Las Vegas Woman - Fall 2014 by Las Vegas Woman

Fall 2014

Doctors of the Desert

Bruce S. Shapiro, MD, PhD, FACOG

Dr. Shapiro By Debbie Hall

Specialty: Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Fertility Center of Las Vegas 8851 W. Sahara Ave. Ste 100 Las Vegas, NV 89117 2769 Sunridge Heights Pkwy Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89052 1.800.509.7174 fertilitycenterlv.com

r. Bruce Shapiro is specialty the transfer of fewer embryos into board certified in Obstetrics the uterus while maintaining high and Gynecology and is pregnancy rates and reducing sub-specialty board certified in the risk of high order multiple Reproductive Endocrinology and pregnancy (triplets and greater). He Infertility. He founded The Fertility received a research award for this Center of Las Vegas, the city’s work. He was also instrumental in first infertility practice, which is developing techniques for post thaw renowned for research that has extended culture (PTEC) following advanced the science and practice fertilized oocyte cryopreservation of Reproductive Endocrinology. demonstrating the importance of Under his direction, The Fertility embryo-endometrial synchrony for Center of Las Vegas has grown implantation, for which he received from a successful local facility to another research award. Dr. having major regional, national & Shapiro was among the first in the international world to standardize influence in the use of GnRH Dr. Shapiro’s the field of agonist triggers in high research background responders undergoing Reproductive Endocrinology. ovarian stimulation, a and a long-standing Dr. Shapiro practice that virtually interest in making has developed eliminates ovarian techniques that hyperstimulation IVF safer and more make in vitro syndrome (OHSS). Dr. effective have led to Shapiro’s innovations fertilization (IVF) safer and also include the many innovations. more effective, combination of GnRH and this research is widely and agonist with low-dose hCG to realize regularly published in respected the benefits of each trigger agent. medical journals. He completed Dr. Shapiro’s work has allowed his residency in Obstetrics and patients who have had previous Gynecology at Yale New Haven failures and/or OHSS in IVF to Hospital, finished his fellowship in change the way their IVF cycles are Reproductive Endocrinology and performed so that their chance of Infertility at Yale University, and success is greatly improved while earned his PhD at the University of their risk of complications from Amsterdam in the Netherlands. OHSS and high order multiple pregnancy are significantly reduced. Dr. Shapiro’s research background and a long-standing interest In addition to his work at The Fertility in making IVF safer and more Center of Las Vegas, Dr. Shapiro effective have led to many remains on the faculty as Director innovations. He was one of the of the Division of Reproductive first physicians to perform and Endocrinology and Infertility at the report on blastocyst transfer in University of Nevada School of the United States. Blastocyst Medicine, where he teaches medical transfer is a procedure allowing students and residents.

Doctors of the Desert

Said Daneshmand, MD, FACOG

Dr. Daneshmand By Debbie Hall

r. Said Daneshmand journal, Fertility and Sterility, where completed his residency and Dr. Daneshmand has also served as fellowship training at UCLA a reviewer for the same publication. Medical Center and is Sub-specialty Additionally, Dr. Daneshmand and Board Certified in Reproductive Dr. Shapiro’s voluminous research Endocrinology and Infertility. Always has been presented at both national committed to research, at UCLA Dr. and international conferences and Daneshmand focused his studies IVFreports.org has recognized The on the effect of female age on Fertility Center of Las Vegas for their ovarian reserve and contributed to stellar pregnancy rates. the development of a blood test to determine the Dr. Daneshmand is the quality of eggs recipient of the Eileen Dr. Daneshmand is in the ovaries. Pike Medical School the recipient of the Additionally, Valedictorian award, during his time the Pacific Coast Eileen Pike Medical at UCLA, he Society School Valedictorian Reproductive also authored (PCRS) fellowship and award, the Pacific “A Guide to the PCRS practicing Residency physician research Coast Reproductive Application,” a award. He was also the Society (PCRS) text for medical President of the Iota students. Chapter of the Alpha fellowship and the Omega Alpha national PCRS practicing After joining The medical honor society. Fertility Center He is a member of the physician research of Las Vegas Decherney Society, award. in 1999, Dr. the American Society Daneshmand for Reproductive was integral in establishing the Medicine and ESHRE, the European region’s first egg freezing program. Society of Human Reproduction and He collaborated with his partner, Dr. Embryology. Bruce Shapiro, to develop IVF protocols to improve pregnancy Currently, as the Practice Director at rates, including PTEC (post thaw The Fertility Center of Las Vegas, Dr. extended culture), one of the most Daneshmand’s special interest lies successful IVF regimens currently in developing protocols for patients available. Their groundbreaking undergoing IVF, especially those findings were published in the patients with previous unsuccessful internationally respected medical cycles.

The Fertility Center of Las Vegas The Fertility Center of Las Vegas is recognized internationally as one of the leading fertility clinics in the world with high success rates, years of experience and a commitment to the advancement of fertility research.

ounded by Dr. Bruce Shapiro in 1988, The Fertility Center of Las Vegas was the first fertility clinic in southern Nevada. In 1999, Dr. Said Daneshmand joined The Fertility Center of Las Vegas and was integral in starting the city’s first egg freezing program. Together, the doctors collaborated on research to develop IVF protocols to improve pregnancy rates, including Post Thaw Extended Culture (PTEC), one of the most effective treatments available to date. The Fertility Center of Las Vegas has facilitated the births of thousands of healthy children by providing some of the most advanced fertility treatments available. Dr. Shapiro and Dr. Daneshmand are sub-specialty board certified in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, meaning they have completed the highest degree of training available for fertility specialists. Together with their dedicated staff, the doctors work tirelessly each day to make parenthood possible. The Fertility Center of Las Vegas’ staff operates as a team to provide quality health care to our patients. We have two convenient locations to serve you. Our goal is to provide you with the best healthcare possible. The following center information is designed to answer questions that usually arise regarding our facility hours and appointment times. Our Summerlin campus located at 8851 W. Sahara and our Green Valley Campus located at 2769 Sunridge Heights Parkway.

Center Hours West Sahara Monday through Friday 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Weekends by appt.

Green Valley Monday through Friday 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM,

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

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TO EDUCATE, ENTERTAIN & INSPIRE

Publisher/CEO Tammy Grabel @TammyGrabel Editor-in-Chief Debbie Hall @DangerousDeb VP of Sales & Marketing Ruth Lauber Chief executive to the publisher Shirley Turner Account Executive Kay Kolbo Napa Valley Food & Wine Correspondent Annie Sliman Contributing Writers Debbie Hall • Jennifer Florendo • Beth Fisher Jessica Kennedy • Mary Peterson • Rev. Thabiti Sharon Chayra • Dr. Cynthia Payne, O.D. • Liz Frye Kelly A. Garrett • Sasha P. Rincon • Jeff Worthington Amanda Maynard • Sherry Swensk• Matt Henderson Taylor Makakoa• Peter Anthony CONTRIBUTING Photographers Boden Photography • Steven Joseph Photography Alicia Lee • Joan Marcus • NickColetsos.com Jeferson Applegate • Richard Faverty Cashman Photo Enterprises • Tiffany Sosa Walls of Photography • Patricia Alcalde Dignity Health-St. Rose Dominican Phototechnik Intl • Jeff Ragazzo • Patrick Gray Ira Kuzma • Erik Kabik • Shannon Dorn • Imagine Studios Art | Creative 702west • 702west.com

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For advertising inquiries, contact Ruth Lauber at 702.629.5906, or ruth@lvwomanmagazine.com

______________________________________________________ Las Vegas Woman Magazine. is published quarterly. Reproduction of any portion of Las Vegas Woman Magazine is prohibited without prior authorization in writing from the publisher. For editorial consideration or Letters to the Editor, send to debbie@lvwomanmagazine.com. Letters to the Editor will be subject to editing by Las Vegas Woman Magazine. Las Vegas Woman Magazine is not responsible for the views of contributing journalists. All editorial correspondence should be addressed to Las Vegas Woman Magazine, Attn: Tammy Grabel, 6525 W. Warm Springs Rd, Suite 100 Las Vegas, NV 89118 or call 702.629.5934. Las Vegas Woman Magazine assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions appearing herein. All Rights Reserved. Las Vegas Woman Magazine, Copyright 2014. Medical statements of fact and opinion expressed in this issue are those of the authors and contributors and Las Vegas Woman is relieved of any legal liability. Las Vegas Woman Magazine does not make any medical representation, express or implied, in respect of the accuracy of the material in this magazine and cannot accept any legal responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions that may be made. The reader should make his/her own evaluation and get the opinion of their doctor of any medicinal, nutritional or surgical techniques.

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Letter from the

PUBLISHER Every Bell & Whistle

easons change, people change... those 80s lyrics by Expose have been running through my mind as we debut our Fall 2014 Issue of “Las Vegas Woman Magazine.” This is our 22nd issue, and our team from production, sales, marketing and editorial has been with this magazine for many seasons. Looking at where we are today, it’s clear to see that we have all changed… for the better. We have evolved. I am so proud of them as they have pulled out all the stops to bring you the very best issue we have done to date. As you read this issue, I’m sure you will find an array of articles and advertisers that will interest you. We have rolled out the red carpet and supplied you with every bell and whistle to make reading “Las Vegas Woman Magazine” a pleasurable experience that leaves you with inspiration and knowledge to enhance your life. I am extremely grateful for the opportunities that “Las Vegas Woman Magazine” has to serve our community as a positive resource for women. My team and I would like to thank you for your readership support and faithfulness in our mission To Educate, Entertain & Inspire. I would like to send a heartfelt thank you to our advertisers for their incredible support of the publication. It is with their support that we are able to publish insightful articles that uplift and encourage our community. As we continue this incredible journey together, I would like to leave you with the lyrics of “Today is Your Day” by Shania Twain.

“You got what it takes you can win Today is your day to begin Don’t give up here, don’t you quit The moment is now, this is it I know that you can, then you will Get to the top of the hill Part of the fun is the climb You just gotta make up your mind”

To educate, entertain & inspire,

Tammy Grabel

lvwomanmagazine.com FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

Letter from the

EDITOR

his is our biggest issue to date and I am honored to be the editor-in-chief for our Doctors of Desert 2014 with bonus Wedding section. Many of the doctors and medical professionals I have met are incredible with not only their education and skills but also compassion and genuine caring. Whether you are a bride, groom, bridesmaid, groomsman or part of the family and friends; weddings are to be celebrated and I wish I were getting married after seeing the fashions and venues. I am especially touched by the renewals of Ruth and Jack Lauber. Fall is a time of harvesting what we have planted throughout the year. I have seen the growth of Southern Nevada and its rebound from economic crisis. The women of Las Vegas continue to amaze me with their devotion, dedication and

inspiration and I love having them in the magazine. I see hope, confidence and a real commitment to continue on the path of success. If you are in the mood for a trip, we have highlighted some wonderful options, either as a staycation, enjoying wine country or venturing to a foreign land. As for dining, with football season here, fun new places have opened up to enjoy with the sports lovers in your life (including you). A taste of the tropics is here in Las Vegas on the Strip at Jimmy Buffet’s Maragaritaville. We are featuring Devotion Vodka with some fresh flavors and Lee’s Liquors offers great ideas for wine in the fall. As always, we are looking to educate, entertain and inspire. With all of our wonderful people, places and products; I am especially proud of

this issue and I look forward to sharing it with you, the reader. Enjoy the fall season – winter will be here soon enough.

l l a H e i b b e D

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No one should end the journey of life alone, afraid, or in pain.

Nationally Recognized Care for You and Your High-Risk Pregnancy.

Why do so many high-risk pregnancy specialists from across the United States visit OUR practice to discover innovations in maternal fetal medicine (the management of high-risk pregnancies)? Because at the High-Risk Pregnancy Center, we’re setting the standard for care for pregnant women at risk for complications — both locally and nationwide. FIRST in Technology Since our doctors opened our doors in 2001, we’ve led the way with the most innovative and proven technology for diagnosis and treatment — all to give you the best chance for a healthy pregnancy and delivery. We were first in the state (and often in the region) to implement advances such as: • First trimester genetic screening, with instant risk assessment so you don’t have to wait for results • Non-invasive prenatal testing of fetal DNA, helping you avoid risks of invasive procedures (we were part of the original research trials) • 3-D ultrasound technology, with mobile access to your images to share with family and friends

FIRST in Leading-Edge Practices We stay at the forefront of medicine so you get the most appropriate and advanced care available anywhere. Just a few of the many reasons we’ve become a model for other practices in the country: • We were among the earliest 10 practices in the country accredited in fetal echocardiography and the first current practice in Nevada accredited in obstetrical ultrasound by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine. • We’re the first and only high-risk pregnancy center with dedicated research personnel. • We’re the first and only maternal-fetal medicine practice in Nevada to have electronic access 24/7/365 to medical records and provide referring OBs round-the-clock access to your ultrasound reports. • We were the initial center to implement universal cervical length screening to decrease your risk of preterm birth. FIRST in Counseling Our highly trained nurse practitioners help you manage, lessen or even avoid problems with expert diabetes and genetic counseling. • We’re the first and only high-risk pregnancy practice to be accredited by the American Diabetes Association® who are dedicated primarily to pregnancy in Nevada.

Call the health team that places your care first!

702.208.9981 702.208.9981 • Las Vegas and Henderson • www.hrpregnancy.com FALL 2014

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the winning

hutchison steffen Since the Firm’s founding, Hutchison & Steffen has been committed to diversity in general and particularly to the success and retention of women at the Firm. We are proud to introduce or reacquaint you with this group of talented attorneys, an integral part of the Firm’s more than 40 attorneys and 50 support staff handling client matters. Our experienced attorneys are professionals who understand business owners’ needs and are ready to handle pressing legal matters, as well as proactively plan to identify and assist in mitigating potential legal risk.

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h u tc h l e g a l . c o m FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

Las Vegas Woman Fall 2014 CONTENTS

Flip 99 100 101 102 104

Front Flip

100

101

102

104

105

106

108

110

111

112

113

114

115

116

118

119

Fertiity Centers of Las Vegas Surgical Weight Control Center Dr. Laurie Bloch Siems Lasik Dr. George Chambers Dr. Julio Garcia

On the Cover

105 106 108 110 111 112

Dr. Laura Gorski Dr. Michael S. Mall Dr. Robert Odell Dr. Cynthia Payne Dr. Jennifer Cha Integrity Home Health Care

113 114 115 116 118 119

Dr. Al Simongeli Dr. Thomas Umbach Dr. Darin Swainston Dr. Edward Zimmerman Dr. Joel Stokes Donna Miller, FlyingICU

Features wedding Section 50 54 56 58 60

88 Models: Dr. Victoria Chen, Dr. Vinne Chen Hair by Andeen Makeup by Christine V, ADD Hair & Makeup, The Style Lounge Photography: Boden Photography 10

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

Mina Olive Bridal Dresses Bella Bridesmaids The Look of Love Tuxedo Junction Renewing vows

Cover story 88

Doctors Vicoria and Vinne Chen

Feature story 120 Dr Laurie Bloch

120

Educate

44 18 21 45 53 68 71 72 74

Privy Skin Care Arts Guide Krista Vance Un-beweaveable Fresh Wata Channel 13 Beth Fisher Making Las Vegas a Better Place to Live Play Pen Eyesight and nutrition Growing interest in Green Homes 76 Vegas Painters 82 Elements Fitness 83 Fertility Center – Chord Bank 85 TPC Golf Swing Tips 86 Center for Sight: Offering Revolutionary Treatment for Cataracts 137 Essential Oils 140 On a Serious Note Death and Dying

Entertain

12 Calendar of Events 26 Hofbrauhaus Las Vegas Distill Divine Café at Springs Café 27 Elixir-A Local Lounge Daily Kitchen & Wellness Bar Triple George Grill 28 Jimmy Buffet Margaritaville Restaurant Las Vegas 31 Autumn Wines 32 Devotion Vodka 36 Napa Valley 39 Lake Mead Recreation Area 40 Mexico and Rosarito Beach 43 Compass Living Travel – Vietnam 46 Goody Bag 47 Max Pawn 49 Let’s Talk About Your Hair 128 In The City 144 Great 8 with Wayde King

Inspire 15 16 22 23 65 120 79 88 124 125 126 127 132 139

Julie Cleaver Brittany Williams United Way Susan Spencer Team of Silverton Casino Hotel Dr. Laurie Bloch Moms Making Six Figures Dr. Dr. Victoria Chen Dr. Vinne Chen Significance Dental Fearless Females Maura Bivens Jocelyn Bluitt-Fisher Stephanie Wilson Local Ladies Achievement Mars vs. Venus

Females Fearless

124

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

EDUCATE

ENTERTAIN

INSPIRE

Calendar of

events LIPSHTICK – THE PERFECT SHADE OF STAND UP

he Venetian Las Vegas is presenting LIPSHTICK – THE PERFECT SHADE OF STAND UP, a newly branded resident comedy series that marks the first time in the entertainment history of Las Vegas that the comedy stage will be taken exclusively by female performers.

president and chief operating officer of The Venetian, The Palazzo and Sands Expo. “Our success with comedic legends like Rita Rudner and Joan Rivers has proven that girls rule when it comes to comedy. Further, we believe that female-driven comedy is now as popular as ever.”

“While the industry has concentrated on male comedy acts, The Venetian has a longstanding history of featuring outstanding female comediennes,” said John Caparella,

Shows are Friday and Saturday and tickets are available for purchase by calling The Venetian Box Office at 702.414.9000 or lipshtick.com or venetian.com.

The Fertility Center of Las Vegas offers FREE seminars for new patients and for people seeking information about fertility treatments. Seminars are conducted monthly and are an opportunity for patients to speak candidly with Dr. Bruce Shapiro and Dr. Said Daneshmand, both sub-specialty board certified in reproductive endocrinology and infertility and world renowned for their research and breakthroughs in reproductive medicine. Tour the stateof-the-art facility and meet with financial advisors. Reservations are recommended, as seating is limited. Call to RSVP at 702.254.1777 or reserve your seat online at fertilitycenterlv.com. Aug 27, 6 p.m.: 2769 Sunridge Heights Parkway, Suite 100, Henderson Sept 24, 6 p.m.: 8851 W. Sahara Ave., Suite 100, Las Vegas Oct 29, 6 p.m.: 2769 Sunridge Heights Parkway, Suite 100, Henderson

Saturday, August 23, 9 p.m., VIP reception with early entrance; 8 p.m.: Aid for AIDS of Nevada is hosting the 28th annual Black & White Party at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. This year’s Black & White Party will feature live entertainment, gourmet food, handcrafted cocktails, a VIP lounge area and pre-event reception. All the proceeds of the event will benefit AFAN, Nevada’s largest and oldest nonprofit dedicated to serving the HIV/ AIDS community in Southern Nevada. For tickets and more information, visit afanlv.org. Must be 21+ to attend and black/white attire required.

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

Aug. 23 11a.m. to 1p.m.: New Image Advanced Laser Skin Center will hold its End of Summer Celebration. Enjoy yummy summertime goodies and drinks with giveaways and discounts. The party will take place at Longford Medical Center, 7455 W. Washington Avenue, Suite 400. RSVP to newimagelasvegas. eventbrite.com or call 702.697.7991.

First Friday continues to celebrate the culture of Las Vegas the first Friday of the month with a festival featuring music, food, art, entertainment and exhibits. First Friday is family friendly with a KidZone within the event offering different themes from 5 to 9 p.m. Sept. 5: Harvest Festival, celebrating the bountiful goodness of the fall season Oct. 3: Celebrating 12 Years of First Friday, a unique commemoration of First Friday with 12 Months and Mythology Nov. 7: EnLIGHTened, a full-out visual celebration of light in all of its forms For more information, visit firstfridaylasvegas.com

Sept. 20, 6:30 to 9 p.m.: History comes alive during Community Counseling Center of Southern Nevada’s fourth annual Bite at the Museum held at Nevada State Museum in the Springs Preserve. The fundraising event will be hosted by comedian and morning show host on 96.3 KKLZ FM Carla Rae. Guests will enjoy live entertainment, unique silent auction items, delicious small bites created by various restaurants including Pampas Churrascaria as well as a rare, after hours stroll through the amazing museum exhibits at the beautiful Nevada State Museum. For more information,visit BiteAtTheMuseum.com.

Oct. 11, 2 to 7:30 p.m.: Las Vegas Business Academy’s third annual fundraising event will begin at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts with a matinee performance of Tony Award winning musical, Wicked. The matinee will be followed by dinner and live rooftop entertainment at the Downtown Grand Hotel. Las Vegas’ top chefs, hospitality executives and community leaders will gather above the streets of downtown to support the leaders of tomorrow by building awareness for the scholarship program. Paired with gourmet dishes prepared by more than 15 local restaurants, the event will offer live performances by Japanese drummers, a live DJ and the band Phoenix. Oct. 26 and Nov. 2, 1 p.m.: Nevada Ballet Theatre and Cirque du Soleil present the seventh annual A Choreographers’ Showcase – a project designed to stimulate and encourage artistic growth inside the Mystère Theatre at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino. A Choreographers’ Showcase will make its return to the Mystère Theatre stage with added elements and surprises over two weekends. The critically-acclaimed production features new works created and performed by artists from both organizations. Purchase tickets at the Mystère Theatre box office, call 702.894.7722 or nevadaballet.org.

Sept. 28 2 p.m.: The Palazzo Las Vegas will host the Second Annual Miss Asian Las Vegas pageant at The Palazzo Theatre. Miss Asian Las Vegas brings all of the Asian communities together, both locally and regionally, through the use of education, entertainment and cultural awareness. The pageant highlights the wide array of Asian cultures in America and inspires young women to become future leaders and to be more involved in the community. Among the categories in which the contestants will compete include national costume, swimsuit, eveningwear, talent, platform and Q&A. The winner of Miss Asian Las Vegas will win more than $10,000 in cash and prizes including a luxurious Mikimoto pearl collection, iPad, cosmetics, swimwear, gift certificates and a three-night stay at The Venetian Macao Resort Hotel Casino, among other prizes. For more information, visit missasianlasvegas.com

Nov. 8, 6 to 10 p.m.: Children’s Heart Foundation presents Operation Cards for Kids Casino Night hosted by CHF board members Julie Downs and Francine Sanchez along with Dr. Beth Creel and Lorie Coviello of Children’s Heart Center. All proceeds from this event will benefit Children’s Heart Foundation. Enjoy a night out complete with food, drinks, entertainment and blackjack. Make it a staycation at JW Marriott Las Vegas or Red Rock Casino Resort Spa. Tickets are available at operationcardsforkids.com. Preregistration is encouraged due to limited space.

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

THE ULTIMATE BUSINESS NETWORKING EVENT! September 17, 2014 5:00 - 9:00 PM

LAS VEGAS' ULTIMATE BUSINESS NETWORKING EVENT OF THE YEAR!

IT ONLY HAPPENS ONCE A YEAR! Join us as we combine the networking power

of Las Vegas area chambers of commerce and business organizations with the best networkers from all over Southern Nevada to give you the ultimate business networking experience. The Largest Mixer® is open to the entire business community! Las Vegas Woman Magazine will be there with our own Networking UltraLounge.

EVENT INFORMATION Las Vegas’ Largest Mixer X

Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2014 Time: 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. NEW Location: Riviera Hotel & Casino Admission: $15 per person

UltraLounge

For Exhibitor and General Information:

702.769.7799 or LasVegasMixer.com The Largest Mixer is open to the entire business community!

CO-SPONSORS: Joel Jarvis

$15 PER PERSON

RIVIERA HOTEL & CASINO 2901 LAS VEGAS BLVD. S., LAS VEGAS 14

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

LASVEGASMIXER.COM 702.769.7799

Julie Cleaver

EDUCATE

ENTERTAIN

INSPIRE

By Debbie Hall

Overseeing one of the largest master planned communities in the country

master planned community the size of Summerlin takes a lot of planning to be successful. The way the villages and neighborhoods are laid out, the alignment of major roadways throughout the community, and the design of village parks, streetscapes, arroyos and paseos that connect the neighborhoods and villages to each other is all a product of planning. Julie Cleaver, Vice President of Planning and Design, Summerlin, oversees the creation of the framework for combining appropriate land uses, that when experienced, make sense and provide opportunities for residents to live, work, shop, learn, worship, play and gather in a place that reflects the natural beauty of the desert environment. “The planning process can take a thousand turns—from the time my team and I begin setting the theme and architectural style for a village to the development of the neighborhoods and construction of the amenities,” she said. “Not only is it important for the plan to be flexible as far as land uses and density are concerned, the plan also needs to meet the demands of the market while being true to the Summerlin brand. Maintaining a consistent vision is central as we work through the plan.” Cleaver grew up in Durham, N.C., the

state’s center for cultural arts, research and development and government—all of which influenced Cleaver and her choice of a career. “I have a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from UNC-Chapel Hill and a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture from The Ohio State University. It turns out that this combination of degrees is perfect for working in a land development company,” she explained. As for what she does, Cleaver said, “While I am instrumental in creating the framework for development in our community, I don’t do this alone. I have lots of help from my design team which includes many talented consultants who have worked in Summerlin for up to 20 years. They are all dedicated to continuing Summerlin’s legacy as a world class community. Together, we are currently working on development projects in 10 different villages, including the planning for Downtown Summerlin and three new residential villages, as well as the design for new village parks, trail systems and streetscapes.” Encompassing 22,500 acres, Summerlin is one of the largest master planned communities in the country, spanning much of the Valley’s the west side and sharing its entire western boundary with the Bureau of

Land Management. “Embracing our surroundings through the use of colors and materials on our homes, offices, retail centers, houses of worship and schools helps create that sense of place for our community which is an integral part of Summerlin’s identity,” Cleaver said. As for other women entering her field, Cleaver advises, “We have to project self-confidence in our abilities and be willing to assert our point of view. Most importantly, we have to do that in a non-threatening and collegial manner. My best advice is to be prepared—know the details of what you’re working on and be able to promote your role and your strengths in the office. You’ll not only establish yourself as the go-to person, but you’ll be ready when an opportunity presents itself. “My second piece of advice is to develop your sense of humor. A witty come-back to a perceived criticism can solve all kinds of conflicts and take the tension out of a room faster than anything else. It’s much easier to work with others when you’re all smiling.” Along with participating in her church and volunteering for other charities, Cleaver believes that whether she is mentoring at work or listening to a friend, “it’s all important and meaningful to me.”

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

EDUCATE

ENTERTAIN

INSPIRE

Brittany

Williams By Debbie Hall

Using pageants to spread her message: Beauty inside

rittany Williams recently competed in the Miss United States pageant representing Nevada. While she did not win the title, she continues to inspire young women, especially in Southern Nevada, with her grace, intelligence, poise, education and, yes, beauty which radiates from the inside out. Her platform is B.FabYOUlous, an organization that Williams created with a mission to inspire girls and young women to put the YOU in FabYOUlous from the inside out; creating their own identities, defining beauty for themselves, and celebrating who they are through mental and physical wellness first, accentuated by beauty and fashion. Through public speaking, workshops and mentoring; B.FabYOUlous empowers young women to make educated, healthy decisions while loving and living their lives to the fullest potential utilizing her 4 pillars: B.YOUtiful, B.Fit, B.Inspired and B.Glam. Born and raised in Clifton Forge in southwest Virginia, Williams graduated from James Madison University with a Bachelors of Business Administration in Hospitality and Tourism Management. “A month after graduation, I was off to Las Vegas where I worked as a hotel operations intern at Caesars Palace. I was hired as a manager in food and beverage and moved to open and manage Qua Bath and Spa. Most of my hospitality career was spent at Caesars Palace. I also worked in food and beverage at Wynn and Encore and the Spa at Mandarin Oriental. A few years ago, I got my National Academy of Sports Medicine certification and most recently received my real estate license for Nevada.” As for her pageant career, Williams explained, “It began in my senior year of college. On the surface, I wanted to try something new and step outside of the box since I was a tomboy my whole life. A little deeper however, my tough exterior was concealing a very insecure girl that didn’t like what she saw in the mirror. I thought hair, makeup, pretty dresses and a sparkly crown would change the way I felt about myself. When I didn’t win, I had to figure out a better way to deal with how I felt about myself. Over the past few years, I focused on understanding myself and how to love the person that I am. In working on this for myself, I realized that there are lots of young women who are suffering just as I was.” According to Williams, studies have shown that 91 percent of women are unsatisfied with their bodies and their looks and are trying to achieve some arbitrary standard that is unrealistic. “When I became okay, I started helping girls do the same. Pageants became a platform to share that experience and to tell a story that people weren’t expecting to hear from me. Wearing a crown, there are lots of assumptions about who I am or what pageantry meant to me. It is fun to change perceptions of those who think they know everything based on stereotypes.” Williams has found inspiration in Tyra Banks—supermodel, Harvard

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FALL 2014

… 91 percent of women are unsatisfied with their bodies and their looks and are trying to achieve some arbitrary standard that is unrealistic. graduate and entrepreneur with a passion for helping young women build their confidence and see the good, bad and ugly of the modeling industry. As Williams described herself, “I pride myself on being multi-dimensional. I have an alter ego. While I am usually The Queen B, I still am a tomboy at heart and have The Killer B side when it’s time to play sports, or in the gym. I was a college athlete, personal trainer, and have continued my training as I prepare for fitness competitions. I am truly a busy B with motivational speaking, modeling and building my platform of B.FabYOUlous.” Williams lives what she preaches and continues to set an example of true beauty.

