OF GIVING BACK Meet the Valley’s most charitable citizens
THE BENTO BOX QUEEN
DISCOVER BALLA ITALIAN SOUL AT THE ALL-NEW SAHARA LAS VEGAS
Crafted by James Beard Award-winning chef Shawn McClain, Balla presents fresh and authentic coastal Italian cuisine. Our seasonal menu features handmade pastas, fire-roasted meats and fish, locally sourced vegetables, curated Italian wines, and an exceptional family-style tasting menu.
UNIQUELY BALLA
Discover what sets us apart with a menu that harmonizes with each season. Under Executive Chef Michael Vargas, Balla’s dishes are bright and light, capturing the soul of Southern Italy with a beachy twist.
SIGNATURE DISHES
Enjoy our timeless favorites, including classic meatballs, chicken parm, casarecce, and sea bream. Always available, these dishes showcase the passion and artistry that define Balla. Try them and see why they’re molto popolare.
EMBRACE THE SEASON
As the chill sets in, we invite you to indulge with our new Fall/Winter menu, where each dish offers comfort and elegance. Begin with the Crispy Brussels Sprouts, a combination of pear, squash, pomegranate, and savory pancetta. Next up is the Castelrosso Cheese Agnolotti, a rich pasta accented by hazelnuts, guanciale, endive, and a drizzle of aged balsamic.
DAZZLING DESSERTS
Unwind with an after-dinner limoncello and indulge in Balla’s house-made desserts. Experience the lightness of Panna Cotta, the decadence of our Dark Chocolate Tart, the charm of Tiramisu, or classic Italian cookies. Our desserts invite you to enjoy life’s simple pleasures.
BALLA BAR
Step into our inviting ambiance for handcrafted cocktails. Sip on a classic Aperol Spritz or indulge in one of our seasonal favorites – the “Coup de Soleil” and “Beets by Balla.” Enjoy two daily happy hours from 5-6pm and 9-10pm.
AMORE FOR LOCALS
Las Vegas locals enjoy 50% off steaks at Balla every Tuesday, including our 20-ounce ribeye with roasted garlic and rosemary, and our 16-ounce New York strip. Wednesdays, enjoy 50% off all wine bottles. These special offers are open to locals and industry pros.
ACCOLADES
Balla Italian Soul is a proud recipient of Wine Spectator’s “Award of Excellence” and OpenTable’s “Diners’ Choice” 2024. Recognized by Eater Las Vegas as the “Best New On-Strip Restaurant” and “Where to Find the Best Italian Food in Las Vegas,” and honored by Las Vegas Weekly as the “Best New Italian Restaurant.”
QUICK TRIP FROM SUMMERLIN
Summerlin residents, visiting us is easy. With convenient freeway access—just exit the I-15 at Sahara Ave.—you’ll find free parking and free valet waiting for you. We look forward to seeing you soon!
BALLA ITALIAN SOUL
702.761.7619
ballaguestrelations@saharalasvegas.com saharalasvegas.com
Contents
Fall has finally arrived in Las Vegas. In addition to putting away the summer clothes and bringing out the cozy coats and sweaters, November means it is time to open our hearts and wallets for the giving season.
This year, the official Giving Tuesday falls on December 3. To help you prepare for that all-important day, please look at our feature this month, The Guardian of Giving Back, which features six philanthropies and philanthropists who are fundraising, volunteering and creating these critical programs.
Three young philanthropists back Bright Young Girl. They are all still in high school, and by creating a charity on their resumes before they even get to college, I know they will make a major impact on our community. Chet Buchanan will once again host his 12-day Toy Drive at NV Energy. The radio maverick, host and emcee lives on scaffolding in the parking lots—in the cold and elements—for a dozen days gathering bikes, cash and gift cards for HELP of Southern Nevada. I always look forward to his live reports and enthusiasm, even when the cold gets old.
We all love our animals. For several years, I have admired Mayte’s Rescue and her work to help the sweetest and best among us, our animals who need advocates and love. Plus, look at the cutest Pomeranian, who became the star of our shoot with Mayte.
These are just a few of the many worthy causes in Southern Nevada, so open those wallets, give your time and extend your hearts to all this season.
On our cover, we have another one of my favorites, Sulhee Jessica Woo—the Bento Box Queen. I have known Jessica since she was a makeup artist and was thrilled to find out she hit it big in the social media game with her beautiful and heartfelt Bento Boxes designed for her daughters’s lunches. Even if you don’t have kids, grab a copy of her book “Let’s Make Some Lunch” this holiday season. Her ideas are incredibly inspirational and fun to execute. She also has her own Bento Box product collaboration and much more. We are honored to have her as our November cover star, with a story written by Melissa Gill.
If you want original Vegas entertainment, check out Confessions of a Showgirl from Maren Wade at The Smith Center on November 6. This hilarious original show is not to be missed, based on her experiences around town and her popular column in Las Vegas Weekly.
See you around Town this month, Melinda Sheckells Editor @melindasheckells
Publisher Bill Richman
Vice President of Operations
Stacey Richman
Editor Melinda Sheckells
Contributing Editor Teresa Traverse
Creative Director
Lalo Reyes
Contributing Writers
Alison Bailin Batz, Marisa Finetti, Melissa Gill, Jason R. Latham, Afi Maita, Al Mancini, Jim Prueter, Jen Smith, Samantha Gemini Stevens, Colleen Vosicky
Contributing Photographers Louiie Victa
Advertising Coordinator Stacey Richman stacey@richmanmediagroup.com
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Pulse
UP CLOSE / BEAT / HIS STYLE / HER STYLE / NOTICED
BY MELISSA
BEHIND THE CURTAIN
Maren Wade reimagines what it means to be a modern-day Las Vegas showgirl
Maren Wade isn’t the typical showgirl. She makes light of not being 5’10” or a leggy glamazon, but she has achieved great success as a Las Vegas entertainer and beyond. The Los Angeles native is a singer, TV host and columnist who’s appeared on “America’s Got Talent” and toured nationally with the Radio City
Rockettes. She’s also performed in “50 Shades! The Parody,” “Pin-Up” and “Fantasy.”
On November 6, for one night only, her autobiographical work, “Confessions of a Showgirl,” graces Myron’s showroom in The Smith Center. Wade’s performance offers an intimate look
into the life of a modern showgirl, sharing both hilarious and heartfelt moments in the spotlight and behind the scenes. She finds herself in various challenging situations, requiring her to adapt on the fly, resulting in wildly entertaining experiences.
“I love Vegas. It’s the land of opportunity, and I’ve been blessed to do many things here that I’m completely unqualified to do,” she tells The Town over the phone. “There’s a wonderful entertainment community in Las Vegas who champion each other, and it’s amazing to be a part of it.”
When she wrote her column for Las Vegas Weekly, she penned plenty of amusing anecdotes to choose from for her production. Since moving her column from the page to the stage, she’s also performed “Confessions of a Showgirl” in New York and New Jersey. She handpicked each act in “Confessions of a Showgirl,” delivering a multifaceted perspective of her escapades on and off stage. Wade truly shines in the spotlight, embodying her creative vision during her performance.
“It’s special because very rarely, as a performer, is there a time when I look forward to every moment of the show because it represents something defining in my life,” she says.
Moreover, Wade compiled all her favorite stories from the magazine into an eponymous coffee table book, including her most popular showgirl adventures, such as “The Truth About the Girl Inside The Cake” and “Impersonating an Impersonator.” Her vibrant humor shines throughout but her show isn’t just a string of shenanigans. It’s got heart.
“You start with an expectation of what you think the show will be like. This world of a Las Vegas showgirl, a showgirl who’s self-proclaimed with many funny, awkward moments and stories along the way. Then, as the performance goes on, it evolves into a deeper message. They get to laugh, cry and feel mortified with me. It’s a real human experience,” she says.
Whether you’re a fan of the column or have previously seen “Confessions of a Showgirl,” this iteration is different. Wade sprinkles in a few surprises, but she won’t reveal them. The production evolves with every performance, constantly refining itself.
A compelling show doesn’t magically assemble overnight. It takes a talented and dedicated team of professionals to create a captivating production, and this one is no exception. Keith Thompson, the musical director of “Confessions of a Showgirl,” has significantly inspired Wade. Apart from their collaboration, he established the nonprofit organization, “The Composers Showcase,” a 90-minute spectacle featuring composers and songwriters of all levels who share their work and receive feedback.
“My musical director, Keith Thompson, is someone that I look up to because not only is he insanely talented with an epic repertoire as the musical director for “Jersey Boys,” “Hairspray,” and “We Will Rock You,” but he also founded The Composers Showcase,” she says. “It’s been an amazing contribution to our town and something that performers aspire to be a part of every month.”
Wade appears in more than just “Confessions of a Showgirl.” On Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, she portrays the cheeky headmistress of a charm school in “Lady Like – A Retro Modern Burlesque Show” at 24 Oxford, situated within Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. Inspired by the 1950s and ‘60s era, the dazzling burlesque revue blends elements of comedy, striptease and choreography. She contributed to shaping the character and is also the show’s associate producer.
“It’s a female revue that women love because it speaks to and celebrates women. Virgin is incredibly supportive of us. The cast is amazing, and the dancing in this show is unreal. These girls work so hard and they’re so talented,” she says.
While working in show business has glamorous aspects, it also comes with significant scrutiny. Sometimes, a rejection has nothing to do with the performer’s skills or talents but something innate and specific, such as the performer having the correct shoe size or hair color. According to Wade, the key to thriving in the entertainment industry lies in honing your unique gift—something inherently yours that cannot be taken away.
“I found empowerment through what I bring to the table and not trying to be what I think others want me to be,” Wade says. confessionsofashowgirl.com
SHINING BRIGHT
Longtime dance studio collaborators discuss expansion
BY JEN SMITH / PHOTO BY LOUIIE VICTA
Flying high is second nature at Shine Alternative Fitness.
Russ Petroni and Dima “Shine” Bulkin are the creative duo behind Shine, a premier aerial arts studio in Spring Valley. The studio attracts a high-caliber roster of teachers and students, from current and former Cirque du Soleil performers to seasoned dance professionals.
Shine opened on February 29, 2012, with the name honoring Shine’s stage name. As business partners, they met on the set of Zumanity when Petroni was working as an assistant company manager and Shine was performing. Several workplace conversations led to an idea: create a space geared toward everyone.
“Since I was 15 years old, I wanted to have some kind of business,” Shine says. He says that he relied on Petroni’s experience to jump-start the studio.
“I had been director of lifestyle projects, so I acted more as a consultant on his end,” Petroni says.
Current classes include pole, aerial silks and Lyra; aerial conditioning and flexibility classes; specialty classes like handstands and tumbling; and physical fitness classes like hula hoop and boxing. The space houses a sprung floor for additional styles of dance.
