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It’s Fall Y’all
As the holiday season approaches, I can’t help but reflect on what it means to be thankful. This time of year brings so much excitement, but it’s also a reminder to slow down and appreciate everything we have—family and friends near and far, as well as the little moments that make life special.
With the holidays on the horizon, and even the election season stirring things up, it’s the perfect opportunity to focus on gratitude. Whether it’s shar ing a meal with loved ones or enjoying the beauty of the fall right here in our community, we have so much to be grateful for.
In this issue, we’ve put together wonderful stories to help you make the most of the season. Our friends at Charge Me Up have shared safe travel tips so you can hit the road worry-free. Plus, we’ve highlighted Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, a perfect place to get outdoors and soak in the crisp air and beautiful scenery.
More than anything, I encourage you to take some time this season to reflect. Amid the busyness of the holidays, it’s important to pause and appreciate all that life has provided. Whether it’s a moment spent with those close to us, a peaceful hike, or simply feeling thankful for the year behind us, this is a great time to embrace all the good things in life.
From our South Vegas City Lifestyle family to yours, here’s to a season filled with joy, peace, and gratitude.
CHAD JEFFRY, PUBLISHER @SOUTHVEGASCITYLIFESTYLE
Photo credit: Adam Trujillo
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Chad Jeffry | Chad.Jeffry@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Paige Candee | paige.candee@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jennifer Florendo, Stacey Escalante, Megan Wilson, Katie Boer, Alexcia Simon, Andres Molina, Angela Broockerd
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Rachita Dhakal, Alexcia Simon, SŌLUS1 Photography Group, Chelsea Dufresne, Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
city scene
1: Make-A-Wish® Southern Nevada hosted its annual Evening of Gratitude at The Wishing Place, the nonprofit’s headquarters. 2: The organization creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. 3: UFC was honored as Corporate Philanthropist of the Year for its ongoing support. 4: UFC Hall of Famer Forrest Griffin with 17-year-old Wish Kid and UFC fan born with muscular dystrophy and heart defects, Jayson ClarkGholson. 5: The UFC Ultimate Planning Room was unveiled – a special space dedicated to wish planning. 6: Blair Bigelow May was honored as Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada’s 2024 Philanthropist of the Year. 7: Each wish granted helps children build the physical and emotional strength they need to fight their illness.
Photography by Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada/Heartfelt Productions
8: B.E. A S.H.E.R.O. Foundation’s 8th Annual I Am Radiant Fashion Show. 9: Anita Koka and Annette Seifzad supported the charity. 10: The event was preceded by local teens participating in a 4-week mentoring and empowerment program. 11: The live fashion show was presented by Macy’s to raise funds to support local youth. 12: Many supporters came to help SHERO be a resource for girls in vulnerable situations and victims of sex trafficking. 13: The event was held inside the Macy’s store at Fashion Show Mall with Jessica Rosado's support. 14: The fashion show featured teen board members in fashions by Macy’s, styled as future leaders.
Photography by Devin D. Photography
15: Teach For America Nevada celebrated its 20th Anniversary in Nevada at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas. 16: The non-profit organization works to improve educational equity and opportunity for children. 17: Teachers of the program have impacted over 300,000 students in the valley. 18: Community, civic, and business leaders gathered to celebrate the organization’s work. 19: Alumni have developed into classroom, school, systems, business, and elected leaders who continue to impact education. 20: Lindy Schumacher was the recipient of Teach For America Nevada’s first ever Icon Award. 21: Local City Lifestyle Publishers supported the fundraiser. Photography by AO Creatives LV and Angie Ortaliza
FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Seasonal Celebration at Local Cider Fest
Silverton Casino is hosting its second annual Cider Fest at the Shady Grove Lounge, running until November 3. The event features a selection of hard ciders on tap, creative cider-infused cocktails, and a menu of fallthemed bites. Open Thursday through Sunday, Cider Fest aims to provide a cozy autumn atmosphere for guests. Admission is free, with food and beverages available for purchase. silvertoncasino.com
Bridget Richards, SIOR CCIM Principal, BRAND Real Estate
S Jones Blvd and I-215
New Luxury Office Buildings coming to the Southwest area
for organ, eye, and tissue donation awareness and transplantation expansion in Nevada. The blue and green-themed affair featured a cocktail reception, auctions, and a dinner show with performers from Frooogs Camp, Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberté’s newest project. Proceeds will support the "End the Wait" campaign for the Nevada Transplant Institute, allowing local residents to receive transplant services without leaving the state. nvdonor.org
Las Vegas Restaurant Week: A Success for Three Square Food Bank
Through the help of Las Vegas’ culinary community and food enthusiasts, Three Square Food Bank announced a total of $380,930 was raised during Las Vegas Restaurant Week, equating to 1,142,440 meals, which will be provided for more than 340,000 food-insecure valley residents. An official wrap party and award ceremony was held at the Palms Casino Resort inside Greene St. Kitchen to celebrate this year’s participants and top earners. threesquare.org
into style at Apricot Lane Boutique, where fashion-forward meets effortlessly chic for women who know how to own their look. Whether you’re updating your wardrobe or finding that statement piece, we’ve got the latest trends that fit your vibe.