EXPERIENCE THE EXTRAORDINARY

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM ACT 1

A CHOREOGRAPHERS’ SHOWCASE

September 20 & 21, 2014

October 26 & November 2, 2014

A GALA PERFORMANCE

THE STUDIO SERIES

February 21, 2015

March 26 - 29, 2015

THE NUTCRACKER December 13 - 21, 2014

GISELLE

May 9 & 10, 2015

2014-2015 SEASON ON SALE NOW

(702) 749-2000 | NevadaBallet.org

Top: Courtesy of Greenspun Media Group, photo by Christopher DeVargas. Bottom: Photos by Virginia Trudeau. Pacific Northwest Ballet’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream Choreography by George Balanchine©The George BalanchineTrust photo by ©Angela Sterling. Giselle photo by Jeff Speer. The Nutcracker illustration by Brian Swanson.

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

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ARTS Guide By Jessica Kennedy

Stacy Rink: This artist explores the dark side with sparkling appeal

rtist Stacy Rink has been described as a sparkly, fluffy unicorn with a funky dark side. Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mysterious, almost mythical, and her art is amazing and incredibly controversial more often than not. Growing up in Norman, Okla., having a family in law enforcement and moving around as a child, finally attending high school in Colorado Springs, Colo., then the University of Texas at Austin, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to see where a sense of humor and even a bit of a dark side could really be beneficial in dealing with changing surroundings.

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL SUMMER 2014 2014

Many people would have not been able to accept the challenges of this but Rink thrived on it through artistic expression. College in Austin was artistically great for Rink and would have been musically uninspiring had it not been for a late-night DJ and the only person who played “the music that the cool kids liked, even in someplace like Austin.” While Austin is known for its music, its often more mainstream than off-beat and to find the kinds of bands she could relate to on the radio was inspirational to her. While she worked on her art while listening to the man she would one day marry. “Of course, I had to ask him, we flew to Vegas and went through one of those drive-through wedding chapels and that was that.” They travelled around as well and found themselves in Wichita, Kan. where there was a Boeing surplus shop. It was there that she got into making art with layers of plexiglass because it was readily available. Her art on acetate would appear to be floating on the plex

and gave an incredible dimensional quality. When they moved to Las Vegas, plexi glass was more challenging to find so she adapted her art for canvas and that’s the media she currently uses. Her most recent works have been shown at Container Park where she took pop-culture icons like Star Wars Storm Troopers and mixed them irreverently with iconic images of early 18th century fashion and Christianity in a show certain to provoke some and delight many others. In October she plans to display her work at Blackbird Arts, Inc. in a show called Kinky, taking a look at human sexuality, Las Vegas’s neon culture, and will have an obvious suggestive tone. She plans to have interactive installations, the details of which will have to be witnessed in person. “Each show is different. I mean, sure I enjoy the shock value, who doesn’t, but it isn’t about that. It’s about making art that I feel is compelling, visually appealing and engaging to the viewer. Sure some may not be into what I’ve done but then not every artist can be appealing to every person,” she said.

Something surprising about our sparkly, fluffy unicorn is that she doesn’t have your typical day job. She’s a mechanic for the company who manufactures the accordion-style busses used by the Regional Transportation Commission on several of their more-travelled routes where they don’t use the Deuce (double decker) style busses. They are a company out of Northern Ireland and the company plans to move Rink and her husband, long time employees, to Northern Ireland in 2015. While it will surely be our loss, Rink plans to keep in touch with her Las Vegas friends and is eager to see what the future holds for her as an artist with this amazing new opportunity. Mother, instructor, entrepreneur, graphic designer, philanthropist and writer; Jessica Kennedy, a Midwestern native, participates with several local philanthropic organizations including the Las Vegas Hospitality Association, the Clark County Artists Guild, College of Southern Nevada Foundation Gala Committee, Metro Arts Council and Blackbird Arts, Inc./Blackbird Studios.

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

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Advocate for Autism

KRISTA Vance Her book, Meet Jamie Now, details her experience By Sharon Chayra

t was by all accounts a mundane moment in the life of a mom. During a stay in Santa Barbara, Calif., Krista Vance was getting ready to go out. She was milling in her closet trying to figure out what to wear when a voice from the other room made a simple inquiry asking her what she was doing. Vance assumed it was her eldest son, Jack, since her younger son, Jamie hadn’t spoken in years due to autism. “I turned around and Jamie was there. I heard a voice say ‘What are you doing?’ Where was Jack?” Vance spoke of the moment that brought her to tears. “I flipped out. Oh my goodness, did you just talk?” Autism has become part of modern day lexicon and it’s no surprise since 1 in 68 children in the United States will be diagnosed with some form on the autism spectrum in 2014. Manifestations vary and include non-verbal communication, social difficulties and repetitive behaviors. The increase in autism diagnosis and its root cause remain a topic of debate, but that matters little to families like the Vances for whom the condition wasn’t just a book of symptoms, but a reality of raising their beloved son Jamie. Jamie was diagnosed around 18 months after a brief hospitalization. Vance couldn’t bare the agony of seeing her son suffer in silence. “I looked at his body internally and what I could do to shift the chemical imbalance of his brain, Vance said. “I need the right people behind me to do this and I needed to find the right doctors.” It took the Vances four years of searching. “Through Autism Research Institute [I] found Dr. Gary Grossman, one of the specialists of chelation therapy.” Chelation therapy remains a controversial treatment for autism. It has, however, been used in cases of medically diagnosed heavy metal poisoning. Some proponents of chelation therapy say autism is prompted by mercury exposure, it is believed that chelation removes mercury and other heavy metals from the system. While the topic is one of great debate, Krista Vance said it was not only appropriate but lifesaving in the case of Jamie. It was Dr. Luc Maes who found the chelating agent that worked. “And that’s when we started on that particular chelating agent and that’s when we started seeing the changes in him. It had been three years since we heard him speak and it was amazing,” she said. Today, Vance remains an ardent advocate of autism spectrum disorder and the options to treat it beyond those traditionally prescribed. She is careful to stay abreast of advances in medicine but has a perspective beyond that of an academic. She has lived life with an autistic child, now a young man who no longer suffers from it. While she is busy with a family that includes two sets of twins in addition to Jack and Jamie, Vance finds the time to write about alternative

Autism has become part of modern day lexicon and it’s no surprise since 1 in 68 children in the United States will be diagnosed with some form on the autism spectrum in 2014. therapies. Her articles have been published in “Well Being Journal,” “Organic Family Magazine” and “Alternative Medicine.” She is also a sought-after speaker, member of Autism Today and FEAT as well as supports the Autism Research Institute. While Jamie’s transformation started with a simple inquiry after years of silence, Vance is keenly aware of the arduous journey and one she’d undertake again to save her child. A journey that continues and gives particular meaning to ordinary instances many of us take for granted. The moment that really exemplified Jamie’s progress was when he and his brother Jack were going to a friend’s house to play. As they were walking out the door, Jamie paused. “Jamie turned around, looked me in the eyes and said ‘I love you.’” Never truer words were spoken.

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

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United Way’s Women’s Leadership Council Helping Young Women Achieve Their Dreams

ith the rising cost of education, it seems like a daunting goal for teenagers from low-income families to pursue their dreams. United Way’s Women’s Leadership Council helped change that story for Leslie Miranda and Monica Guiza by awarding each of them a WLC Emerging Leadership Award for Women to help them attend a local college. “It is the epitome of what WLC stands for and endeavors to achieve,” said Judy Kropid, WLC Project Co-chair. “It made us all very proud to be WLC members.” While Guiza has a goal of becoming an elementary school teacher and Miranda dreams of practicing law to aid others in difficult situations, one thing is true for both recipients, they worked diligently to succeed and give back during high school but needed financial assistance to attend college. Miranda’s mother is from Guatemala and her father is from Mexico. Both of her parents travelled to America in their youth to pursue the American dream. “This award means that I can further my education without financial worries,” said Miranda. “This award isn’t just a ‘scholarship to me, it’s an opportunity to get to know some

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

amazing people who take the time out of their day in order to give back to the community.”

Hand, Guiza and Miranda were selected from a pool of qualified candidates.

According to Guiza, the award will allow her to go to college and accomplish her goal of changing the lives of children in her community.

“Both were well-poised, demonstrated a strong commitment to community service, and were diligent in their academic studies as evidenced by their grade point averages and the strength of their course studies,” explained Tyler. “They concluded their presentations with firm handshakes and closing regards.”

… the best thing this organization is doing is leading by example and focusing on the youth, because the youth are the future leaders of the community. “This award has taken the burden of paying for my education, and I am so thankful to be a recipient,” explained Guiza. “I am also extremely honored to be a part of an organization filled with individuals who are not just leaders, but also loving and caring individuals.” According to one committee member who participated in the selection process, Tiffany Tyler, Ph.D., Chief Operations Officer of Nevada

Guiza believes that the WLC opens doors for individuals and helps them achieve their goals. “Whether it is through education, financial aid or career opportunities, this organization helps individuals in many ways,” said Guiza. “It is amazing to see how a group of individuals can be impactful and bring together a community.” Miranda is inspired by the fact that WLC members are committed to creating a brighter future for southern Nevada. “It’s not just the resource centers, health clinics and other events they have put together that benefit the community, it’s the spirit that they bring,” explained Miranda. “I think the best thing this organization is doing is leading by example and focusing on the youth, because the youth are the future leaders of the community.”

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Susan Spencer: Inspiring and coaching girls in football By Debbie hall, photos by Jeferson Applegate

ports have always been a part of Susan Spencer’s life. Her father would take her and her sister to Notre Dame Football games when they were children. “I learned the game of football (without playing it) by watching games and our dad always had college coaches around our home when we were growing up,” she said. “My five years working for the Philadelphia Eagles (her father owned the team) as legal counsel, operations manager and eventually general manager when I was in my 30’s was a whole new world in my early career.” Since she had been immersed in professional football, even when Spencer left sports to open her business, she realized her football knowledge became a door opener. “Because I could talk sports, and especially football with the best of them, I realized that knowledge of sports is the magic key to success in business. I used my knowledge and experience to own and operate several meat processing companies for more than twenty years,” Spencer explained. After moving to Las Vegas, Spencer wrote a book about women in business, helped a former

client navigate a lengthy litigation and worked as a sports radio analyst in 2012. During this time, “I became aware of the sad state that many local high school football programs were facing,” she said. “I started A Level Playing Field Foundation to support disadvantaged high school football programs in the valley. The Clark County School District was sued by the National Women’s Law Center who brought a Title IX law suit against the district because there were not enough sports for girls as compared to boys. As a result of the ruling, in 2013 the first season for Girls Flag football began.” Spencer is now exploring what she can do to grow the sport and gain visibility including reaching out to colleges to add Girls Flag Football as well as encourage USA Football and NFL High School Player Development program to add a Girls Flag Football competition (available for boys). She is working on creating a tri-state tournament to showcase Girls Flag Football between the three states that have Girls Flag Football as a high school sport which includes Florida, Alaska and Nevada. Spencer chose to get involved with Girls Flag Football to level the playing field so to speak. According to Spencer, “The best way is to have girls participating in male dominated sports so they can talk about it and get to a level playing field as they graduate and begin their career. Girls Flag Football gives young women a great

sense of confidence, give fathers something to share with their daughters, and during televised college and professional games, dads and moms get a chance to share a special bond with teenage girls who have learned to love and appreciate football by playing it.” Spencer finds the irony is that most of the Girls Flag Football coaches are men. Spencer wants to develop a training program for female coaches and believes soccer would be a good match-up since it is played in a different season in high school than Girls Flag Football. Her advice to female coaches is to learn flag football from the male coaches. “I have spoken to many successful women and they all attribute their business and other career success to their involvement in high school sports,” Spencer stated and is working hard for continued growth for high school girls with involvement in flag football. For more information, visit alevelplayingfield.org.

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

We are pleased to announce

Deb Mele-Blanchard

has joined WellsÂ Fargo Private Bank as a

Vice President and Wealth Advisor NMLSR ID 1193372 3800 Howard Hughes Parkway, 2nd Floor Las Vegas, NV 89169-0925 702-791-6224 | deb.mele-blanchard@wellsfargo.com

wellsfargoprivatebank.com Wells Fargo Private Bank provides products and services through Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. and its various affiliates and subsidiaries. Financial Advisors are registered representatives of Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC (member SIPC), a registered broker-dealer and separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. Insurance products are available through insurance subsidiaries of Wells Fargo & Company and underwritten by non-affiliated Insurance Companies. Not available in all states. ÂŠ 2014 Wells Fargo Bank N.A. Member FDIC. NMLSR ID 399801.

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NEW HOMES FROM $300,000 TO $1 MILLION PLUS 702.791.4000 | SUMMERLIN.COM

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Wines

Dines

Hofbräuhaus Las Vegas

Distill

Hofbräuhaus Las Vegas is celebrating all year long. In January, the restaurant kicked-off their 10 year anniversary festivities and in October, the party continues with the celebration of 10 years of Oktoberfest fanfare. Magicians of the century, Siegfried & Roy, will be kickingoff the six-week Oktoberfest on Sept. 13, a tradition they have done for the past 10 years. Every Friday and Saturday in October, other celebrities will do the honor of tapping one of its kegs.

Whether in Summerlin or Southern Highlands, Distill offers a cozy, neighborhood location with great food, drink specials and happy hour. Distill’s Backyard offers the chance to relax under the sun or stars on its patio with incredible views whether on the west or south side location.

Beer is brewed using original recipes handed down by the Duke of Bavaria and is imported directly from Munich. Three beer varieties are available all year plus seasonal specialties like Oktoberfest, Maibock and Hefe Weizen Dunkel. As for food, one choice is classic Bavarian sausage specialties, a big staple in German food, made fresh and served in the traditional style of Europe with the sides to enhance the meat. 4510 Paradise Road Las Vegas, NV 89169 702.853.2337 hofbrauhauslasvegas.com

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The menu includes Pretzel Bites, a basket of warm, oven baked mini pretzels. served with cheddar cheese sauce, house made beer mustard and honey Dijon; Carne Asada & Egg made with scrambled eggs on warm buns, topped with sliced, grilled carne asada steak, pico de gallo and guacamole and The Cure, hand crafted burger: ground beef and pork blend stuffed with fontina cheese topped with soy marinated onions, jalapeño jelly, lettuce, tomato, spicy mayo and fried parsnips on a brioche bun along with salads and other yummy choices.

Written and compiled by Debbie Hall

Divine Café at Springs Preserve Divine Events, the exclusive caterer at the Springs Preserve, operates Divine Cafe at Springs Preserve. Open for lunch during the week and brunch on the weekend, Divine Café offers incredible views of Springs Preserve with floor to ceiling windows and an outdoor patio. Its weekend brunch menu includes a kid’s breakfast of French toast stick with syrup, scrambled egg and fruit. Choices include frittata with snap peas, asparagus, caramelized onions and feta, roasted potatoes and English muffin; ham and brie omelet with peach chutney; Divine benedicts; filet mignon; breakfast pizza and breakfast burrito.

10820 W. Charleston Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89135 702.534.1400

Its weekday menu offers kid’s menu, salads, soups, sliders, wraps, pizza and small bites. For dessert, try zappolis made with crisp puff dough, powdered sugar and raspberry coulis. The café is located outside of the park so admission does not need to be paid to dine there.

4830 W. Pyle Ave. Las Vegas, Nevada 89141 702.834.5700 distillbar.com

333 S. Valley View Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89107 702.822.7700 springspreserve.org/plan/cafe

Wines

Elixir-A Local Lounge A new cool lounge has opened in Henderson featuring an Old Vegas vibe with a modern twist. Indulge in house-made cocktails with food and drink specials, broadcasting of sporting events, entertainment and happy hour. One drink to try is The Elixir, the house specialty which combines Absolute Citron Vodka, Pama Liquer, fresh lemon and marasca cherry juice with candy garnish. As for the menu, it ranges from comfort food such as Crab Bites, crab balls with a cream cheese filling, breaded in panko and deep fried to a golden brown, served with crispy leeks and lemon tartar sauce to healthy salads such as Southwestern Chicken made with chopped romaine, grilled or crispy chicken, diced tomatoes, sliced red onions, sweet corn, black beans and crispy tortilla strips tossed with a creamy jalapeno ranch dressing. 2920 N Green Valley Pkwy, Henderson, NV 89014 702.272.0000 elixirlounge.net

Dines

Daily Kitchen & Wellness Bar Daily Kitchen & Wellness Bar serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with a goal that while it might be nutritious, it also needs to taste good. Daily Kitchen uses seasonal fresh ingredients and supports local suppliers. The Wellness Bar features fresh fruits and vegetables in juices and smoothies including Tropical made with a soy milk base blended with fresh pineapples, banana and mangos, sweetened with agave. Its newest item is The Dragon Bowl, served with frozen South American Pitaya Dragonfruit blended with fresh juiced green apples, pineapples and mango topped with house-made granola, shredded coconut, fresh bananas, strawberries and blueberries. Another choice is the Ahi Tuna Tacos made with ahi tuna, pickled daikon and carrots, micro cilantro, avocado, lime and creamy ponzu sauce on whole wheat tortillas. There is also a kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; menu featuring grilled cheese and grilled chicken. 3645 S Town Center Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89135 702.685.7100 dkeatery.com

Written and compiled by Debbie Hall

Triple George Grill Triple George Grill is known as the power lunch place and the place to be seen during dinner. Located in Downtown3rd across the street from the Downtown Grand, the menu is American-style seafood, steaks and chops as well as homemade soups, salads, pasta dishes and daily specials. Its dĂŠcor includes private booths hidden by high walls, a full bar running the length of the restaurant, a separate dining room and patio dining. Triple George Grill is offering a prix-fixe lunch menu; four courses served Bento-box style and a soft drink, iced tea or coffee. Each power lunch includes a half-sandwich of the day, soup (clam chowder, tomato bisque or soup du jour) or salad (house or Caesar), side dish (French fries, Parmesan fries or warm pretzel bites with dipping sauce) and dessert. To expedite the lunch hour, all four courses are served at once in individual dishes atop a single platter. Downtown3rd, 201 N. 3rd Street Las Vegas, NV 89101 702.384.2761 downtowngrand.com

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

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Dines

Written and compiled by Debbie Hall

Jimmy Buffet Margaritaville Restaurant Las Vegas

ne doesn’t have to be a Parrot Head (fan of Jimmy Buffet) to enjoy the food and fun of Jimmy Buffet Margaritaville Restaurant Las Vegas, a little bit of the tropics located in Las Vegas. Along with the casino and dining room, Landshark Lookout is located on top of Mararitaville facing the Strip. Family friendly, Margaritaville also offers healthy menu options including gluten-free, late night and al fresco dining at Landshark Lookout. With a new items added to the dinner menu, choices include Buttermilk Fried Chicken with fried chicken breasts served with Yukon Gold mashed potatoes, green beans and chicken gravy or Seafood Mac & Cheese with shrimp and lump crabmeat on cavatappi pasta in Boursin cream sauce. For meat lovers, try Chimichurri Flat Iron Steak, a 10 ounce flat iron steak grilled to order, served with chimchurri with French fries and Surf & Turf, a 10 ounce flat iron steak and grilled shrimp served with French fries. For gluten-free choices, try Cheeseburger in Paradise, its signature burger topped with American cheese, lettuce, sliced tomato, pickles and paradise island sauce on a gluten free bun. A sweet tooth can be satisfied with a Gluten Free Brownie Sundae made with gluten free brownies with heath bar crusted vanilla bean ice

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

cream, macadamia nuts, whipped cream and chocolate sauce. Someone in the group a vegetarian? Available dishes include Black Bean and Roasted Corn Photo by Joeand Buda Tacos with white rice, pico de gallo, avocado lime crema served in flour tortillas with chips and salsa and Chimichurri Veggie Burger topped with lettuce and tomatoes on a toasted brioche bun served with a side of chimichurri sauce and choice of French fries, sweet potato fries or mixed green salad. There is a kid’s menu offering a Junior Cheeseburger in Paradise, Fish & Chips or Mac & Cheese. To enjoy a cocktail either in the dining room or Landshark Lookout, specialty drinks feature Who’s To Blame made with Margaritaville Gold Tequila, triple sec and house margarita blend and Last Mango in Paris wit Margaritaville Last Mango Tequila, Cointreau Orange Liqueur, house margarita blend and cranberry juice and served on the rocks. Five uniquely designed permanent bars offer guests a complete beverage menu so everyone can enjoy all of their favorites, including famous frozen concoctions. There is always a party including live

entertainment on a weekly basis ranging from DJs to live bands. The wait staff gets in on the fun in the island themed dining room showcasing a boat-filled marina below a suspended airplane with singing, a mermaid by Carlos Larios sliding downPhoto a volcano into a Margarita glass and even a conga line around the diners. Best of all, locals receive a discount on Tuesday with a Nevada ID. So for a taste of the tropics and easy living, Margaritaville is that island in the middle of Las Vegas. Inside the Flamingo Hotel and Casino 3555 South Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV 89109 702.733.3302 www.margaritavillelasvegas.com

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

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PROVIDED BY LEE’S LIQUOR

Autumn wines present colorful changes As we approach the season dedicated to change, it is only appropriate that our palate seeks a vibrant and cozy wine selection. New Zealand is renowned for its ever-growing regional popularity amongst wine enthusiasts, and we are certain that you will fall for these autumnal wines.

e e L y n n e K ! s r e e Ch

900 Grapes Pinot Noir Marlborough 2011 Each bottle of this pinot contains 900 fantastic reasons to enjoy this wine. Sourced from the finest regions in New Zealand, 900 Grapes Winery is dedicated to the art of wine-making. Dark cherry and thyme are warmly cradled in a shawl of French Oak. Best savored with good conversation and perfect weather. $15.99

Infamous Goose Sauvignon Blanc 2013 This Sauvignon Blanc is homage to the allegedly extinct moa, a giant flightless bird said to roam New Zealand way before humans appeared. Don’t be fooled by the name, this Sauvignon Blanc’s flavor has definitely not vanished! With notes of nectarine, peach and gooseberry this wine stands up to any shellfish, and if you enjoy enough you may even witness your own moa siting. $11.99

The Crossings Sauvignon Blanc 2013 This wine is produced in the Awatere Valley, one of the finest viticultural regions of New Zealand. The grapes grow in the valley of the imposing peak of Mt. Tapuaenuku rising 10,000 feet above the valley. Prevalent notes of grapefruit with freshly cut grass, as well as dried herbs and passion fruit. $11.99

The Ned Sauvignon Blanc 2012 Perfect for warm days and cool nights, this Sauvignon Blanc is made in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks, with carefully selected yeast strains. Fresh with minerality, crushed passion fruit, with an undertone of musky fragrance. Pair with your favorite citrus zested white fish al fresco. $11.99

Oyster Bay Pinot Noir 2012 Oyster Bay is an elegant cool climate pinot at its absolute finest. Rich aromas of cherries, and plums surround your palate, as you enjoy the lingering flavor of this New Zealand gem. Made in the traditional winemaking technique, the grapes are grown in optimum soil, then carefully selected to mature in French Oak. Gentle, subtle and seductive. $15.99

Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc An innovative leader in the wine industry, as one of the first to introduce the screw-cap, Kim Crawford does not disappoint. In a world flooded in oak aged chardonnay, Kim Crawford throws a life raft of clean, crisp, fresh Sauvignon Blanc. Citrus and tropical fruit with juicy sweetness is first, followed by a zesty lingering of squeezed limes. Complex and stunning, it is no question this award-winning Sauvignon Blanc steals hearts and minds. $11.99

Sponsored by Lee’s Discount Liquor, with 17 locations in Southern Nevada (including one in Mesquite, Nev.). For locations, hours and more information, visit leesliquorlv.com FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

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Wines

Devotion

Dines

Vodka D

evotion Vodka is sugar-free, glutenfree and 100 percent made in America flavored vodka with flavors such as blackberry and blueberry, coconut, blood orange, wild cherry, cosmo, tiki tea and original. According to Drew Adelman, president and founder, the name and bottle represent drive, dedication and devotion. “These words describe the exact way our team tackles all daily challenges in life. Drive, Dedication, Devotion; whether physical, spiritual or intellectual, having an unwavering commitment to any cause, big or small, represents the Devotion mentality. Never giving up on the path to achieving goals is our vision, and embodies the Devoted Drinker.” As for the inspiration behind the bottle, according to Adelman, “How do you package and bottle drive, dedication and devotion? You think of that one purpose in your life. Mine is my daughter Nicole, the little angel that has given me so much in life. She has my heart and guides it in all the right directions without even knowing it. Her white angel wings are wrapped around my clear heart as her heart beats within. Nothing can ever compare or will ever compare to the lifetime of devotion I have for my angel.” Devotion Vodka is distilled six times, multifiltered from 100 percent high grade USA non-GMO Corn in a state-of-the-art distillery located in Middleton, Wis. Utilizing a unique process of deionizing water to ensure the highest quality water source, this process also implements the finest example to date of vodka blending and processing. Additionally, Devotion’s flavoring process is unique. The company has teamed-up with Allen Flavors, maker of Arizona Iced Tea—the

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

No. 1 privately owned flavoring company—to develop a process of eliminating sugars as a flavoring agent in vodka. In lieu of sugar, Devotion Vodka uses an essence process along with natural flavor compounds to ensure its flavored vodkas are created without the unnecessary sugars and sweeteners. Available in retail outlets and restaurants, visit devotionvodka.com for more information.

Black & Blue: This is the first and only blackberry and blueberry flavored vodka in the industry. Devotion Vodka has carefully chosen the sweet rich taste of Oregon blackberries and blended them with the crisp, zesty, mild bitterness of fresh California blueberries. The blackberries and blueberries have a unique berry profile that is extremely versatile for all types of cocktails. Its profile: Aroma – Vibrant, ripe notes of floral jam Appearance – Exquisite pristine clarity Texture – Consistently smooth and fresh Palate – Well-balanced levels of sweetness with a hint of bitterness Finish – Bold start that calms to a mild finish Black & Blue Lemonade

2 ounces Devotion Black and Blue 4 blueberries 4 blackberries 4 basil leaves Muddle berries gently in a high ball glass and add ice Fill glass with sugar-free lemonade Garnish with basil

Tiki Tea consists of natural sweet tea flavors from a selection of premium teas from around the world, combined with tones of honey and citrus zests for a robust flavor profile. Its profile: Aroma – Naturally, clean bouquet of sweet tea essences Appearance – Natural tea color Texture – Velvety smooth texture Palate – Mature, well-balanced round levels of distinct tea flavor Finish – Smooth start with a smooth calm finish Devoted Tiki Tea 2 ounces Devotion Tiki Tea Fill a highball glass with lemonade Garnish with a lemon wedge

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REASONS

T O D i N E AT

TWiN CREEkS Executive Chef Chris Fearnow moved to Las Vegas in 1976 and graduated Clark High School in 1979. He developed his love for food at an early age helping his parents out at a coffee and sandwich shop they owned. He went to the nate Hart cooking school at caesars palace, where he studied

European

cooking.

Over

the years he’s worked at larry’s old ranch House, the stardust, the mirage, Bellagio, mandalay Bay, the resort at summerlin, texas station and Green valley ranch. He was on American Casino, the discovery channel reality show, and the Food network’s Meat on the Bone, as well as a judge on Hell’s Kitchen and hosted rahman “rock” Harper at terra verde inside Green Valley Ranch after he won season three of the show. Now he’s the executive chef of silverton casino, where he’s “making guests happy with food, whether with a 99-cent hot dog or a nine-course chef’s tasting menu at $300 per guest.” Chef Chris is creating new menu items every week for Twin Creeks and all of the other venues within Silverton Casino. Stop in and say ‘hi’ to Chef Chris and his team and let us know what you thought of your experience.

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Strip Quality Dining at Stripped Down Prices. Featuring 1855® cuts of premium beef, delectable seafood dishes and classic entrées.

Extensive and affordable wine list from $24/bottle.

Happy Hour offered in the lounge is 50% off the bar menu, including specialty drinks, house wine and non-premium craft beer from 5pm–6pm and 9pm–10pm.

Prime Rib Dinner is offered every Sunday for $29.99 and includes choice of side dish and soup or salad.

Open Table Diners’ Choice Award Winner for Steakhouse

reservatIons recommended I 5pm–10pm Wednesday – sunday

I-15 & Blue dIamond rd. • 702.263.7777 • sIlvertoncasIno.com FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

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Wineries, Hotels, Dining

Written and compiled by Annie Sliman

Shopping

On a Napa Mission

Napa Valley Wine Excursions O’Brien Estate Winery

My mission is to bring Napa to Las Vegas. Join me as I give you some of the highlights of this wonderful and nearby piece of paradise.

Many of the most remarkable winery experiences– barrel tastings, tours in the vineyards, and meeting with the winemakers and winery owners are hidden gems off the beaten path, nestled in the Napa Valley roads and hillsides.