Petroni and Shine will soon be expanding the studio’s services. Workshops on pole, silks, Lyra and hand balancing are all on the horizon, and Petroni hopes the studio will offer each twice a year. They will continue to maximize the studio’s space to offer the community unique opportunities to build their clientele, master their craft or network with other industry greats.
“When we designed [the studio], we thought, ‘What could this be? What do we need?’” Petroni says. “We’re pushing that side of it because the space can be transformed into anything [our clients] want it to be.”
“So come and use it,” Shine says of teachers and students alike. “Trust me; it’s going to be much cheaper, easier and safer for you to start this way.” shinealternativefitness.com
IN FULL BLOOM
Miss Daisy’s floral arrangements are more than just flowers; they are works of art
BY MELISSA GILL /
When Jessica Marshall started her floral business, Miss Daisy in 2014, she stored her flower arrangements in an old convenience store drink cooler.
This worked until she accidentally froze hydrangeas because the cooler was meant for dairy products, not flowers. Subsequently, with a mix of experience, expertise, and a bit of trial and error, she’s proven that comebacks are always stronger than setbacks, as Miss Daisy marks its 10th anniversary this year.
Floral arrangements from her shop have graced the homes and hotel suites of Lady Gaga, Celine Dion and Elton John, to name drop a few.
Her clients range from local restaurants to corporate giants. As a second-generation Las Vegas native from a business-savvy family, she’s dreamed of creating her own enterprise since childhood.
“My great-grandmother opened the first gift shop at Temple Beth Shalom. In the ’50s, she sold second-hand cashmere sweaters to the showgirls,” Marshal says. “My family’s been in business for over 50 years in Las Vegas, and I’ve always admired their entrepreneurship and forward thinking.”
At first glance, one may assume that running a flower shop is a dreamy job, but it’s not all blossoms and beauty. Floral designs require a great deal of mechanics and compositional knowledge.
“People say, ‘Oh, you have a flower shop, how cute!’ and it makes my eye twitch. They don’t see the behind-the-scenes work: hauling heavy buckets, working in cold warehouses, dunking hands in gunky water and spending hours prepping flowers,” Marshall says.
Marshall wasn’t always a florist, but her creative roots run deep. She earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona before moving to New York to become a fashion buyer and merchandise manager. Motivated by her love for flowers, she shifted to floral design, studying at the New York Flower School before opening her shop and 10,000 square-foot warehouse.
Initially, she envisioned Miss Daisy as a subscription-based flower delivery service, but it grew to include events, weddings, daily deliveries and convention plant rentals.
“From my shop director to my delivery drivers, everyone is invested in making our clients happy. Working with flowers evokes a creative essence that we capture and share with our customers. I think that’s special.” missdaisyflowers.com
WELL-SUITED FOR SUCCESS
Tommie
Battaglia talks suits and men’s fashion
BY JEN SMITH / PHOTO BY LOUIIE VICTA
Tommie Battaglia moved to Las Vegas in 2007 from Long Island, New York, to pursue a career in hospitality. After seeing an incredible demand for custom suits, he started Gaetano Fashion.
“I knew how a perfectly tailored suit could increase someone’s confidence and wanted to bring that to Vegas in a more accessible and approachable way,” he says.
Battaglia’s client roster reaches the A-list, from designing a statement baby pink jacket with blue lapels and dragon print pants for Steve Aoki to styling major sports figures from the Vegas Golden Knights and Las Vegas Raiders.
His style is “bold and flashy, “ consisting of bright, vibrant colors and checkered suits. A bespoke fit might include high-water pants with a heavy tapper, double bunk strap shoes or loafers and a slim-fit shirt with a mandarin collar and monogram.
It’s not just about looks. In 2019, Battaglia joined St. Jude senior advisor, Erica Thompson, and marketer and entrepreneur Brian Kip to start Suit Up for St. Jude, an ambassadorship program benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
“Each influential ambassador was responsible for promoting the event, wearing their best suit and raising as much money as possible for the charity,” Battaglia explains.
“To this day, it is incredibly successful and a great way to tie community in with fashion.”
Describe the qualities of a perfect suit. A perfect suit has a tailored fit, is made with high-quality fabric and has attention to detail when it comes to stitching, a notched peaked or shawl lapel and always a personal touch like a monogram or custom lining.
What’s the most underrated accessory?
A brioche or lapel pin.
What should men wear on a night out in Las Vegas?
Men should wear what makes them comfortable. A lightweight sports jacket with high-water pants, a no-show sock, and a loafer with a V- or scoop-neck t-shirt is always a crowd-pleaser.
THE GIFT OF THRIFT
Devon Anderson shares her secrets to scoring thrifty hits
BY JEN SMITH / PHOTO BY LOUIIE VICTA
Devon Anderson is always on the hunt for great pieces. “There is nothing like putting on a thrifted piece that feels like it was made for you,” she says.
A fan of thrifting since she was young, Anderson started Catch My Thrift, an online thrift shop and custom style box curation service, to create an approachable platform for curious shoppers. “I realize that some people are deterred from [thrifting] because of how overwhelmed they might feel while shopping,” she says. “I wanted to provide an elevated thrifting experience by adding timeless pieces that align with today’s current trends and offering a selection of quality goods.”
For Catch My Thrift, she seeks out Calvin Klein, DKNY, Anne Klein, Ralph Lauren and Liz Claiborne “because of their quality and timelessness” and often curates many of the same brands for her wardrobe. Anderson finds those pieces across the Valley at garage sales, thrift stores like Goodwill and local spots like Castaways.
Find her current collections with Market in the Alley and Makers Hive Market, at UnCommons and The Village at Centennial Springs, along with her very own rack at a brand-new store opening next to the Main Street Peddlers Antique Mall.
What do you wear on an everyday basis? I’ve started wearing a few pieces of precious stone jewelry to protect my energy while thrifting. You can never go wrong with a great-fitting pair of jeans and a classic tee.
What’s your favorite thrifted piece? My first luxury thrifted piece was a navy Christian Dior blazer, which I love. Finding something like that is such a special moment.
What are some thrifting hacks everyone should know? Get your measurements beforehand and bring a soft measuring tape in case you can’t try things on. When you’re done shopping, pull over to the side of the aisle and inspect your pieces thoroughly for any flaws before you get to the register.
BY
BY MELISSA GILL
Mompreneur Sulhee Jessica Woo’s premier cookbook illustrates the art of crafting delightful bento boxes
Sulhee Jessica Woo—the Bento Box Queen—joins me at The Gabi Coffee & Bakery on a sunny afternoon. She’s wearing a long-sleeve top embroidered with “Have a Nice Day!” and stylish black shorts. Sitting on a leather sofa with her legs folded, the mother of three sips on an iced vanilla chai with oat milk. Woo’s biggest motivation comes from her adorable daughters, Olive, Maxine and Adeline. Her visually stunning lunches—which started out as a way to encourage her kids to try new foods—have since become an internet phenomenon.
The eclectic Korean coffeehouse’s atmosphere has a relaxed allure with jazzy music and ambient chatter. Our conversation revolves around her debut recipe book, flourishing social media career and meaningful community connections.
“Let’s Make Some Lunch: Recipes Made with Love for Everyone” by Woo is a new cookbook featuring over 150 recipes for all experience levels. From breakfast-forlunch ideas like Apple Pie Overnight Oats to dinner “leftovers” recipes like Hearty Homestyle Chili, her vibrant recipe book encompasses an array of meal possibilities. Each of the 60 lunch box ideas has two to three recipes that may be combined to create infinite lunches. She laughs as she refers to the book as her “fourth child.”
“I wanted to create it a while ago, but I stopped because my mom died. I was really depressed,” she says. “It was a lot of work and love. Everyone who was physically a part of making the book, my editor, my graphic designer, and everyone on the photo shoot were all women. I felt very lucky to have had all these cool, badass women helping me.”
Woo rose to fame on TikTok in January 2020 when she shared videos preparing her children’s imaginative bento box lunches, gleefully announcing, “Let’s make some lunch for my kids!” Surpassing over 7 million followers, her diverse content range—including lunch tutorials, family adventures and AAPI activism—captivates audiences. Before her social media stardom, she earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and media at UNLV and worked several different jobs, such as a cocktail server, bartender and makeup artist.
“I’ve always been a busy person,” she says. “I love working and I like learning new things. I feel lost when my girls aren’t with me. I obviously get to work from home mostly, but I do have to travel a lot.”
Over a decade ago, Woo joined a mother-focused Facebook group. The virtual community began as a forum for discussing children’s clothes, but it quickly evolved into a network of friends who grew close by sharing their parenting experiences. She met a few of them in person for the first time this year.
“We shared a lot about ourselves, like going through motherhood, and not just
about clothes, but what we went through. They knew all about my divorce, my mom’s passing and writing this cookbook. During my book tour, a few of them got to come out and see me, which was one of the coolest things. It was very emotional. Being a mom is hard,” she says.
Woo has a significant influence on social media and in her hometown of Las Vegas. Philip Tzeng, recognized as LasVegasFill on social media, is a popular
food content creator and podcaster who admires her work. Tzeng describes her latest cookbook as a wonderful collection with a personal touch that sets it apart.
“While I’ve never directly worked with Jessica on any projects—primarily because I’m a terrible cook—I’ve been a big fan from afar. Jessica is one of the most down-toearth and creative people I know,” Tzeng shares with The Town. “She’s full of positive energy and is more genuine than 99.9
percent of the creators out there. Her presence comes across so well, even through the phone, which is how she’s built a massive following that’s invested in where she goes and what she does.”
In 2001, when Woo was a Las Vegas High School freshman, she took Shannon Sheldon’s Fashion Merchandising course. According to Sheldon, Woo demonstrated impeccable artistry, marked by a precision for detail. After teaching for 20 years,
Sheldon now serves as the community partnership coordinator at East Career & Technical Academy, where Woo recently spoke to the school’s marketing, culinary and journalism classes. Moreover, Sheldon tailored the vintage apron Woo wears on the book cover.
“It felt good to be hired by a former student who made it big. Jessica was recognized as a good person, not just a fantastic student. She was friendly to everyone
and always had a smile on her face,” Sheldon says.
Woo collaborated with the award-winning children’s meals company Little Spoon to promote her book. Through their partnership, she co-created her first bento box bundle, launched during the back-to-school season. The limited edition bento box includes a three-compartment container, a snack box, and an avocado or heart-shaped note pack.
“The Little Spoon team was amazing because they understood my brand and what I liked. Working with them was a dream. They took into consideration my tattoos, which were a big inspiration. The design was based on this,” she says, revealing a collection of small, colorful fruits, hearts, and stars tattooed across her hand. “Because people know me for my hands. It’s super cute and matches my cookbook, too.”
This may be Woo’s first cookbook, but it’s only the beginning. She’s enthusiastic about creating more recipe collections. Woo is a visionary, perpetually imagining fresh ways to expand her enterprise.