Photography by Nevada Donor Network
Photography by Three Square Food Bank
JUSTICE Prevails
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
THANKFUL FOR
DISCOVER
NATURAL BEAUTY, HISTORY, AND REFLECTION AT SPRING MOUNTAIN
GIFTS for Nature's
RANCH STATE PARK
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER FLORENDO
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NEVADA STATE PARKS
Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, located in the Spring Mountains near Red Rock Canyon, offers a peaceful escape from the city where visitors can appreciate the harmony of nature and history. Spanning over 520 acres, this park provides an accessible escape with cool mountain air, inviting you to pause and give thanks for the natural wonders that surround us. Whether hiking along wildflower-lined trails, spotting wildlife, or soaking in the expansive views, Spring Mountain Ranch provides the perfect setting to
reconnect with nature, learn some history, and find solace in its timeless beauty and diverse offerings.
The Spring Mountains in the park dramatically rise from the surrounding desert landscape, creating a striking contrast between the lush greenery of the park and the arid environment. The elevation of the park is approximately 4,000 feet, offering refreshing temperatures, 10 – 15° cooler than the valley below.
One of the park’s most popular features is its network of hiking trails. These trails cater to a range of skill levels, from leisurely walks to moderate hikes. The trails offer opportunities to experience the park's natural beauty up close. Common wildlife sightings include mule deer, bighorn sheep, and a variety of bird species, adding an element of excitement to outdoor adventures.
Sandstone Canyon Loop is a sunny, approximately 2-mile loop that starts with a slight incline, features some rugged terrain, but also soothes with beautiful wildflowers, a lush creek and delightful downhill to end the hike. The North Ash Grove loop is approximately ½ mile and one of the few ADA-friendly trails in the area, with accessible parking nearby and a suitable crushed stone terrain. Overlook Loop provides approximately 1.5 miles of stunning views of colorful rocks, the park itself and forks in the trail allowing hikers to choose their own path.
Be sure to dress appropriately for the season—layers are always a good choice, hiking or trail shoes, as well as sunscreen, hats, and be sure to not forget plenty of water. The park is accessible year-round, though some amenities may be limited during due to weather.
“...inviting outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and nature lovers alike to experience its diverse offerings...”
In addition to hiking, the park hosts a range of seasonal events. In the fall, Pioneer Days lets visitors step back in time to experience pioneer life. Other events include the Audubon bird walk, full moon hikes, yoga, and more. Another highlight is the “Spring Mountain Ranch Summer Theater,” where performances are held in the park’s outdoor amphitheater.
CONTINUED >
For those who love taking photographs, the park offers ample opportunities to capture the dramatic contrast between desert and mountain landscapes, along with the vivid colors of seasonal flora.
For a more relaxed visit, enjoy shaded picnic areas with grills and restroom facilities, explore the Ranch House Visitor Center for information on the park and surrounding trails, or participate in living history programs that offer a glimpse into pioneer life.
Overall, Spring Mountain Ranch State Park blends Nevada’s natural beauty with its historical richness. Whether you’re exploring the historic ranch house, hiking through diverse terrains, or simply soaking in the tranquility of nature, the park provides a captivating experience for all visitors.