In the last year, I have visited over two dozen small, mostly family-owned vineyards, including Aonair Wine, Alpha Omega, Spring Mountain Vineyards, Fontinella Vineyards, O’Brien Estate and Porter Family Vineyards. I’ve also spent time visiting the larger, better-known wineries such as Pine Ridge, Beringer and Hess. Large or small, each of these wineries showcase their own unique wines. Some are surrounded by lush gardens and vineyards and few even have their own incredible caves. As a larger winery, the Hess family art collection spreads through three levels adjacent to the tasting room, overlooking the vineyards. This gallery is definitely worth seeing and the road trip to get there is breathtaking. The smaller wineries also have their charms. The crowds are limited and you receive personal attention from a wine host. On a lucky day, you could meet the wine maker or even the owner. While I was there, I met Charles Hendricks, wine maker for James Cole Winery and four other wineries including his own, Hope & Grace Wines. My friend bought a large bottle of wine for his son’s wedding, which Hendricks graciously autographed. Altogether, it was a very memorable moment and gave us a chance to chat about wine and wineries with a very knowledgeable person. Another one of Napa’ best-kept secrets is a winery just four miles from the downtown riverfront. The Porter Family Vineyards is located in the Coombsville region of Napa with a fantastic view of the valley. This awe-inspiring family estate includes 17,000 square feet of caves, which is used to host tours and tastings and to do their wine making on the premises. Visit the website at porterfamilyvineyards.com to preview this outstanding winery and put it on your mustsee list when you visit Napa. As you plan your trip, pick up a guidebook once you get there or email me at annies@amsinclv.com for suggestion or two.

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

Napa Valley Wine Excursions owner Paul Bailey offers a unique wine tour experience for you that only a Napa native can provide. Constant and unending attention to detail coupled with first-hand knowledge of wine country; Bailey provides unforgettable tastings and tours you simply may not stumble upon on your own. Bailey takes exceptional pride in providing guests with memorable photos, unique and extraordinary visits to vineyards and wineries.

O’Brien Estate Winery owners Bart and Barb O’Brien’s romantic dream came true when they purchased their winery in 2000. The winery and vineyard spans 40 acres with stunning views of the Oak Knoll district. The winery plants Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc grapes, all estate-grown. Grapes are hand-harvested and crushed in small batches and the wines are fermented in stainless steel tanks and aged in new French oak barrels. Then, estate winemaker David Yorgensen bottles them with a stateof-the-art Italian bottling system right in the tasting room. The winery welcomes visitors for an unforgettable private tour and tasting of their award-winning wines in their backyard sanctuary.

Don’t hesitate to contact Paul Bailey at: 707.363.1397 or paul@nvwineexcursions.com

For more information, visit obrienestate.com.

The Napa River Inn

Napa General Store

Nestled into the heart of Downtown Napa, the Napa River Inn stands out as an upscale boutique hotel. Surrounded by the valley’s worldrenowned vineyards, beautiful scenery, excellent restaurants, and favorable climate, the inn sits snugly along the banks of the Napa River.

Napa General Store has been delivering worldclass customer service for over a decade, and it’s no wonder discerning shoppers head to the Napa General Store to see the latest in local art, jewelry, gifts, furniture and home furnishings. They are focused on their clients and giving them a memorable experience. Need help with a special gift? Shipping? Gift-wrapped? Napa General Store provides all of this and more. Located in the historic Napa Mill, Napa General Store is the go to spot for those in pursuit of quality and originality. Shopping daily 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dining in café 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wine tasting and sales in wine bar 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Fine dining, shopping, entertainment and relaxing spa treatments are all within walking distance. Hiking, biking, golfing, balloon rides and amazing wineries are all an easy drive. The Napa River Inn has 66 rooms, many with fireplaces, river views and balconies. It has two restaurants, night club, spa and a gift shop. Napa River Inn 500 Main St. Napa, CA 94559 877.251.8500 Napariverinn.com

540 Main Street Napa’s Riverfront Napa, CA 94559 NapaGeneralStore.com 707.259.0762

Alison Doran

Written and compiled by Annie Sliman and Mary Peterson

A Good Life in Winemaking, 38 years strong Las Vegas Woman magazine is presenting a new series, dedicated specifically to the art and magic of Napa Valley.

hen Alison Doran started her career in 1973, she was among the very first women in the industry. Her father owned a winery in Napa’s Alexander Valley and brought in Andre Tcheellistcheff as a consultant. Doran began to work alongside him, and soon they developed a strong connection over their shared commitment to creating fine wines from California grapes. Tcheellistcheff became an important mentor and arranged a life-changing position for Doran as a “cellar rat” in Alsace, France. When she returned, she earned a degree in fermentation science for the University of California, Davis and began working for the Firestone Vineyard, famous for its estate-bottle wines. She spent several years at Firestone adding to her education and experience, starting as a lab technician and advancing to bottling supervisor, cellar master and, finally, to winemaker. Today, Doran lives on the family vineyard with her husband and two sons and works as a winemaker with a select group of clients just as passionate about fine wines. These include Crane Family Vineyards, Hill

Family Estate, Romeo Vineyards and Cellars and her own winery, Hoot Owl Creek. When she talks about the Napa Valley and its wines, Doran has a few important things to say. She feels strongly that a wine should taste where it’s from. This concept in wines is called terroir and often differentiates the products of small wineries from that of large commercial ones, which must blend grapes from several growers to achieve a uniform and consistent product. As a winemaker for wineries focused on terroir, it is Doran’s task to balance the wine and bring out its best features. She works with the unique flavor profile generated by the interaction of soil and weather, the specific grapes and winemaking technique to create truly distinctive and memorable Napa wines. Doran also has some advice for people who are interested in learning more about fine wines. She encourages people to come to Napa and visit some of its many wineries. Bring a notebook, write what you like and watch a crush or two. Understanding how a wine you like is made will increase your enjoyment and appreciation of it. Join a tasting group and compare notes. Once you know what you like, consider joining a wine club. Many excellent wines are available through clubs and many

wineries depend on these memberships. Doran also reminds us that you need to allow plenty of time for the great pleasure of becoming educated about the variety of fine wines produced in the Napa Valley. Over the course of her pioneering career, Doran has seen many changes in the industry, but says the greatest challenge is simply the year-to-year difference in the grapes. “No two years are ever the same and it is experience that really helps. I love the whole process, determining whether to press early or late, the tastings, the fermentation decisions, all of it. To me, the most fun part of what I do is watching the wine unfold and tell me what it wants to be.” For Doran, winemaking is a mixture of art and science that is far greater than the sum of its parts. “Alison has taught me so much about winemaking. She’s methodical and yet in perfect harmony with Mother Nature. Her grace and patience allow her to produce the best wines from the best grapes year after year,” said Ryan Hill of the Hill Family Estate. Alison Doran is known as the wine doctor by many in the industry for her ability to create consistently excellent wines.

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

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OUTSIDE OF LAS VEGAS

Explore, play, dine and sleep in Lake Mead National Recreation Area By Debbie hall

riends and families love to vacation together and it is all about the experience. One of best staycations outside of Las Vegas includes a river raft adventure, kayaking, wakeboarding, waterskiing, jet skiing and swimming while staying and playing on a houseboat. Black Canyon River Adventures begins at the base of Hoover Dam in Boulder City, Nev. A leisurely motor-assisted raft with a guide, the excursion allows guests to enjoy and learn about the history, desert wildlife and beauty in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River. The full-day trip covers 12 miles of the Colorado River and culminates at Willow Beach Marina on Lake Mohave in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Willow Beach Harbor is located approximately 45 minutes from Las Vegas and is the culmination point for Forever Resorts’ Black Canyon River Adventure flat-water rafting trips as well as its Colorado River Exploration Tour. Here is the perfect opportunity to explore Colorado River’s 235 miles of shoreline along with hiking, boating and fishing. There are power boat rentals, canoe and kayak rentals, a fishing pier and boat launch ramp. For those who really love the great outdoors, camp sites for both tent and recreational vehicles are available. For those who want a different outdoor experience, Callville Bay Resort and Marina in Lake Mead is a perfect place for house boating. Forever Houseboats offer a one-of-akind opportunity for multi-generational families, groups of friends, or small corporate and incentive travelers to immerse themselves in the outdoors—all while enjoying all the comforts of a floating home on the water. Houseboats have dozens of amenities including private

staterooms, waterslide, front deck barbecue grill and spacious, climate-controlled living areas. Some houseboat models also offer satellite TV and top-deck hot tubs. Forever Resorts, which builds and operates rental houseboats, is an environmentally conscious company and its vessels are constructed using energy efficient and recycled materials and are equipped with Safe-CO generators reducing carbon monoxide emissions by more than 99 percent. Activities while staying on the houseboat include swimming, diving and fishing. Personal watercraft is available for rentals and for there are ample opportunities to explore coves and hike sandy beaches Another place is Cottonwood Cove Resort and Marina inside the Lake Mead National Recreation Area on the shoreline of Lake Mohave. The pristine desert lake has a 237-mile shoreline and is 67 miles long, backed by Davis Dam on the Colorado River. The new marina offers long-term and overnight slip rentals for boats or rentals of a houseboat, power boat, Jet Ski, canoe or kayak. The marina itself is historic as the first and only floating building project in the world to receive GOLD LEED certification. The floating ecofriendly structure features sustainable modular construction and state-of-the-art energy-efficient and environmentally responsible materials and fixtures. Decking is made of a composite of rice hulls and recycled plastic and the exterior stucco is made of recycled tires. The marina is full service offering supplies and other supplies and services. Just outside of Las Vegas is the chance to create memories of a lifetime on the water. For more information, visit ForeverHouseboats.com.

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

Rosarito Beach

Sandy beaches, natural beauty and fun just south of the border By Debbie Hall

osarito Beach is a coastal resort city in the Mexican state of Baja California located approximately 30 miles south of San Diego. Baja’s Gold Coast, the 60 scenic miles that stretch from just south of San Diego to Ensenada, offers some of the best recreational activities. Relax with some fishing. Explore the beach in an ATV or ride a horse alongside the water at sunset. Jump into a volleyball pick-up game, swim, surf, parasail or build sand castles. Golf is a main attraction in Baja with two championship clubs located on Baja´s Gold Coast. Bajamar, located just north of Ensenada boasts of 27 holes of Scottish-style links that play around and over the beautiful Pacific. The crashing waves and volcanic rock will demand the utmost in concentration from even the best golfer. Real Del Mar, located on the northern part of the Gold Coast, offers canyon-style golf throughout rolling hills all the while enjoying the natural beauty of the Pacific Ocean and Coronado Islands. The par 72 championship course boasts 6,400 yards of pristine course with six lakes and is a challenge for players of

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

TO EDUCATE, ENTERTAIN & INSPIRE

all levels. For surfing, Baja California is a unique piece of geography. Heavy winter swells travel from northwest to southeast daily along the entire Pacific coast of the Baja Peninsula. With the exception of Hawaii and San Francisco, the waves at Islas Todos Santos off the coast of Ensenada are said to be the biggest in the winter Pacific and the swells at Baja Malibu and Calafia are renowned for their consistency. The great annual grey whale migration is one of the most extraordinary migrations. Their journey begins in the Arctic, and they travel a distance of over 6,200 miles to reach the southern Baja California lagoons to perform their reproduction cycle and nurse their calves. They bear their calves every other year, alternating each year between mating and birthing. In Rosarito, whale watching is one of the activities that bring visitors closer to nature. Located just northeast of Ensenada, Guadalupe Valley offers great wine tasting. The Baja California Wine Country is blessed with some of the most ideal Mediterranean climate for

Travel Exclusive

grape growing. The Valley is home to about 18 wineries that range from to small organic winery, La Casa de Dona Lupe, to L.A. Cetto, one of the most renowned and oldest wineries in Mexico. L.A.Cetto is an important winery in the Mexican industry; having achieved a total of 132 international awards in excellence from countries such as France, Italy, Spain, England, Canada and the United States. Almost a million lobsters are served in the Rosarito coastal area each year. “Puerto Nuevo-style” is now a world-famous synonym for the exquisite lobster offered in the local restaurants. Rosarito is justly famous as a gourmet’s paradise since it offers more than 85 quality restaurants that can satisfy just about any taste or craving. Baja´s Gold Coast is becoming a mecca for

artists and art lovers. In the last few years there has been a virtual explosion of galleries offering art in northern Baja. Many artists have galleries in town or in their homes. Many others also work behind fruit stands, have day jobs as cooks, own bed and breakfast inns, sell real estate or operate the town’s classiest accommodations. Great art is everywhere and going gallery hopping is becoming one the most popular things for people to do in Rosarito. As for a place to stay while vacationing, Rosarito Beach Hotel is a Baja spa resort located in what was once part of the family mansion. Opened as a lodge more than 80 years ago, the 500-room, full-service resort remains one of the most popular destination for the city’s more than 1 million visitors a year offering old world grandeur, world-class restaurants, entertainment, lodging options and activities. Its Casa Playa Spa is dedicated to pampering and nurturing hotel guests in an atmosphere of elegance and serenity.

Mexicano. The different wines can also be enjoyed at the Rosarito Beach Hotel where once a month they host a wine tasting and dinner at Chabert’s restaurant featuring many of the local wineries. Having a day at the spa at the Casa Playa Spa completes a relaxing vacation. When it originally opened in 1925, the Rosarito Beach Hotel was considered a vacation and health destination because the sea swept air was both preservative and restorative. Early visitors appreciated the therapeutic effects of saltwater bathing and fresh ocean air. People were also drawn to the soul satisfying aesthetics the seascape provided. The hotel’s oceanfront location gave early visitors the chance to enjoy one of nature’s most inherently beautiful landscapes: sun, sand and the sea.

“We are blessed with a coast line of white sandy beaches and inland areas of natural beauty. Our goal is to enhance the resources of Rosarito Beach, both for our residents and the visitors who enjoy our wonderful city,” said Hugo Torres Chabert, president and manager of the Rosarito Beach Hotel.

Casa Playa Spa has put together a variety of body services that can help achieve smooth and nourished skin. Natural products are used from the sea and earth. They are specially combined to restore and improve the condition of the skin as well as to detoxify and rehydrate creating an all-over body glow. The staff consists of registered and highly trained massage therapists. They are educated on how to effectively relax muscles, increase circulation and improve joint mobility using light and deep tissue techniques.

The Casablanca Restaurant is located near the beach bringing the flavors of colorful, balanced and exquisite dishes. Visitors can also order unique cocktails and tapas in the restaurant’s lounge with a breathtaking view of the ocean. A traditional Mexican buffet at a folkloric ballet show is offered in the Salon

With beautiful weather, great service, breathtaking views and so many activities, Rosarito Beach is the perfect getaway. For more information on Rosarito Beach Hotel, visit rosaritobeachhotel.com or call 1.866. ROSARITO (76727486). To learn more about Rosarito Beach, visit rosarito.org.

Having a day at the spa at the Casa Playa Spa completes a relaxing vacation

Relax in the lounge area with a cocktail, great atmosphere and a live pianist

One of three pools to choose from at Rosarito Beach Hotel The Casablanca Restaurant offers unique flavors and exquisitely colorful dishes

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

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By Dan Heffley

COMPASS LIVING

A first trip to Vietnam including the opening of Acarcia Veranda By Dan Heffley

n the summer 2014 issue of “Las Vegas Woman” magazine, publisher Tammy Grable and her husband Seth Grabel wrote about their great experience in Vietnam and their stay at Compass Parkview. Their overwhelmingly positive comments about the city echoes those of my co-workers that have spent time in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC, formerly Saigon) living and working at our property. On July 3, I was excited to land in Saigon for the grand opening of Acacia Veranda dining restaurant. Located on the eighth floor of Compass Parkview, Acacia delivers a fine dining experience with a stunning 360 degree view of the HCMC skyline. The indoor/outdoor venue lends itself to an intimate dinner experience or a large social gathering where one can both appreciate the background music and still carry on a conversation The menu features American signature dishes that are the creation of Celebrity Chef Jack Lee. Born in Vietnam, Chef Lee moved to the U.S. at an early age, attending the California School of Culinary Arts and the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu program. Always creative, Chef Lee has successfully blended Eastern and Western cuisine into a style all his own, having prepared meals for the celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey, Nancy Reagan and Angelina Jolie. You wouldn’t know that the restaurant had just opened. In 12 days, five events were held at

expected my experience at Compass Parkview to be as positive as Tammy Grabel wrote and what Compass Living aims to deliver to our guests. What I did not expect and was not prepared for was just how much I would love my experience.

Chef Lee has successfully blended Eastern and Western cuisine into a style all his own, having prepared meals for the celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey, Nancy Reagan and Angelina Jolie. the Acacia serving ex-patriots of all nationalities and locals alike. The professional staff and Chef Lee performed flawlessly whether the event was a party of 40 for a family event, or one of over 100 people, like the InterNations event held on July 4 that launched the Acacia. InterNations caters to ex-pats worldwide, providing a common bond for those living overseas. Compass Parkview is a natural hub for groups such as InterNations. Like many visitors, this was my first trip to Vietnam; in fact it was my first trip to Southeast Asia. I expected HCMC to be an adventure. I

The Compass Parkview staff and the services provided made my stay truly a home away from home without any of the honey dos. I did not miss folding laundry, taking out the trash or any housekeeping. The rooms are spacious and well-proportioned with enough closet and storage space for a full wardrobe and more. I was there to work and the free high-speed WiFi made it easy to connect with the team in Las Vegas, Skype with my wife and do the research I needed to do. For people that are location independent, there is no better way to live. Compass Living isn’t the only American brand in Vietnam. Starbucks, Baskin Robbins and Burger King, for example, are all within walking distance of Parkview. Of course, no trip to Vietnam would be complete without visiting the local city park across the street from Parkview, which houses a Galaxy movie theatre and a quiet, serene place to relax. We make it easy, just call or email us and then show up! The good life has never been so affordable. For more information, visit compassliving.com.

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

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PRIVY SKIN CARE Skin needs nutrients for beauty

roper nutrition is vital for the maintenance of youthful, smooth, healthy skin. Skin care products such as lotions, creams and cleansers can help treat certain skin ailments, but many skin problems are related to diet and nutrition. Wrinkles, dry or oily skin, acne and inflammation can all be signs of poor internal health, often brought on by consuming unhealthful foods and avoiding skin-healthy nutrients. “Your skin is the fingerprint of what is going on inside your body, and all skin conditions, from psoriasis to acne to aging, are the manifestations of your body’s internal needs, including its nutritional needs,” said Dr. Georgiana Donadio, founder of the National Institute of Whole Health. Certain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants nourish the skin, helping it remain youthful and healthy. “Everything you eat becomes a part of not only your inner being, but the outer fabric of your body as well. The healthier the foods are that you consume, the better your skin will look,” said Samantha Heller, MS, RD, a clinical nutritionist at NYU Medical Center in New York City. To nourish your skin, here are five of the best things you can eat: Vitamin A: Foods high in Vitamin A include liver, chili peppers, carrots, apricots, collard greens, kale, sweet potatoes, spinach and cantaloupe. Vitamin A promotes proper repair and maintenance of your skin at the cellular level. Antioxidants: Blackberries, blueberries, strawberries and plums contain the highest total antioxidant content of any food. Damage to the skin from the sun and environmental toxins creates free radicals, which can damage the DNA of your cells. The antioxidants in these fruits can protect the cell so there is less chance for damage. Protecting your cells from damage also guards against the signs of premature aging. Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs): Salmon, walnuts, canola oil, and flax seed all deliver essential fatty acids, and thus are important foods for healthy skin. Dry or inflamed skin and skin prone to breakouts can benefit

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

Your skin is the fingerprint of what is going on inside your body… greatly from EFAs, which are responsible for skin repair, moisture content and overall flexibility. Selenium: Whole-wheat bread, muffins and cereals along with eggs, brown rice, turkey, tuna and brazil nuts all contain this antioxidant mineral responsible for tissue elasticity. It may play an important role in preventing skin cancer, as it can protect the skin from damage from excessive ultraviolet light. Green Tea: Green Tea deserves its own post it has so many beneficial properties. Suffice it to say the anti-inflammatory and skin protecting properties in green tea just can’t be beat. At Privy Skin Care, clients are informed and an active participant in achieving their best look and everyone desires that time just to be pampered. Privy Skin Care offers custom facials, crystal free microdermabrasions, waxing, eyebrow and eyelash tinting and enzyme/ acid peels utilizing Rhonda Allison products—the best in the field. Each month Privy Skin Care offers a monthly special on its website, privyskincare.com. Like its Facebook page at Privy-Skin-Care, follow on Twitter @PrivySkinCare and follow on Pinterest at privyskincare. Privy Skin Care 8910 West Tropicana, Suite #5A Las Vegas, NV 89147 702.496.2066

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TheUN-BEWEAVABLE Problems with hair extensions

t seems that among women in Las Vegas; long, luxurious locks are the norm. Whether brown, blonde or blazing red; hair that bounces and swings is a hot commodity among the lovely ladies of Sin City. However, not all that hair you see is real. Once a secret topic of discussion among women and their hair stylists, weaves and extensions are as commonplace as artificial nails or breast implants. Not long ago, it seems the talk about whether someone’s hair was au naturel was a forbidden topic, said Joyce Dye, a cosmetologist and barber with over 20 years of experience. “I remember when it was hush-hush to talk about whether someone’s hair was real or not. I would have clients who would want to come see me late at night because they didn’t want anyone to see that I was putting extensions in—I’m not joking. In fact, I used to travel to the houses of some of my wealthier clients.” Now, according to Dye, with the popularity of music videos, reality shows and movies such as the Chris Rock documentary “Good Hair,” women will talk openly about it—even their mishaps. And mishaps do happen. Susan Wood already has thick, medium length hair, but wanted a more glamorous boost to her hair when she decided to get a sew- in weave, a process of natural hair braided into cornrows and wefts of hair sewn into the real hair. Soon after the weave was completed, she knew something was wrong. “I had an excruciating headache, and this tugging sensation. It was so painful. A friend came over and she thought I was exaggerating as to how bad my head hurt.” Wood and her friend went to see stylist Jessica Dukes who unearthed the issue—the wefts were sewed in too tightly, causing welts and pressure on Wood’s scalp. “As soon as Susan told me how she felt, I knew what was wrong. I lifted up her hair and saw the problem,” Dukes said. Wood had to have her wefts removed and replaced by Dukes. Dye said that sort of problem can happen with

By Liz Frye

“I’ve dealt with women who keep their weaves for six to eight months at a time. That’s gross and unsanitary.” inexperienced stylists. “Younger stylists, and sometimes the clients, think that the tighter the weave, the better, and that’s one of the biggest mistakes that can happen.” A too tight weave can cause traction alopecia, a form of hair loss due to the hair being pulled too tight. Another key to maintaining a weave without any problems is to treat it like you would your own hair. “Wash it, condition it, blow dry it and wrap your hair up at night when you go to bed, either in a loose ponytail or braid,” Dukes said. “You’ve spent all that money so you want to keep it from getting tangled. Use a brush made especially for extensions.” Also remember to professionally have your extensions removed after about three months to give your hair and scalp time to breathe and regenerate. “I’ve dealt with women who keep their weaves for six to eight months at a time. That’s gross and unsanitary. If you don’t have the means to keep with the upkeep, don’t do it,” Dye said. Finally, if all the trouble of sewing, brushing and conditioning is too much too handle, try an easier way with clip on extensions. “I like clip-ons. They are so much easier,” said Shannon Simon, who uses them to give her long hair more fullness on special nights out. “I pop them in and then take them back out. You can’t get much easier than that.”

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

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By Jennifer Florendo

INSPIRE

Bag

Korres Pomegranate Balancing Cream-Gel Moisturizer

A lightweight moisturizer that provides a matte finish and poreminimizing properties while leaving skin soft, hydrated, and balanced. $32

Caudalie Soleil Divin Self-Tanning Gel

Step into fall with a faux face tan. This rich facial gel provides a flawless, long-lasting, buildable faux tan without the harsh zebra stripes some selftanners can leave behind. $32

Embrace Fall with these beauty picks Muradâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Skin Smoothing Polish

A gentle scrub powerful enough to unclog pores, remove impurities and polish away dull skin. Antioxidants and soothing properties balance oil production, reduce the appearance of pores and defend against damage. $30

NARS BLKR Blush and Illuminator

Add a rich pop of pink to your cheek or brighten and illuminate your complexion. Wear together for a multidimensional look or mix the illuminator with your foundation for an all-over glow. Available at NARS Las Vegas Flagship Boutique at The Forum Shops at Caesars, $29 and $30

IT Cosmetics new CC+ Veil Fluid Foundation SPF 50+ This hydrating, color-correcting, full-

coverage foundation protects skin while giving a smooth and flawless finish. Clinically proven to brighten your complexion, improve skin tone evenness and minimize pores and fine lines. $38

Hope Paige Fashion Medical ID Bracelets Update your loved ones medical ID with a fashionable design from Hope Paige. They are the perfect balance of safety and style while keeping important medical information handy. $39.95, hopepaige.com

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

LORAC PRO MATTE Lip and Brow Pencils

Create perfect fall looks with buildable, velvety smooth lip colors for the perfect line while the brow pencils give the most natural looking frame for your face. $16, $19

Chanel

TOM FORD

Authentic Chanel Neon Orange Quilted Patent Leather Single Flap Shoulder Bag NWT / $3,300

Authentic Tom Ford Black Jennifer T8 Sunglasses / $249

Tiffany

Loius Vuitton

Authentic Tiffany & Co Sterling Silver Lattice Ring Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Size 7.5 / $159

Authentic Louis Vuitton Monogram Speedy 30 Handbag / $685

Max Pawn

Sell or buy luxury items in style

t Max Pawn, there are three convenient ways to get cash for luxury items. One can get a 90 day loan (or pawn) that offers a quick way to get some cash and gets the item(s) back once the loan is paid. Another option is to sell the item(s) to Max Pawn. Luxury items can also be sold at Max Pawn on consignment with the seller determining what they would like for their item(s). After the item is sold, a small percentage is deducted and the seller is paid. In todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy, why pay retail at the Louis Vuitton store when Max Pawn has the same bag in wonderful pre-loved condition at

only a fraction of the cost. Max Pawn is always receiving new stock including handbags, jewelry, electronics and more. Max Pawn showcases over 5,000 square feet of luxury items. Michael Mack, owner of Max Pawn, shares his knowledge during his radio shows broadcasting live each week from Max Pawn. They are: Pawn Talk Live en Espanol on KRLV 1340 AM, Wednesday from 4 to 5 p.m.; Live in Las Vegas on KDWN 720 AM Friday from 1 to 2 p.m. and Pawn Talk Live on KDWN 720 AM Friday from 2 to 3 p.m. on Fridays. Max Pawn is located at 6040 W. Sahara Ave. and his website is maxpawnlv.com.

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

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Let's Talk About

Your Hair

End of Summer Hair Fixes By Peter Anthony

his summer heat has been wreaking havoc on Las Vegas hair, especially colored hair. With so much invested in your hair keeping it soft, shiny and sexy, it is important to really take care of your hair correctly. Great maintenance will allow you to go easily from color to color and style to style with seasonal changes. Shampoos designed to preserve your color safely have never been more important. Reds have been so strong this year, as have those incredible soft fashion pastels we see on the strip at the hottest clubs. Great simple colors placed within amazing lines create a statement that few can deny. What we love about this coming fall is the introduction of more curls rolling over from the summer dockside and poolside looks. This will give women more choice when it comes to their hair between color and texture, pairing the waves with the cut by expert styling is going to make your winter and spring fun and sexy. We have tested many products to get results for keeping hair moisturized and in great condition, here are several of our favorites and how and when to use them:

For keeping hair moisturized daily, we love placing in Cream Whip by Arrojo. It is just what we need in Las Vegas as we move into the fall and winter fashion. It allows simple styling with the right amount of moisture and UV protection. It does not add hold so we love to cocktail this product with some thickening and styling sprays lightly placed over which is perfect for smooth drying and even better for enhancing and bringing out natural texture while prepping hair for amazing styling. We partnered the product with Arrojoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s American Wave Service and the results were fantastic: sexy natural texture placed perfectly into an amazing style. The Cream Whip really keeps the hair soft and shiny through long Las Vegas days and nights. Another incredible product we have been playing with to get the hair back into amazing condition is ORIBE Masque for Beautiful Color. If we were to share that this is beyond incredible it still might be an understatement. Perhaps it is the Watermelon Extract from the Kalahari Desert, which provides natural protection against oxidative stress, deterioration of natural keratin and damage caused by UV light-induced free radicals. But the

results are just worth it. So here is how we have used it. After shampooing, we massage in for five to 10 minutes or if we were having our clients sit by the pool, we had them leave it combed into the hair as a pool side treatment. After, all they needed to do is go home and rinse with cool water. Personally I love this two times a week, but on dry hair or fine colored hair that will not hold moisture in Las Vegas dry heat, then three or even four times is cool. This is a very sexy and indulging treatment and we know you will be addicted. What we looked for is how easily it rinsed and how well the hair was able to be styled afterward. Be playful and have fun but always keep it sexy! Remember that maintaining is much less stressful then fixing it, especially when it comes to your hair. We love answering your hair questions, so please send them into letstalkaboutyourhair.com.

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

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Your Bridal Gown Dressed to be unique Mina Olive is wedding gown designer who creates an original dress for each her brides based on their figure, personal style and wedding type. Her motto is that “No two brides should ever wear the same wedding dress.” Her and her team creates “a dress like no other, for a day like no other” for each of their brides. Located at Tivoli Village, each bride that wears a Mina Olive gown for their wedding is sure to leave with an experience and dress that no other bride has had. Each consultation is tailored to the bride personally; fabrics, accessories and ideas are custom for that woman only. Veils and accessories are created on a custom level as well to perfectly complement each bride’s dress. Appointments are required. For more information, call 702.738.2926 or visit minaolive.com

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

W O R L D W I D E LO C AT I O N S:

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We Have Party Venues For Every Occasion • Bar & Bat Mitzvahs • Corporate Parties • Receptions • Holiday Parties To plan your event, please contact your Catering Sales Manager at 702-869-7023.