“I have so many ideas that I don’t know what to do with them. I want to do a fun one with all the holidays and themed bento box lunches,” Woo says. “The next step is getting more creative and paying attention to details. I also want to write children’s books.”
Naturally, family has remained a fundamental pillar in her life. From a young age, she knew she wanted to be a mom and pursue a fulfilling, creative career. Her late mother’s homemade meals played a pivotal role in shaping her life. She aspires to make the same positive impact through her culinary creations, weaving family values and cultural traditions into her dynamic lifestyle.
“My mom’s love language was acts of service. As a child, I loved eating. It brought me so much joy. I do things for people like my mom did, and she was so detail-oriented, like when she would give me fruit there would be no bruises,” she explains. “That is a big part of what I want to share with the world: taking the extra time to pick the best things for someone or cook for them. She wasn’t the perfect mom growing up, but she definitely showed me how much I was loved.”
BY JASON R. LATHAM / PHOTOS BY LOUIIE VICTA
LAS VEGAS IS KNOWN FOR ITS BIG HEART AND DEEP POCKETS. HERE ARE SOME CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS TO CONSIDER GIVING A LITTLE EXTRA TO THIS SEASON
Lights. Camera phones. Implosions. Las Vegas tops the list for every form of entertainment and distraction but beneath the glitz is a community of people solidly committed to making a difference. For this month’s Giving Issue, we’re turning the spotlight toward the philanthropists and charitable leaders who go above and beyond—asking for nothing in return—while helping to build a stronger, more caring and more connected Las Vegas.
Torrey Russell
Broadway In the H.O.O.D.
It’s not easy to catch Torrey Russell, even for a phone interview, as the Broadway In the H.O.O.D. founder constantly moves.
Today, he’s on his way to class, where Broadway’s cast and crew are prepping for the organization’s 2025 slate of performances: a “reimagined” version of Charlotte’s Web for elementary schools, a “straight play about how youth need to interact with law enforcement” dubbed American Son and a third production that Russell is keeping under wraps, for now.
“The objective, in the coming year, is to have 100,000 young people in the Clark County School District be able to see a show that’s free and open to them,” Russell says.
When Russell launched Broadway In the H.O.O.D. in 2009, he wanted to create a space for disadvantaged kids to celebrate live theater. He didn’t realize it would turn into a life-saving venture.
“In the middle of the night, I’ll go to our Facebook page and read messages, and I’m taken aback by people that were with us at the beginning who say, ‘My life was changed forever,’ and they’re not exaggerating,” he says. “The theater saved my life in that same way.”
Russell is focused on growth as 2024 winds down. Broadway In the H.O.O.D. will complete a successful year of fundraising, with a recent Smith Center event raising $50,000 for the organization’s ultimate goal: the Legacy Theatre.
“It will be the home of Broadway and Las Vegas’ official community theater,” Russell says of the project, announced in 2023 and on track to open in 2025. “The number one thing is that we will keep our focus on young people’s academic success.
“We’ve made an indelible mark on the community and will keep moving forward.”
Kids who participate in the organization’s shows—Russell counts about 50 taking part in nightly rehearsals and production meetings— come from every corner of Southern Nevada. They face challenges ranging from low self-esteem and absent parents to a lack of food and transportation.
That, Russell says, drives home the point that underserved and at-risk youth don’t just reside in low-income neighborhoods.
“We have, for example, a young lady who’s a straight-A student, but her mom won’t bring her [to rehearsals],” he says. “If someone donated a bus or van, we could help even more of these kids.
“If their family doesn’t have lights on, we’ll find a way to get lights on. If they need food, we’ll find food. We’re talking about everyday issues; all we do is help them tackle their problems, move past them, and grow.”
Donate: broadwayinthehood.org
Mayte Garcia
Mayte’s Rescue
A well-groomed dog is a happy dog who is much more likely to find a forever home.
That’s according to Mayte Garcia, who would know more than anyone. This morning, the dancer, singer, author and philanthropist is taking my call while prepping Yoshi—a rescued Pomeranian—for a haircut. She says Yoshi came into her care looking like Happy Gilmore’s caddy before he got a third-act glow-up. Soon, he’ll be ready for the runway.
“All the dogs we groomed last week got adopted,” Garcia says. “Haircuts, baths, they’re so important because some people can’t see past the dirt.”
Garcia’s reputation as a supporter and savior of animals in Southern Nevada is wellknown and well-earned. The founder of Mayte’s Rescue and its offshoot, the dog grooming and daycare Boogie Time, Garcia has been caring for animals her entire life.
“My grandmother used to rescue dogs, and I remember her home in Puerto Rico having so many animals,” she recalls. “I would help her care for them and find them homes, and that was my first memory of doing something to help those in need.”
A lifelong dancer and prima ballerina, Garcia carried her passion for philanthropy into adulthood, becoming a fixture in Prince’s backup band, The New Power Generation. After she and Prince married, the two combined their passions. They formed Live 4 Love Charities, a 501c3 nonprofit that supports charities throughout the United States, including several in Prince’s home state of Minnesota and the Las Vegas-based United Movement Organized Kindness.
The couple’s marriage faced challenges following the sudden death of their newborn son in 1996. Committing herself to philanthropy, with the support of her Yorkie pup, Mia, helped Garcia regain focus and a sense of purpose.
“I swore then that I would always help the voiceless,” she recalls.
Garcia and Prince remained friends following their split in 2000, and her charitable work today reflects the couple’s commitment to “helping people up and helping people out.”
“That’s our mission statement,” she says. “We help the homeless, we help people with sudden deaths of family members, we have a music program—Live for Music—where award-winning musicians teach kids via Zoom.
“And the animals, the mobile grooming, adoption—I’ll always love animals. They can’t talk but say so much with their souls and eyes.”
Donate: maytesrescue.com
Dawn Hume
Communities In Schools
Sometimes, giving back requires you to step outside of your comfort zone.
That’s how Dawn Hume wound up in a lip sync battle supporting Afterschool AllStars Las Vegas. The lip syncing, with a little bit of dancing, is not what she’s known for, but she admits, “I have a terrible habit of not saying ‘no.’”
Hume, a Valley High School and UNLV graduate, is a fixture in local philanthropy.
Throughout her four-plus decades as a philanthropist, she has served as a volunteer, contributor, event organizer and more.
The list of organizations she’s supported— working independently or as the director of special events for The Mirage, Bellagio and Wynn Las Vegas—spans every corner of the community.
Here’s a partial list: The Nevada Heart Association. Nathan Adelson Hospice. Nevada Ballet Theatre. Las Vegas Fashion Council. The aforementioned After School All-Stars. And Communities In Schools, for which she was honored, alongside her husband Christopher, at this year’s Today for Tomorrow gala.
“The most common thread is kids; I’ll do anything to support the kids in our community,” Hume says. “We have lots of need here, and it’s not all financial.
“A program like Communities In Schools would have benefited me greatly when I was a younger girl growing up in a public school.”
Like many who commit themselves to philanthropy, Hume’s reasons are personal. After losing her father to a heart attack at six, her mother “decided that no one should ever have a heart attack again and thrust herself into fundraising for the Nevada Heart Association.”
Teaming up with her mother led Hume to become a lifelong philanthropist. After earning her degree, getting hired at Golden Nugget exposed her to all the “layers” of giving and charitable efforts made by the city’s resorts and their executives.
Today, she says, she only works to support her philanthropy. “I have these paying gigs so I can participate in charities throughout the community,” she says, laughing.
Hume adds that it’s never too late to get involved. Her advice for anyone starting out is to find something they are passionate about and volunteer.
“Wherever you come from, you probably have things that mattered to you, whether it was the arts, or something with kids, or just something affecting a family member,” she says. “Once you get involved with one organization, the others will present themselves.
“They’re all sort of interconnected, and as you meet people, you’ll learn about their passions and be introduced to new ways to help.”
Donate: communitiesinschools.org
Larissa Spinella, Juliet Lefebvre, Gigi Gonya
Bright Young Girls
Young girls face enough stress balancing school and social lives; they don’t need the added struggle of feeling uncomfortable in their own skin. While it’s often unavoidable, girls in Southern Nevada at least know there’s somewhere to turn.
“I wanted to address the crucial support gap for girls in my community and build a program where girls feel supported, empowered, and valued,” explains Juliet Lefebvre, a Bishop Gorman High School senior and co-founder and co-president of nonprofit Bright Young Girl.
The organization, led by Lefebvre and vice presidents Gigi Gonya and Larissa Spinella (both of The Meadows School), provides care packages of essential feminine hygiene products—from pads to body wash—to girls throughout the region.
“Many of these girls can’t afford to spend their money on these basic necessities, so we do our best to give them what they need,” Spinella says.
In October, Bright Young Girl hosted its second annual Father & Daughter Gala at the JW Marriott. The group hopes that its fundraising efforts will allow it to distribute 5,000 care packages by the end of the school year.
In a Q&A before the gala, The Town asked the group’s leaders for their advice to kids looking for ways to start their own nonprofits and get involved.
Larissa Spinella: Starting a non-profit organization is a lot of work. However, if it is based on a topic you truly care about then you should put your best foot forward and make it work. You have to plan everything out in advance including how to raise money, get volunteers and deliver the necessary materials to the targeted group. For BYG we are constantly having meetings and planning more ways to get money to give to our girls.
Juliet Lefebvre: Do it! Don’t doubt yourself or overthink it too much. When we first started planning our fundraiser, I was very doubtful and nervous. But I quickly realized that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. BYG, which is run by a group of teenage girls, has helped hundreds of girls in Las Vegas and has accomplished so much. This comes to show that anyone can create an impact in their community, no matter their age, sex, background, etc.
Gigi Gonya: Find what matters to you and how you want to make a difference. Everyone has different experiences, backgrounds and values, and there are so many ways to help the community, so create one unique to you. No matter what you do, always seek to support others and create change through your actions. Also, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone; other people will want to help you make a difference!
Donate: brightyounggirl.com
Beth Martino
Three Square Food Bank
If you look around Las Vegas, you’ll see the city is still booming, with new housing tracts and apartments filling in empty lots and undeveloped edges of the valley. But look closer, and you’ll also see food deserts—neighborhoods without grocery stores or restaurants, where families have few options outside convenience stores and fast food.
That’s where food pantries are essential, explains Three Square Food Bank President Beth Martino.
“Whether it’s a church or an afterschool program, these pantries and programs create community,” Martino says. “They know the need, and they know the neighborhood.
“They are serving a 10-block radius, neighbors taking care of neighbors.”
Those food pantries rely on Three Square, Southern Nevada’s largest food bank, to keep shelves stocked and families fed. In 2023, Three Square Food Bank distributed nearly 49 million pounds of food in Southern Nevada. That’s a tremendous achievement, though the numbers speak to the tremendous need in our community.
“We saw a rise in food insecurity last year,” Martino says. “About 1 in 7 people are food insecure here, and 1 in 5 are children.”