Day-use admission to Spring Mountain Ranch State Park is $10 per vehicle for Nevada residents, and $2 for bicyclists. Fall hours are 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. parks.nv.gov/parks/spring-mountain-ranch
ARTICLE BY STACEY ESCALANTE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SŌLUS1 PHOTOGRAPHY GROUP
Horses For The Love of
Dr. Alice Whitfield-Hammer's journey with Hearts Alive Horse Rescue ( havhorserescue.org) is a touching tale of love, dedication, and second chances. After reconnecting with her high school sweetheart, David Hammer, after 56 years, Alice embarked on a new adventure that would fulfill her lifelong dream of rescuing and caring for horses.
THE BIRTH OF HEARTS ALIVE HORSE RESCUE
The story began when Alice and David met Christy Stevens, the Executive Director of Hearts Alive Village, an animal rescue in Las Vegas. This encounter sparked a collaboration that led to the creation of Hearts Alive Horse Rescue. “It was divine intervention because both of us have the same philosophy. If there is an animal in need - we are there,” explains Alice.
A SANCTUARY FOR HORSES IN NEED
Hearts Alive Horse Rescue operates on 15 acres off Kyle Canyon Road in Las Vegas. The facility provides a safe haven for horses whose owners can no longer care for them due to financial hardships, long-term illness, or death.
RESCUE AND REHABILITATION
The rescue focuses on:
• Accepting horses from owners who can no longer care for them
• Providing a permanent home for non-adoptable horses
• Offering rehabilitation and training for adoptable horses
PREMIER FACILITIES
The rescue boasts impressive amenities:
• A barn with individual stalls, each with its own turnout
CONTINUED >
“With a horse’s grace comes astonishing strength. Horses are beauty and beast indivisible. Their strength and stamina have pulled humans through history.” - Saying as remembered by Alice.
• Hot and cold showers for the horses
• Medical sections for veterinary evaluation and isolation
• A full-time trainer on staff
THE IMPACT OF COMPASSION
Dr. Whitfield-Hammer personally writes to every donor, sponsor, and adopter, creating a sense of community and gratitude. The rescue has touched many lives, as evidenced by the heartfelt messages from horse owners who have entrusted their beloved animals to Hearts Alive Horse Rescue.
STORIES OF GRATITUDE
• Scarlet and Alexa's owner, facing physical challenges, found solace in the rescue's commitment to care for his mares.
• Barbie's owner discovered a "paradise" where her horse could live out her days in peace, free from riding obligations.
A NEW MEANING OF THANKSGIVING
For Dr. Whitfield-Hammer, Thanksgiving has taken on a new significance. It's no longer just about pilgrims and turkeys, but about giving thanks for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of horses and their owners. Hearts Alive Horse Rescue illustrates the power of compassion and being thankful for kindness and the bond between humans and horses.
Electric Road Trip
TIPS FOR DRIVING ELECTRIC VEHICLES DURING THE HOLIDAYS
ARTICLE BY KATIE BOER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RACHITA DHAKAL
While California leads the nation in electric vehicle (EV) registrations and charging stations, Nevada plays an important role in the EV landscape with ownership on the rise, and more companies testing vehicles in Las Vegas as the state works to expand infrastructure.
Travel between Nevada and California is especially popular during the holidays. The 270-mile drive happens to match the average range of most electric vehicles. This past summer, the closure of the busy I-15 corridor between Baker and Barstow, highlighted the importance of planning ahead when a hazmat situation shut down the freeway, leaving drivers stranded in the desert for nearly 48 hours before reopening.
In situations like these, running out of gas is inconvenient but manageable with emergency services. However, options for electric vehicle owners are significantly limited according to Rodolfo Rodriguez, owner of Charge Me Up, a Hendersonbased mobile emergency charging service.
“If you run out of fuel in a gas car, you call AAA. They'll bring fuel and put it in the car and you’re on your way,” Rodriguez explains. “Traditionally, if you're in an electric car and you run out of battery, you have to call a tow truck.”
Enter Charge Me Up.
“We actually charge your vehicle wherever it is, enough to get to the next supercharger,” said Rodriguez, who assisted stranded drivers during the I-15 closure this summer. “We're less expensive than towing and it's safer for your vehicle.”