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lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

Bella Bridesmaids

showcases the brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inner circle Stylist Jamie Johnson and Bella Bridesmaids offer one of the largest collections of bridesmaid dresses from the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading designers in the Bella Showrooms. With hundreds of dresses to choose from, Johnson will work with the bride and showcase each unique bridesmaid for the most special of days. Reach out to Bella Bridesmaids at bellabridesmaids.com

Joanna August Style: Whitney Long Skirt with Ashley Bustier Top Fabric: Lace in Navy $195 skirt, $165 Bustier

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

Joanna August Dani Short Chiffon Sea of Love $235 Adrianna Papell Long Beaded Dress Slate $300

Donna Morgan Styles: Jessie, Morgan, and Rhea Fabric: Chiffon Price: $189

Joanna August Dorian Long Chiffon I Want Candy $275

Our specialty is helping you choose a

WEDDING TUX that fits your colors and style

Premier tuxedo rental experts in Las Vegas since 1978. From classic tuxedos to modern formalwear with hip-hop and rock styles. - Largest selection of in stock tuxedos in Las Vegas. Las Vegas Couple Photo: Alt F Photography

- Same day service. TJ FastFit system = tux in minutes. - Accessories customized for your colors & style.

Best Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Formalwear Award Las Vegas Bride Magazine

www.TuxedoJunction-LV.com 702.873.8830 : 3540 W. Sahara Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89102 Photo of couple by AltF Photography FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

The Look

OF LOVE

Tiffany and Oliver’s wedding day was full of so many emotions and Moxie Studio was there to photograph the entire event. The wedding was held at the Springhill Suites located just off the Las Vegas Strip. The wedding and reception was held at the hotel while the cocktail hour was held on the rooftop by the pool. Tiffany and her party got ready in a suite while Oliver and his party were in a boardroom across from the reception hall. The couple had hangers made for each person in the wedding party with “Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell” worded with the wire. The bride was beautiful and the groom was estatic. Another incredible event captured by Moxie Studio.

Tiffany’s No. 1 wedding tip is to remember when planning your wedding, it is for you and your groom. Don’t worry about pleasing guests. The day is about celebrating your marriage with friends and family.

Photographer: Moxie Studio Photography and Cinema Venue: Springhill Suites; DJ: Hihg Flyin Entertainment; Floral: Envious Productions; Cake: Springhill Suites; Hair and Makeup: Your Beauty Call; Wedding Gown: Alfred Angelo; Bride’s Monogrammed Veil: ABT Custom Monogrammed Veils; Tuxedos: Tuxedo Junction; Guitarist and singer: Geary Hanley; Officiant: Wanda Tracey; Wedding Coordinator: Roger Owens

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

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FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

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Tuxedo Junction By debbie hall

Outfitting men in Las Vegas with style

Since the 1970s, any man who has lived in Las Vegas for any length of time has gone to Tuxedo Junction for that first tuxedo to a formal dance, to get married or attend a black-tie event. Men actually love dressing up for those special occasions and women appreciate the effort. In 1978, Mikka Moon and her late husband opened the business and today as president of the company, she continues to help men look their best. Moon would admit that her path to Tuxedo Junction was unusual. “I worked in a tuxedo shop while attending UNLV with a double major in music and elementary education. My husband had been a school teacher but quit that to become a 21 dealer. We wanted to do something else, I knew Las Vegas could use another tuxedo shop and I had the knowledge so we opened the store up.” In two years, Moon’s husband was able to quit his job and devote himself to the business. Moon has seen styles change and explained, “What goes around comes around. When I first started, the styles were basic with black and white, white dinner jacket, really very standard. Then colors started to become popular such as chocolate brown and navy blue. In the 1980s pastels such as powder blue was popular. We carried a line of mint green, yellow and white. In the late 80s, when the show “Miami Vice” was popular, we carried the Miami Vice line of tuxedos which included royal blue and dusty rose. There were some fun styles going on.” Now the trend has come back to the basics with an emphasis on the Frank Sinatra era with a fitted outfit. As for celebrities, while in the past

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

celebrities have come in themselves, now the procedure is that someone from the celebrity’s team comes pick up the tuxedo for a private fitting. Moon has also been involved with unique ceremonies. “We have done weddings for people who have jumped out of hot air balloons, bungee jumping, skydiving, diving into water at Lake Mead. Let’s face it, anything can happen in Vegas!” One of the biggest changes in the business is the Internet and social media so now Tuxedo Junction reaches people from all over and, since Las Vegas is one of the wedding capitals of the world, this is an important part of the business. It is not unusual for a taxi cab or limousine to stop by the store with a group of men from another country looking to rent tuxedos. Most importantly, it is the personal touch has made Tuxedo Junction the thriving business it is today. “I love asking couples where they met, how they met,” Moon said. “I have heard so many interesting stories.” One of her personal favorites is about a couple from Russia. The groom spoke very little English but the bride was able to talk to Moon and wanted a blue tuxedo. When Moon asked how they met, the bride explained both were on vacation with friends at the ocean but didn’t know each other. One day, the bride was swimming and started to drown. An unknown man came and pulled her out of the water and that turned out how she met the groom. The bride wanted blue to symbolize water and what she felt was their destiny. Tuxedo Junction is a part of Las Vegas and a big part of its wedding industry. For more information, visit tuxedojunction-lv.com.

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I Still Do After years of marriage, couples in love renew their vows

uth Lauber and her husband Jack are still crazy about each other after 20 years of marriage and wanted to renew their wedding vows. There are many traditional ways to renew to celebrate the renewal of vows, but the Laubers decided on an unconventional way. They renewed their vows at Aaron Lelah Jewelers. Their officiant, Jimmy Mac McNamara (author of “Tales from the Wedding Alter”) tearfully and happily married them. Family and friends gathered around in the jewelry store as they said “I Do” again. Ruth Lauber loves Aaron Lelah’s custom designed pieces and had diamond earrings on hold for when they renewed their vows. Everyone enjoyed being surrounded in the brilliance of diamonds as Ruth and Jack Lauber demonstrated how strong their love is for one another. Jack Lauber is a true Las Vegas local of 67 years and was, in fact, born at St. Rose Dominican in Henderson. He has built this city as a superintendent on casinos from Jerry’s Nugget to the Cosmopolitan. Ruth Lauber is the vice president of marketing & sales at “Las Vegas Woman” magazine. Couples renew their wedding vows for a variety of reasons and there is proper etiquette to be followed. First, a vow renewal is not a second wedding. A second wedding is what one has after they’ve been divorced or widowed. Even if you are marrying the

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

same spouse, if the two of you were divorced, then it is a second wedding. If you have remained married, it is a renewal of vows. Your vow renewal or reaffirmation ceremony should be different from your wedding day. While it’s a nice idea to incorporate some of the traditions, take this opportunity to make new ones as well. Since this is not a legal ceremony, anyone may officiate the event. Decide on whether you will hold pre-renewal party or dinner, an after-party or both. While maybe the bride might not want to wear a wedding gown (unless she was unable to at the actual wedding and wants to this time); dress attire is up to the couple. Instead of gifts, maybe consider collecting for a food pantry or pet rescue. There are many ways to celebrate a continuing marriage with vow renewals.

HEADSHOTS EVENTS FOOD

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STEVEN JOSEPH P H O T O G R A P H Y

www.stevenjoseph.us

702-274-4447 FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

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Fresh

WATA An aesthetic force in events Driven by Purpose and Style

t all starts with a brainstorming session to get creative juices flowing. Outlandish and simple ideas are tossed around an eccentric meeting room, and the better ones develop on a bright drawing board—and later become renderings in a proposal or on mood boards. Clients then get to review and approve designs offered by fresh-squeezed minds. Once the go-ahead is given, Fresh Wata gets to dive into production and have crazy fun making concepts fruition. Fresh Wata is a national design, event and production firm headquartered in Las Vegas with offices in Hollywood, San Diego, Phoenix, Kansas City and Canton, Ohio. Their crazy ideas and the flexibility and scalability of those ideas are what set Fresh Wata apart from other event companies. Together, they help coordinate design and manage events for CBSi, AOL, CNET, Nickelodeon, Sprint, Univision, HGTV, ESPN, Nokia/Microsoft, HBO, History Channel, Wired Magazine, Fiji Water, FOX and a myriad of unique and fun clients. “It’s always great when you have people on your team that just get it and you guys absolutely do. Thank you for being a step ahead of us and on top of every detail.” – Nickelodeon The core of Fresh Wata’s service encompasses planning along with building and developing style for corporate and social events, meetings, environments, exhibits and productions. The firm extends their imaginative concepts, skilled craftsmen, installers, wood and upholstery shop, and talented designers to collaborate with clients and bring visions to life in the

following areas: FWED – n. (ph-wed) Fresh Wata Event Design – commonly derived from fresh squeezed creative minds FWID – n. (ph-wid) Fresh Wata Interior Design – commonly derived from fresh squeezed creative minds unlocking one space at a time FWEX – n. (ph-wex) Fresh Wata Exhibits and Trade Show Booths – commonly derived from an out-of-this-universe interactive structure FWIP – n. (ph-wip) Fresh Wata Interactive Productions – commonly derived from fresh 3D interactive experiences All-star designers working at Fresh Wata offer a distinct background in events, graphic and interior design, video and technical direction, architecture, marketing, and program development. These producers and coordinators utilize Fresh Wata’s far-reaching resources to plan, execute and carefully craft the framework for nearly any event’s success. Take Pharrell William’s last birthday for example. With a week’s notice, its team put together a wonderful SpongeBob-themed 41st birthday party for Skateboard P in New York City. Fresh Wata’s designer and top producer, Lisette Elhayani, quickly responded to the request and hustled to deliver an event less than a millimeter short of perfection with her Los Angeles team and project coordinators alongside Nickelodeon. The Bikini Bottom birthday celebration had stellar design and production components including: massive, glowing jellyfish floating throughout the venue; Patrick Star’s ROCK home recreated with a pitched geodesic dome and swanky lounge furniture underneath; and a lifeguard DJ booth

with Q-Tip on the decks. With over 20 years in the event industry, cofounder and president of Fresh Wata, Tricia Costello is taking events and design to new depths. Last winter the company opened a pop-up shop and Downtown Project’s Container Park for 90 days. “When we received wind about a ‘shipping container complex’ in construction downtown, we couldn’t help but think of ways to get involved. The idea was too cool to just wait around for its grand opening,” said Costello. Curious to experience the workings of retail and make more collisions, its event design and production team took turns working in the FW Lab and sharing its company’s story with visitors. Thanks to decades of first-hand experience paired with learned and shared history, Fresh Wata’s production teams bring a strong point of view. They research, strategize, plan, create and manage multidimensional settings and engagements for deeper experiences. FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

Silverton

EDUCATE

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CASINO HOTEL

Skillful women guide upscale resort

L to R: Kellie Graham, Martha Ferguson, Kimiko Peterson, Jada Evans, Cheryl Price Not Pictured: Sherry Mercier and Tanya Morgan

ilverton Casino Hotel combines an upscale lodge with the resort excitement. As a full-service casino and hotel located minutes from the Strip, Silverton Casino features an array of restaurants, live entertainment, guestrooms, live gaming tables, over 1,600 slots and video poker machines and a 117,000 gallon aquarium that earned Silverton the distinction of Best Free Attraction in Las Vegas. Behind this success is a dynamic team of female executives who love their positions and strive to make the Silverton one of the best places to visit in Las Vegas. Jada Evans is the vice president of gaming at Silverton Hotel Casino in Las Vegas. She is a well-rounded gaming executive with 19 years of strategic and operational experience in slots, tables, marketing, finance and IT, and has worked with gaming properties across the country. Born in St. Pete, Fla., she spent her early childhood in Florida and Germany before moving to Las Vegas while in the second grade as an air force brat. Tanya Morgan, director of entertainment and special events, has turned her passion for music and performance art into a career in the world of entertainment and special events. Morgan has produced intimate weddings and corporate events to arena sized concerts with A-list entertainers in sports, film and music. She manages all property events, entertainment, festivals, fairs and her amazing

team at Silverton Casino. She supports many charitable organizations through the event and entertainment industry and donates her time annually to the Ribbon of Life Show to benefit Golden Rainbow Organization. Cheryl Price is the vice president of marketing and oversees multiple departments including player development, players club, advertising and entertainment. Beginning her career in the hospitality industry in 1998 working as a hotel administrator for Players Island, Price then worked at several Las Vegas strip and then worked at Station Casinos. Price also worked for Paragon Gaming which managed casinos in Canada and Legends Gaming which owned the Diamond Jacks Brand casinos is Shreveport, La. and Vicksburg, Miss. before returning to Las Vegas. Martha Ferguson, senior vice president of operations, is a 17 year veteran at Silverton. She has held positions in human resources, finance, hotel, food and beverage and was promoted to senior vice president of operations in September 2003. Ferguson also held the position of vice president of construction during Silvertonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s $185 million expansion. Discussing her career, Ferguson explained that 50 percent of her career has been in human resources and the other half has been operations. Joining the Silverton in 2006, Kellie Graham is the director of business analytics and

is responsible for business intelligence, planning and analysis and has worked in marketing, finance and information technology. Her first major achievement was the introduction of an Enterprise Data Warehouse and a library of MicroStrategy Dashboards. Other contributions include development of robust financial models, daily reporting on key performance indicators and comprehensive labor standards. Kimiko Peterson is director of advertising, public relations and social media. Her responsibilities include overseeing all aspects of branding, advertising, public relations and social media. Peterson launched the new brand campaign, Livinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Lodge, and her work has been recognized among industry peers in local and national competitions including top award for Best Multi-Format Ad Campaign and Best Customer Publication at the 2009 American Gaming Association Communications Awards. Sherry Mercier, director of human resources, oversees human resources functions for the 900 employee property and she has participated with Silverton as a consultant for the first casino in Oxford Maine with table and slot operations. Mercier moved to Las Vegas in 1999 with 10 years in human resources. For more information about the Silverton, visit silvertoncasino.com. FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

LAS VEGAS’ ONLY SALON FEATURING A FULL SERVICE BAR

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Las

Vegas

A great place to raise children By Beth Fisher, News Anchor for KTNV Channel 13 “Together Making Las Vegas A Better Place to Live”

eople ask me all the time about raising kids in Las Vegas. Often it’s a person visiting Las Vegas sitting next to me on a flight home to our city of bright lights. I love to tell them, “We put our kids in dealer school as soon as they can count.” Then I wait for a response. Crickets. I almost always have to assure them I’m kidding.

But I am most surprised when someone who lives here asks, “How could anyone raise children here?” Which begs the question—if it’s not a good place to raise children; then is Las Vegas a good place to live? Who wants to live in a place that’s so void of morality and so full of crime that no child should live there? Not me. Fortunately, that doesn’t describe Las Vegas. When I was working in television news in Medford, Ore., I remember telling my co-anchor (when I dreamed of working in a larger market) that I would never, ever move to Las Vegas. Clearly God had other plans as I was wooed to this city for a job opportunity and made a move I have never regretted.

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

Every day on Good Morning Las Vegas, I report on positive news. And the truth is, there are so many positive stories—so many great people—I can’t get them all on the air. I will never run out of story ideas. Marie Tomao spends months at Sunset Park training our teens for a 10-day encampment at Camp Pendleton. Keith Davis just rode his bike from Las Vegas to Texas in honor of his niece Holland who died of cancer and raised more than $10.000. Once a month, Laura Chapel drives her truck around to pick up people and their laundry and takes them to a laundromat. She also provides the quarters and the soap. We are meeting folks who are doing their small part to make this home. But I think the greatest reason Las Vegas works for my family is because my children are being raised by us, not a city. My husband and I are not perfect parents. But we talk for hours about what’s best for our children, we love to spend time with them, we teach them they are beautifully made by a God who loves them and we teach them right from wrong. We are honored to be part of a church family

packed with friends who are also committed to raising children who love God and love people. These people hug my children, teach my children and remind my children they were created for something special. This is our Las Vegas. I recently had two dear friends move away: one to Texas, the other to Florida. Both told me how hard it was to say goodbye to a city where their children had been born, loved and cherished. Both expressed they never imagined they’d fall in love with Las Vegas. Their family and friends thought they were crazy for moving here—and now years later—they couldn’t bear to leave. They know the same thing I do: People make the place. And this place is full of some amazing people. I joyfully raise my children here.

Beth Fisher is a morning anchor for Channel 13 Action News. She reports on the people who make Las Vegas a better place to live. Beth’s stories air at 5:45 and 6:45 a.m. every day on “Good Morning Las Vegas.”

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

PEN Play

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INSPIRE

Fun and fabulous finds for your little one

By Jennifer Florendo

Rattle Me Kids Clothes Outfit your little one with these trendy onesies, beanies, T-shirts, thermals and yoga pants from Rattle Me. Rest easy knowing that these threads are eco-friendly and free of pesticides, herbicides and synthetic fertilizers. $19$44, rattleme.com

Sugar Nest Laminated Place Mats Customized, heavy-duty laminated place mats make mealtime cleanup a breeze. These twosided mats are easy to clean and make a perfect gift to give or get. $18.99, sugarnest.com

Planet Box Lunch Containers Back-to-school time means time to get creative with lunches again. PlanetBox is a well-crafted lunchbox with segmented containers providing a wide variety of lunch options with smaller serving sizes. The Rover includes a Rover lunchbox, the Big and Little Dipper for wet messy foods, fun magnets designs, and a carry bag for easy transport. Available in a variety of colors, $39.95$59.95, planetbox.com

Robeez Baby Shoes You’re never too young to be stylish. Robeez softsole shoes allow your little one’s feet to get a better grip on walking surfaces and have better balance while allowing for muscle growth. These pediatricendorsed shoes are sized for toddlers up to 24 months. All under $40, zappos.com Doreen Nagle Art For Children Welcome baby with this sweet and heartwarming décor. Each personalized, 8”x10” print is reproduced on heavy archival paper with a canvas weave finish and can easily be custom framed. $18, doreennagleart.com

M is For Monster Preschool in a Box Never run out of ways to entertain your toddler again—get a month’s worth of Fun learning experiences sent right to your doorstep with the M is for Monster monthly subscription service. Each age-appropriate box contains four weekly themes and a total of 12 activities that teach letter, numbers and provide entertainment. Each box is $39.95, misformonster.com

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

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Good eye health involves good nutrition By Dr. Cynthia Payne

here are two common questions I have been asked during my 17 years of practice at the end of an eye exam. The first one is, “Are there any vitamins I should be taking to take care of my eyes or to make my eyes better?” The second one is, “What should I be doing to keep my eyes healthy?” In the past, my answer was always to recommend sunglass wear with UV protection, take a good daily multivitamin along with omega 3s and eat a variety of fruits and vegetables along with the comment “What is good for the body is good for the eyes.” Now, with the Nutritional Genius Program through xR, Trendsetter Eyewear has the ability to answer those questions very specifically in a unique and personal way. This is a way to improve our overall health, and the health of the eyes, by using preventative care medicine instead of disease care medicine. The Nutritional Genius Program is based on the science of Epigenetics. This is how we play our genetic code by turning genes on or off to impact their effect on our health by using food, nutraceuticals and lifestyle changes. It allows us to use genetics to treat eyeEpigenetic disease and related Wellness systemic disease by providing whole body care as part of caring for the It is time for a science update eye. thanks to the $4B human genome

affects stress, mood balancing, sleep, energy production, detoxification, immune function and controlling inflammation. These processes are involved with macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, cataract, autism, ADHD, migraine and many other methylation conditions. By modifying the effects of the genes associated with the methylation pathway, we can decrease our risk of developing certain diseases. Trendsetter Eyewear is very excited to be the first optometric practice in Nevada to provide this level of healthcare and offer this option to our patients. We invite you to become a Nutritional Genius and take control of your healthcare on a very personal and unique level. Learn which foods are bad or good for you as well as which foods can act as poison or medicine for your body. You can schedule a Genetic Wellness evaluation or request more information by calling 702.479.5222. Additional information is also available at xRMD.com and will be coming soon to TrendsetterEyewear.com.

project. We all know that Vitamin D, Omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids,

fruits and vegetables are healthy, The Nutritional Genius Program has two test components. The first but they may not be healthy for you. test is a food sensitivity test. This is a finger-prick blood that tests Say to methylfoods. groups, both immediate and delayed allergic reactions to 95hello different glutathione, CBS, MTHFR, SAMe, The foods tested include dairy, wheat, gluten, fruits, fish, shellfish, homocysteine and methionine— just to name a few crucial elements vegetables, meats, coffee and chocolate. The second test is the GEMS in our DNA and biochemistry. (Genetic Enzymatic Methylation Syndrome) test. This is a cheek-swab It is true that you cannot change test that identifies genetic mutations in the Methylation Pathway which your DNA or genetic code, but it is now known that youthese can control it tells us which enzymes may not be functioning optimally. Once by “playing” your DNA. You can turn are identified, the right foods and targeted nutraceuticals can on good genes andbe turn off bad genes with lifestyle (Epigenetics), recommended to best support the body and optimize health. Using the food (Nutrigenomics), nutraceuticals results from these tests, a report is generated for the patient with specific (supplements) and bioidentical hormones, if necessary. foods to avoid, limit and eat in abundance. If desired, a custom daily Epigenetics causing the approach packet of nutraceuticals can be designed to complete theisrecommended of wellness and disease supplementation from the test results. management to be rewritten.

Why is the Methylation Pathway so important to our health? The Methylation Pathway is linked to our genetics and is a biochemical process that stabilizes our DNA and influences our hormone levels. It also

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

It’s still true that you cannot change your DNA or genetics but you can control it by turning on good genes and turning off the bad genes that cause disease.

Epigenetics is how you “play” your genetic code by using foods (Nutrigenomics) and lifestyle to turn on good genes and turn off bad genes.

Take the Nutritional Genius tests to find your genetic misspellings and to find out which foods you should eat and avoid and which targeted supplements xR and your doctor recommend to help with healthy gene expression.

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

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Growing Interest

in Green Homes By Sherry Swensk

t’s the home-buying-and-selling season. Thankfully, home values are on the rise, and so is the demand for eco-friendly abodes. That can really pay off if you’re putting your energy-efficient residence on the market. And buyers with green upgrades at the top of their must-have lists will save more green in the long-run investing in a house that boasts sustainability. Market trends show that everything from added insulation, to Low-E windows, solar water heaters and power-producing solar photovoltaic panels that can take your house off the grid can help it sell faster and snag a higher price. Savvy buyers have a keen eye for Energy Star appliances and water-saving landscapes, not to mention subtle, but money-saving features like variable-speed pool pumps and air conditioners with high SEER ratings for more efficient cooling. Finding a specialized green real estate agent who can truly key in on the eco-value of a home will save you time and money. Annette Bubak is a Green Designated Realtor and trains other Las Vegas area agents through the National Association of REALTORS. She helps raise their eco-awareness so they can identify important green features for their planet-conscious customers. “Buyers have never looked so hard at cost of living before, and the high cost of energy is at the forefront of their minds,” said Bubak. She says energy efficiency is the number one reason buyers look for a new home and the market shows they are willing to pay up to 10 percent more for it; it’s now a priority. “Improved building codes have vigorously driven energy efficiency in the past decade or more,” Bubak explained. “Today’s new homes are at least 30 percent more efficient than homes built just 10 years ago.” In today’s eco-friendly housing market, solar is the new green when it comes to energy. Whether you purchase it or lease it, according to Bubak, the home market is shifting from reducing energy to producing it. She said more than twenty-five new home developments now offer leasing solar as

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

an option for buyers. Homeowners who have invested in higher efficiency may not even realize their home’s selling power thanks to those enhancements. There are many ways to advertise your home’s green attributes to potential buyers. The Green MLS Guide is a great new tool that agents can use to highlight all eco-upgrades. Buyers’ agents can use the guide to identify an existing home’s high-performance features without beating the streets to survey each property in person. It saves time by putting the eco-investments at the top of the list. Home appraisals can now include a “Green and Energy Efficient Addendum” that can identify a home’s environmental design and operation. The document identifies attributes that improve comfort, performance and utility in the areas of water, energy, indoor air quality, maintenance and operation. Ask for a green appraiser who knows what items to look for that make a home more eco-valuable than the one next door. For sellers, Bubak says keep your receipts to prove the improvements. Features like low VOC interior paints that help keep a home’s toxin level down do matter. Simple installations such as low-flow toilets and showerheads that save water can mean a lot to planet-friendly families. And touches like counter tops and flooring made from recycled or recyclable materials show you’ve invested in the environment. If you’re in the market to buy or sell a home full of eco-improvements, it’s good to know that investing to help save the planet will reward you with some extra green at closing and for years to come. Sherry Swensk produces the daily segment “Living Green for Las Vegas” for 8 News Now. Read her blog at green.lasvegasnow.com. Stay up to date with Sherry on Facebook and Twitter Facebook.com/SherrySwensk and @SherrySwensk

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

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Vegas P ainters Brightening the color of Southern Nevada I

n 2002, David Palumbo and his brother decided to combine their individual painting companies and created Vegas Painters. Both brothers learned their craft in the paint trade when they joined local union 368 in Washington, DC in 1971. While his brother has since passed away, Palumbo continues the tradition of offering experience, work ethic and love of the industry with a professionally operated painting company in southern Nevada. Vegas Painters provides a broad spectrum of services including residential painting, commercial painting, interiors, exteriors, HOA painting and repairs. “This is what I have done all of my life and I really enjoy what I am doing,” said Palumbo. “I also enjoy helping people with getting a new look with newly painted and repaired interiors and exteriors.” Speaking of paint, Palumbo explained that, “New products are always coming out in the market which is why our painters receiving training to update their skills. This way we can offer both great products and service to our clients.” As for working in the desert climate, painting an exterior usually begins at 6 a.m. and ends at 2 p.m. However, “the products being offered today can really withstand the heat,” he said. Along with products and service, one of the most

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

important aspects is that the state of Nevada requires all painting companies to be licensed. “This protects the client, especially if a company requires a deposit.” Vegas Painters is licensed (#53359) and does not require a deposit. “You should never hire an unlicensed painter,” Palumbo advised. “There is no recourse if the job is not done properly or the painter never shows up except to take that painter to court. A licensed contractor is insured so there is compensation for any damages or liability. As a licensed contractor, we carry our own insurance so if one of our staff gets injured on the job, that person is covered. With an unlicensed contractor, if they get injured in your home, you or your insurance will have to pay.” Offering services for both residential and commercial–interior and exterior, Vegas Painters will work on jobs with a bid limit of $950,000 per job or a small jobs program for those who have just a little painting but don’t think a large company like Vegas Painters would take. Vegas Painters also offers a do-it-yourself program where they send a professional painter with all tools and equipment to a client’s house to teach the client the basics of painting so they can paint like a pro. If it

can be painted, Vegas Painters will paint it including bathrooms, cabinets, stairs, high ceilings, handrails and the garage floor. If a little drywall repair or wallpaper needs to be removed, Vegas Painters provides complete handyman services and can even take care of that old pop-corn on ceilings. They employ skilled craftsman that can take care of any repair job. Along with quality workmanship, Vegas Painters offers a five year warranty even though the state of Nevada only requires four years. Vegas Painters also offers financing, senior discounts and color consultants (service is free if Vegas Painters is hired). Every Vegas Painters employee must become certified through its in-house professional painter training course. Ongoing education for all employees allows the entire company to keep current with new materials, techniques and innovations in the paint contracting industry. Customer satisfaction is not a slogan with Vegas Painters; it’s the foundation of their entire business philosophy. For more information, visit vegaspainters.com.

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

Moms Making

Six Figures

ou may have seen our articles and our cars driving around town and asked yourself, “What is Moms Making Six Figures?” Natricia Tricano was in the same position when she contacted the company and she now realizes it was an opportunity of a lifetime. “Moms Making Six Figures gives me the time to raise my kids and still have a life aside from being a mommy,” shared Tricano. Tricano worked as a practicing attorney for 12 years, where she was an Army JAG trial counsel, a corporate defense attorney, and had her own law firm doing family, criminal and civil plaintiff’s work. “Being an attorney is fantastic, if you have the 10-12 hours a day to commit to it. For me, it was impossible to be an attorney and be a mom without feeling guilty that I was sacrificing the happiness of my children and also without feeling guilty that I was sacrificing my commitment to my clients,” explained Tricano, “The only way around this conundrum was to fully commit to one and I decided to take the toughest job in the world,: being a fulltime mom.”

Natricia Tricano backgrounds: from a certified public accountant to a surgeon and even a Cirque du Soleil performer. “The company is a marketing organization that was created to represent one primary company,” Wip explained.

For two years, Tricano embraced her new role as “mommy” and during this time she had another daughter. As her youngest approached her second birthday, she realized there were aspects of working outside the home that she missed. “I really missed relationships with other people aside from children that were committed to a unifying goal,” Tricano said. That’s when she saw the article for Moms Making Six Figures. “When I met with Kellee Wip about the company, I became more intrigued and I realized it offered the balance that I’d been looking for,” she said. Moms Making Six Figures was founded almost five years ago in San Diego and Wip is part of the team that is expanding into the Las Vegas area. The women come from a variety of

Tricano and Wip meet with other women to speak about the specifics of the business. “I work about 15 hours a week and I plan it around my girls’ schedules,” said Tricano, “There is no inventory, no party planning, no selling and no risk, but you do need to be self-motivated and have a desire to succeed.” “Bringing women home to their lives” is the motto of Moms Making Six Figures and Tricano is proud to represent the brand. “I am so thankful for Moms Making Six Figures, which gives me the flexibility to work when I choose and I can’t wait to continue to share this opportunity with others.” To learn more about the company, visit momsmakingsixfigures.com.