Martino moved to Southern Nevada in 2016 and joined Three Square in 2023. With a background in public affairs and nonprofit leadership, she previously served as senior vice president of the American Health Care Association and led the Maryland Food Bank in Baltimore.
Having spent post-recession and preand post-pandemic years in Las Vegas, she’s seen how quickly the “face of hunger” can change.
“People have gone back to work to find they didn’t have full-time jobs, while the cost of gas, groceries and insurance have gone up,” she says. “Their dollars aren’t stretching as far as they once did, and now people who didn’t need help before need help.”
To combat the rise in food insecurity, Martino has worked to strengthen Three Square’s relationship with food pantries and other partners while spearheading programs that create more access to food, including a “DoorDash for Families” initiative.
“If we can help people navigate the transportation challenge and get food to their table, it helps them stretch their budget,” she explains. “People can’t learn, work, care for their families—they can’t enjoy life—until they know where their next meal is coming from.
“If I’m in a position where I can help someone, that’s what I want to do.”
Donate: threesquare.org
Chet Buchanan
98.5 KLUC Chet Buchanan Show Toy Drive
If it’s the holiday season, it must be time for Toy Drive. Anyone who’s lived in Las Vegas for a minute knows what that means. It’s when 98.5 KLUC’s Chet Buchanan perches himself above the NV Energy parking lot for 12 days, cheering the community on as they drop off toys and bicycles for local charities.
Buchanan is one of the most famous voices in local radio. He’s also on the boards of Variety the Children’s Charity, HELP of Southern Nevada, and Project 150. He’s the public address announcer for the Las Vegas Aces. He’s the “Voice of NASCAR” at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
But to so many in the community, “I’m still the guy who lives on that thing for 12 days and we get all the bikes,” he laughs.
That’s a good thing, Buchanan insists, especially as he’s preparing for his 26th year of the 98.5 KLUC Chet Buchanan Show Toy Drive. The Nevada Broadcasters Association Hall of Famer has been doing it for so long that the kids he used to see dropping off donations are now bringing kids of their own to participate.
Toy Drive wrapped last year with more than $802,000 in cash and gift card donations, 42 trucks full of toys and 7,774 bikes. Buchanan says his job is to “make sure every person that shows up gets a thank you, is seen, and appreciated.” He’s certain there’s still more people to thank, and more room to grow.
“The one thing Las Vegas still does not get credit for is its philanthropy,” Buchanan says. “But that’s the really cool thing about Toy Drive: we get to show off the fact that this is a city of 2 million people who really do care.”
That’s why Toy Drive rarely changes. Buchanan knows better than anyone that in broadcasting, there’s always management turnover, and a new exec who steps in with “the next big idea.” But he’s 26 years into this thing, and it’s the people—families that show up at all hours of the day or night—that keep it fresh and keep it growing.
“That’s why it’s so important to me to keep it pure,” he says. “I haven’t even touched the stairs in the last 10 years, I go up and down in the NV Energy truck basket.”
The host then relays a story about the time his wife called during Toy Drive to let him know their dog had passed away.
“I said, ‘I can be there in 15 minutes, it’s midnight, no one will know I’m gone,’” he says. “But she told me, ‘No, I’ll come to you. Because if you do that, you’ll never be able to look anyone in the eye ever again and tell them that you never come down.’”
Donate: HELPsonv.org
Now
/ DO / CALENDAR / EVENT / OUT / CULTURE
BY JEN SMITH
Rescued Recipes, a collaboration between two-time James Beard Foundation award-winning Chef Alon Shaya and his friend Steven Fenves, a 93-year-old Auschwitz survivor, is coming to Las Vegas. The dinner takes place on November 14 at 6:30 p.m. in a private residence. Shaya hosts events across the country to promote the legacy and preservation of Fenves’ mother’s recipes from their family cookbook, rescued by their former cook as they were shipped off to Auschwitz in 1944. Dishes include crispy semolina sticks with mustard, mushroom paprikash with sour cream, and duck liver pate with rye crackers and fig jam. Rescued Recipes has raised over $750,000 for the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. Shaya also operates a pop-up, Safta 1964, at Wynn Las Vegas. Ticket sponsorships start at $1,000 for one ticket and $5,000 for two tickets. ushmm.org
FOR YOUR FAVORITE FOODIE
Chef Michael Mina has released his second cookbook, “My Egypt: Cooking From My Roots.” The book looks into the chef’s culinary past and the traditional and familial dishes from his upbringing in Cairo, Egypt that are the foundation for his inspiration today. Readers will tour Mina’s mother’s recipes and his inventive takes such as harissa ratatouille, halloumi and watermelon salad, labne frozen yogurt and more. michaelmina.net
KNEAD TO KNOW
The pandemic showed us that making bread is a skill everyone kneads to know. 1228 Main is hosting bread-making courses every other Wednesday from 3 to 4 p.m. through the end of December. Head Baker Noel Rosello will lead classes on sourdough, cherry walnut bread, epi bread, baguettes and more. Tickets are $60 per person and include wine, snacks, a Q&A session with Chef Rosello, a sourdough starter and a recipe card detailing how to recreate the bread at home. Of course, guests can also take their fresh-baked bread home with them. 1228mainlv.com
ON POINTE
Tri Pointe Homes is developing La Cova, a brand-new residential neighborhood in the SouthShore community of Lake Las Vegas. This resort-style enclave will feature a combination of Tuscan and Mediterranean-style architecture across six select floor plans and 42 homes. Other amenities include a private guarded gate, access to members-exclusive SouthShore Country Club and stunning lakeside views. With tucked-away backyard spaces and courtyard entrances, residents will likely never want to leave. Watch for these stunning estates in 2025. tripointehomes.com
THE MACALLAN EXPERIENCE
This holiday season is the time to try once-in-a-lifetime whisky. The Macallan Experience has taken over the Aria Las Vegas Lobby Bar with an exclusive tasting experience available through December. Rare collections from The Macallan, like the Reflexion and Harmony, are available to taste alongside several other vintages. As a touchstone whisky, the Time: Space vintage, circa 1940, is The Macallan’s oldest whisky ever released. arialv.com
AN ENCHANTING HOLIDAY
Enchant Christmas is back at the Las Vegas Ballpark starting Nov. 22 and continuing through Dec. 29. The attraction encompasses the world’s largest Christmas light maze across 80,000 square feet and contains seasonal food and drink offerings, an ice-skating trail, live music performances and entertainment, shopping at Enchant Village and meet-and-greets with Ol’ Saint Nick at Santa’s Landing. Catch Enchant every Thursday through Sunday, with special theme nights weekly. Tickets start at $25. enchantchristmas.com
TAKE THE (COLD) PLUNGE
Home innovation powerhouse Kohler has teamed up with founder and CEO of Remedy Place, Dr. Jonathan Leary, to introduce a line of at-home, cutting-edge luxury ice baths. As Kohler’s new Lead Self-Care Advisor, Dr. Leary brings his insights on the benefits of cold therapy and combines them with Kohler’s long-standing manufacturing and design ingenuity. The Kohler x Remedy Place ice baths cater to effective breathwork practice and feature an integrated light to sync up to guided videos directed by Dr. Leary. Additional components include precision temperature control, ergo-dynamic body positioning and an ultra-modern UV-powered filtration system. Preorders are available for spring 2025 shipment. kohler.com
GREAT EVENTS THIS MONTH
BY JEN SMITH
Renata Bosnjak: Portraits of Life
Starting November 5, Summerlin Library
Renata Bosnjak is an artist from Bosnia and Herzegovina specializing in traditional oil on canvas paintings. Her work has been featured in domestic and international exhibits and galleries, like the Laguna Art gallery in Mission Viejo, CA. She has also garnered widespread accolades for her work, like a special recognition award from The Healing Power of Art & Artists, a Manhattan Arts International initiative. Now living in Las Vegas, her paintings will be displayed at the Summerlin Library until January 2025. renatabosnjak.com
Back to the Future: The Musical
November 1–3 at The Smith Center
Great Scott! Grab your flux capacitor, Google the nearest clock tower and prepare for a jammin’ journey with Back to the Future: The Musical. This show won the 2022 Olivier Award for Best New Musical, four WhatsOnStage Awards, including Best New Musical, and the Broadway World Award for Best New Musical. The score includes original pieces by multi-GRAMMY winners Alan Silvestri (“Avengers: Endgame”) and Glen Ballard (Michael Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror”), along with beloved hit songs from the movie, including “The Power of Love,” “Johnny B. Goode,” “Earth Angel,” and “Back in Time.” Tickets start at $35. thesmithcenter.com.
Adele
November 2, 8–9, 15–16, 22–23, The Colosseum at Caesars Palace
Adele is closing her residency and it’s time to hear her set fire to the rain one last time. With some of the most impressive vocal cords in today’s music, Adele’s performances are absolute must-attends where you’ll hear favorites, new and old, all set against the singer’s legendary wit and charm. ticketmaster.com
ComplexCon
November 16-17, Las Vegas Convention Center
ComplexCon is a festival and exhibition at the intersection of style, sneakers, pop culture, music, art, food and innovation. Whether you’re in the industry or just an enthusiast, this is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the cutting edge of each sector— learning, experiencing and getting a glimpse of the future. Performers, including Travis Scott and Cactus Jack, will take the stage. Tickets start at $150. tickets.complexcon.com
Thanksgiving Turkey Trot
November 28, Life Time Fitness Summerlin
Get the Thanksgiving workout done early with a brisk morning run. Life Time Summerlin is hosting the Thanksgiving Turkey Trot 5k. A one-mile-long Kids’ Race is also available, where shirts and medals will be rewarded for completing the fun. Not to be forgotten, a toy drive for the Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation will collect new, unopened toys near the packet collection before the race. Don’t miss the afterparty on the Life Time pool deck as well. turkeytrotlasvegas.com
Small Business Saturday Market
November 30, Fergusons Downtown
Head downtown for a Small Business Saturday collective attuned to the holiday spirit. Ferguson’s Downtown is joining forces with Shopfest Collective, a pop-up market service, to bring a one-day-only SBS market to Vegas residents. Over 30 vendors will be present to meet those festive season shopping needs. Students from School of Rock will perform live music while F the Bar mixes up holiday beverages to enjoy— which parents can sip on during photos with Santa. Event hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Ferguson’s Downtown, and entrance is free to the public. fergusonsdowntown.com
Ryan Bingham
December 8, The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Ryan Bingham is performing with the Texas Gentleman for a one-night-only performance at Virgin Hotels this December, just in time for National Finals Rodeo (NFR) week at the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas. Country music fans can enjoy tracks from his seven albums, such as hits from “Watch Out for the Wolf and Wishbone Saloon.” The show starts at 9 p.m., and ticket prices start at $43. axs.com
NEON CITY FESTIVAL
November 22–24, Downtown Las Vegas
The future is bright for this inaugural festival. Created by casino owner Derek Stevens and several downtown hospitality hotspots, the Neon City Festival features big names in music like Neon Trees, Bubba Sparxxx and Beauty School Dropout across a three-day event. Food and drink offerings from local bars and restaurants join citywide performances and popups, including a 3D motion graphic show on “Viva Vision,” the world’s largest LED canopy screen. Admission is free for all ages. neoncityfestival.com
BY JEN SMITH
FIT4MOM Las Vegas
Monday, Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday, The Lawn at Downtown Summerlin
Mornings are for the moms.
