Vegas, Andrea Duran has established herself as a trusted authority in the insurance industry. As the owner of the American Family Insurance-Andrea Duran Agency, she has her finger on the pulse of the ever-evolving and complex landscape of coverage options in Las Vegas with skill and insight. Her deep knowledge of the local market and its distinct challenges makes her a trusted resource for residents looking to protect their assets and dreams.
"Our mission is to safeguard your assets and secure your future with our tailor-made coverage that suits your individual circumstances," Andrea states, encapsulating the ethos of her agency. With a focus on property, casualty, and auto insurance, as well as offerings in commercial insurance, life coverage, and retirement planning, Andrea’s agency is a one-stop shop for locals looking to protect their dreams.
As wildfires were seen in neighboring California, Andrea warns of the ripple effects on Nevada's insurance market. "When instances like these arise, it affects premiums for everyone," she explains. "I foresee premiums for homes increasing as they have been on the rise already. I also have seen some companies pull out of Nevada altogether and non-renew homes and rental properties."
This shift underscores the importance of regular policy reviews. Andrea encourages her clients to reassess their coverage each year or whenever they make major changes to their property. "Nevada's housing market has increased property values, especially in certain zip codes of Las Vegas and Henderson. I would also make sure replacement costs are updated to reflect current values," she emphasizes.
Understanding what drives insurance costs can help homeowners make informed decisions. Andrea outlines several key factors that all play a role: Property location, age, construction details, replacement cost, and claims history.
But there's good news for cost-conscious homeowners. Andrea shares some insider tips, "To lower the cost, protect the home with smart home equipment. It's important to note that you can choose your deductible, and the higher you choose, it will typically lower the annual premium."
She also highlights unique discounts offered by her agency, "We offer additional discounts if clients have a COSTCO membership, Ring or camera doorbell system, smart thermostat, water leak detectors, and for those living in gated communities."
When it comes to valuable personal property, Andrea’s agency offers solutions that go beyond standard limits. "We offer scheduled personal property coverage and add it to your home policy. We do need appraisals on jewelry and receipts for artwork and other items you wish to cover," she explains.
For those concerned about liability, Andrea outlines her agency's approach, "We have a limitation for Dangerous Dog and Exotic Animal Liability – up to $25,000 that is included in our homeowners policy. We also have personal liability standard of $300,000, but it can be raised to $500,000 up to $1,000,000 on your home policy."
One strategy that Andrea consistently recommends is bundling policies. "Bundling lowers the premiums on both home/auto, home/auto/umbrella or home/auto/life," she explains. "It doesn't just save with home/auto, as not everyone owns a home. A renters, life, and/or umbrella policy adds savings to the auto when combined in same household."
As a Las Vegas native, Andrea brings a unique perspective to her work. "I was born and raised in Las Vegas and have seen the city and surrounding areas grow immensely," she reflects. ” "My team and I are here to answer any questions you have about the products we offer. We strive to be your trusted advisors, always keeping your best interests at heart."
In a city known for its high stakes, Andrea Duran and her team at American Family Insurance are working to ensure that when it comes to insurance, Las Vegas residents don't have to gamble with their future.
Disclaimer: Andrea Duran is an independent contractor representing American Family Insurance under their corporate rules. The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Neither the author, the magazine, nor American Family Insurance-Andrea Duran Agency can be held responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this article.
The move toward more sustainable living has gained traction in recent years with people looking to help the environment and their wallets. Gardening is a great hobby to support a more sustainable lifestyle. It's fun, saves money on groceries, and helps you feel accomplished by eating something you grew. It also promotes healthy living, cooking at home, and eating more nutritious foods. When you grow your own food at home, you also know exactly what's in it and how it was produced.
Indoor gardening allows you to grow veggies year-round in the comfort of your home, with a greater likelihood of success because you control the environment. This is also beneficial for those with little or no outdoor space to incorporate nature into their daily lives.
Growing plants indoors is good for your health in other ways too. Plants remove carbon dioxide from the air and generate oxygen, making the air in your home cleaner. Exposure to nature and the accomplishment you feel from successfully starting a garden is also good for your mental health.
ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY BLAKER
Herbs, leafy plants, and microgreens are the most common edible plants for indoor growing. They generally do well with shallow soil because they're smaller and don't need as much space inside. They also don't need as much sun and are easier to grow if you're just starting out. Examples of edible vegetables and herbs that can be grown indoors include:
• Leafy greens (spinach, kale, lettuce, arugula)
• Carrots
• Scallions
• Potatoes
• Mushrooms
• Microgreens (vegetables like beets, radishes, and peas harvested as seedlings or sprouts)
Herbs:
• Mint varieties
• Cilantro CONTINUED
• Parsley
• Basil
• Rosemary
• Thyme
• Lavender
• Oregano
Before starting your indoor herb and veggie garden, consider realistic expectations for your lifestyle. Plants need tending and care to grow successfully. If you're a newbie to gardening, you may want to start small and simple, like a grow kit that supports your growth process.
On a basic level, plants need at least water, nutrients, and lightand of course, you'll need the plant seeds or seedlings. Also, think about what your space is like and what will grow best in that environment. Alternatively, if you have more flexibility, you can think about which plants you want to grow and how to adapt your environment to meet their needs.
The supplies you'll need depends on your budget and how involved you want to be. Some products do nearly all the work for you. You can also find those that offer simple setups yet where you're more engaged with the process. If you have specific plants in mind, research what particular items you'll need to support the best-growing environment.
Containers should be big enough for your plants' needs. Consider how big the plants will grow, the depth needed for roots, and how far seeds must be planted from each other. When growing plants indoors, you need to consider drainage, so excess water doesn't build up and cause problems like root rot or bacterial growth.
The soil you use for growing indoors is different from ordinary garden soil. Use potting mix or soil made explicitly for seedlings and the indoors. These soil varieties are made to drain better than garden soil. They aren't likely to contain organisms like fungus or bacteria.
Edible plants generally take more effort than just putting seeds in the soil and forgetting them, especially indoors where you have to create the environment. Each plant has different needs: some may need pruning, adjustments to watering and soil, and various harvesting or replanting times. To keep track of your plants' needs, it might help to keep a journal or binder or some kind of tracking system.
Finally, keep in mind you can do everything right and still fail, which can be frustrating. But indoor gardening is a learning process. You can try new things next time for better results and a garden that contributes to a sustainable lifestyle.
RECENT AWARDS RECOVERED FOR INJURY CLIENTS
• $38.8 Million Dollar Jury Verdict
• $7.2 Million Dollar Award
• $2.1 Million Dollar Award
• $2.0 Million Dollar Settlement
• $2.0 Million Dollar Judgement
• $1.9 Million Dollar Settlement
A fresh, clean kitchen impacts the entire home. To freshen up the sink, Kim says, “Run hot water while pouring in equal parts of baking soda and white vinegar through the disposal. Follow with a few drops of blue Dawn Dishwashing soap to cut away any grease buildup. Sharpen the disposal blades by running cooler water and ice through it. For a fresh smell, grind a few slices of lemon, lime or orange, removing any seeds first.”
To clean everything else in the kitchen, including counters and stainless-steel appliances, use a microfiber cloth and a solution of 2-3 drops of Dawn mixed with water.
The living room also deserves special attention. Kim says, “Start by pulling furniture away from the walls, vacuuming and dusting behind it. Make sure you dust air vents as well. Then, pull all of the furniture cushions off to vacuum underneath and in crevices. It’s always good to rotate and fluff cushions too.”
To banish dust from your furniture, Kim suggests using a good microfiber cloth that is slightly damp instead of furniture polish, which can leave a build-up on furniture that actually attracts dust.
Brighten up your whole home by intentionally focusing on the windows. “Homeowners often forget about the inside of the window,” says Kim. “They dust the blinds or the shutters, but when the blinds are pulled up, the windows often have dust or a film on them.” Kim suggests cleaning the inside of the windows on a cloudy day to reduce streaks. “A good glass cleaner with a microfiber cloth works really well. If you still have streaks, try using a little bit of rubbing alcohol.”
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE W. PARNELL
W: thomasderm com
P: (702) 505-4327
IG: @thomasdermatology
Owning property is one of life’s greatest investments—but managing it doesn’t have to be stressful. At Vital Property Management, we take the weight off your shoulders, handling everything from tenant screening to maintenance, so you can focus on what matters most.