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EDUCATE

ENTERTAIN

INSPIRE

MelissaSchmidt

A Woman Who Believes in Action By Annie Sliman

elissa Schmidt grew up with a dad who let her know that she could do anything she set out to do. Inspired by his faith and with lots of self-confidence, she started a landscaping company that grew with revenues just under a million dollars. She next became interested in massage therapy and soon was supervising 75 therapists at one of the top-rated spas in the country. Schmidt is now a founding partner in the Henderson elements for women fitness club, which is scheduled to open this fall. Her varied background has given her some insight into what it means to be an entrepreneur. For her, it’s not about creating a job for herself. Rather, it’s about the freedom to pursue the things in life that she loves.

become stronger physically, mentally and emotionally. As Schmidt explored options, it seemed to her that elements fitness for women offered exactly the mix, and the opportunity, that she was looking for. She said, “I share the elements emphasis on a new and healthier lifestyle. It’s great to reach a target weight and achieve fitness goals. It’s through maintaining those results that you really change the way you live and make it fun. That’s what lifestyle means for me. I want to work with each client to identify what in life she enjoys, what gives her a sense of well-being, and incorporate those things into a long-term program.” At elements, the space is carefully designed to make women feel comfortable. The staff is focused on getting to know each woman as an individual and on making sure she is getting the support, counseling and coaching she needs to be successful. Schmidt explained, “If it’s fun and rewarding to come to the gym, then you will. It’s consistency that leads to good results over the long run. Reaching your goals is the first part. Learning to incorporate balance into your life is the second. elements provides everything you need to do that.”

As Schmidt explored options, it seemed to her that elements fitness for women offered exactly the mix, and the opportunity, that she was looking for.

But she knows it’s not enough to have vision, desire and willingness. To really succeed, you have to take action. She believes that action, with all the risks that it implies, is the key to freedom. When she found herself exploring the world of health and fitness for women, she came to a few significant conclusions. The first was that women have very different challenges and fitness goals, which were not being met by traditional gyms. She also discovered a critical second factor that she believes is key to a successful fitness effort. It has to be tailored to meet individual needs, including ongoing personal motivation and support, for long-term health and wellness. The third thing Schmidt discovered in researching her new passion is the compelling need for a sense of community in today’s busy world. She wanted to create a place for women to gather, without judgment or fear, in a space that nurtures and motivates them and helps them

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

Schmidt knows that fitness and weight loss can feel like work. She thinks of this, though, as the action steps that are the route to freedom. “Any woman who wants to change her life can come into elements. Whether she’s never worked out before, she’s a total gym rat or just feels a need to do something different, it doesn’t matter. She will find the tools and support that she needs to make positive changes in her life. I believe in action and this new venture gives me the perfect opportunity to teach other women this wonderful life skill.”

EDUCATE

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INSPIRE

The Family Investment

that Stems From Your Baby’s Birth

Understanding the ins and outs of banking cord blood

By Sasha P. Rincon

f you’re expecting a baby you might have thought about umbilical cord blood and what to do with it. Here is a breakdown of the process and benefits to weigh as you consider your options.

as 48 hours. In contrast, bone marrow stem cells (the alternative) can take much longer to find a match, collect the sample, and process; with the bone marrow transplantation taking from weeks to months.

What is Umbilical Cord Blood? Cord blood is an easily accessible source of stem cells that is available only when a baby is born. Cord blood is the blood that remains in the umbilical cord after the baby is born. Routinely the cord blood and the placenta are discarded as after birth waste. Parents miss out on the opportunity to collect newborn stem cells at the only time they are available, immediately following their child’s birth.

Another advantage is the collection process for cord blood; it’s not painful to either mother or child and is performed after the delivery of the baby. Bone marrow transplants, on the other hand, require the donor to be hospitalized, anesthetized and experience post collection pain and discomfort. Thus, compared to cord blood, bone marrow collection and transplantation of stem cells are more costly.

Why is it so important for me to consider? One of the overarching reasons brings into focus that stem cells in the umbilical cord are genetically unique to your baby and family. They can be used to treat various medical problems for your child, his or her siblings and other family members. Taking into account that more than 80 diseases are now treatable using cord blood stem cells, the motivation for collecting this valuable and potentially life-saving material is quickly coming into focus for as a medical benefit. There are several advantages of using umbilical cord blood stem cells over bone marrow stem cells for transplants. The first advantage is that umbilical cord blood is relatively easy to collect and process. Once it is collected, the cord blood stem cells can be available for use within as little

was created over ten years ago as Southern Nevada’s first umbilical cord blood processing and storage facility. With qualified technicians and doctors with more than 30 years of cell cryopreservation experience and commitment to the cord blood process; the facility focuses its efforts on offering patients all the benefits of a large national organization; with the ease and personal attention of a local center.

The stem cells obtained from umbilical cord blood are also less likely than bone marrow stem cells to be rejected in transplants. Some conditions that can be treated with cord blood cells include: cancers, blood disorders and immune disorders. Why the sense of urgency as you approach your child’s birth? Cord blood (along with cord tissue, which also contain stem cells) can only be collected right after a baby is born; specifically within minutes of the birth. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity to expand your baby’s and your family’s future options for medical treatment. The next important step to understanding the benefits is just as vital to pick the right facility to aid in the process. The Fertility Center of Las Vegas Stem Cell Division - Cord Blood CryoSource

Cord Blood CryoSource 2769 Sunridge Heights Pkwy #110 Henderson, NV 89052

702.360.4855 VegasCordBlood.com FertilityCenterLV.com

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

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Step 3

The Thought

Tips

A greenside chip should be one of the most automatic shots in your short game arsenal, especially if the situation calls for a low-running shot that bounces on to the green and rolls out like a putt. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to create a little body motion on chip shots.

The Mechanics Set up with a narrow stance and the ball off the back toe (pictured), with the weight favoring the forward foot. Keep the rhythm smooth by always moving weight toward the target during the forward motion. Keeping the left wrist flat through the impact condition, this is key to producing the ball control that you desire.

The Greenside Chip By Matt Henderson

Matt Henderson is currently the head instructor at TOUR Academy TPC Las Vegas, voted No. 2 Nevada by Golf Digest. Henderson enjoys teaching golfers of all levels.

The Secret Sternum position relative to the golf ball is extremely important. The slight forward lean should be done with the chest, effectively making the sternum closer to the target.

The Result This setup should promote a low running trajectory with minimal spin. On low running chip shots like these, the club never passes the ball or hits it hard enough to make it slide up the face, so they wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have much spin. The resultant ball flight should carry 1/3 and roll 2/3.

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

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Cataract surgery

Continuing Good Eye Sight and Eye Health

t’s pretty simple—nobody wants less than the best possible vision.

“Approximately 24.5 million in America have cataracts, a leading cause of blindness in the United States. Cataract surgery remains the most effective way to help restore vision for those with cataracts” as published by the American Academy of Ophthalmology. As one of the leading eye surgeons in the country, Dr. Eva Liang and Center For Sight are performing ground breaking laser-assisted cataract surgery. With only a small percentage of surgeons trained to perform this procedure, Center For Sight is proud to bring this medical technology to patients in Southern Nevada. The FDA-approved, computer guided laser

implements the most advanced cataract removal system available. Thanks to huge medical advances, cataract surgery is one of the safest and most successful procedures performed today. Center for Sight offers both conventional and laser assisted surgery options. The goal of cataract surgery is to break the old, cloudy lens into pieces, remove these from the eye, and insert an artificial lens to replace the natural lens. In conventional surgery, the ophthalmologist accomplishes these tasks by making an incision with a blade and then using instruments about the size of a pen tip. With the Laser technology these incisions are performed with computer guided precision, treats astigmatism and softens the lens. Eva Liang, M.D. is a board-certified Ophthalmologist and Refractive Surgeon for the past 15 years. Born in Taipei, Taiwan, and raised in Honolulu and Las Vegas, Dr. Liang earned her undergraduate degree from Loyola Marymount University and her medical degree from the University of Nevada School of Medicine. Dr. Liang’s postgraduate training included an internship at the University of Hawaii Integrated Transitional Program followed by an ophthalmology residency at Temple University Hospital. Dr. Liang is an active member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery and the American College of Surgeons. “The exciting thing about ophthalmology is

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that we have a lot of new technology being introduced,” said Dr. Liang. “There are so many more options today including laser assisted cataract surgery, premium intraocular lens implants, and micro-invasive glaucoma stents.” According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, there is an estimated 3 million cataract surgeries per year. Benefits include 40 percent lower mortality rates, 16 percent lower odds of hip fractures and 13 percent reduction in car accidents with younger people opting for this surgery. The cost has decreased by 85 percent from 1985 to 2012 with an adjustment for inflation. Even with previous LASIK or other laser vision correction, individuals can still have cataract surgery. In planning for cataract surgery, patients should provide the doctor with the vision correction prescription before LASIK, if possible. This information will help the doctor calculate the correct IOL prescription. Most people consider their sight to be the most important of our five senses. If someone had to lose a sense, most people would be afraid to lose their sight. It is important to have your eyes examined regularly as many health conditions can lead to eye problems. If a patient is making an important decision about eye surgery, it is important to understand the procedure and the options available. There is not one solution that is best for everyone. For more information, call 702.724.2020 or visit centerforsightlv.com.

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

â&#x20AC;Śthe biggest satisfaction is when a patient thanks me and tells me they canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe their smile.

e c n fica

s t s i l cia

e p S l a t n e D

i n Sig

n i V . r

D & en

h C a i r o t . Vic

n e h C ne ebbie By D

Hall

The Dental practice of two sisters creating bright smiles in a family environment

isters Victoria Chen D.D.S., M.S. and Vinne Chen, D.D.S. (along with Dr. Victoria Chen’s husband Dr. Allen Huang, D.M.D., M.S.) have created Significance Dental Specialists, a leading dental care practice with an interdisciplinary dentistry specialist group including an endodontist, orthodontist and two periodontists with specialties. Services provided include implant, periodontal, orthodontic and endodontic care. But there is more to this practice than superior service and treatment. It is part of a bigger picture of dentists who truly love what they are doing and have created an extended family which includes their patients. In fact, they were voted by their dentist peers as the Top Dentists for in 2011 and 2012 in Las Vegas Valley. Significance Dental Specialists hold a prominent interdisciplinary study club to educate dentists and hygienists in Las Vegas Dr. Victoria Chen has been providing orthodontic care since 1999 and moved to Las Vegas in 2004 join her husband, Dr. Allen Huang, and open the practice. They have two daughters. Dr. Victoria Chen graduated as the Valedictorian from her dental class at National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan. In addition to her specialty training, Dr. Chen also obtained a DDS degree from Loma Linda School of Dentistry with Clinic Excellence Award. She received a full scholarship to University of Illinois at Chicago for orthodontic certification and a Master of Science degree in oral biology from the where she conducted clinical research in a new application of thermal active Ni-Ti-Canine Retraction Springs. Dr. Victoria Chen is a Board Diplomat of the American Association of Orthodontics and maintains

an active membership in the American Board of Orthodontics, the American Dental Association, the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, the Nevada Dental Society and the Las Vegas Interdisciplinary Study Club. In 2002, Dr. Vinne Chen moved to Las Vegas to work with her older sister in the Significance Dental Specialists practice. She is married with one son and one daughter and her husband operates his own dental practice. Dr. Vinne Chen attended the University of California at Berkeley where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree together with her identical twin sister in the field of biochemistry. Dr. Vinne Chen received numerous scholarships and prestigious awards as an undergraduate in Berkeley, but eventually chose the field of dentistry over medicine. She went on to receive her Doctorate of Dental Surgery degree from Columbia University. Following her general dental training, Dr. Vinne Chen earned a certificate in Endodontics at the University of Pennsylvania. She is a board eligible Diplomat of the American Academy of Endodontics and member of numerous dental societies. Dr. Victoria Chen entered her field because she felt it would offer her great opportunities. “I love being a dentist. As a woman, I felt I could really contribute, succeed and still have time for my family. I know with our practice, we can really change people’s lives.” Dr. Vinne Chen agrees. “I felt dentistry was the right profession for me. I am very detail oriented and wanted to serve people in the medical field. While my twin sister is a medical doctor, I knew the precise FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

work in dentistry would fit my personality.” She believes that “since we are identical twins, even though we chose different paths, we are still very connected.” As for inspiration, Dr. Victoria Chen said that “once I gave birth to my children, I realized how much I influence people’s lives, not just my children but my patients as well.” As part of the practice, traditional braces and Invisalign and Invisalign teen along with headgear free orthodontics by using the most current technology of Miniscrew Anchorage. Dr. Victoria Chen also offers the treatment of Accelerated Osteogentic Orthodontics, also known as Wilckodontics, where she can shorten treatment time from about three years to between three to six months. This principle not can be applied in acceleration of orthodontic treatment, ankylosed tooth and in molar up-righting cases. “We use digital scanner, Itero, to scan and send our patients’ oral images directly to Invisalign company. It is impression free, and expedites the lab process for Invisalign. Patients love it,” Dr. Victoria Chen said. Alone with miniscrew technology performed by her periodontist husband, Dr. Huang, Dr. Victoria Chen treats many challenging cases and has transformed patient’s facial profiles. Patients can look better and younger by just have miniscrew 90

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

combined orthodonitic treatment without the surgical involvement of plastic surgery. Their team always confers on cases and decides on the best treatment for their patients. “There are many courses of treatment,” Dr. Victoria Chen said. “For example, a root canal might not be the right course of treatment. Implants might be better for a particular patient,” Dr. Vinne Chen added. Dr. Victoria Chen’s husband, Dr. Huang, received his degree in Bio-Chemical Engineering from University of California at Los Angeles and his Doctoral of Dental Medicine degree from University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. Following his general dental training, Dr. Huang trained at Periodontics and Implant Dentistry at University of Illinois at Chicago and was named as the first Chief-Resident in program history. In addition to his specialty training, Dr. Huang also obtained a Master of Science degree in oral biology from the University of Illinois where he conducted clinical and histological research in bone regeneration in furcation defects in baboons. Dr. Huang was also involved in clinical and histological study of platelet rich plasma in sinus lift bone regeneration project. Dr. Huang is a Board Diplomat of the American Academy of Periodontology and member of the Academy of Osseointegration. Currently, Dr. Huang started his own dental implant company

and is the CEO of Altosbiotech, LLC. Jeff Wang, D.M.D., M.S. attended the University of Michigan as an undergraduate and received his Doctorate of Dental Medicine degree from University of Pennsylvania. Following his general dental training, Dr. Wang earned a certificate in Periodontics at the University of California at San Francisco. Dr. Wang is a Board Diplomat of the American Academy of Periodontology and member of numerous dental societies. All of the doctors are such an inspiration that one of their patients, who was studying to become a nurse, has decided to enter the field of dentistry and the doctors are mentoring her. Another patient, a high school student, is planning on working in the office to see if the field is right for them. They have patients pursuing their dreams to be Miss Las Vegas Teen and Miss Asian Las Vegas and the dentists sponsor these patients with several of them being crowned as Miss Asian Las Vegas. Dr. Victoria Chen and Dr. Vinne Chen truly love their professions and encourage women to consider entering this field. “You really make a change in people’s lives,” Dr. Victoria Chen said. “It is a great career for a woman. It allows you freedom and gives you satisfaction.”

With families of their own, the practice caters to all families and offers: • Cool Chops Kids Club: A special membership for children who are placed into an oservation program. Children are monitored to see if and when they need braces.

Dr. Vinne Chen advises, “However, be certain that you really love the profession. Don’t go into dentistry for money or prestige. Become a dentist because you want to help people and this is a good fit for your personality.”

• Significance Rewards Program offering a rewards card with the ability to earn points to redeem for special gift cards of your choice. For example; achieving a report card with As and Bs, keeping up with scheduled cleanings and other incentives can be offered.

“However, the biggest satisfaction is when a patient thanks me and tells me they can’t believe their smile. Some even say they want to stay in the office; it is so warm and comfortable,” Dr. Victoria Chen said.

• Monthly Patient Contests for patients to participate in with the opportunity to win fun prizes.

Both doctors enjoy working with each other and are very close even during their time away from the office.

As for specialties:

As for hobbies, Dr. Victoria Chen loves wine and is considering becoming a sommelier to really purse another of her passion. While she does not plan to leave her dental practice, Dr. Victoria Chen likes the idea of being one of the first dentists to also become a sommelier. “I can compare orthodontics to wine,” she said. “It is all about smiling and both teeth and wine have its own characteristics. It is also like a woman. As she ages, she changes for the better. Wine also evolves for the better and becomes a richer, fuller flavor.” Dr. Victoria Chen also loves golf and it is an activity she shares with her two daughters. Dr. Vinne Chen loves snow and recently switched from skiing to snowboarding. While Dr. Vinne Chen’s children are young, she is looking forward to the time she can share these activities with them. Significance Dental Specialists has four locations and in all offices, patients’ comfort comes first. Movies and Xbox Kinect are offered long with beverages. Most important, the entire team cares and patients become friends and family members. Significance Dental Specialists offers four locations: 2430 E. Harmon Ave., #6 Las Vegas, NV 89121 702.733.0558

7151 Cascade Valley Ct., #107 Las Vegas, NV 89128 702.233.9988

6018 S. Fort Apache Rd., #100 Las Vegas, NV 89148 702.547.9977

2777 W. Craig Rd., #101 North Las Vegas, NV 89032 702.647.8114

For more information, visit sdsdental.com or significanceortho.com.

Endodontics: I-CAT cone beam technology to improve endodontic microsurgery; Zeiss& Global Microscopes as part of standard of care for all patients to enhance root canal treatment outcome. Periodontics: I-CAT cone beam technology for implant therapy (evaluate nerve position, sinus level, bone quality), and to enhance orthodontic related procedures, such as Wilckodontics, miniscrew, canine impactions, and microscopic periodontal surgery, iTero intra-oral scanner for predictable 3D implant surgical guide restorations with collaboration with referring restorative dentist, Piezo and laser therapy for enhanced periodontal plastic results and bone grafting procedures and Pinhole minimal invasive gingival graft procedure for esthetic smile makeover result. Orthodontics: I-CAT cone beam technology for orthodontic therapy. In addition to traditional braces and Invisalign, the practice offers headgear free orthodontics by using the most current technology with miniscrew anchorage. Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics offers a faster treatment which can shorten wearing time for braces from about three years to about six months. FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

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Concierge Healthcare

Quality Healthcare That You Deserve The average physician today maintains a patient list of several thousand, while Dr. Mall maintains a patient base of only several hundred. In doing this, Dr. Mall can provide concierge level care to his patients. With Dr. Mall’s Medical Concierge Program, you can prevent disease, get back your quality of life, increase your longevity, and slow down the aging process. BENEFITS OF MEDICAL CONCIERGE MEMBERSHIP  Same Day or Next Day Appointments  30-minute Appointments with Dr. Mall  24/7 Access to Dr. Mall’s Email and Cell Phone  Prescriptions Filled Promptly  Coordinate and Oversee Specialist Appointments C EL

EB R ATING

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Michael S. Mall, MD 19

LAS VEGAS, NV

9 0 – 2 01 5

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7455 W. Washington Avenue, Suite 400

FALLLas NV 89128 2014 |Vegas, Lvwomanmagazine.com 93

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thank you Southern Nevada for 15 amazing years!â&#x20AC;? ~ Dr. Michael J. Crovetti, Jr.

CrovettiOrtho.com 2779 W. Horizon Ridge Pkwy., #200 Henderson, Nevada FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

ur Doctors of the Desert, some of the best in the country, express their philosophy daily by giving compassionate care to each person and being part of the patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team to achieve and maintain good health. Medical professionals in Southern Nevada keep up to date with extensive training, state-of-the-art technology and advanced education. Along with their practices, many doctors volunteer their time and talents to help our community. The women and men who enter the medical field to become physicians do so out of a desire to help guide everyone in living a healthy and happy life.

lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL 2014

Whether it is taking a proactive approach to health, starting a family, maintaining good dental health, caring for eyesight, sexual health, weight control, staying heart healthy, presenting our best image or taking care of our physical needs; these doctors are passionate about their patients and their specialties. All would agree, though, that it begins with the patient: give up smoking; eat healthier; exercise and get regular checkups. But most importantly, our physicians want their patients to talk to them, ask questions and explain any symptoms. Doctors of the Desert are ready to work with you on life-long health care and a happier, healthier life.

James D. Atkinson M.D., FACS Darren W. Soong M.D., FACS

urgical Weight Control Center of Las Vegas has been on the forefront of helping people overcome their lifelong battle with being overweight since 1989. The practice is committed to Bariatrics and perform all weight loss procedures at Desert Springs Hospital Medical Center, a Nationally Accredited Bariatric Center by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP). Bariatric Medical Director, Dr. James D. Atkinson M.D., FACS and surgeon Dr. Darren W. Soong M.D., FACS, work with patients to determine the best surgery option. A native of Las Vegas, Dr. Atkinson has shared his expertise in Bariatrics with physicians throughout the country. A native of Hawaii, Dr. Soong is a diplomat of the American Board of Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. A success story is Mary Ryan, who has maintained her weight for the past two years following her surgery, with a lifestyle change and the care of the experienced staff at Surgical Weight Control Center. What made you decide to consider bariatric surgery? A woman my husband worked with had the surgery and told me about it. I’d never heard of Bariatric surgery before. At first I thought it was crazy. After more consideration, I decided this was something I needed to do and attended a seminar. After

Doctors of the Desert

learning about the procedures and that my insurance would cover this type of medical option, I made the decision to move forward. That same day, I hit a jackpot after putting in just $20. That money was my co-pay for the surgery. What was your experience like? The doctors explained all of the procedures available. I didn’t want to do the LAP-BAND® or Gastric Band due to the aftercare required. I didn’t want to do the bypass surgery because I felt it was too extreme. I chose the bariatric sleeve because it was the best option for me.

Dr. Atkinson

How did you feel after the procedure? I woke up and after a few hours of grogginess, I felt good. I was out of the hospital by noon the next day. How was your recovery? I was able to follow my doctors’ instructions on eating and learning to live differently. The weight started coming off and in the first month, I lost 22 pounds. It was a great impetus for me to keep going. How long did it take you to lose the weight and how have you kept it off? It took 10 months to lose the additional 95 pounds. It was beyond any expectation I had. I made sure I followed all of the rules, especially in the beginning, even though it wasn’t always easy. The greatest thing for me is that I have been able to maintain my weight. For me, it has been fabulous and the answer to weight loss that I needed.

Dr. Soong

Specialty: Bariatrics Surgical Weight Control Center 3802 Meadows Lane Las Vegas, NV 89107 702.329.9944 surgicalweightcontrolcenter.com

Mary before

Mary after

Physicians are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Desert Springs Hospital Medical Center. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians.

FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

Doctors of the Desert

Laurie Bloch-Johnson, D.M.D.

r. Laurie has been practicing for more than 28 years and offers general dentistry with a focus on cosmetic, reconstructive and TMJ. Dr. Laurieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first rule is that she only sees one patient at a time. Explain what happens when a patient walks into your reception area. The first thing they notice is the comfortable, quiet reception area, designed to be more like a living room in a home instead of a typical waiting room. Cookies are baked several times a day and offered along with several types of coffee and tea. Wine is offered in the afternoon.

Dr. Bloch-Johnson By Debbie Hall

Specialty: General Dentistry with a focus on cosmetic, reconstructive and TMJ Exceptional Dentistry 9501 Hillwood Dr. Las Vegas, NV 89134 702.463.8600 drblochexceptionaldentistry.com drlauriesmiles.com

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What is it like in the examination room? After being seated in the stateof-the-art examination room, the patient can look out and watch 40 birds in an enclosed aviary. During the initial visit, a complete executive physical of the mouth and teeth is conducted. One of the many uses for the 47-inch television in each exam room is that a camera takes photos of the examination so the patient can see exactly what I see with my magnifying glasses. My team of three highly trained professionals, along with myself, focuses on the one patient to create a one of a kind experience that is comfortable and thorough. The first visit usually takes about 90 minutes, of which I personally spend about 45 minutes with the patient. I have found that by investing that much time and detail into the first visit, it saves the patient time. Often, patients are accustomed to the one tooth at a time approach and sometimes (the visit occurs) when a tooth is broken or they are in pain. If the patient can see exactly what is going on in their mouth, they can make an informed choice on how they want to proceed. The time frame for the ideal treatment can be adjusted to fit the patients schedule

and budget. What are some of the services you offer? We are a full dentistry and our services include full mouth reconstruction, dental implants, TMJ disorder, dental bridges and periodontal laser management. State-of-the-art dental technology allows our practice to deliver a more accurate and detailed diagnosis. Some of the different types of technology used in the cosmetic dentistry field today include digital impressions, intraoral camera, K-7 and lasers for soft and hard tissue applications As for cosmetic dentistry, we offer smile design, smile makeover, instant orthodontics, porcelain veneers, dental and tooth crown, porcelain inlays and onlays, tooth bonding, tooth-colored fillings, porcelain fillings, teeth whitening and gum contouring. What is your philosophy on dental health? I advocate good internal health, as well as a beautiful smile. The best analogy to explain this concept is that of a home. While one can decorate and make their home beautiful, if the foundation is cracked and shifting, there will be problems and the home can eventually collapse, despite the pretty facade. It is the same with teeth. While so much can be done to create a beautiful smile, it is essential that any functional problems with teeth, mouth and gums are addressed and treated. A smile makeover is just cosmetic while a full mouth reconstruction combines both aesthetics and function. However, the decision is totally up to the patient and I strive to make certain each person is empowered with choices.

Doctors of the Desert

Leslie M. Sims MSPH, MD, FAAO Jon Siems, MD Amel Youssef, MD, OD

iems Lasik & Cataract Center has come a long way from when Dr. Jon Siems, (ophthalmologist) and Amel Youssef, (optometrist) began the practice in 2000. At the time, Dr. Siems made a name for himself by being the first ophthalmologist in Nevada to use the all-laser (IntraLase) method when performing Lasik surgery. This method is now the standard method for Lasik, but Dr. Siems is considered a pioneer for being one of the first in the country to use it. Having performed over 50,000 Lasik surgeries, Dr. Siem’s name has become synonymous with the term Lasik. Over time, the practice grew so much that it needed to be moved to a larger, more equipped office. The doctors’ vision for the new center was to be a full service vision and surgery center with access to eye exams, cosmetic services and a state of the art optical. The new practice was opened in 2009 and has been called Las Vegas’ premier eye surgery and vision center by visitors of the 7,000 square foot location. Dr. Youssef, head optometrist, took charge of opening the optical located within the Summerlin office. The optical offers a wide selection in glasses, and contains a lab with one hour glasses services. “I feel that optometry is a profession that introduces patients to eye care, familiarizing them with everything from contact lenses, to glasses and surgical evaluations,” said Dr. Youssef. She’s developed a broad skill set with an emphasis on

By Amanda Maynard and Debbie Hall

the management of contact lens complications, the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases as well as post-surgical contact lenses. The doctors reached their goal of offering cosmetic services recently when they welcomed Dr. Leslie M. Sims who specializes in oculoplastics to join their team. Harvard and Yale educated Dr. Leslie Sims said, “I feel that it is important that a doctor be knowledgeable, skillful, competent and above all, trustworthy. It is important for me that the patient feels comfortable sharing their concerns and desires concerning their care.”

Dr. Siems made a name for himself by being the first ophthalmologist in Nevada to use the all-laser (IntraLase) method when performing Lasik surgery. This method is now the standard method for Lasik, but Dr. Siems is considered a pioneer for being one of the first in the country to use it. Having performed over 50,000 Lasik surgeries, Dr. Siem’s name has become synonymous with the term Lasik.

The combination of the three specialists working together makes Siems Lasik & Cataract Center distinct from other ophthalmologist offices because it offers such a unique variety of interrelated services. Patients have their needs met by highly skilled doctors, working together to reach the best medical outcome. The most recent addition of Dr. Sims, who is one of only four oculoplastics specialists in the state of Nevada, is a large triumph for the doctors as they are now one of the only full service centers to have this type of specialist on staff.

Specialty: Lasik & Cataract

Dr. Siems who specializes in cataract and refractive surgeries states that, “My goal as an ophthalmologist is to offer patients impeccable care and service and the best, most advanced eye care technology available.”

702.948.2010 siemslasik.com

Siems Lasik & Cataract Center 10777 W. Twain Ave Suite #150 Las Vegas, NV 89135

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Doctors of the Desert

George P. Chambers, Jr., M.D., FACOG

r. George P. Chambers, Jr. has served the Las Vegas community since 2003. He specializes in female genital plastic surgery and has the important distinction as the only board certified Ob/Gyn in the state of Nevada who is also certified in sexual health medicine. Dr. Chambers is an adjunct assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at TOURO University Nevada College of Osteopathic Medicine and a clinical assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at University of Nevada School of Medicine.