FIT4MOM is a national program catering to health and fitness throughout motherhood. The organization hosts events across the Valley, from field trips to workout classes, particularly on The Lawn at Downtown Summerlin. Four mornings a week, full-body classes like Stroller Strides and Stroller Barre help get a sweat going for all participants, regardless of fitness level. The first class is always free. lasvegas.fit4mom.com
Bobby Wheat Gallery
Tuesday through Sunday, Downtown Summerlin
Celebrating the 12th Anniversary of his gallery in Las Vegas, Bobby Wheat is a Professional Photographers of America (PPA) Master of Photography, a Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS)
Certified Sommelier and the Gold Standard for innovation within the photographic medium. With work extending across five continents, Bobby Wheat has been internationally recognized in museums and private collections. Wheat’s skills in landscape photography have garnered awards, like Best
Speed Vegas
Daily, Las Vegas Strip
SPEEDVEGAS offers the chance to get behind the wheel of luxury sports cars to feel like an F1 racer. Supercar options include Porsche, McLaren, Ferrari, Lamborghini and many others, with go-karts and offroad options for tamer fun. Get into the spirit of professional speed during a one-day experience, with lessons and consultations on how to drive like a real professional. Prices start at $249 for five laps. speedvegas.com
Sun City
Summerlin Art Show
November 2 and 3, Desert Vista Community Center
The Sun City Summerlin Art Club presents its 31st annual fine art show during the first weekend of November from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Desert Vista Community Center ballroom. Talented artists will showcase their work for display and purchase while entering the running for awards across mediums like acrylic, oil, watercolor and Best in Show. A People’s Choice Award ribbon will be bestowed upon a balloted favorite. Complimentary refreshments will be provided. Admission is free to the public. suncityartclub.org
A Golden Knight
November
Las
Vegas
3, Fontainebleau
of Las Vegas and the International Color Awards. He has multiple collections available. bobbywheat.com
Miss Behave’s Mavericks
Wednesday through Sunday, Plaza Hotel & Casino
Take a step back to vintage Vegas with this brand-new show at the Plaza Hotel in downtown Las Vegas. Miss Behave’s Mavericks is a funny and sexy variety show that balances the hilarity of times gone by and current trends. Grab a drink at the showroom bar and prepare for an exciting—and affordable— night out. Tickets start at $35 for locals. mavericksdtlv.com
The Golden Knights Foundation is hosting its annual charity event, A Golden Knight, at LIV nightclub and LIV Beach dayclub. A thrilling silent auction will take place alongside live entertainment and appearances from Vegas Golden Knights players, coaches and staff. Proceeds from the event will benefit local nonprofits through the VGK Foundation. Tickets are $500 for general admission; limited VIP seating is available for $1,500, granting access to a pre-gala cocktail hour with the team. fontainebleaulasvegas.com
SEMA Show
November 5-8, Las Vegas Convention Center
SEMA is one of the world’s most unique automotive trade shows, gathering current news, events, advances, and technology. Featuring exhibits, performances, and over 99+ free education sessions, this is the place for all car lovers to congregate. It all starts for industry professionals on November 5. On Friday, November 8, Cage the Elephant and Sublime take the stage.
THE NUTCRACKER
December 14–27, The Smith Center
This timeless ballet has enchanted Las Vegas audiences for over 40 years. Nevada Ballet Theatre presents “The Nutcracker” at The Smith Center for its holiday performance, with music by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky and choreography by James Canfield. Follow Clara and the Prince through a journey of whimsical creatures, toy soldiers and a snowy story of love and adventure. Tickets start at $41.35. thesmithcenter.com
Whether you’re there to learn, network, or just geek out over all the newest tech, SEMA is one of a kind. The SEMA Show offers limited tickets to the public on Friday, November 8. This option is only available when you purchase the SEMA Show Friday Enthusiast Experience. semafest.com.
Glittering Lights Las Vegas
Starting November 8, Las Vegas Motor Speedway
Get into the Christmas spirit early with the Las Vegas Motor Speedway Glittering Lights Spectacular. Starting in early November, this drive-thru light show will present over five million LED lights and over 600 animated displays while hosting hundreds of thousands of visitors. Proceeds support local organizations. Hours occur daily from 5 to 9 p.m., and ticket costs are per car, starting at $39. glitteringlightslasvegas.com
Las Vegas BBQ Festival and Car Show
November 16, Red Rock
Harley-Davidson
The Nevada BBQ Association is bringing speed and smoke to Summerlin with its second annual car show and barbecue bonanza. Guests can enjoy the Chicken and Ribs cook off competition
submissions, where chefs will compete for a $6,000 prize pool. Donations from the 2024 event will go to the Foundation Assisting Seniors and the Buck Bedard Outdoor Foundation. The event is free for spectators, and tickets start at $20 for BBQ sample packs and voting tokens. nvbbq.org
Formula 1 Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix
November 21–23, Las Vegas Strip Autodrome
Under the glamorous gaze of the Strip, Thursday, November 21 and Friday, November 22, will feature three practice sessions for the drivers. Saturday, November 23, is both the qualifying event and race day. Drivers will spin a stunning 50 laps around the 3.8mile circuit, featuring a high-speed straight past Caesars Palace and the Bellagio. Tickets start around $150. f1lasvegasgp.com
amfAR Gala
November 22, Wynn Las Vegas
This pre-race gala is shaping up to be unforgettable. As one of the world’s leading pioneers of AIDS research, the organization will host a seated gala dinner and live auction. Jay Leno will host and Diana Ross will headline the event.
NFL Denver Broncos at the Las Vegas Raiders
November 24, Allegiant Stadium
The Raiders get to come home for this head-to-head showdown with the Broncos. Sandwiched in the middle of a too-hot-to-handle year of fiery matchups, this game promises to be a must-watch. The game starts at 4:05 p.m., and tickets start at $180. ticketmaster.com
Shrek: The Musical
November 26 - December 1, The Smith Center
Now, we’re all believers. “Shrek: the Musical” is coming to The Smith Center to tell the tale of a grumpy ogre, a talkative donkey and a stubborn princess through the DreamWorks tale that has captivated movie buffs of all ages for nearly 25 years. Joined by the music of American composer Jeanine Tesori and Pulitzer Prizewinning playwright David LindsayAbaire, this is the happy-ever-after that will swamp viewers with nostalgia. Tickets start at $40.30. thesmithcenter.com
Black Friday
November 29, Summerlin
Sylvester and Jennifer Stallone will receive the amfAR Award of Inspiration for their support. Patron tickets start at $2,500. amfar.org
Vegas Baby 23rd
International Pro-Am
November 22-26, Paiute, Cascata and Boulder Creek
This year’s Vegas Baby event kicks off during F1 weekend, which means you and your best buds can gather for great golf, fast cars, and fun. With over 650 of the world’s best golfers, what has become the World’s Biggest Pro-Am features cocktail parties, golf tournaments, impressive prize pots and more. golfvegasbaby.com
Alice Ripley with John McDonald
November 23, The Smith Center
Award-winning singer Alice Ripley and composer John McDaniel will lead guests through a musical pilgrimage at The Smith Center for a one-night-only performance this November. Ripley will sing songs that garnered her notoriety on Broadway while McDaniel joins her on piano. Be prepared to witness two prodigies who have dedicated their lives to creating unforgettable music. Tickets start at $39. thesmithcenter.com
The day after Thanksgiving means Black Friday is back. Hotel deals, retail discounts and shopping steals are up for grabs around the Valley. Visit Westside shopping outlets like Downtown Summerlin to pursue luxury hunts at stores like Lululemon, Free People, Warby Parker and more. summerlin.com
Small Business Saturday
Vendor Market
November 30, Queendom
Cultivation Crystal Shop
Take a walk on the wellness side at Queendom Cultivation, a crystal shop full of jewelry, herbs and holistic products, for Small Business Saturday. Handmade artisan goods from various vendors include candles, crystals and other treasures that promote balance and harmony of the body and mind. The event is free to the community. RSVP recommended. queendomcultivation.com
Shop Small Holiday
Craftsville Gift Bazaar
November 30 and December 1, Silverton Casino
Two days of craft heaven await Small Business Saturday shoppers. Dozens of vendors selling crafts, handmade goods, food items and services will present their finest wares across the weekend. Admission and parking are free. Visit from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. lvcraftshows.com
Now EVENT
A VERY BRIGHT NIGHT
Grant A Gift Gala returns to help families and children with autism
BY JEN SMITH
The Grant A Gift Autism Foundation –Ackerman Center is hosting its annual Grant A Gift Gala on Wednesday, Nov. 13, from 5:30 until 9 p.m. at Allegiant Stadium. This is the foundation’s 14th year hosting this event in the Vegas Valley.
Proceeds will go to community members in the form of clinical care geared toward families, treatment plans, scholarships to bridge insurance gaps, vocational programs that work to instill young adults with essential life skills, community workshops, free family support and more.
“With one in every 36 children in the United States diagnosed on the autism spectrum, there’s a growing need for accessible care in Southern Nevada. Our goal is to ensure that every family can access the services their child needs, no matter their financial situation,” said Brian Hager, president of Grant A Gift Autism Foundation – Ackerman Center, in a statement. “By bridging gaps in care, we strive to help every child reach their full potential. It’s not just about offering treatment; it’s about creating a support system that wraps around the child and family.”
This year’s theme is “Metallic Mosaic Elegance.” Guests are encouraged to don their best glittery garb, patterns or metallic attire. KTNV Channel 13 Morning Blend co-host, producer and creator of Elevated Tea Media Jessica Rosado will emcee the event.
This year’s event will nod to local philanthropists Jenny and Gerry Shear of the Shear Family Foundation. Barbara Buckley of the Legal Aid Center of Nevada will receive the Community Ambassador Award. This year’s sponsors include Wynn Las Vegas and Smile Generation, an online portal connecting patients to local dentists in their area. Additional sponsors are well-known local entities like the Las Vegas Raiders, Fontainebleau Las Vegas, MGM Resorts International and UFC.
Luxury silent and live auctions will
lead the evening, with items including a 2024 Porsche Macan—the first all-electric SUV from the luxury carmaker, along with a private snowboarding lesson with Olympian Faye Gulini, premier staycations, aesthetic treatments, a wine tasting class, select dining and entertainment experiences and much more. A beautiful dinner with wine pairings is also in the lineup for the night’s events.