Unfortunately, setbacks are inevitable, which is why we asked Rodriguez for tips to maximize charge and minimize travel disruptions:
UNPLUG AND GO:
“Charge overnight so you can unplug it closest to the time that you're going to leave,” Rodriguez suggests. “If you charge it 100 percent today and you leave your vehicle for two days and come back, the vehicle may be at 80 percent, because it's continuously using the battery.”
FIND SUPERCHARGERS:
PlugShare and ChargePoint are two great apps for locating charging stations. Keep in mind that some charging stations do require membership. Tesla drivers need to plan their stops around Tesla-specific stations. When possible, look for Supercharging stations, which offer faster charges and more available units.
DON’T WAIT:
Anticipate your next few stops. Charging stations may be out of service or unavailable, plus it can be difficult to determine how many vehicles are ahead of you. Charge before your battery drops to 10-15 percent.
OPTIMIZE BATTERY:
Turn off non-essential accessories to extend battery life. EV’s highly touted cameras and safety features are wonderful but drain a lot of battery.
PRE-TRIP MAINTENANCE:
Older EVs may not charge 100 percent. Rodriguez recommends servicing your vehicle to ensure your battery is operating at full capacity.
PULL OVER & PREVENT LOCK OUT:
“Neutral” may not be an option as many EV’s automatically “park” once the battery is depleted. Additionally, many EVs automatically lock, “Make sure that you leave a window down if you're going to need to get in and out of your vehicle,” Rodriguez advises.
There are 24/7 mobile options, like Charge Me Up, that offer significantly lower rates than towing. Expect to pay $80 to $110 for a service call and charge–depending on your location–which could be a lifesaver for drivers who find themselves stranded.
Technology is advancing as Cadillac and Mercedes-Benz have recently announced EV’s running 450-625 miles on a single charge. For now, while the growing trend of "range anxiety," fear of running out of charge before reaching a destination or charging station, can’t be eliminated entirely, these tips can help ensure a smoother, less stressful holiday drive.
GRATITUDE For Beginners
Discover a simple daily routine that boosts your mood, health, and overall happiness
ARTICLE BY MEGAN WILSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHELSEA DUFRESNE
If there were a short daily practice that could instantly lift your mood and lead to more positive experiences, would you try it? Creating a gratitude practice is a game changer for creating more happiness in your life. By focusing on what you appreciate, you train yourself to recognize the positive in any situation. With daily practice, you can shift your mood at any time.
When you're having a tough day and fixate on what's going wrong, it can feel overwhelming. However, if you pause and think of three things you are grateful for, you start to shift your internal narrative. That’s a powerful skill!
To begin your gratitude practice, keep a daily gratitude journal and write at least three things you are grateful for each morning or night. Here are some prompts and examples:
• What is one aspect of your physical health you are grateful for? “I am grateful for my eyesight.”
• What is something from you enjoy from your environment (home or office)? “I am grateful for how my dog snores when he’s dreaming.”
• What is something you appreciate about someone in your life? “I am grateful that my daughter shared her new favorite joke with me.”
Challenge yourself to write something new each time. This trains your mind to look for the positives, and over time, you’ll notice more good things in your life.
Gratitude practices improve mental, physical, and emotional health. For such a simple habit, it creates lasting benefits. The impact is even greater when practiced with family or friends for 30 days. As you focus on what you appreciate, you may discover a new perspective on the world around you.
Megan Wilson, a wellness and mindset coach and co-founder of Pneuma Lab, has been a certified Life Coach since 2018. She helps people identify and achieve their personal goals by guiding them in her signature processes to connect with their authentic truth.
Get a journal or sheet of paper and pen. Find a quiet space to tune inward.
step one step three step two 1 2 3
Decide if you would like to journal in the morning or as an evening reflection.
Take a calming inhale and exhale then write three things you are grateful for today.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXCIA SIMON
“Apple Spice Spritz” FALL INTO THE
RECIPE TO SIP ON THIS THANKSGIVING
As the air grows crisp, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a festive cocktail that embodies the spirit of fall. Enter the Apple Spice Spritz, a delicious concoction that combines the warmth of spiced rum and Aperol with the effervescence of prosecco and sparkling apple cider.