Dr. Chambers By Debbie Hall

Specialty: Obstetrics and Gynecology, Female Genital Plastic Surgery, Sexual Health Medicine Chambers & Associates 7220 S Cimarron Rd #200 Las Vegas, NV 89113 702.463.0800 chambersobgynlv.com

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Dr. Chambers emigrated from Jamaica 29 years ago. He attended American University as a Frederick Douglass Scholar where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry. He earned his medical degree from Medical College of Pennsylvania. His residency was done at SUNY Upstate Medical University. Dr. Chambers was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society and was a recipient of the Robert E.L. Nesbitt, M.D. Outstanding Resident in Obstetrics and Gynecology Award.

are among the many women who have mentored me. Through their positive influence, I chose to dedicate my professional life in the service of women’s health. I chose obstetrics and gynecology because it is exciting, adrenaline-driven and diverse. It was a calling that I was blessed to recognize and as a result I am living the dream. As an obstetrician and gynecologist, I have attended the births of over 5000 babies, improved the quality of life of my patients, and in some instances, actually saved lives. What is female genital plastic surgery? Female genital plastic surgery includes clitoral hood reduction, hymenoplasty, labiaplasty, perineoplasty and vaginal rejuvenation. Women who seek genital plastic surgery do it for cosmetic and functional reasons such as, to relieve genital discomfort experienced when riding a bicycle, to reduce the visible bulge in their swimsuit, to relieve hygiene problems from the trapping of moisture as well as to relieve the painful pulling of their labia which occurs during sexual intercourse.

“I encourage my patients to have an orgasm daily because it releases Oxytocin which, among its many purposes, serves to reconnect you with your partner, revives your energy, improves your mood and improves your sleep.”

Why did you choose your specialty? I decided that I wanted to be a physician when at the age of seven I observed how cataract surgery improved the quality of life of the woman who was my rock, my late great-grandmother. She taught me integrity and the importance of keeping my word. My grandmother who taught me perseverance and my mother who taught me compassion

Some women’s self-esteem and sexuality are related to their feelings about their genital appearance. The women seeking these procedures have had a lifelong anguish with the belief that they are different. When my patients seek consultation for female genital plastic surgery, I first inform them that the labia minora

(inner lips) comes in various shapes and sizes. It is important to me that I convey to my patients that even large and/or uneven labia are a variation of normal Through a candid and thorough conversation with my patients, I am able to get an idea of what they seek. I make it clear that neither I nor any plastic surgeon can guarantee a specific outcome. This is important to avoid any unrealistic expectations. As a result, my patients are happy with the outcome of their surgeries. What are other areas of your practice? I do practice the full scope of obstetrics and gynecology, including offering minimally invasive gynecological surgery. As a perfectionist, I make sure that the incisions that I make and close, whether for laparoscopic surgery or cesarean sections, are aesthetically-pleasing. In addition, given my interest in female genital plastic surgery, I became certified in sexual health medicine so I could offer real help to my patients. As a sexual health clinician, I prescribe topicalcompounded hormones to enhance the orgasmic abilities of women, especially for those who have decreased sex drive while taking the birth control pills. I also use topical hormones to treat women on the birth control pills that have penetration pain during sexual intercourse. I encourage my patients to have an orgasm daily because it releases Oxytocin which, among its many purposes, serves to reconnect you with your partner, revives your energy, improves your mood and improves your sleep. We know from the studies delineated in “Sexual Behavior in the Human Female,” by Dr. Kinsey that 10 percent of women have never experienced an orgasm. For my patients with an orgasmic disorder, I encourage them not to fake it. I educate them about the different types of orgasms (clitoral, G-spot, vaginal) and the sexual positions and/or sex toys that they may use to find out what works for them. For my patients who feel that their vaginas became loose after childbirth, I recommend Kegel exercises to strengthen their pubococcygeus (PC) muscles. Strong PC muscles equal having a tight vagina. Having a well-toned or tight vagina enhances a woman’s orgasm because it increases her ability to grip her partner’s penis. It also helps her to control as well as to heighten her partner’s orgasm. If Kegel exercises do not work, then I will help her by removing excess vaginal mucosal tissue and tightening the support tissue inside her vagina; hence the term vaginal rejuvenation. How do you put patients at ease? I put my patients at ease by having a conversation with them. It is a skill that comes natural to me. I also have the conversation with them during their initial visit while they still have their clothes on. During the examination, I get their permission before I examine their bodies and I do not surprise them with any unexpected touch; that is, I always let them know what I am about to do. For my young patients who are having their first gynecologic examination, I go at their pace and empower them to stop me if they cannot continue. As a result, my patients are able to trust me and to relax during their examination.

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Doctors of the Desert

Julio L. Garcia, MD, FACS

orking for over 26 years as a plastic surgeon in Las Vegas, Dr. Julio Garcia specializes in aesthetic/cosmetic surgery. Heading a 5-member professional team comprised of nurses, an aesthetician and administrative staff, Dr. Garcia’s practice performs the entire scope of cosmetic procedures from the head, chest, torso, abdomen, legs and arms. Along with his medical training, Dr. Garcia also holds a degree in art history which he has found has served him well in terms of analyzing the forms and shapes that patient has and how he will approach each individual patient. Dr. Garcia and his staff also spend over 60 hours annually for training in new technologies.

Dr. Garcia By Debbie Hall

Specialty: Aesthetic and Cosmetic Surgery Las Vegas Cosmetic Surgery 6020 S Rainbow Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89118 702.870.0058 lvcosmeticsurgery.com

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Dr. Garcia received his B.A. from Northwestern University where he achieved a double major in biology and art history. From there he attended medical school at the University of Illinois in Chicago and then remained there for his general surgery and plastic surgery training. He moved to Las Vegas after completing his post graduate training.

American Board of Plastic Surgery. What can a patient expect when they walk into your office? I strive to maintain a high standard of low stress service access along with a friendly, family type environment. What the patient should expect from me during a consultation is a focused and individualized approach to the patient’s desires. All options, including surgical and nonsurgical, will be discussed and a frank conversation about what might be the best options for that particular individual are finalized in collaboration with the patient. It is not a physician only process. It is a mutual collaboration with adequate education of the consumer that will yield the individualized program that is best for the patient. What charities are you involved in? I donate my time and resources to a number of entities in Las Vegas. I run a program to remove tattoos from juvenile ex-gang members in order to allow then to enter a more normal lifestyle. I also provide a tattoo removal program to female victims of human trafficking in order to remove the stigma. I am the physician leader of the medical team attached to the LVMPD SWAT Team, providing medical care during all SWAT operations to care for injured police officers, innocent bystanders and alleged perpetrators in an area where the local EMT services cannot approach. I serve on the board of Directors of Crime Stoppers of Nevada where anonymous leads relative to crimes perpetrated are collected which can lead to arrests. These tips are then rewarded with financial incentives.

“I strive to maintain a high standard of low stress service access along with a friendly, family type environment.”

Why did you enter your field of specialty? I became interested in the field of plastic surgery after spending a summer working in a plastic surgery office of a friend of my father who was a physician. Once seeing the changes that one could see physically and emotionally after these types of surgeries, I focused my studies on the field. What should people expect looking for cosmetic surgery? First and foremost is to look for a board certified plastic surgeon. I am honored to be certified by the

Doctors of the Desert

Laura Gorski, D.O.

peaking on behalf of HRPC is Laura Gorski, DO, Sub-specialty board certified Maternal Fetal Medicine

Pregnancy is a time of great hope with the goal of having a healthy baby. Most pregnancy plans go as expected, but sometimes challenges occur and that’s when high-risk obstetricians or Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialists prove lifesaving such as those of High Risk Pregnancy Center. Since 1996, this team of fellowshiptrained maternal-fetal medicine physicians has been providing an extra dose of TLC to women with pregnancies complicated by chronic conditions, genetic issues and risk factors such as age and prematurity. Founded by Dr. Brian Iriye, the practice now boasts seven perinatal doctors, several specialized staff as well as the first practice in Nevada to be certified in firsttrimester chromosomal screenings, offer 3D obstetrical ultrasound and accredited in fetal echocardiography. The Center’s specialists often work with the woman’s obstetrician and sometimes they assume care if the pregnancy is more fragile. Provisions include stateof-the-art diagnostic ultrasonography, genetic counseling, cervical cerclage and diagnostic fetoscopy. Relating to patients is important and one of the advantages patients enjoy at the High Risk Pregnancy Center are physicians who have themselves faced pregnancy complications like Dr. Laura Gorski. Dr. Gorski is not only one of the center’s distinguished fellowship-trained specialists, but a mother of four, including twins. Why did you choose your specialty? I chose Maternal Fetal Medicine because it is an exciting, evolving and rewarding field. I want to make a difference in women’s lives and healthy babies are our future. What advantages do you see in having done your medical training in osteopathic medicine? The holistic approach of osteopathic medicine has taught me to view my

patients as a whole, including mind and body and how they are integrated together as one. What is the most important aspect of patient care to you? Educating patients and getting the patient involved in their care is key. Communication is also critical to good patient care. How does your gender help your relationships with your patients? I have had three pregnancies, two of which were high-risk. I had twins early due to HELLP Syndrome/Preeclampsia and also delivered my first pregnancy early due to HELLP Syndrome/Preeclampsia. They all spent time in the NICU. I can relate to my patients because I understand what it means to have a complicated pregnancy and not take your baby home from the hospital. I try to alleviate their fears and help to better prepare them for what lies ahead. What unique skills or expertise do you bring to your practice? I do a procedure called CVS or Chorionic Villus Sampling that only a few physicians in Nevada are trained to do. The procedure provides the patient with genetic information about their pregnancy. Patients may do this procedure if they are advanced maternal age, have abnormal screening for a chromosome abnormality, or have an abnormal ultrasound. The testing is done at 11 to 14 weeks pregnant—earlier than an amniocentesis— to provide information to the patient as early as possible. What do you like most about your team at High Risk Pregnancy Center? We use a team approach when managing patients. This includes genetic counselors, sonographers, diabetic nurses and seven MFM specialists. We all have similar practice patterns and work extremely well together. We also respect and support each other. How do you want to be remembered? As a physician who played a role in helping my patients achieve healthy pregnancies and babies. As a mother who provided support, encouragement and unconditional love to my children.

Dr. Gorski By Debbie Hall

Specialty: Maternal Fetal Medicine High Risk Pregnancy Center 2011 Pinto Ln #200, Las Vegas, NV 89106 (702) 382-3200 hrpregnancycenter.com

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Doctors of the Desert

Michael S. Mall, MD

Dr. Mall By Debbie Hall

Specialty: Medical Concierge New Image Advanced Laser Skin Center 7455 W. Washington Ave, Suite 400 Las Vegas, NV 89128 702.697.7991 drmallmd.com newimagelasvegas.com

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ven as a young child, people 3,000 to 5,000 most primary care would remark on the pluck Dr. doctors manage. Michael Mall possessed—a spirit that was largely fueled by his This allows Dr. Mall’s patients to enjoy interest in helping others. So when office visits that average 30 minutes he decided to go into medicine, in length so that there is sufficient attending the University of Arizona time to discuss the patient’s needs College of Medicine, it was no and make a plan of action. Each surprise that the specialty Dr. Mall of his patients gets an annual selected was family practice. “I had executive physical, which creates a a passion to treat the entire person baseline of their health history. More rather than just a part of them, importantly, the focus can be on and it takes a special gift to be preventative care, insuring patients empathetic but stay well with proper compassionate counseling regarding “When I do retire, with a sense nutrition to activity. Dr. I hope to be of objectivity to Mall explained, “I see evaluate them,” patients getting fed up remembered as he said. with the suboptimal the doc that cared care that they are and changed the Celebrating his receiving and opting for twenty-five year a concierge model. As life of my patients anniversary people become aware and as the doc practicing that such a model medicine, Dr. Mall that revolutionized of care is available has made good on and affordable, the the delivery of that goal through popularity of concierge health care to his enterprises. medicine will continue His first one is his to rise. The future of the underserved Concierge Medical medicine should be population in the practice and his on the prevention of other one is the disease and optimizing United States.” cosmetic New functional capacity of Image Advanced Laser Skin Center. patients and consequently improving As Dr. Mall explained, “Over the years, their quality of life.” As if these the bureaucratic and political part reasons aren’t benefit enough, Dr. of medicine has adversely affected Mall’s patients are given his personal the art and practice of medicine. In cell phone number so that there is order to provide very personalized access when it’s needed. care that truly made a difference to my patients’ care and health, I A side effect of this innovative transitioned to a concierge model of approach includes Dr. Mall’s care in 2006.” He also recognized the participation in many research need to provide non-surgical options studies such as low testosterone, to improve how people looked and cholesterol and arthritis. He hosts felt, hence the cosmetic arm of his regular discussions for the general practice. population like his most recent Women’s Wellness Educational Concierge, often referred to as white Series that not only addressed the glove medical care, is membership unique nutritional needs for women, based. Think of the cost of buying a but the best methods for weight cup of gourmet coffee daily. Instead, loss, anti-aging and even dressing to you could be putting that toward your suit your body type. For this series, healthcare membership investment. the doctor was joined by Larissa By subscribing to the practice, you Reis, an International Federation would be one of no more than 600 of BodyBuilding & Fitness Figure total patients versus the typical Pro and owner of Protein House

in Henderson. She was the proverbial exclamation point for proper nutrition and exercise. Beauty may be skin-deep, but real beauty is the blend of solid health and feeling your best. The events are free, well-attended and give men and women a chance to meet Dr. Mall, his wellness and beauty partners and his staff. You might consider that Dr. Mall’s educational outreach is what led him to the cosmetic aspect of his practice, New Image Advanced Laser Skin Center. As Dr. Mall explained, “The cosmetic portion of my practice grew from my concierge patients feeling better but also wanting to look better to match how they felt. That blossomed into a full-service practice where I became the medical director.” New Image Advanced Laser Skin Center offers full-service laser treatments including hair removal, skin tightening, acne treatments, fractional resurfacing treatments, PRP/stem cell treatments, body contouring, dermal fillers and Botox. The advantages of these modalities are not only convenience, but patients experience little or no downtime. In some instances, laser treatments can be more costeffective, too.

Little has changed from when he was a kid helping others to becoming a respected physician. His holistic approach to patient care has not only earned him the praise of his patients, but recognition in the form of numerous “top doc” rankings by Best Doctors in America. Dr. Mall enjoys the recognition but has a clearer measure for success, “You have to evaluate the entire health of a patient that encompasses their emotional, physical, and spiritual health as they impact each other intimately.” With such a robust patient following, Dr. Mall admits he doesn’t see retirement coming any time soon. “When I do retire, I hope to be remembered as the doc that cared and changed the life of my patients and as the doc that revolutionized the delivery of health care to the underserved population in the United States.”

One of the most popular laser therapies offered is Laser Genesis and rumor has it that stars from Jennifer Aniston to Angelina Jolie get their gorgeous glows from its warm rain effect. According to one of the New Image aestheticians, Laser Genesis evens out skin tones, reduces fine lines and helps to promote collagen production that, over time with repeated treatments, results in a more vibrant, smoother and younger looking appearance. “Minimally invasive laser treatments actually increase the elastin and collagen, providing a natural look, tightening the skin versus surgery where the already collagen-deficient skin is stretched to look smoother but made the collagen less dense, thinner and unnatural looking,” Dr. Mall emphasized. Titan laser is also more cost-effective than surgery and there is no downtime. A patient who has had Titan said, “It’s my secret weapon because I’m in my early 50s but I hear my friends say how much younger I look. They have no idea I use Titan.” New Image Advanced Laser Skin Center keeps abreast of the latest technology and offers assorted lasers. The dermal injectables that Dr. Mall offers, and are FDA-approved, are Juvederm, Voluma and Botox will complement laser treatments to make you look years younger. And if you think this is just the domain of ladies, think again. Men represent the fastest growing segment of people opting to look great with minimally invasive options. With such a frenetic schedule, it is a necessity for Dr. Mall to keep himself in optimal shape. It’s also expected. “I know that in order to coach my patients on lifestyle changes and optimizing their health and quality of life that I need to be that example and live that life in order to have an impact on them.” Dr. Mall has lost 65 pounds over the last eight years and brought his body fat percentage to under 10 percent. “I eat extremely healthy and organic when possible,” he said. “My only guilty pleasure is probably sake with my sushi on the weekends.” Photos by Joe Durkin

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Doctors of the Desert

Robert H. Odell, Jr., MD, Ph.D

r. Robert H. Odell, Jr. is the owner and Medical Director of Neuropathy and Pain Centers of America here in Las Vegas, specializing in Anesthesiology & Interventional Pain Management. As a fellow of the Medical Scientist Training Program, he received his Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from Stanford University in 1974 and his medical degree from Stanford in 1976. He completed his residency in anesthesiology at UCLA, and served as chief resident at Harbor/UCLA Medical Center in 1982. He is a diplomat of the American Board of Anesthesiology, American Academy of Pain Management, the American Board of Pain Medicine and a Fellow of Interventional Pain Practice of the World Institute of Pain.

Dr. Odell By Kelly Garrett

Specialty: Anesthesiology & Interventional Pain Management Neuropathy & Pain Centers of America 8084 W. Sahara Ave, Suite E. Las Vegas, NV 89117 702.257.7246 NVPainRelief.com

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For those who suffer from chronic pain, Dr. Odell is an angel in a lab coat. Dr. Odell knows that living with chronic pain is challenging. “I could write a book on the challenges facing patients seeking treatment of chronic pain. One of the biggest challenges is the tendency of many physicians to treat the symptoms with drugs rather finding and

treating the root cause of the pain. And unfortunately, these painrelieving medications often have their own negative side-effects. We want to completely avoid that.” Dr. Odell emphasized, “Unlike other pain management clinics, Neuropathy & Pain Centers of America specialize in non-invasive, non-surgical, non-steroidal pain medication treatment. We believe this is a better path for our patients. We further address these challenges by trying to find the root causes of patients’ pain and by trying to treat the root cause with our highly successful electroanalgesia device, termed electronic signal treatment (EST) and our combined electrochemical block, which is the application of local anesthetic plus EST.” Over the last several years, Dr. Odell has been working with very advanced electromedical devices that produce beneficial results for some of the most chronic pain management challenges. “We aim to provide the highest quality of pain management by utilizing principles of biophysics as well

as traditional pharmacology. Our goal is to identify the cause of a recommendations and what their responsibilities are as a patient patient’s pain as accurately as possible and to treat it in the most working with us to begin the healing process.” effective, non-invasive and least pharmacological manner. Our cutting-edge electroanalgesia protocol offers proven techniques that It is obvious Dr. Odell has found a calling in implementing unique provide our patients sustained relief and effective treatments for patients suffering from from their pain. Whether a patient is Our goal is to identify the cause chronic pain. His patients are grateful to Dr. Odell suffering from peripheral neuropathy and his staff at Neuropathy and Pain Centers of of a patient’s pain as accurately America. (caused by diabetes, chemotherapy or trauma) and is seeking effective as possible and to treat it in treatment; or a patient is seeking fact, one patient stated, “I was diagnosed with the most effective, non-invasive In treatment for spine pain or chronic RSD/CRPS; a very severe form of neuropathy after and least pharmacological joint pain (especially knees, a minor surgery to my wrist. This condition caused shoulders, or hips), we are proud to me to suffer from severe burning pain and swelling manner. Our cutting-edge be able to provide proven techniques that could not be relieved from even the strongest electroanalgesia protocol offers types of narcotic pain medications. I tried many that offer our patients relief from their pain.” different therapies with little or no relief. I traveled proven techniques that provide from out of state to Neuropathy and Pain Centers our patients sustained relief Additionally, Dr. Odell explained, of America to have one week of treatment with from their pain. “Patients coming to our clinic can Dr. Odell. After the first couple of treatments the expect to be treated in a professional burning pain and swelling were greatly reduced. and understanding environment. We do thorough workups, including By the end of the week I was feeling great and smiling again. The nerve testing that does not hurt. The patient’s pain challenges will genuine interest in my health and well-being from every member of be discussed completely and a full explanation of the treatment will Dr. Odell’s team sets them apart from any other medical practice. be provided. Because we treat chronic pain, their first visit will be Thank you, Dr. Odell, for your passion in changing your patient’s lives a thorough consultation where we carefully explain our treatment by helping them to eliminate the daily pain.”

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Doctors of the Desert

Cynthia Payne, OD

r. Cynthia Payne is a board certified optometrist specializing in the treatment and management of ocular disease and owner of Trendsetter Eyewear. She enjoys working with people to improve their vision, assess the health of their eyes and treat eye disease. She also provides pre- and post-operative care for patients at LASIK of Nevada in Las Vegas and Reno, Nev. Motivated by the freedom optometry provides, from the ability to practice anywhere, choosing to be self-employed or work for another doctor full time or part time, to working in research and teaching; Dr. Payne loved having choices that optometry provided. Dr. Payne has been practicing in private optometry since 1997 and opened Trendsetter Eyewear in 2011. She is a Distinguished Woman of Nevada member.

Dr. Payne By Debbie Hall

Specialty: Optometrist Trendsetter Eyewear 1225 S. Fort Apache Road, Suite 145, Las Vegas, NV 89117 702.479.5222 trendsettereyewear.com

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Dr. Payne attended the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, where she earned her Doctorate of Optometry. A graduate of Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tenn., she received a Bachelor of Science with a major in biology and a minor in chemistry. She also completed one year of graduate study at the University of Tennessee, Memphis in neuroscience and worked for an additional two years as a research assistant in Cancer Pharmacology at the University of Tennessee, Memphis. What are some of the current technical advances in the field? Optometry is somewhat unique in that there is both an optical component and a healthcare component. For example, in the optical field, some of the newest options are digitally designed eyeglass lenses (computer designed for optimized vision, i.e. sharper vision in all parts of the lens and better night vision) and more options of contact lenses that are healthier

to wear (more oxygen transmission, stay cleaner, better for dryness). In the healthcare field, one of the newest concerns is protecting against the damage from blue light emitted by LED sources such as TV, computer screens and smartphones. There are new lenses and coatings specifically to block blue light from entering the eye and damaging the retina. Also Optometry is utilizing Epigenetics as a method to help decrease our risk for macular degeneration or other autoimmune mediated diseases that impact the health of our eyes. How can someone protect their eyes and eyesight? One of the healthiest choices a person can make for their eyes is ultraviolet protection. Ultraviolet increases the incidence of cataracts, macular degeneration, pterygium and skin cancer. Choosing sunglasses or eyeglasses with UV protection helps decrease the risk of these diseases of the eye (and wrinkles). All the things that are good for the rest of the body also apply to the eyes; like no smoking (smoking increases the risks of macular degeneration, cataract, glaucoma, diabetes, dry-eye syndrome, thyroid disease); maintaining a balanced nutrition (antioxidants, omega-3, lutein and zeaxanthin for the macula); and routine exercise. Genetic wellness testing can help someone eat foods that work with their DNA to optimize their health. What charity would you recommend to help with eyes and eyesight? One local charity that aid in the field of Optometry is the Lionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club. The Lionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club collects and distributes used donated glasses in third world countries to help improve the vision and quality of life for the people in those countries. We accept donations for them in our Trendsetter Eyewear office.

Doctors of the Desert

Jennifer Cha, DMD, MS, DICOI

Las Vegas resident since 1973 and mother of five, Dr. Jennifer Cha who is an expert in her field specializes in cosmetic periodontal plastic surgery. Dr. Cha received her Bachelor’s Degree in biology from the University of Las Vegas, Doctor of Dental Medicine Degree from Washington University School of Dentistry, and her specialty degree in Periodontics from Northwestern University Dental School. Dr. Cha is also a Fellow and Diplomat of the International Board of Oral Implantologists, one of only three dentists in Las Vegas to be awarded this honor. Along with her husband, Dr. Leon Chen, also an accomplished Periodontist, they opened the first Dental Implant Institute of Las Vegas in 2003. Dr. Cha offers expertise in dental implants and periodontics specifically in full mouth reconstruction. She offers advanced dental care through revolutionary procedures, such as the 5 in 1 Technique, Sinus Lift and Vertical Translation, all procedures developed by the Dental Implant Institute. These procedures are less invasive, causes very little to no pain, has a short term recovery, and provides a much higher rate of success. What is a dental implant? A dental implant is a titanium screw that is placed in the jaw bone. Its purpose is to replace the missing root of a tooth. There are many types of dental implants which vary in shape and architecture. I help design implants that combine the best features of the varying systems which helps both simplify the surgical process and shortens the chair time for the patient. The whole process of placing the implant can take only a matter of minutes. Today, both extraction and implant can be performed together using a technique that is not so new. In fact, it’s been around for about 15 years, something my husband had developed, and is used around the world today. This technique has a faster recovery, and

a higher rate of success. What if I am not a candidate for dental implants? Everyone is a candidate for dental implants, before you let anyone convince you otherwise. I’d highly recommend you find an implant specialist, one who has the expertise and specializes in dental implants with bone reconstruction. Who are your typical patients? In implant dentistry, people (usually) don’t come to you unless they’re in bad shape. The majority of the people that we see, especially since we do full mouth reconstruction, are people who need multiple implants and crowns. But we also see patients that require only one implant, general dental needs and orthodontics. Explain the procedure created by Dr. Chen. Hydraulic Sinus Lift is a very sophisticated technique that only few have mastered. The hydraulic sinus lift technique gives the dentist the ability to place implants simultaneously in the sinus, with very minimal pain. Traditionally, implants cannot be placed near the sinus, since the tissue is not thick enough to withstand the procedure. But, with this technique, Dr. Cha can go through the same hole where the tooth was removed, gently lift the tissue (which is the membrane that lines the sinus), and then add bone to create enough space to place the implant under the membrane of the sinus. The implant works like a tent, keeping the membrane elevated. It takes about four months for the implant and bone to integrate. I usually remove all broken down teeth, cleans out all of the infection from the bone, place the implant(s) and provide the patient with a temporary crown(s) so they can chew soft foods for three or four months during the healing process. With our techniques, we can place multiple implants in under three hours.

Dr. Cha By Debbie Hall

Specialty: Periodontist Dental Implant Institute 6170 W. Desert Inn Road Las Vegas, NV 89107 702.220.5000 diiworld.com patientcare@diilv.com

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Doctors of the Desert

Alisa Sigman, Owner

or Alisa Sigman of Integrity Home Health Care, providing quality home healthcare isn’t just her profession, it’s her passion. Born and raised in St. Louis, Sigman moved to Las Vegas and immediately recognized the growing need for not only home healthcare, but also other non-medical services. While sometimes this mission can prove challenging, especially in the ever-changing face of healthcare today, Sigman and her team of highly qualified experts are up to that challenge. Why did you open Integrity Home Health Care? I truly want to take care of people and believe that patients recover better in their home.That’s why we strive to provide in-home comprehensive care built on compassion and integrity while improving the quality of life for patients and their families.

Alisa Sigman By Kelly Garrett

Specialty: Home Health Care Integrity Home Health Care Serving Las Vegas, Henderson, Boulder City, Pahrump Clark County: 702.384.1962 Nye County: 775.751.5100 ihhcnv.com

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Due to the increased cost of living, patients are struggling to survive on a very small budget. With hospitals expediting discharges sooner, patients need more care, medication and resources. Integrity is there to help support them.

with services, we make sure they are helped as much as we possibly can. What services does Integrity offer? We offer skilled nursing care services for patients to remain safely at home and avoid unnecessary hospitalizations. Our team of professionals provide quality care in the following areas: Wound care, disease management and education, ostomy care, post-surgical care, infusion therapy and so much more. If your loved one needs assistance with personal care, such as bathing and grooming, light meal preparation or light housekeeping, we offer those services as well. Integrity also provides in-home rehabilitation for patients recovering from a traumatic illness, accident or surgery. This may involve short or long-term rehabilitation at home. We have found that a patients recovery can be significantly enhanced by therapy carried out by experienced, compassionate professionals who work to provide the care you need in the comfort of your home. So whether you need physical therapy, occupational therapy, respiratory or speech therapy, we are confident that Integrity can get you on the road to recovery.

“I work until the job is done. Often times that means working very long hours but I am dedicated to my patients. I have a staff that comprise the best of the best in their fields.”

I knew that with my common sense and strong work ethic, I could help provide services that were either lacking or in drastically short supply. I work until the job is done. Often times that means working very long hours but I am dedicated to my patients. I have a staff that comprise the best of the best in their fields, and together we are providing valuable services to the residents of Clark and Nye counties. When patients contact us, they can expect accurate information and results. No matter if a patient needs answers to questions or help

We also offer non-medical services to support our patient’s needs including registered dietitians and medical social workers. What is your vision? Our vision is to be the leader in healthcare that inspires all others to reach the highest level of quality care. Our patients and our community deserve nothing less. Integrity isn’t just the name of my business; it’s the compass by which our vision has become a reality.

Doctors of the Desert

Albert G. Simoncelli, D.C. “Dr. Al”

sk any patient to list the three most important things they want in a doctor and chances are bedside manner will rank high. Today’s academic health care institutions now offer courses on empathy, but that’s still no assurance a healthcare provider will understand what the patient is experiencing. Understanding a patient’s needs is key to recovery and one that Dr. Al Simoncelli, founder of Mountain West Chiropractic, knows intimately given his own harrowing experience. As a college-design/engineering student, Simoncelli was involved in a rear-end collision that fractured his back. The event was traumatizing not just physically, but psychologically when physicians told him he would have to get used to chronic pain. He refused. At the urging of a co-worker, Simoncelli reluctantly visited a chiropractor. What he found wasn’t just relief, but inspiration. He dropped out of design/ engineering school, attended the premed program at Bloomfield College and graduated from Cleveland Chiropractic College in 1988. Today, Dr. Simoncelli’s clinical competencies coupled with a passion to help individuals suffering from acute and chronic conditions fuels both his bedside manner and healing innovations including his design of a therapeutic unit that corrects a multitude of spinal-postural abnormalities. Mountain West Chiropractic treats a wide variety of health related conditions resulting from motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries and work accidents. There are no age thresholds for chiropractic care and newborns to seniors can benefit and find quick relief for acute or chronic pain.