Beyond the gala, the Grant A Gift Foundation hosts sensory-inclusive events and outings. Upcoming fun includes taking children to sensory-friendly “Shrek: The Musical” at The Smith Center on Nov. 30. December 7 offers a Santa photo experience and a visit from Wrangler NFR contestants.
Gala tickets start at $600 for a single attendee. Ten-person tables are also available for $5,000 each. grantagift.com
IF YOU GO…
What: Grant A Gift Gala
When: Nov. 13 at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Allegiant Stadium
Price: $600 per ticket; $5,000 per table
Information: grantagift.com
SMALL SHOPS, BIG IMPACT
Businesses to support on Small Business Saturday
Las Vegas is a city abundant in possibilities, with many thriving local merchants offering authentic goods, services and experiences. Witness this firsthand on Small Business Saturday, as the perfect opportunity to find your new favorite mom-and-pop shop. Avoid buying cliché gifts this holiday season by shopping on November 30 at these five small businesses.
BY MELISSA GILL
Akin Cooperative
Akin Cooperative–a boutique comprising local artisans’ goods while serving libations–started as a pop-up shop at Market in the Alley. Now a storefront, this charming downtown gem features an array of goods, from vintage jackets to herbal soaps. While moseying around the shop, sip a refreshing glass of wine or craft beer. Akin also hosts craft workshops and wine tastings with an ever-evolving selection. A lifestyle outlet that serves adult beverages? It doesn’t get more Vegas than that. akincooperative.com
Avantpop Bookstore
Every bookshelf needs a conversation piece. Avantpop Bookstore features all the modern beatnik essentials, from abstract art to avantgarde zines. This quirky bookshop provides an assortment of signed books, art prints, handcrafted mags and esoteric goods you won’t find anywhere else in town. Aside from their literary treasure trove, Avantpop also hosts poetry readings and indie author events, showcasing a variety of local talent. There’s something here that speaks to the punk in all of us. avantpopbooks.com
Battle Born Pins
Pins are a fashionable way to make a statement. Inspired by vintage Las Vegas signs and architecture, Battle Born Pins designs striking pieces that preserve the memory of many lost attractions and pop culture standouts. From the nostalgic Mirage signage to the legendary Siegfried & Roy, Vegas locals and lovers will appreciate this shop’s well-crafted homages to the neon city. They also offer Nevada-themed notepads and stickers. Take a piece of Vegas with you everywhere you go. lasvegaspins.com
Carpe Noctem Candle Co.
In Latin, “carpe noctem” means “seize the night,” which is an all-too-fitting name for a fragrance boutique like Carpe Noctem Candle Co. Crafting extraordinary experiences out of everyday household products is their specialty. Pore over the shop’s otherworldly collections, including seasonal candles, diffusers and fragrant sprays. Take their candlemaking class to fashion your wax light or acquire one of their DIY kits. Elevate your home with inviting aromas and a soothing candle glow. carpenoctemcandleco.com
Paige & Rye
In Downtown Summerlin, Paige & Rye is a vibrant shop highlighting local makers and brands. Step inside their brick-and-mortar locale to explore over 30 brands of apparel, jewelry, baby products, home decor and more. Beyond the shop’s sleek aisles lies The Grey Room, an in-store event space ideal for small gatherings such as creative workshops, baby showers and elopement dinners. This aesthetically appealing boutique has a little bit of everything and a lot of charm. paigeandrye.com
THE BIG BOOM
Atomic Museum lasers in on the history of the atomic testing program
BY IVY GRIFFITH
The Atomic Museum is a Smithsonian affiliate that aims to use lessons learned in the past to understand better the extent and effect of nuclear testing on worldwide nuclear deterrence and geo-political history.
Known as the National Atomic Testing Museum, the “Atomic Museum” hosts a variety of exhibits that blend science and history into an educational experience focused on telling the story of America’s nuclear weapons testing at the Nevada Test Site.
While visiting the museum, guests will see 70 years of history of scientific innovation and technological advancements, as they learn how the world moved from the conception stage of nuclear armaments to today and how they are used in geopolitical negotiation and terrorism. Tours are self-guided and at least one hour is recommended to fully immerse in the exhibits and their offerings. Audio guides can be provided as well.
With 8,000 square feet of collections and activities appropriate for all ages, the Atomic Museum is one of the few museums in the United States that focus on the history of the atomic testing program through evocative museum exhibits.
Visitors can see personal atomic weapons intended to be developed for use in place of conventional weapons. These include (but are not limited to) exhibits and their artifacts like the Backpack Nuke and Crockett XM-388 projectile; an additional nuclear weapons selection headlined with the “Davy Crockett” projectile; a nuclear reactor called Phoebus 2A; and another nuclear reactor that was used in developing the nuclear rocket and the first air-to-air missile, Genie.
One new exhibit in the main gallery is “Spy,” a presentation of the gear and artifacts used to gather intelligence on foreign operations in collaboration with the National Security Agency’s (NSA) National Cryptologic Museum.
Beyond the tech, a piece of the Berlin Wall, two pieces from the World Trade Center and more impactful exhibits bring history to life in a tangible way. Fun pop culture artifacts like toys, comic books and assorted memorabilia offer a deeper look into the impact this culture had on the consumer in this bygone era.
Toys, games and extraterrestrial-themed products like patches and t-shirts are not only fun conversation starters but also reminders of a visit spent learning and enjoying the legacy behind the Atomic Testing Museum.
This is the perfect field trip for educational purposes or a fun outing for history buffs. The Atomic Testing Museum is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last admissions at 4 p.m. and select holiday closures. Tickets start at $29, with special pricing for seniors, military first responders, Nevada residents with valid IDs, and youths. Admission is free for museum members. atomicmuseum.com
Style
ALLURE / DWELL / SHOP / FASHION
BY TERESA K. TRAVERSE
Before you head out the door for a holiday fete, consider spritzing yourself with Baccarat Rouge 540. This trendy perfume, which is housed in a stunning red and gold bottle, has developed quite a following. The woodsy unisex fragrance is known for being universally flattering. Singer Olivia Rodrigo is one of its many celebrity fans. The perfume is the product of a collaboration between the renowned crystal brand Baccarat and the modern French fragrance house Maison. Made in France, this perfume features notes of jasmine from Egypt, saffron, bitter almond from Morocco, cedarwood, musky wood accord and ambergris. Given its popularity and breathtaking bottle, Rouge 540 would also make a perfect gift for yourself or a loved one. $295 at Nordstorm, nordstorm.com.
HYDRATION BOOST
These face masks can help nourish your skin and leave you (literally) glowing
Detox mud, Wolf Project, $20 at Nordstrom, www. nordstrom.com.
Bright green sheet, $4.99 at H&M, www. hm.com.
5-count anti-blemish bio-cellulose, 111Skin, $135 at Nordstrom.
Epi-Peel, Tammy Fender Holistic Skincare, $95 at Neiman Marcus, www. neimanmarcus.com.
Instant magic facial dry sheet, $25 at Charlotte Tilbury, www.charlottetilbury. com.
Peel-off clarifying, Sulwhasoo, $45 at Neiman Marcus.
LIGHT IT UP
Bold candle holders add a touch of flair to any holiday table
Gold brass, $22.90 at Zara, www.zara. com.
Carat set of 2 crystal, Orrefors, $450 at Nordstrom, www.nordstrom.com.
Normandie taper in bronze, $89 at Pottery Barn, www. potterybarn.com.
Tango in silver, Nambe, $150 at Nordstrom.
Pompidou acrylic, $350 at Jonathan Adler, www. jonathanadler.com.
Metal in lime green, $8.99 at H&M, www. hm.com.
TIMELESS TWEED
Stay chic with this trendy fabric
Henderson front-slit midi sheath dress, Black Halo, $390 at Neiman Marcus, www. neimanmarcus.com.
Vera darted woolblend mini skirt, Liberowe, $680 at Net-a-Porter, www. net-a-porter.com.
Acorn pearl Antionette bow barrette, $125, Lele Sadoughi at Shopbop, www.shopbop.com.
Boucle shirt, $32.99 at H&M, www. hm.com.
Marley toe cap ballet flats, Sam Edelman, $130 at Shopbop.
Cropped cotton-blend jacket, Frame, $600 at Net-a-Porter.
BOLD BOOTS
Must-have, statement-making footwear that’s perfect for fall
Omera faux fur over the knee in dark brown, Azalea Wang, $129 at Nordstrom, www.nordstrom.com.
Cami leather knee, Staud, $550 at Neta-Porter, www.net-aporter.com.
Bettina, Paris Texas, $895 at Shopbop, www.shopbop.com.
Heeled leather knee high, $258 at Zara, www.zara.com.
Maryana croc tall, Schutz, $258 at Shopbop.
Santia Botta crystal embellishment suede knee, Christian Louboutin, $4,795 at Net-a-Porter.
Earrings: Red and gold drop earrings, Clara Beau Jewelry, $49. Dress: Red corset bodice chiffon, $300. Purse: Red crystal star clutch, Alessia, $59. Shoes: Red retro peep toe pump, Banned, $79. All from Quarter Past Dress, www.quarterpastdress.com.
Earrings: Amethyst medallion, Clara Beau Jewelry, $49.
Necklace: Amethyst medallion, Clara Beau Jewelry, $149. Dress: Purple one shoulder with sash, $300.
Purse: Gold bandana, BC Bags, $89. Shoes: T-strap metallic sandal, Chelsea Crew, $99. All from Quarter Past Dress, www.quarterpastdress.com.
Dress: Black sequin and marabou feather trim, $425. Gloves: Black opera length, $39. Purse: Acrylic metallic clutch, BC Bags, $99. Shoes: Black retro peep toe pump, Chelsea Crew, $99. All from Quarter Past Dress, www. quarterpastdress.com.
Luxe
WHEELS / WANT / HAUTE PROPERTY
BY KEYLEE SANDERS HELMICH
Two iconic Italian brands, SMEG and Dolce & Gabbana have joined forces to craft a breathtaking collection of kitchen appliances that will look chic on any counter. Created by skilled artists in Italy, the Blue Mediterraneo collection showcases reproductions of original artworks inspired by the serene blue and white tones of the Mediterranean. This SMEG Dolce & Gabbana 2-Slice Toaster not only boasts impeccable style but also delivers on functionality with six browning levels, allowing you to toast bread to perfection. Its extra-wide slots accommodate various bread sizes while self-centering racks ensure even browning. Equipped with a backlit chrome knob, the toaster also offers reheat, defrost, cancel and bagel functions. A removable stainless steel crumb tray makes cleanup a breeze. This collaboration brings the timeless beauty of Italian design into the heart of your kitchen. $700 at Williams Sonoma, www.williams-sonoma.com.