Tenant Screening: Find reliable tenants with our comprehensive screening process.
Rent Collection: Effortless and timely rent collection so you never have to chase payments.
Maintenance and Repairs: From routine upkeep to emergency repairs, we’ve got you covered 24/7.
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Technology-Driven: Online portals for real-time updates, payments, and communication. Here’s
Experience You Can Count On: Decades of expertise in managing residential and commercial properties.
Maximized ROI: Proven strategies to minimize vacancies and maximize your income.
Personalized Service: Tailored solutions to meet your property’s unique needs.
MARCH 1ST
Composers
Windmill Library | 3:00 PM
Join an inspiring concert showcasing the works of renowned female composers such as Clara Schumann, Fanny Mendelssohn, Amy Beach, Cécile Chaminade, Mél Bonis, and more. For more information, call 702-507-6068.
MARCH 1ST
Lamborghini Las Vegas Polo Classic
Priefert Pavilion at South Point Casino | 6:00 PM
The annual polo extravaganza will be held on February 29 and March 1, 2025, at Christopher Homes and at the South Point Arena and Equestrian Center. March 1st will feature a cocktail party, formal dinner, and polo match at the Priefert Pavilion at South Point Casino. Get tickets at poloamerica.com
MARCH 2ND
Las Vegas Wing Wars!
Hofbrauhaus | 2:00 PM
Enjoy the best wings from the top chicken wing chefs in Las Vegas and vote for your favorites on Sunday, March 2 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The competition will be hosted by Antonio Morales, aka Antonio Loves Wings. Visit hofbrauhauslasvegas.com for more information.
MARCH 8TH - 9TH
2025 UNLV Pro Football Trade Competition
William S. Boyd School of Law | 4:00 PM
William S. Boyd School of Law Sports & Entertainment Law Association will host the first annual UNLV Pro Football Trade Competition on Saturday, March 8, and Sunday, March 9. The competition offers participants a unique opportunity to experience NFL trade negotiations and strategic planning in a realistic, competitive environment. Register at law.unlv.edu
MARCH 14TH
Las Vegas Luck Of The Irish Bar Crawl
Therapy | 5:00 PM
Dive into the spirit of St. Patrick's Day with the Luck of the Irish Bar Crawl on Friday, March 14th. Embrace the Irish culture, wear your greenest outfit, and make this St. Patrick’s Day legendary. Secure your spot now at pubcrawls.com/las-vegas-luck-of-the-irish-bar-crawl
MARCH 14TH
Circus of Song Presented by Vegas City Opera
Windmill Library | 7:00 PM
Celebrate Women's History Month during this fun, one-of-a-kind musical circus of song and story designed to celebrate groundbreaking women. For more information call 702-507-6068.
MARCH 15TH
3rd Saturday's Poetry Showcase
Multicultural Bookstore | 4:00 PM
Grab your friends, take a seat, and get ready to be moved by the power of poetry. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with the local poetry community and witness some incredible performances. Learn more at multiculturalbookstorelasvegas.com.
MARCH 22ND
Killer Queen Tribute Show
M Pavilion | 7:00 PM
Killer Queen will pay tribute to one of the greatest rock bands of all time, featuring Patrick Myers as Freddie Mercury. Tickets on sale at Ticketmaster.com
MARCH 23RD
GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge
Cornerstone Park | 10:00 AM
Join GiGi’s Playhouse Las Vegas on Sunday, March 23, for the 4th Annual GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge. Get the whole family moving for acceptance by participating in the Kids Dash for Down Syndrome, 1-Mile Inspiration Walk or 5K Fun Run. RSVP at gigisplayhouse.org/ lasvegas/gigifit-acceptance-challenge.
MARCH 27TH
RebFest 2025 - Spring Edition
Student Union UNLV | 4:00 PM
RebFest is UNLV’s premier Arts and Music Festival that unites the campus and local community in a celebration of creativity, culture, and connection. Attendees enjoy live music, art exhibits, workshops, and more in a dynamic, high-energy environment. Learn more at unlv.edu
contact Chad at chad.jeffry@citylifestyle.com