What is the most common misconception about chiropractic? That being adjusted by a chiropractor has risk. Chiropractic is by far the safest form of mainstream healthcare there is, proven by the annual fee for malpractice insurance for all types of

doctors. Insurance rates reflect risk and chiropractors pay a fraction of any other healthcare practitioner. How do you handle a new patient’s visit? We are committed to giving a very thorough evaluation and then x-ray the area of concern. This is very important that the doctor see what is underlying before any adjustments are done to the spine. With many variations of adjustments and treatment we bring the patient through a brief trial of care to see how the patient responds. Once we determine the best and most effective treatment, we continue with mutual goals with that patient. We find that brings the highest level of success and patient satisfaction. How does chiropractic work collaboratively with allopathic/ osteopathic practitioners? Chiropractic plays a key role in the wellness of all patients, and co-working with MD’s will help in the overall wellbeing of the present and future of those patients. What role does chiropractic play in today’s healthcare landscape? Chiropractic plays a very vital role in healthcare as it gives the suffering patient a drug-free option to their health. Too many people over-utilize mediation and become addicted to pain medications. We work in conjunction with their MD’s in assisting the patient to reduce or get off these harsh drugs. In addition, our specialty addresses areas of healthcare that is unique. What is the most important aspect of patient care to you? I want our patients to have an excellent experience coming to our office. How do you want to be remembered? I would like to be remembered as a compassionate, knowledgeable doctor and loving husband and father. I have three children—Alec 21, Bradley 16, and Jenna 15—and while the chiropractic profession has been a good vocation for me, I plan on guiding and supporting them to where their passions lie.

Dr. Simoncelli By Debbie Hall

Specialty: Chiropractic Mountain West Chiropractic 9034 W. Sahara Avenue Las Vegas, NV 89117 702.256.8686 mountainwestchiropractic.com

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Doctors of the Desert

Thomas Umbach, OD

r. Umbach is a nationally recognized, board-certified and fellowship-trained bariatric surgeon. He’s been recognized as one of the nation’s top bariatric surgeons by Newsweek and Time magazines. Dr. Umbach’s other notable achievements include being named New Economy Best Health Care Consultants for 2013 and 2014, Best Bariatrics Surgeon for 2014 and Best Medical Tourism Provider for 2012 and 2013. He was also named as one of the best Weight Loss Management Physicians for 2011, 2012 and 2013 by U.S. Commerce Association. Why did you enter the field of Bariatrics? Bariatrics has always been my passion. My practice is 100 percent devoted to helping obese clients achieve healthier lifestyles. It brings me great pleasure to see my clients shed their excess weight and enjoy the simple pleasures of life again—playing with their children or grandchildren, riding a roller coaster for the first time or dating.

Dr. Umbach By Debbie Hall

Specialty: Bariatric Surgeon Blossom Bariatrics 3235 E. Warm Springs Road, Suite 100, Las Vegas, NV 89120 702.463.3300 BlossomBariatrics.com

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I understand you develop a close relationship with your patients. I offer my clients my personal cell phone number and an offer to call me anytime, day or night. I want my clients to be able to reach me 24/7 with any questions or concerns they have before surgery and for as long after surgery as they feel they need me. Most of them are amazed when I hand them my cell phone number and even more amazed when I answer their calls and treat them as friends. Keith Doerksen of Morden, Man., said he has lost about 150 pounds since he underwent vertical sleeve gastrectomy in January 2011. Doerksen reached out to Blossom Bariatrics after being rejected for provincial pilot program. Doerksen said life has been transformed since he underwent a weight-loss surgical procedure that he paid for himself. Doerksen had struggled with his weight since elementary school and tried many ways to shed the pounds.

He weighed in about 360 pounds before the surgery. What services do you offer? I offer gastric banding, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, gastric sleeve resection and revisional surgery. I use special protocols to achieve exceptional pain control for my clients, which increases their comfort. I also feature comprehensive pre- and post-surgical programs. My pre-surgical program is aimed at maximizing client safety and increasing their chances for excellent surgical results. My postsurgical programs include nutrition (Blossom Bites) and fitness (Blossom Bodies) counseling, support groups (Blossom Buddies) to help them adjust to life after bariatric surgery and psychological and emotional counseling (Blossom Beauty) to help empower them toward a better quality of life. What can someone expect when they first walk into your office? Visiting clients can relax and enjoy the warm, friendly atmosphere at Blossom Bariatrics with my team taking as much time as clients need to feel comfortable. We are dedicated at all levels to care for the bariatric patient. This commitment includes an exclusive center of excellence physician medical director, a Certified Bariatric nurse coordinator, specialized operating room facilities, exclusive bariatric patient rooms and a dedicated nursing staff. What preparation is needed for this type of surgery? Preparation for weight loss surgery involves multiple steps. After the initial informational seminar, patients meet directly with me. At this comprehensive evaluation, each patient will receive an individualized list of tasks to complete. Patients will then meet with their registered dieticians for an hour evaluation. Additional dietary education will include a three hour class covering the basics of nutrition and successful eating habits.

Doctors of the Desert

Darin Swainston, M.D, FACOG

r. Darin Swainston, M.D., FACOG is a board certified OB/ GYN with more than 20 years of experience. He’s a leading physician in robotic single-site hysterectomies and has completed more than 400 procedures since 2010, the most ever performed on the West Coast. “It’s a dream come true to follow in the footsteps of all my surgical heroes, I never thought I would someday be doing this,” said Dr. Swainston, “It’s [single site hysterectomy] a hot topic right now in the world of gynecological medicine.” Dr. Swainston is a Las Vegas native, completing his undergraduate degree at the University of Nevada Las Vegas and then attending the University Of Nevada School Of Medicine in Reno, Nev. He completed his residency training at University Medical Centers in Las Vegas, selecting the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

healthcare services for women is a happy profession. ”The technological advances in the last 20 years have really made it an exciting time to be in medicine, particularly in women’s health.” Before robotics, he embraced laparoscopic assisted hysterectomies, allowing him to achieve his goal of less invasive vaginal surgery. It has evolved to include scarless surgery through natural orifices. What should people expect with this surgery? Robotics is a minimally invasive procedure using a magnified highdefinition 3D vision system, which gives the surgeon the ability to remove the uterus without the use of mechanical morcellation. It also features special wristed instruments that bend and rotate far great than the human wrist. As a result, the da Vinci system enables the doctor to operate with enhanced vision, precision and control. About 98 percent of Dr. Swainston’s surgeries today are minimally invasive. Compared to a traditional hysterectomy, it provides several advantages including less blood loss during surgery, less scarring and faster recovery time.

”The technological advances in the last 20 years have really made it an exciting time to be in medicine, particularly in women’s health.”

Among Dr. Swainston’s many recognitions, he has won Patients’ Choice Award for five consecutive years, from 2008 to 2013. In addition, he’s often asked to speak at conferences around the nation, including the American Association of Gynecological Laparoscopists in Washington D.C, and at the world robotics meeting in Chicago. Extending his efforts home and abroad, he’s conducted webinars for Intuitive Surgical, the company behind the robotics da Vinci Surgical System, and for miVIP Surgery Centers, which was broadcasted to surgeons in Russia. Why did the doctor enter this field of specialty? Delivering babies and providing

Where is Dr. Swainston’s practice? He is partners at his practice with long-time friend and colleague, Dr. John Martin, at the Women’s Health Associates of Southern Nevada’s Desert Shores branch care center. WHASN are a group of board certified obstetrician/gynecologists with 17 locations across the Las Vegas Valley. They offer a full range of comprehensive services to promote and maintain women’s healthcare needs.

Dr. Swainston By Debbie Hall

Specialty: OB/GYN Women’s Health Associates of Southern Nevada 2050 Mariner Dr. #120 Las Vegas NV, 89128 702.255.2022 whasn.com

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Doctors of the Desert

Edward Zimmerman, MD.

ach person has their own definition of beauty as it applies to the human face and body. These definitions vary widely. Whatever your definition of beauty, Dr. Edward Zimmerman named Best Cosmetic Surgeon in Las Vegas for 2014 by Best of Silver State Awards makes it clear that it all begins with building a culture of taking care of people. Dr. Z (as he is affectionately known as) and his staff have won the Excellence in Customer Care award from CMUS Talk of the Town annually beginning in 2010.

Dr. Zimmerman By Sasha P. Rincon

Specialty: Cosmetic Surgeon Las Vegas Laser and Lipo 8930 W. Sunset Road, Suite 140 Las Vegas, NV 89148 702.360.6686 zimmermanmd.com

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What does it mean winning Talk of the Town year after year? My staff are ambassadors; it’s who and what they do. They are the reason we’ve won this award year after year. When interviewing for positions on my staff, I use an Advanced Human Assessment technology, The Ultimate Life Tool (tyinstitute. org). This technology relates WHAT a person is to their physical presentation. Knowing what a person is and where they are in their cycle of life, enables me to give the right job to the right person at the right time. The job gets done and the person feels fulfilled and appreciated. It’s empowering to all. It helps me be a better boss, a better physician and a better human. We have designed and refined our staff to be concierges, at every stage of patient interaction. They echo our philosophy of offering excellent care, outcome and economy, with the least side effects, and greatest safety.

surgery who just plain enjoys people. Our mission statement is “to realistically evaluate, educate and supply appropriate, exceptional, safe and caring aesthetic medical services to each and every patient we serve, utilizing accepted techniques and state-of-the-art technologies coupled with respect and honesty”. . How do you put clients at ease with their decision to undergo a cosmetic surgery procedure? It starts when the client emails or calls. They are seeking reassurance that they will be in good hands. Seeing the detailed information on our procedures, products and services on our website also helps folks feel, “yeah, they listen, they will understand what I want.” All of my staff are walking examples of my work. Each can speak of their personal experience leading up to, during and after their procedures. Staff rotates watching procedures as we continually update techniques and technologies. We hold monthly meetings where we discuss these changes and how to improve patient care. As a nationally accredited, office-based surgical facility, we are continually seeking measurable ways to improve quality and outcome. We document these studies to maintain our licensing.

“I am a life-long student, teacher and innovator with a passion for cosmetic surgery who just plain enjoys people.“

What’s your practice philosophy? I am a life-long student, teacher and innovator with a passion for cosmetic

Patients initially meet one of my patient educators. My wife [Marilyn Zimmerman] is one of them. She is a highly perceptive gal, active in the cosmetic surgery industry and teaching for over a decade. She is able to “see” people, articulate the things they need to enhance their cosmeses diplomatically, and help them feel more comfortable. New patients are encouraged to browse through the before and after pictures of other patients who have had similar procedures to further educate

themselves. She is also great at assuring that patients are getting the right procedures done for the “right” reasons. When I meet the patient, we look at their digital photos, discuss the options again, review their history, and do a focused exam. We assure that the patient understands the issues, procedure, recovery and long term goals. We enjoy our patients and learn from and about them during every visit. For a time, they become part of our “family”. They enjoy our very positive vibe, and the education and services that we offer. I often tell patients “You’re great the way you are …can I tell you about the newer technologies we have that make rejuvenation more comfortably, with quicker recovery?” I teach around the world, so I get to see innovative technologies before they gets to the United States. Lifetime student…lifetime teacher! What excites you the most about consistently staying on the pulse of it all? Keeping safety at the forefront is the main focus. Utilizing state-of-the-art technology and techniques that help to achieve that

goal is something to get excited about. For example, using thermal imaging (like satellites use) helps us know the distribution of the temperature inside and outside an area of tissue that we are precisely heating to tighten or mold during every moment of the treatment. We now use a Neuro-Stimulator to map out motor nerves, helping us to avoid them during delicate facial surgery and neck and jowl liposculpting. That enhances safety and outcome, precision and outcome. Better outcomes make happier patients. We’re all about the happy! What would you like to see evolve in your field in the next five to ten years? We’re getting a better understanding of stem cells, how to utilize them to assist in health and rejuvenation, optimal weight control, and eliminating inflammation which is an appealing ongoing development. The idea is not just to live long, but live well. Then folks want to look as good as they feel. Soon, stem cells may be manipulated or coerced into becoming part of the treatment for a kidney going bad or chronic lung disease. This science will eventually be applied to fixing the

outside (appearance) more easily and better than what we accomplish with our current techniques and technologies. Stem cells may revolutionize hair restoration in the next decade. Tomorrow’s light and laser technology will likely induce and accelerate cellular rejuvenation and decrease inflammation. It’s exciting to be part of this evolution! It’s evident your passion is what you do, how did you arrive to it? We are here to be of service. Working with people who take joy in the things we are able to achieve with today’s best technologies makes it all worth it and will lead to tomorrow’s innovations. How did I arrive to my practice of cosmetic surgery? It found me! I was the only son of two Jewish parents. Dad was into international banking and corporate mergers and Mom was a juried artist who was Staff Aide to a US senator and tutored English on the side. I wanted to be a fireman, or marine biologists growing up, but my high school chemistry teacher recommended me for a science preceptorship at the National Bureau of Standards, outside Washington DC… and the rest, as they say, is history!

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Doctors of the Desert

Joel Stokes, DDS

astern Canyon Dental is the vision of Dr. Joel Stokes featuring the latest in restorative and preventative dentistry adding his personal approach to family dental care. Dr. Stokes decided at age thirteen that he wanted to be a dentist and followed his dream. Besides earning his doctorate from the Dental School at the University of the Pacific, San Francisco, Dr. Stokes has completed hundreds of hours of continuing education with emphasis in preventative, cosmetic and restorative dentistry. His extensive focus on comprehensive dentistry is combined with his dedication for one to one interaction with patients and helping them to look and feel better in a high trust, low stress environment. Some of the newest procedures his practice offers include nonmetallic dentistry, Invisalign, dental implants and porcelain veneers.

What is your relationship with your patients? “Time is very valuable and I don’t want my patients to wait for me. Each patient is greeted and brought back to the exam room as soon as they enter the office within five minutes of their arrival. Once a patient is seated, I am there ready to treat them. I understand going to the dentist can be an anxious time and I want to put everyone at ease.” What measures do you take for safety of your patients? “To add to everyone’s sense of security, I make certain that each patient and their family understands that the protection of a patient’s health is at the top of my standards. Our office takes extra measures to coordinate each patient’s medical and dental care. I designed my current office with a state-of-theart sterilization room and all staff strictly adheres to all OSHA and CDC sterilization standards. All instruments remain sealed in a sterile field until opened for the specific patient.”

“I understand going to the dentist can be an anxious time and I want to put everyone at ease.”

Dr. Stokes By Debbie Hall

Specialty: Child & Adult General Dentistry, Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry, Porcelain Veneers, SnapOn Smile, Invisalign, Dental Implants Eastern Canyon Dental 8605 S. Eastern Ave. Suite A Las Vegas, NV 89123 702.699.9876 thevegasdentist.com

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Why did you become a dentist? “My dentist in San Diego always seemed to be happy about the work he did. He was truly a professional and he encouraged me to go to dental school. In fact his daughter also became a dental hygienist. I felt that being a dentist would allow me to provide a needed health care service.” Why do you have such a passion for dentistry? “I understand that sometimes not everyone is able to keep up with their regular dental care. I never judge anyone. I only want to help people get back on track with their dental care and help them maintain good health. “I meet and interact with individuals and community groups to help inform our community about how our dental office can help elevate the level of dental health with a high trust and low stress environment.”

What charities about good dentistry can you recommend? “As for local charities and events related to dentistry, February is Child Dental Month, and the American Dental Association offers Give Kids A Smile program that people can support, volunteer and donate their time and skills.” What advice can you give for good dental health? “Prevention is the key. Constant monitoring and consistent care allows the patient to spend the least amount of time in the dental chair with the least amount of cost long term.” What about your personal life? “I am married to Sandy and we have three children. Adam is a local attorney, Alexis a dental hygienist and Jesse attends college and plans on attending medical school.”

Doctors of the Desert

Donna Miller, RN/EMS-RN, CMTE

ife Guard International, also known as FlyingICU, was founded by Donna Miller in 2002 to provide air medical transport services around the clock to and from Las Vegas as well as to and from destinations all over the world. Whether the patient is being transferred to a higher level of care facility because the care he or she needs is not available where they are located; to patients who want to recover or receive care closer to home; Life Guard can take them, no matter their condition, to the places they need to go, worldwide. When Miller emigrated from Romania to the United States in 1991, she spoke no English and knew next to nothing about life in America. But she believed in the American Dream and learned English by watching Sesame Street with her daughter and proudly become a U.S. citizen in 1994. While working as a hospice home health aide, her patient took Miller by the hand to the college across the street and registered her in their nursing program. At that time she didn’t even know what a nurse did. After graduating, Miller realized she could combine her childhood dream of flying with her nursing experience. She became a flight nurse in 2001 and a year later she opened Life Guard International – FlyingICU, which is exactly that: a flying intensive care unit. Today, Life Guard International has grown to four aircraft including a newly acquired fully medically-configured Learjet 35A, a hanger and office at McCarran International Airport; another base in Tonopah and about fifty dedicated medical, aviation and administrative professionals with only one goal in mind: To safely and

comfortably transport any patient, anywhere in the world, anytime. “The true dedication and high professionalism of our team is the driving factor in our success. There’s not a single employee who doesn’t truly treat every patient like a family member, knowing that medicine isn’t only about professional, comprehensive care, but it’s about compassion,” Miller said. “Needing to transport your loved one from one state to another, while in a hospital’s ICU bed is a very scary situation for any family and with any of our services (air ambulance, commercial medical escort or commercial stretcher) the patient and family are going to receive the highest level of care and compassion possible. To me, having such a wonderful team that can help save the life of someone’s child, or grandparent, or mom or dad, that is my American Dream; and it is my team that has made my American Dream come true.” In 2014, Miller received the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Nevada Woman-Owned Business of the Year and the National Association of Women Business Owners’ Entrepreneur of the Year. She and Life Guard International have developed a sterling reputation and are considered leaders in the aviation/medical field. But no award or accomplishment can match the satisfaction she gets every day helping patients go where they need to go, while receiving the medical care they need. That is Miller’s real reward; as her American Dream continues.

DonnaMiller By Jeff Worthington

Specialty: Emergency Care Transportation Flying ICU Life Guard International 145 E. Reno Avenue Ste. E-7 Las Vegas, NV 89119 702.740.5952 flyingicu.com

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Laurie

Dr.

Creating beautiful smiles from the inside out

By Debbie Hall

ore than creating a beautiful smile, Dr. Laurie is committed to presenting comprehensive dental care, accepting complicated restorative cases, creating the best possible solutions to restore or build a smile. Her team of three highly trained professionals, along with Dr. Laurie, focuses on one patient at a time.

her practice that many times the medical condition is temporomandibular joint disorder. The most common cause of TMD is malocclusion, otherwise more commonly referred to as a bad bite. In this case, the upper and lower teeth are misaligned and do not close in the correct way, whether functioning or at rest.

A complete executive physical of the mouth and teeth is conducted during the initial visit. Decisions about the patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dental care are totally up to the patient and Dr. Laurie strives to make certain each person is empowered with choices. Dr. Laurie does explain ways to restore health and function along with enhancing esthetics.

The temporomandibular joints are small joints in front of each of the ears that keep the lower jaw connected to the skull. This complex network of teeth, bones, muscles, tendons and nerves are normally associated with manipulating the jaw and mouth to speak and chew. But when there is a dysfunction, it can also cause problems in other areas of the body. Dr. Laurie can isolate the problem and fix it so that the pain is gone.

Dr. Laurie offers a variety of services along with general dentistry to include some of the following: Temporomandibular Joint Many Americans suffer from headaches, migraines or unexplained pain in the face, jaw or teeth. Others suffer from a pain in the neck or back, tingling in the fingers or ringing in their ears. Some have earaches, recurring or constant jaw pain, or tooth pain. While many search for answers (and relief), in good faith doctors misdiagnose the problem and the symptoms remain. Dr. Laurie has discovered in

Smile Makeover versus Full Mouth Reconstruction Speaking of dental health, Dr. Laurie also advocates good internal health, as well as a beautiful smile. The best analogy to explain this concept is that of a home. While one can decorate and make their home beautiful, if the foundation is cracked and shifting, there will be problems and the home can eventually collapse, despite the pretty faĂ§ade.

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It is the same with teeth. While so much can be done to create a beautiful smile, it is essential that any functional problems with teeth, mouth and gums are addressed and treated. A smile makeover is just cosmetic while a full mouth reconstruction combines both aesthetics and function. Non-Surgical Facelift A dentist offering a facelift? One of the most visible signs of aging is a changing smile. Front and back teeth break down or suffer from wear and tear as the years pass. It’s not just a smile; it’s the facial appearance as well. Most people don’t realize that the front teeth support the lips and the back teeth support the face and jaw joint. The lips are the only muscle in the body not supported by a bone. According to Dr. Laurie, what happens is that the distance from a person’s nose to their chin collapses. While this might be four to five millimeters, it does make a difference in what their face looks like. It’s like the lower third of the face “squishes up.” If the teeth become shorter due to wear and grinding, the lips can become thinner and the profile can become flatter. By restoring the length of the teeth to their original size, the lips and profile will become fuller and more youthful. By building up the back teeth, this creates less wrinkles, tighter necks and stronger chins for a more youthful appearance and better dental health. Master Ceramist When it comes to smiles, Dr. Laurie has a master ceramist on site that can create custom veneers, colors and shapes. Working closely together, Dr. Laurie, the ceramist and the patient can create a mock-up, also known as the “trial smile” that can be tested. Together they can determine if subtle changes need to be made before the final restorations are created. With this procedure, there are no surprises and everyone knows that they will be satisfied with the end results. Dr. Laurie and her ceramist have worked as a team for over 15 years and the personal touch is evident in creating natural looking smiles that fit the patient’s face, not just their mouth. Implants A dental implant is a permanent tooth replacement option that is directly inserted into the jawbone that is formed and colored to match natural teeth. Dental implants create a stronger replacement tooth because the tooth and the tooth’s root are replaced. With proper care, the implant can last a very long time and are more durable than other tooth replacement options. This is an option for one or several missing teeth and they can be placed in the upper or lower jaws to strengthen the smile. Dr. Laurie graduated from the Oregon Health Sciences University and practiced in Oregon before relocating to Las Vegas to purchase the private practice of the founder of the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. She is a member of the American Dental Association, the Nevada Dental Association, the International Association of Comprehensive Aesthetics and the International College of Craniomandibular Orthopedics. She is an author and speaks nationally and internationally on advanced dental procedures. In the month of October, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Laurie will offer free teeth bleaching for a donation to the Breast Cancer Society. “I love watching the transformation that happens when a patient is given back the smile and jaw support that they had in their youth,” explained Dr. Laurie. This is evident in her attitude and her practice where she helps her patients achieve a new smile that is healthy both internally and attractive externally, enhancing appearance, boost confidence and renew a sense of self-esteem while promoting the best dental health possible. 122

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s e l a m Fe Fearless

By Debbie Hall

It is an exciting time for the women of Southern Nevada as they continue to make a difference in our community and strive for new heights. Also, since October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, one cancer survivor is profiled to inspire those who have also battled cancer as well as their loved ones who have supported them in this fight. Another Fearless Female gives back to the community as part of her employerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bigger picture of making Las Vegas a better place to live. One of our Fearless Females has grown her company of getting the message out for her clients to a new level of influence.

Stephanie Wilson

Maura Bivens

Joceyln Bluitt

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few years ago, Maura Bivens was living her life as a wife and mother when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. “I was so shocked when I was diagnosed the first time at 38 years old,” Bivens recalled. “My family has no history of breast cancer, I didn’t smoke, and I was fit and active. When I first heard the news I completely shut down. My mind just turned off. Luckily, my husband was with me and he was able to take in all the information and start processing how to start the long journey that is cancer.

Females Fearless

Maura Bivens

More than a cancer survivor; she sets an example for others

They got a second opinion out of state and were told that Bivens could get the exact same treatment in Las Vegas. “That was great news because I knew I loved my local oncologist at Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada, Dr. Heather Allen, so it was a relief to have that reinforced,” Bivens said. “I also had three young children at the time and I wanted to stay close to home to be near them.” She had a double mastectomy and explained, “It was such unchartered territory. I relied so heavily on Dr. Allen and my husband. I had to educate myself to make the decisions that only I could make for myself. I had to look at the statistics and facts, no matter how disturbing they might have been at the time.” Thinking she was in the clear after this treatment, in 2009 the cancer returned and metastasized to her lungs. Her prognosis was about 12 months to live and Bivens was devastated. “I had triple negative breast cancer, which is one of the more aggressive forms of breast cancer, but I was still shocked when it came back. The doctors said they got it all and I was done, and I absolutely believed it. I didn’t look back and didn’t really want to get involved in survivor stuff. I didn’t consider it ever coming back, so I was beyond shocked when it came back in my lungs.”

and Bivens was told she was a candidate for CyberKnife. “I was so unsure of the procedure, but I trusted my doctors and I decided to give it a try. I had three days of CyberKnife treatment and I was done. I was back training for black belt in no time and I felt great.” The robotic technology of CyberKnife offers patients with tumors a painless, noninvasive surgical alternative that requires no anesthesia and offers shorter recovery times. Bivens is now in remission and at this point, there is no sign of cancer in her system. She still visits CCCN for regular checkups and recently celebrated a birthday, something she is grateful for every day. She volunteers, supports others and is very active in her church and with her family. “I always tell people that I think the hardest part is when you get that call that you have cancer, but you don’t know any of the details. That is torture! How bad is it, what do we need to do, am I going to make it? And the answer is, ‘We don’t know, we need more tests.’ That is the tough part, but I will say that we do have great doctors here. I loved my doctors, nurses and staff and I received great care at Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada. I really felt like they were pulling for me.” Bivens truly personifies a Fearless Female.

But new treatments had been developed

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ative Las Vegan Joceyln BluittFisher, the new director of community relations for Wynn Resorts, has always given back to her hometown.

Females Fearless

Jocelyn BluittFisher Engaged in the community

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Before coming to Wynn, she was the director of community engagement for MGM Resorts where she oversaw The MGM Foundation and volunteer programs and Senior Neighborhood Services Specialist for the city of Las Vegas. Bluitt-Fisher has helped design several education and youth engagement programs while also serving as a board member of The Public Education Foundation, the Southern Nevada Regional Planning Coalition’s Committee on Homelessness and the Las Vegas Urban League. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from Xavier University in Louisiana and her Master’s Degree in Public Administration from University of Nevada, Las Vegas. In fact, for the first time in Wynn Resorts’ history, an employeecontribution campaign was implemented where its 12,000 team members can begin to make financial contributions to a nonprofit of their choice through United Way. Most of her time is spent continuing to grow and develop WE Connect, Wynn Resorts’ community relations program, and partnering with United Way. “It is about the impact we can make when we connect together as one company and connect with our community partners,” she said. “Working on the Strip opened my eyes to an untold story here in our community,” Bluitt-Fisher explained. “I was overwhelmed by how much the gaming companies invest back into their communities. These businesses have a vested interest in the quality of life in their host communities; not only to support the vitality of their business, but to support the health and wellbeing of their employees as well. Not every industry has that same heart and compassion. I think that is inspiring and I

cannot imagine working anywhere else.” As for working in community service, Bluitt-Fisher stated, “My parents always stressed the importance of giving back to those around you as a way of showing thanks for the blessings in your life. I still remember waking up early on the weekends as a child and being ‘volun-told’ to participate in service projects with my church. This carried over into participating in service organizations and service projects in high school and college. Volunteer service helped me to connect with and learn more about the issues in my community. It also helped me to realize that even the most fortunate person could fall upon hard times given the right combination of unfortunate circumstances.” According to Bluitt-Fisher, for anyone looking for a career in community relations, the minute community becomes about the person and not the community, that person is not of service to the community. She stressed that one needs passion, knowledge and expertise as well as understanding how successful nonprofit agencies are operated. “The advice and guidance that you offer to your employer should be based on facts from all sides of an issue and knowing who or what is working and making the biggest impacts in their efforts to address community issues. In this field, knowledge is your biggest asset. Passion will only get you so far.” As a mother, her biggest inspiration is her twin three-year-olds. “I love the way they look at the world. Small, simple things make them happy and giggly and they throw 100 percent of their energy into everyday until they pass out from sheer exhaustion at the very end. Most of all, they can bounce back happily from anything. I love their resilience and I try to have a little bit of their spirits in my mindset each day.” The residents and visitors to Southern Nevada are fortunate to have Joceyln Bluitt-Fisher as a Fearless Female.

tephanie Wilson, who founded Wicked Creative in 2006, has grown the company into one of the top agencies in the market representing travel, dining, celebrity, nightlife, beauty, wellness and entertainment clients. Born in Grand Junction, Colo., and growing up in different places (attending nine different elementary schools), Wilson explained, “I like to think this helps me quickly adapt to new situations. However, I’m still very much a mountain girl at heart.”