2025 MERCEDES CLE 300
cence trend of the two-door automobile started when German automakers like BMW, Mercedes and Porsche started marketing four-door models as coupes. That apocryphal and lukewarm fashion exists alongside an atonement reparation for coupe enthusiasts with the newly minted Mercedes’ CLE-Class two-door, an amalgamation of the brand’s two-door C- and E-Class that attempts to replace both coupe lines.
The CLE reminded us of the C-Class inside and out yet unique enough to be a visual success. The hood employs huge blistered arches, aggressive styled air intakes and a grille up front. We had conflicting opinions from passersby regarding the slightly droopy rear and its light bar. The 19-inch AMG wheels certainly won onlookers over. Disappointingly, the CLE is not a pillar-less coupe.
Inside is a truly first-class cabin relative to luxury material finishing and hi-tech flourishes. Switchgear is jewelry-like quality, engaging to the touch and hand-crafted functions. There’s dual digital displays, a large one at the center stack and a smaller one behind the steering wheel that
seem dated. The steering wheel is a split threespoke design and fitted with too many capacitive switches. Still, it looks nice.
Sumptuous seats, the essence of comfortable touring and overall occupant cosseting confirmed the principled character of Mercedes’ motoring identity.
CLE comes in three trim offerings. The powertrain in our test CLE comes via 255-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged mild-hybrid four-cylinder delivered through a 9-speed automatic transmission and standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
We spent a week driving the CLE and found power to be adequate but not more. It delivers smooth operation and power, and the adaptive cruise worked as expected as well as the lane centering function. The CLE will change lanes autonomously with a flick of the turn-signal stalk, but the adaptive cruise alerts you if you take your hand off the wheel.
Coupe loyalists will be more than satisfied with the new CLE. Styling is eye-catching, there’s first-class comfort in the posh interior, ample amounts of driver assist and operational hi-tech, and it drives wonderfully.
VITAL STATS:
2025 Mercedes CLE
300 4MATIC
Base Price: $56,500
Price as Tested: $67,090
Engine: Turbocharged
2.0-liter, 4-cylinder
Horsepower: 255
Seating: 4
Fab Features:
Stylish exterior design
Premium driving experience
Perky performance, agile handling
Luxe WANT
A GRAND GETAWAY
Utah’s Black Desert Resort is poised to become one of the Beehive State’s finest resorts
BY TERESA BITLER
Set among the black lava beds and vermillion cliffs near St. George, Utah, the Black Desert Resort combines beautiful Southwestern landscapes with luxurious accommodations. Guests can explore 6-miles of on-site trails, play 18 scenic holes of golf on the resort’s PGA course, and indulge in a spa treatment during their stay. Plus, the mega resort is located just one hour from Zion National Park.
Now welcoming guests during its preview phase, Black Desert Resort currently has 148 guest rooms and 299 suites available in its main building, the Resort Center. Before its planned grand opening in the spring of 2025,
the resort will add 344 more rooms and suites along with a 15,000-square-foot spa, featuring a lava rock sauna.
In addition to accommodations in the Resort Center, the resort will eventually offer rooms in two villages: Family Village and Golf Village. Family Village rooms will include bunk beds, fully-equipped kitchens and living and dining areas while guests staying in Golf Village can enjoy golf-related events like scrambles and opportunities to socialize with others who share their passion for the sport.
Golf Village rooms will also be located close to the resort’s 18-hole golf course, the 73rd and final course designed by golfing legend Tom Weiskopf. Opened in 2023, the course offers forgiving fairways for beginners, pro-level challenges from the back tees and high-tech carts with hole-byhole commentary by Weiskopf.
The course also boasts a 24,000-square-foot pro shop, the largest in the state and one of the largest in the country. Additionally, the golf facility includes a state-of-the-art driving range featuring TRACKMAN technology and a 2-acre, 36-hole putting range.
Currently, Black Desert features five restaurants. Club 73 and The Oasis provide golfers and casual eaters the opportunity to refuel and refresh on the course’s edge. Inside the Resort Center, the 20th Hole is an upscale sports bar with a full bar and grill. Latitude delivers a casual dining experience while Basalt offers fine dining with elevated, panoramic views.
The mega resort will also feature 45,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor meeting and event space that can accommodate conventions, conferences and trade shows. As Black Desert continues to grow, it will add additional restaurants and retail space. Plans also include a water park with an anticipated opening in the spring of 2026. Learn more and book rooms at www. blackdesertresort.com.
SPOTLIGHT: 9113 GOLDEN EAGLE DRIVE
BY JEN SMITH
When a home strikes a balance between maintaining privacy and being a staple for entertaining, it won’t stay on the market for long.
Located in the guard-gated community of Eagle Hills, this sought-after single-story home is in the heart of Summerlin. The expansive 4,490-square-foot property contains five bedrooms, four bathrooms and a three-car garage, making it one of the larger single-story units in the neighborhood. The 15,000-plus square-foot homesite is in a cul-de-sac on a private lot, and nearby custom homes sit at lower elevation points, making it all the more private. Realtor Lorie Borges notes that this is a perk.
“This is a very calm, peaceful home that is very inviting, great for entertaining,” she says, “but there’s also enough space for people to have privacy.
The kitchen comes with all of the stainless steel, Thermador and Sub-Zero toys. The central entertaining location is a bar top that wraps around from the main countertop. Three fireplaces inhabit the family, living and primary bedroom, where rich wooden details enhance the neutral marble elements, backsplashes and tile work.
According to Borges, a stacked door to the backyard fully opens for the optimal “in and out experience.” Outside, an elevated spa rests in the corner of the Pebble Tec pool, which frames a beautiful stone deck with a matching fire pit and built-in barbecue. Grassy areas with thoughtful landscaping touches are perched on the sides.
The Eagle Hills community is centrally located near several schools. It is close to the Nevada Ballet Theatre, the Summerlin Public Library, TPC Summerlin Golf Club, shops and restaurants. Amenities inside the community include a playground and tennis courts, and Borges says that homeowners and tenants who can thrive here include retirees looking for office and guest space, as well as families and couples.
“It’s a very cozy, happy house,” says Borges.
This estate is valued at $2,775,000 and listed by Lorie Borges of the Hellmuth Borges Team with the Huntington & Ellis Real Estate agency. 702.583.3030
SIP THROUGH THE FEAST
As the holidays approach, versatile wines are the secret “gift” to pleasing the everyone’s palate
Hopefully, you will have more than one bottle of wine on the Thanksgiving table, but what would it be like to choose just one? Here is a menu of tasteful options to take you from the beginning to the end of the meal.
Lyric Pinot Noir, Monterey County 2022
Total Wine & More
Lyric brings the unique flavors and textures of Monterey County to life at a great value. This bright but savory wine displays fresh strawberry and raspberry notes, perfectly balanced acidity, fruit and a touch of oak. Like the name “Lyric” implies, this wine delivers a harmony of flavors that will play well throughout the meal. $19.99, totalwine.com
Saint K Flower Bomb
Malvasia Blanc, Paso Robles
Highlands District 2021
Khoury’s Fine Wine & Spirits
Whether your Thanksgiving spread is classic or proudly unconventional, look to Malvasia Blanc. While this grape’s beloved home is in Tuscany and can also be made into Vin Santo dessert wine, Flower Bomb’s Malvasia Blanc by winemaker Chris Kiranbay is grown on the central coast of California. Aromatic as it should be, but amazingly bone dry and pairable with everything. $29.99, khourysfinewine.com
Elena Walch Pinot Bianco, Alto Adige DOC 2021
Amari Italian Kitchen & Wine Shop
For those interested in having a bottle of wine versatile enough to carry the entire meal, wines from Elena Walch are essential. Pinot Bianco is the leading white wine from northern Italy’s region of Alto Adige. It goes splendidly with the region’s mix of Germanic and Italian cuisines, from cured meats, bread and dumplings to wiener schnitzel. Given its versatility, it
belongs on the Thanksgiving table. $59, amarilv.com
Famille Dutraive, ‘Lantignié,’ Beaujolais-Villages 2022
Garagiste Wine Room | Merchant
The Gamay grape is the perfect Thanksgiving wine because it’s fruity, easy to drink and pairs well with various dishes. Famille Dutraive wines are made from grapes sourced from carefully selected parcels that follow the spirit of organic farming. Aromatically pure with bright fruits, the wine is light on the palate with precision and length, adding textural elegance to every Thanksgiving dish. $40 (retail), garagistelv.com
Domaine Pierre Usseglio, Tradition, Châteauneuf-duPape 2020
Wineaux
It’s no secret that red wines from the Rhone Valley are tasty and pleasurable. Pierre Usseglio’s Grenache-driven Châteauneuf-duPape offers an incredible bouquet of glossy red and black fruits for something with a bit more oomph. It evokes a feeling of autumn in a glass surrounded by a field of wild cooking herbs. $90, wineauxlv.com
Champagne Laurent Perrier
Brut Millesime 2012
Grand Cru by Partage
French bubbles will satisfy the palate and prepare for the next delicious bite. Vintage Champagne is noteworthy because it’s a unique expression of a single year. Laurent Perrier’s classic 50/50 blend of Chardonnay and Pinot will be a delightful addition to the celebration. $84, partage.vegas/grand-cru
Taste
DRINK / CHEERS / CUISINE / FOOD FILES / DINING GUIDE
BY IVY GRIFFITH
PKWY Tavern Decatur now offers Naked City Pizza in a collaboration that brings together two iconic Las Vegas businesses. Patrons can order from Naked City Pizza’s full menu, including build-your-own sheet pizzas, pizza egg rolls, chicken fingers and wings, for dine in or takeout daily from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m. During happy hour, Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m., dine-in guests can enjoy nine selections such as the Naked salad, chips and dip, roasted garlic buns, stuffed mushrooms, street tacos, plus the one-topping quarter-sheet pizza. Naked City Pizza began as a hot dog cart, started by brothers Chris and Michael Palmeri from Buffalo, New York. With 50 beers on tap and over 200 canned and bottled beer selections, and backed by two expansive dining rooms featuring 60 TVs, PWKY Tavern is your favorite local pub with 24-hour gaming. PKWYTavern.com
CHEERS TO CHARITY
Hera Vodka ensures drinking goes to a good cause
BY JEN SMITH
Animal rescue expert Julia Pennington wanted to find a new way to raise money for animal shelters and their services. Instead of the traditional route, she chose vodka. Her creation, Hera the Dog, a “social impact vodka on a mission to raise funds for grassroots animal rescues,” is the product of years of development, tasting and determination.
Even the production is (figuratively) close to home; Pennington’s nephew produces the vodka at his distillery, Pennington Distillery Co., based in Nashville. The vodka is made with organic, non-GMO Italian red wheat and goes through seven distillations, each batch is filtered through coconut charcoal. The final product is gluten-free, 80-proof and has an adorable label.
While Pennington is vegan, “anything fresh and flavorful” complements Hera the Dog vodka—especially tacos from Las Vegas vegan favorite Tacotarian.