“There’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a festive cocktail that embodies the spirit of fall. This bubbly drink... delivers a delightful mix of fall flavors—ideal for toasting at the Thanksgiving table or savoring during cozy gatherings with friends.”
This bubbly drink is not only visually stunning but also delivers a delightful mix of fall flavors—ideal for toasting at the Thanksgiving table or savoring during cozy gatherings with friends. Whether you’re hosting or just looking to elevate your autumn evenings, this cocktail is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
• 1.5 oz. Spiced Rum
• 1.5 oz. Aperol
• 2 oz. prosecco
• 2 oz. sparkling apple cider
• Cinnamon stick
• Apple
Directions:
1. Combine the spiced rum and Aperol into a wine glass.
2. Top off with prosecco and sparkling apple cider.
3. Add ice and stir.
4. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and apple slices.
5. Enjoy!
Las Vegas native and mixologist Alexcia Simon, also known as Ms. Mix-A-Lot, began her career in creating signature cocktails a decade ago. She works at several top bars in Las Vegas as a bartender and cocktail consultant and is sponsored by premier liquor brands.
dip -giving
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
garlic herb feta dip
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
fig & honey brie
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
directions:
Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
creamy pumpkin cheesecake dip
ingredients:
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 can pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
directions:
Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl, and soften for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Add in pumpkin and blend until combined. Mix in heavy whipping cream and mix on high for 2 minutes. Next, stir in pumpkin pie spice. Serve with sliced apples, pretzels, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
NOVEMBER 1ST - 2ND
Rock’N’Run Weekend
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
Sunset Park & Composer’s Room | 8:00 AM
Life By Music is hosting its largest fundraiser of the year: the Rock 'N' Run Weekend. The two-day charity event will feature a charity golf tournament, 5k fun run at Sunset Park, evening concert, and gala, on Friday, November 1, and Saturday, November 2. Visit Lifebymusic.org or email connect@lifebymusic.org to learn more.
NOVEMBER 2ND
A Flock Of Seagulls And Strangelove The Depeche Mode Experience
M Resort Spa Casino | 2:30 PM
Prepare for a night of iconic hits and unforgettable performances as A Flock of Seagulls and the cover band Strangelove: The Depeche Mode Experience take the stage at M Resort Spa Casino's M Pavilion on Saturday, November 2, 2024. Tickets are available at ticketmaster.com.
NOVEMBER 7TH
Diamond Dig
T-Mobile Arena | 6:00 PM
The 2024 Diamond Dig benefitting Dress for Success Southern Nevada will take place on Thursday, November 7th from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Goose Island Lounge in T-Mobile Arena. Drink, eat, participate in the silent auction, and dig in an elevated sandpit for real diamonds! Learn more about the event at dressforsuccesssouthernnevada.org.
NOVEMBER 8TH
2024 Nevada Youth Homelessness Summit
Las Vegas City Hall | 9:00 AM
The 2024 Nevada Youth Homelessness Summit presented by Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth and Las Vegas Sands will take place Friday, November 8, at Las Vegas City Hall. Registration for the state’s premier youth homelessness advocacy event is open at nphy.org/Summit24.
NOVEMBER 14TH
Camelot at the Magical Forest
Camelot Hall at Opportunity Village | 6:00 PM
Participate in Camelot at the Magical Forest, Opportunity Village’s annual black-tie gala. This year’s event will be held inside Camelot Hall at Opportunity Village’s Linda Smith and Christopher Smith Family Campus and will honor Mark Davis and the Las Vegas Raiders during the soiree. To purchase tickets or sponsorships for Camelot, visit camelotov.org.
NOVEMBER 15TH
ArcoStrum
Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall | 7:30 PM
Let ArcoStrum–TY Zhang (classical guitar, electric guitar) & Strauss Shi (violin, erhu, dizi)–capture your heart with their charisma, virtuosity, and dazzling on-stage chemistry. Enjoy a fascinating musical fusion between modern instrumentation, progressive rock, and original transcriptions of classical repertoire with ArcoStrum. Purchase tickets at unlv.edu/event/arcostrum.
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