Females Fearless

Stephanie Wilson Understanding and getting the message out

She attended Colorado State University majoring in technical journalism with an emphasis on public relations, along with minors in advertising and psychology. In choosing her career, Wilson explained, “I love news, but I’m too emotional for hard news. I love to write, but I’m too social for a newsroom. In my job I can combine my love of writing, people and the hospitality industry. It never gets boring to be able to do things you feel passionately about. I’m very lucky.” One challenge for Wilson was when her son was diagnosed with autism after his pediatrician recognized there was a problem. She credits the doctor for getting her and her son on the path of intensive therapy as part of early intervention when her son was 15 months old. “It was a lot of work and sometimes exhausting for both of us, but it changed our lives.” Happily, Teo now functions as any normal four-yearold child Wilson is also inspired by any woman who can master taking care of her family while running a business. “Anita Mann from Anita Mann Productions, which produces FANTASY at Luxor, is at the top of that list for me. When I was pregnant with my son she eased my fears by telling me how she would teach choreography with a baby in a sling. I can totally picture her doing that, and

whenever I feel overwhelmed I think about Anita.” With a staff of mostly women, Wilson admits, “I’m really proud of the women who have worked for Wicked Creative and their current successes, either at my company or at new positions. I know I’m not always easy to work for and my expectations are high, but I always do my best to take one-on-one time to help with writing, planning and understanding the industry. Some of my past employees are now in executive positions at some of Las Vegas’ top hotels. Jennie Miller was promoted to director of Wicked Creative this year, and I’m very proud of her. She is smart, cares and works incredibly hard. One of the most rewarding parts of my job is to see employees like Jennie and the others at Wicked Creative grow.” She advises other women entering the field of public relations that can be a difficult job. Wilson tells those considering this career to understand that working in hospitality public relations can mean 60 hour work weeks, time away from home, and having to blur the lines between personal and professional life. “But, the rewards mean working in a job that changes every day, never gets boring, and is consistently presenting new challenges,” she added. The agency donates services to The Dave Rice Foundation that raises money to support autistic charities and The Shade Tree particularly for its annual Girls Night Out event and Wilson serves on the Steering Committee for Keep Memory Alive’s annual Power of Love gala in honor of the two grandparents she lost to Alzheimer’s. Wilson also spends time with her son including riding bikes, going for a run and swimming and always demonstrates living her life as a Fearless Female.

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Summer Launch Party Las Vegas Woman magazine launched its Summer issue at Tropicana Las Vegas featuring cover model Tracy Gallegos. Lee’s Liquor offered a wine tasting, food samples were provided by Diamond Events & Productions with entertainment by High Flyin’ Entertainment, The Will Edwards Show hosting the Red Carpet and a live performance by illusionist Seth Grabel. Photos of guests were provided by Vegas Clicks Photo Booth. Attendees had the opportunity to see the latest in products and services. Photography by Walls of Photography – Tiffany Sosa

City

In the

New Vista Wine Walk New Vista has been bringing Southern Nevada the perfect date night since 2004 with Wine Walk held at Lake Las Vegas. Guests enjoyed live music in the beautiful atmosphere and had the opportunity to enjoy over 30 different wines and sakes. The tasting stations located throughout the venue are staffed by New Vista volunteers. The next Wine Walk is scheduled for Sept. 6. For tickets and information, visit NewVistaNV.org or call 702.457.4677 x133. Photography by Phototechnik Intl

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2014 Awards gala The Señoras of Excellence and Señores of Distinction are men and women who support the educational growth of young Latinos in the Las Vegas community. The 2014 Awards Gala, an elegant evening of fine dining, libations and dancing, benefitted The UNLV Foundation, Nevada State College, Nevada Hospital Association, CAEO at UNLV, College of Southern Nevada, Puerto Rican Association Scholarship Fund, H.E.A.R.T. for children with AUTISM, Latin Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Fund and City Impact Center. Photography by Patricia Alcalde

City City

In the In the

Baby-Friendly Celebration Dignity Health-St. Rose Dominican hosted a Baby-Friendly Celebration Event at its San Martín Campus-Healing Garden to celebrate its designation as the first baby-friendly designated hospital in Southern Nevada. The Baby-Friendly Initiative is a worldwide program of the World Health Organization and UNICEF to recognize hospitals that offer the optimal level of care for infant feeding and mother/baby bonding. The event included mother/baby photos, special Mother’s Day gifts and a presentation of the designation. Photos courtesy of Dignity Health-St. Rose Dominican

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Girls Night Out Friends of the Shade Tree hosted its 12th Annual Girls Night Out charity gala at Hyde Bellagio. The core mission of The Shade Tree may be to provide safe shelter to physically abused and homeless women, children and their pets in crisis as well as providing the foundation for a woman to achieve the help and strength she needs to be self-sufficient on her own. Local celebrities who attended included Frankie Moreno, Holly Madison, Claire Sinclair and Zowie Bowie. Photography by Jeff Ragazzo

City

In the

Grand opening The Style Lounge, located on the Las Vegas Strip at the Linq, recently celebrated its grand opening. Showcasing it upscale style, guests enjoyed hors dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres and cocktails. Services one can indulge include hairstyling, manicures and pedicures, make up applications, spray tanning and waxing while sipping the Vanitini or another one of its signature drinks from its full service bar.

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Achievement. Motivation. Growth.

Victoria Joy Avedesian, CLTC, a financial representative of Northwestern Mutual, has qualified for membership in the Million Dollar Roundtable, an international, independent association of nearly 19,000 leading life insurance producers. MDRT is a coveted career milestone that indicates sales and service achievement and is a highly recognized mark of excellence for life underwriters. Avedesian provides expert guidance and innovative solutions for a variety of financial needs and goals. She has also earned the Lives Leader Award, Life Impact Award, and Achievement Award. As owner of Show Ready by Lacy, Lacy DiBongrazio is a professional waxing technician and extensionist. She started in the beauty industry in 2001 and now a master full-body waxing technician. Show Ready by Lacy offers full waxing services for both men and women. In 2013, DiBongrazio added eyelash extensions to her list of services. She is committed to the health and well-being of the natural lashes while applying natural-looking, clean mink or faux mink extensions. DiBongrazio is also an accomplished performer and dancer, most recently as a featured dancer in “Peepshow.” Juliet Lauren Clingan has opened The Pilates Firm, 1,200-square-foot Pilates studio in a southwestern Las Vegas. She also continues to work as a Pilates instructor for the performers in Cirque du Soleil’s “Zumanity” show. Clingan holds a Romana’s Pilates Certification since 2008 which includes over 600 hours of observation and instruction on all Pilates equipment and the mat. In the past, Clingan has been a cheerleader for a National Football League team as well as a dancer in Jubilee on the Las Vegas Strip. 132

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Patti Shock, a top administrator from The International School of Hospitality has won national recognition from the Convention Industry Council, the largest association for meetings, conventions and exhibitions industry organizations in the country. The CIC recently announced its 2014 inductees into the CIC Hall of Leaders. They included TISOH academic consultant Patti Shock as an inductee to the Hall of Leaders. The National Association for Catering and Events nominated her for the honor. Melissa Farrell represented Team USA in the Duathlon World Championships in Pontevedra, Spain. Competing against the best in the world, Farrell completed the run, bike and run course finishing 11th in her age group. The International Triathlon Union holds the world championships annually in a different location. Farrell is a local run coach and personal trainer and plans to qualify in 2015 for her chance to return to the world championships in 2016. Farrell is also the co-founder of the Las Vegas Runners running club. Bank of George has hired Wanda Shumar as the Senior Vice President Regional Manager of the Henderson, NV, office. Shumar joins Bank of George with more than 30 years of banking experience. With her extensive background in the banking industry, Shumar brings vast knowledge of bank operations, commercial and consumer lending, business banking, private banking, wealth management and sales to Bank of George. Shumar has held management positions at numerous banks in the Las Vegas Valley over her career, most recently serving as the Vice President and Relationship Manager at Bank of Nevada.

Forté PR has announced that Allie Mandel has been named assistant account executive and Veronica Kawka has been named assistant account executive. Mandel works with fitness and nutrition accounts including XYIENCE and Essentia Water. Mandel has a Bachelor’s degree in Communications – Public Relations from Sacramento State University. Mandel has experience in an agency setting, having previously worked with dining and hospitality clients in Las Vegas. Kawka works with health and fitness accounts including the Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort, Desert Sky Adventures and Smiles for Survivors Foundation. Kawka earned a Master’s degree in Professional Writing and a Bachelor’s degree in Professional and Creative Writing from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. She is a former nationally ranked tennis athlete.

Armstrong Teasdale partner Tracy A. DiFillippo has been selected to serve on the Explore Knowledge Academy Board of Trustees. In this role, DiFillippo will share responsibility with six other community members govern, maintaining overall control of, and operate the K-10 Las Vegas charter school. DiFillippo has years of experience as a commercial litigator in the areas of construction, medical and dental malpractice, bankruptcy and insurance. After earning her J.D., cum laude, from Gonzaga University School of Law, DiFillippo completed a two- year clerkship with the Honorable Justice Robert R. Rose of the Nevada Supreme Court.

South Point Hotel’s culinary team has received awards including Garde Manger Culinarian Jessica Iannotti as Student Culinarian of the Year from the American Culinary Federation of Las Vegas. In addition to being a full-time culinarian in Garde Manger kitchen, Iannotti is a full-time student at The Culinary Institute of Las Vegas. She is involved in culinary programs such as Chefs for Kids, ACF Junior Board, ACF Nationals, World Food Championships, International Baking Industry and Las Vegas Foodie Fest.

Molly Sheridan, author, ultramarathoner and motivational speaker recently launched her book, “Running Past Midnight: A Woman’s Ultra-Marathon Adventure.” Sheridan is the CEO and founder of Desert Sky Adventures, a race management and training company that hosts running events such as the Summerlin Half Marathon. Sheridan has spoken internationally at venues like the Jeju Island Designing a New Asia Conference in South Korea. Running her first marathon at 48, today the 57 year old has run over 45 ultramarathons.

one7communications announced that Carrie Giverson celebrated her one year anniversary as account director and Natalie Sivertsen has been named junior account executive. As account director, Giverson works with clients including Emeril Lagasse’s restaurants, Aid for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN), Morels Steakhouse & Bistro and Knife in Dallas. As junior account executive, Sivertsen’s responsibilities include media relations, writing press and marketing materials, creating and executing special events and developing long-term communications strategies for clients such as Sprinkles Cupcakes, Double Helix Wine & Restaurant Group, and Juice Farm. She received her degree in communications with an emphasis in public relations earlier this year from Brigham Young University.

The Law Firm of Hutchison & Steffen announced several of its attorneys were named to the 2014 Mountain States Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists. The attorneys were selected using a rigorous, multiphase rating process in which peer nominations and evaluations were combined with third-party research. Patricia Lee makes her first appearance on the Mountain States Super Lawyers list in 2014, after appearing on the Rising Stars list 2012. She is recognized for her work in general litigation.

Additionally, several Hutchison & Steffen attorneys were named to the Mountain States Rising Stars list. To be eligible for inclusion in Rising Stars, a candidate must be either 40 years old or younger or in practice for 10 years or less. The firm’s 2014 Mountain States Rising Stars include Z. Kathryn Branson, Cami M. Perkins and Jessica S. Taylor.

Jessica Sayles, principal of Houldsworth, Russo and Company, was named a Rising Star at the 2014 National Association of Woman Business Owners of Southern Nevada Women of Distinction Awards. Sayles received the award for her commitment to and advocacy for improving the opportunities and advancement of women, leadership and community involvement, especially her development work with the Pacific Islander community in Las Vegas and her mentoring work with the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Southern Nevada. Sayles is a licensed accountant in Nevada. Crystal Kovacs has been named development director for Aid for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN). She has been in the nonprofit for about 12 years and has a passion for bettering the Las Vegas community. Previously, Kovace was the assistant director of resource development for Opportunity Village and event manager for the Las Vegas Great Santa Run.

Melissa Roche

he reality show on HGTV, “Brother vs. Brother” features identical brothers Drew Scott, a real estate expert, and Jonathan Scott, a licensed contractor, and their teams in competition to renovate homes on a budget to increase its value. Melissa Roche, one of the participants on Team Drew, won the ultimate price of $50,000 for the second season in a dramatic finale. As for being part of the show, Roche said, “I was taken aback by how much production goes into making a TV show—all the people involved, all the media, marketing. The show isn’t about who can make the prettiest room, it’s about who can increase the value in the house I had to hold back a lot because I would be thinking on the design side, but at the end of the day, it was about improving the value. I work in teams well, but working in team during a competition causes people to act differently. My strategy on the show was to go in as a team player and a leader, always helping and making sure that the team was successful and that’s not everyone’s end game.” Roche also explained, “You give them the material, and they put it together the best that they can. An hour of filming is about one minute of TV, so it’s very hard to fit in everything. They take the majority of what you are and that shines through. Also, we were the ones doing all of the work. We got limited help from licensed contractors, but we are the ones doing the majority of the work, and it’s exhausting.” Born and raised on a farm in Albert Lea, Minn., Roche has worked in hospitality, model home and interior design. She is the owner of the design business, Parlor 430. FALL 2014 | Lvwomanmagazine.com

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LocalLadies Achievement. Motivation. Growth.

Goodwill of Southern Nevada has announced the addition of Lainie Castle, director of Operational Finance and Gaming Compliance for The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and Roxanna Doyle, vice president of Payment & Check Operations Technology for Citibank to its board of directors. Castle has more than twenty years of casino management experience, including participating in the opening of eleven gaming properties or conversions. After holding various leadership roles at Harrah’s and Venetian/ Palazzo, Castle was part of the opening team for The Cosmopolitan. Castle holds a MBA in Finance from Lindenwood University in Missouri and a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of California-Davis. Doyle has more than fifteen years experience in information technology, operations and project support, including managing financials and developing budgets for various departments. She has been with Citibank since 1987, starting as a data entry operator and advancing to her current position of Vice President. A graduate of Leadership Las Vegas, Doyle is also the financial literacy liaison for Citi, working closely with organizations such as the Las Vegas Rescue Mission and the Women’s Development Center.

Renee Guglielmetti has joined Ivory Star Productions. In her new role Guglielmetti will handle sales, marketing and public relations for the production company which features: Glittering Lights at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, shows Marriage Can Be Murder and Laughternoon starring Adam London at The Showroom at the D Las Vegas and Defending the Caveman at Harrah’s. Previously Guglielmetti worked at Girl Scouts of Southern Nevada, Children’s Heart Foundation of Nevada and volunteered for Southern Nevada Pug Rescue.

Las Vegas: The Game, nightlife experiences and events, announced the addition of creative strategist Sarah Johnson who will be responsible for co-producing events, script writing, talent scouting, copy-editing and building a sustainable company infrastructure. She brings with her experience of writing and performing in the contemporary theory field and a background in performing arts. Originally from Portland, Johnson was founder of a successful marketing company before returning to NYU for graduate studies.

Keep was brought on as the resort’s catering sales manager. In this position, Keep will assist the wedding team with the planning and execution of ceremonies, receptions and more. She originally worked with Planet Hollywood International, Buca di Beppo and Canyon Gate Country Club. Hinkle, the resort’s new sales manager, has an extensive career in the hospitality industry having worked at Hyatt Regency Lake Las Vegas Resort and most recently, Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa. She will handle territory and prospecting for groups of up to 75 rooms per night. During her time at Red Rock, Hinkle effectively sold room blocks, meeting space and food and beverage for groups of 100 rooms or fewer. DiLeo has joined Rampart Casino’s team as a new executive casino host. She has more than 15 years of marketing experience in the gaming industry at the former Aladdin Hotel & Casino, Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, Riviera Hotel & Casino and American Casino & Entertainment Properties. With additional experience as a federal officer for the U.S. Department of Treasury, she’s the only casino host in Las Vegas that has worked for the Internal Revenue Service.

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Crawford

JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort and Rampart Casino has hired three new upper-level personnel Keri Keep, Christa Hinkle and Cindy DiLeo.

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hloe Louise Crawford, born in England, started dancing at the age of five. She moved to Las Vegas in 2012 and became the lead assistant and choreographer for Murray “Celebrity Magician” at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino. Offered numerous contracts to be featured in shows on the Las Vegas Strip, she chose Fantasy at the Luxor Hotel & Casino as her first major show. Crawford dances and showcases her skills performing aerial silks and pole choreography. In 2013, Crawford was in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition, on the cover of Tradeshow Lifestyles and Strip LV Magazine. She has also guest starred on History Channel’s “Top Gear USA,” Hallmark Channel’s Home & Family, “The Marie Show” and “Masters of Illusion.” Crawford is also the spokesperson for Friends for Life Humane Society (a no kill shelter). They are in the process of producing a show to raise money and awareness about them.

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Unrestricted support for UNLV provides unique educational opportunities for our students.

“Command Global manages and grows premium brands in the healthy lifestyle space, and we believe it’s important to feel good about yourself and feel good about how you spend your hard-earned money. We aim to help people lead healthier, happier lives and consider this mission Mattwe Griffith, general manager of Smith & Wollenskyin working with all our with Executive Chef Luis Flores. valued stakeholders. Las Vegas is Sous our home and we are committed to investing in UNLV- an investment that directly impacts our community’s culture and economy.” Michael Gardineer ’05, MBA ’09, CEO Bryan O’Connell ’01, MBA ’09, CFO Command Global

These Academic Corporate Council members support UNLV through Annual Fund gifts of $5000 or more. Above Marketing Group Anthem Periodontics & Dental Implants Arnold Palmer Golf Management BACKBAR USA Bank of America Nevada Barrick Goldstrike Mines, Inc. BNY Mellon Wealth Management Boyd Gaming Cashman Equipment CB Richard Ellis CenturyLink Citibank Nevada Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf Command Global CORE Construction The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas Cox Communications Credit One Bank Desert Cab Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar Fogo de Chão Las Vegas

Four Queens Hotel & Casino G.C. Wallace, Inc. Global Gaming Business Magazine Greater Las Vegas Association of Realtors Greenspun Media Group Howard Hughes Corporation The HRL Group, LLC Jamba Juice The Korte Company Las Vegas Events Las Vegas Woman Magazine Manpower of Southern Nevada Martin-Harris Construction Miracle Mile Shops National Security Technologies, LLC Nevada Beverage Company Nevada State Bank Northwestern Mutual Las Vegas, Inc. NV Energy Palm Mortuary and Cemetery The Platinum Hotel & Spa

For more information, please contact the Annual Giving team at 702-895-2838 or visit us at2014 unlv.edu/foundation 136 lvwomanmagazine.com | FALL

Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers Real Water Renu Oil of America, Inc. Republic Services of Southern Nevada Sam’s Club Senteo SH Architecture Smith & Wollensky Southern Wine & Spirits of Nevada Southwest Airlines Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging Centers Thomas & Mack Center Thomas & Mack Company USAA Savings Bank The Vista Group Wells Fargo Bank Wells Fargo Foundation Western States Contracting Wirtz Beverage Nevada Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining Group

Exploring essential oils for good health EDUCATE

ENTERTAIN

INSPIRE

By Taylor Makakoa

Companies selling essential oils have a rivalry that could be compared to France and Italy if you watch international soccer, Kelly Osbourne and Christina Aguilera if you enjoy gossip or Armani and Dolce and Gabbana if you have a passion for men’s quilted pants.

prescription medication and the weakening of antibiotics, many people are turning to homeopathy for their ailments. With oils you get a good combination: safe remedies and beauty benefits. For example sesame oil is often used in hair and skin treatments, tea tree oil is used in hair and nail treatments and certain oils are even touted to slow aging and the progression of cancer. And if you are visiting our wonderful city that never sleeps, you might benefit from an introduction to clove oil, which helps to alleviate hangovers.

The key is to do your research and find the company that’s best for you. Once you are satisfied with your research and you settle in on a particular company, you will find that there is an essential oil for everything. There are antimicrobial and antibacterial essential oils, not to mention ones that can alleviate colds and flus, migraines, your pet’s anxiety and everything in between. And if you are scared to ingest them, you can still enjoy the benefits through diffusion or topical application.

model and Taylor Makakoa is Fator: The rry Te performer in ent live at nm tai ter En of Voice The Mirage.

Of course as with any product there are dangers of misuse and overuse, so the importance of research cannot be overstated; likewise do not undervalue the benefits of taking control of our own, our pet’s or our family’s health. So the next time one of your friends invites you to an essential oil party, or when they ask you to smell their hair, you might want to consider saying yes.

The reason that I’m such an advocate is that as we become more aware of the dangers of

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EDUCATE

ENTERTAIN

INSPIRE

MARS

vs. Venus

It’s Pure Genius

imply stated, a genius is a person who takes complexity and simplifies it, for example converting complex calculus equations into simple arithmetic. Everywhere in the Universe beyond all of us and throughout Creation there is evidence of the existence of Pure Genius being expressed as Creative Intelligence. Creative Intelligence combines the Creative Force with the Intelligence force that gives direction to change. Everywhere throughout life and the cosmos, in strict accordance with the rules governing its existence is the idea of the Pure Genius behind all ideas. Only Pure Genius could make sexual experience so pleasurable. Only Pure Genius could make food taste so delicious. Only Pure Genius would make love or music even possible. Only Pure Genius could create such magnificent beauty. Only Pure Genius would make sure that everything has its perfect opposite. For example, there is night and day, male and female, left wing and right wing politics, in and out, hot and cold and positive and negative. Only Pure Genius would come up with the idea of the arts and sciences and the feminine and

By Rev. Thabiti

masculine principles. The Masculine cannot advance into it its full potential without her and the Feminine cannot advance into her full potential without him. Pure Genius. Only Pure Genius would come up with the idea of comedy so that we can laugh and be as joyful as we want to be. Only Pure Genius would make sure that we always have unlimited things to create, do and enjoy. Only Pure Genius would come up with wind and rain to help us keep the place clean down here. Only Pure Genius would allow the movement of the breath over vocal chords, trombones, saxophones, trumpets and horns in a way causing us to hear songs and sounds. Pure Genius also sees to it that nothing happens until all of the conditions are met that are required for it to happen. Nothing happens until something moves. The only ones who never get it are the ones who have decided to convince themselves otherwise. We must convince ourselves that we don’t have money, otherwise we are wealthy. We must convince ourselves that we don’t have everything, otherwise we do.

We must first convince ourselves that we are not enlightened, or else we are. However, by initially convincing ourselves that we are not enlightened is what sparks our quest to becoming enlightened. When we eventually reach that “ah ha” moment of becoming enlightened; search is suddenly over. We are no longer prisoners being shackled by erroneous beliefs or seeming circumstances. This is when we have reached that heavenly perception called All is Well and Life is Good all of the time. We have searched high and low with telescopes and microscopes in a never ending search trying to find the invisible essence of the Pure Genius. We’ve tried to find it through reading books, attending church, taking classes, workshops, seminars, webinars and retreats. Eventually some of us will come to discover that what we are searching for, we already have it and we have had it the entire time. Only Pure Genius would secretly hide itself and the most sought after truths within each and every one of us because it knew that in our search to find it, the last place we will ever think to look is within our own self. Happiest Blessings

Rev. Thabiti is internationally known as the world’s most accurate personal forecast expert. His Time-Map System at ThePower.org provides illuminated directional guidance to those who want help out of dark situations and circumstances. Contact him directly at CEO@ThePower.com.

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EDUCATE

ENTERTAIN

INSPIRE

On a Serious Note

Let’s discuss …. Death and dying

By DEBBIE HALL

ne of the most uncomfortable conversations one can discuss with a loved one is about death and their wishes, whether it is about end of life care or what to do after their passing. People have trouble bringing up the subject, don’t want to talk about it or just ignore it. In the 1960s, Robert Redford appeared in an episode of “The Twilight Zone” as the angel of death. The woman he was escorting after her passing had remained a hermit to avoid death and was shocked he had found her. This series might be 50 years old but dramatized a reality that is just as true today. Everyone will eventually die. Recently, Nathan Adelson Hospice featured “Elevating and Celebrating The Conversation” with the suggestion that a meal or get together is planned with family and loved ones focusing on death and dying in a relaxed environment. The keynote speaker, Brian Murphy, M.D., addressed the importance of having these conversations and ways to initiate these discussions with family and friends. Carole Fisher, president and CEO of Nathan Adelson Hospice, was introduced to the idea of Death at Dinner conversation and is working on incorporating that concept at Nathan Adelson. “It is such a hard discussion to have since it is dealing with the unknown. We made it our mission to help to begin conversations. I participated

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in Death at Dinner to walk the talk. I happen to be on vacation with 17 of us at the beach and we had that conversation. It was great, so helpful and we all learned things about each other.”

fond memories of my grandmother who was a fabulous woman. Then we discussed my husband’s mother, her health challenges and shared humorous stories. It is a nice way to launch into the conversation.”

“There is no greater gift of love than to have your desires recorded for your family in advance. ”

According to Fisher, Nathan Adelson, a leader in end of life care, has a responsibility to help people with advanced care planning. With discussions about death, affairs can be put in order while a person is healthy. Nathan Adelson is preparing to launch a program, Deciding Tomorrow … Today. The program will offer helpful hints and step by step instructions making it unique to Southern Nevada.

Fisher explained that the unexpected should be discussed. “For instance, what if you are on life support at age 50 versus age 90? You may have different opinions on what you want done at various ages. Think about different scenarios, what has happened to other people and talk about it.” Fisher encourages creating a casual setting since the conversation is very difficult and the setting might make it easier. A good way to begin is to talk about those who have already passed. “We spoke about my grandmother and how she died and things we didn’t expect. My mother was there and it was her mother who had passed. We were able to talk through some of these scenarios and share

Venetta Pry has worked as a family service counselor for Palm Mortuary for 19 years and has counseled people during their most emotional time when they have lost someone and are not certain what their loved one wanted or knew other vital details. Palm Mortuary offers a personal planning guide that is a comprehensive journal that allows people to document all of their final wishes. According to Pry, “There is no greater gift of love than to have your desires recorded for your family in advance. Death happens to all of us and, with advanced planning, your family will be prepared for your passing and able to make arrangements even on the darkest day.”

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New Vista is a non-profit organization that specializes in helping adults and youth with intellectual challenges. We provide an array of programs to individuals and their loved ones that create equal opportunities and support so that they may experience life to the fullest.

The objective of all our programs is to build self-sufficiency by teaching life-skills that promote independence, confidence and self-advocacy. New Vista focuses on providing individuals with the choice of how they will experience their life.

Support New Vista by attending these great events:

N E W

V I S T A

E V E N T

A N E W V I S TA E V E N T

Wine Walks Saturday, September 6th • Village at Lake Las Vegas Saturday, September 20th • Town Square 142

Celebrity Golf Tournament Spanish Trails Golf Course September 29th

Adam & Eve’s Charity Love Auction Coming to a Las Vegas venue in October!

For tickets and information visit one of these sites. NewVistaNV.org, WineWalkLV.com

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ENTERTAIN

INSPIRE

t a e r The G

QUESTIONS with

Wayde

King

Star of Animal Planet’s “TANKED”

2 3

Walk us through a typical day in your shoes. I’m usually up pretty early, 5 a.m., and coffee is a necessity before I head out to the shop unless I’m traveling for filming, then coffee is an all-day event. First thing I tackle are my emails and any fires that need to be put out. Next, I do all my banking which then leads me check the status of our sales: who’s selling what, what’s being built, what’s shipping out. I do a lengthy walk around in our fabrication warehouse to see exactly where we’re at with all our projects. I’ll stop in our retail department and check out where we’re at with our merchandise and what needs to be ordered. Once I finally make it back to my desk, then the revolving door starts. There’s really hardly a time when I’m in my office alone until around 7 p.m. At that time, I put all the information of that day in its place, walk out the door around 8:30 p.m., enjoy my drive home to eat dinner with my wife Heather and my two little girls, Taylor & Morgan. It’s pretty hectic, but I wouldn’t give it up for the world!

Have you ever purchased any As Seen on TV items? Yes, an expandable garden hose.

If you could destroy a grade-school photo of yourself, what year would it be and why? Back in the 9th grade, a couple of days before our school pictures were to be taken; my two buddies and I thought it would be a great idea to shave our heads. I was the first one up and I did it. My two buddies, on the other hand, chickened out and left me there with a bald head. Let’s just say those school pictures did not turn out well.

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4 5 6 7 8

While grocery shopping, what is your stick-in-the-cartwhen-no-one-is-looking item? Ice cream, any kind and whole milk.

If we were to look through your iPod or iPhone, what is on your hit list or playlist or favorite app? Candy Crush and Classic Rock

Do you ever play “tourist” in Vegas? If so, what is your favorite thing to do? Occasionally, but I don’t usually head out to the strip, I don’t drink or gamble, instead I visit the Hoover Dam, Mt. Charleston, any place outdoors.

What do you do to unwind and relax? Besides driving fast cars, I love to scuba dive or fish when the opportunity pops up. I’m also a neat freak, so cleaning and organizing is something I actually do to unwind and relax.

Does anyone ever mistake you for someone else? Every day, all day, Kevin James from the “Kings of Queens.” Featured on Animal Planet, the reality television series, TANKED, follows the adventures of two brothers-in-law, business partners, best friends and constant rivals Wayde King and Brett Raymer of Acrylic Tank Manufacturing as they run the largest aquarium manufacturing company in the nation and creates some of the most outrageous, larger-than-life and one-of-a-kind tanks for some of the most striking fish and clients around. The Show airs 10 p.m. on Friday on Animal Planet. For more information, visit acrylicaquariums.com.

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