While Pennington was initially scared to expand into the competitive world of bigname liquor brands in the Las Vegas market, she notes that the local community has warmly welcomed Hera the Dog and its mission.
“The local community in Las Vegas is incredible, and we have been overwhelmed by the warmth and support from so many individuals and businesses,” she says. Westside residents can enjoy Hera the Dog at restaurants like Vintner Grill and Anima by EDO, liquor stores like DB Spirits on S Hualapai and LV Liquor on S Decatur, and pub spots like Big Dog’s Brewing and 595 Craft and Kitchen.
Hera the Dog is committed to donating a percentage of its profits to animal rescue programs. Pennington notes that money raised through vodka sales supports the community where it is purchased. Las Vegas sales have helped charities like Hearts Alive Village, Pawtastic Friends, Animal Help Alliance and Vegas Roots Rescue. herathedogvodka.com
CHEF CONVERSATIONS
Joel Myers dishes on his new Italian restaurant in Boca Park
BY JEN SMITH / PHOTO BY LOUIIE VICTA
Chef Joel Myers has taken the hands-on approach his entire career.
Myers grew up on the East Coast, where his father owned a deli. His experience comes from decades spent working in that kitchen and many others after— sans culinary school. His first job was dishwasher and he eventually became chef.
Myers moved to Las Vegas from Philadelphia seven years ago. After spending five years at Chef Marc Vetri’s original Vetri Cucina back east, Myers worked at Vetri Cucina Las Vegas and Osteria Fiorella before joining Hukl Hospitality to bring Ciao Vino, an Italian American restaurant, to Boca Park Fashion Village.
Ciao Vino celebrated its grand opening in October with cocktails and pizza galore. Myers hopes to bring a relaxed, casual vibe to the Summerlin area.
Do you recommend any food and wine pairings for a Ciao Vino visit?
My favorite pasta is always the Bucatini Amatriciana. It is an approachable, classic red sauce-based dish with cured pork jowl, like guanciale. I love it with Barolo.
What’s a popular dish that people are loving so far?
The simplest dish on our menu is the most popular. It’s our carbonara, pecorino cheese, egg yolk and guanciale. It’s difficult to execute because it’s very temperature intolerant. You have to work and focus on [making] the custard out of the egg yolk and pasta water to make it creamy and delicious.
Do you have a favorite ingredient you like to work with?
I don’t have a specific ingredient I’m a fan of, [but] I’ve enjoyed making up stuff on the fly for [people with] dietary restrictions. [For a former regular at Fiorella who is vegan with special fatfree dietary restrictions], I would soak almonds in water and make almond milk to get natural fat [for dishes like] a risotto or farro salad or dressing as well—something besides just [serving] grilled vegetables.
Ciao Vino, 740 S Rampart Blvd., 702.570.1618, ciaovinolv.com
Taste FOOD FILES
YOUR PIECE OF THE PIE
BY SAMANTHA GEMINI STEVENS
Since the holidays are fast approaching, planning family meals and pulling out the Kitchenaid is part of the process. This year, opt for the easy approach for the Thanksgiving and December holidays and grab a pie from some local Las Vegas and Westside bakeries. Whether a classic pumpkin pie or a wildly colored fruit medley is on the menu, we recommend these staples.
Luchkoff Patisserie
Key Lime Pie
European flavors and flair fill the cases at Luchkoff Patisserie, including bread, cookies and desserts. They even offer gluten-free and vegan options. Looking to add a special treat to your table this season? For the holidays, they are expanding their pie program. A guest favorite, key lime pie, is always available after first appearing as a seasonal pie. There was such great demand they kept it on the menu. Additionally, Luchkoff will offer a pumpkin pie, an apple and cranberry pie, a cherry pie and a pecan pie with real maple syrup. luchkoffpatisserie.com
Barry’s Downtown Prime
Banana Cream Pie
Don’t skip dessert for this holiday meal out on the town at Barry’s. The pie of the moment is a smooth banana cream pie baked with a classic graham cracker crust and loaded with bananas, topped with whipped cream and chocolate pecan crunch. Other desserts include a pumpkin cheesecake and a chocolate cake. For the first time, the beloved Circa Steakhouse is making these meals to go for Thanksgiving. barrysdowntownprime.com
Pie Perfect
Triple Berry
Located in Downtown Las Vegas, this vegan-friendly pie shop offers work with each of their fruit pies, including delivery. Some options include going sugar-free, gift messages and bags. The pie can even bear your company logo. Choose from various fall flavors you can warm up: apple, French apple, blueberry, cherry, peach, raspberry, raspberry peach, rhubarb, strawberry-rhubarb and triple berry. A scoop of simple French vanilla from your favorite frozen dessert brand would be perfect with these. Personal sizes include hand pies and cocktail hour calls for Pie Poppers. pieperfect.com
Starburst Parlor
Keto Pumpkin Pie
Your sugar-free, gluten-free and wheat-free dreams have been answered with scratchbaked goodies. Savory to sweet makes up an extended menu at Starburst, including your next holiday pie order. Go classic with pumpkin pie (or a pumpkin pie cheesecake), flan, chocolate cream pie, plain cheesecake or an XL cheesecake with your choice of fruit, nuts and chocolate toppings. Add to your dessert table with other holiday sweets, based on availability. starburstparlor.com
Pop N Pies
Bourbon Pecan
Chef Andrea McLean began Pop N Pies in 2020 after cutting her teeth at Bouchon and Joël Robuchon post-culinary school. She quickly grew an almost cult-like following via pop-up events and a residence in the old Vegas Test Kitchen. Ordering online is easy and includes categories such as The Favorites with apple or blueberry crumble, chocolate silk, coconut cream or even a cookie-topped banana
cream pie. Feeling a little sweet and savory? Order the bourbon pecan or the salt & maple. Enjoy the chicken pot pie, the beef cottage (“shepherd’s”) pie or the spinach bacon quiche to go full savory. Note: Some flavors may not be available for the holidays, so contact the shop for availability. popnpies.com
Patisserie Manon
Lemon Meringue
Patisserie Manon is a Summerlin darling, offering everything from French baguette sandwiches, crepes, pastries and pies galore. Manon has a menu for even the most discerning palate, from smaller fruit tartlets to larger slices and whole pies. Traditional fruit pies such as apple, blueberry, cherry and lemon meringue feature highly, as do neighborhood favorites such as coconut banana cream and chocolate cream. Savory quiches are also great. Order ahead, and remember their huge selection of macarons and stellar cake options. patisseriemanon.com
Delices Gourmands
Pecan
It is another excellent bakery with many fun holiday options, many of which come in easy single-serving packages. Beyond standard pumpkin and apple pies, highlights include a succulent orange tart, a lemon tart, individual strawberry tarts and others. A deliciously dark pecan pie is for those with a palate for the heavier dessert. Whip up a quick bourbon and bacon cream to the ultimate sweet and savory mix. delicesgourmandslv.com
Saint Honore
Pumpkin Spice Donut
This year, go less than traditional and bring the elegant, flavorful and sometimes irreverent doughnut to the party. Flavors include S’More’s Ghost, a pumpkin spice donut, a crème brûlée donut, the cannoli and the guava cheesecake DoughSaint. ilovesainthonore.com
Pies Unlimited
Boston Creme with Strawberries
If there’s one place to go to prepare for a holiday dessert fest, it’s Pies Unlimited. Offering pies in 4-inch and 9-inch sizes, they range from classic to holiday-centric. Take a chance on the Boston creme with chopped strawberries baked into the filling, or opt for eggnog creme and other year-round and seasonal fruit choices. Some pies also have the option to be made with no sugar added. piesunlimited.com
Mr. Grand Jeremy
Sweet Potato Pie
The “Sweet Potato Pie Man” award-winning baker and entrepreneur Jeremy Washington made it easy to choose which pie to start with for ordering the season’s eatings. Baked silky smooth inside a buttery shell, this sweet potato pie comes in mini and full sizes. Can’t get enough? Try sweet potato cheesecake and cookies for more variety. Peach cobbler and pecan pie are offered—and yes, there is a sweet potato pecan pie in the lineup. mrgrandjeremy.com
GET THE BURGER AT ALLEGIANT STADIUM
Bruce Kalman, creator of the Las Vegas Arts District’s SoulBelly BBQ, introduces a new burger concept to Allegiant Stadium. “It’s called Burgersmith by SoulBelly,” Kalman says of the stadium spot on the 100 Level across from section 128. “It’s just simple, inspired, delicious burgers with great ingredients. … two patties and New School American cheese. And then we have a pastrami burger and a barbecue burger.” Fans who want to try any of those must reserve in advance at SecretBurger.com. The burgers are $15 each, with $6 fries and $7 onion rings.
For more on these restaurants and additional picks by category or neighborhood, download the Neon Feast app or visit neonfeast.com.
American HONEY SALT
Proof that you can find stellar dining off the Strip lies in Honey Salt’s creative menus of upscale American fare, packed with options you won’t find in most neighborhood restaurants. They include cast iron branzino with shaved fennel, bacon-wrapped farmhouse meatloaf with tomato jam and the mighty kale salad. The brunch menu is also loaded with hits. Get a brookie (combination brownie and cookie) for dessert. 1031 S. Rampart Blvd.; 702.445.6100; honeysalt.com. $$
MAIN ST. PROVISIONS
As the Arts District has evolved into a top dining destination, Kim Owens (a native Cajun and a former executive at the Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse chain) has built Main St. Provisions into one of its most exciting restaurants. It’s a neighborhood spot where the menu is warm and welcoming, the staff knows all the regulars by name, and even firsttime guests feel at home. The eclectic menu offers upscale comfort foods like crudo, Navajo fry bread, risotto and duck. But you’ll always find an excellent selection of carefully sourced steaks to round it out. 1214 S. Main St., Las Vegas; 702.457.0111; mainstprovisions.com. $$
Asian
BY AL MANCINI
LOTUS OF SIAM
Lotus of Siam, which earned praise for its locations in the Strip corridor over the past few decades, brings love to the ‘burbs with this stunning offshoot at Red Rock Resort. Can’t-miss dishes include Poo Pad Pong Karee, which is curry stir-fried Alaskan king crab legs with eggs and mixed vegetables and the probably world-famous garlic prawns, deep fried in the shell, with a crispy texture reminiscent of potato chips. 11011 W. Charleston Blvd.; 702.907.8888; lotusredrock.com. $$
NENE CONTEMPORARY JAPANESE BISTRO
Fine Japanese food in casually elegant surroundings comes to the suburbs in this palace of sushi, sashimi, robata dishes, bento bowls, soups, salads, entrees and vegan selections. Bluefin tuna, Scottish salmon, branzino and San Diego uni (sea urchin) are among the sushi items offered. The chef ventures beyond traditional Asian rice dishes with assorted risottos. 4165 S. Grand Canyon Dr.; 702.463.2700; nenesushilv.com. $$
BBQ
SOULBELLY BBQ
A centerpiece of the Las Vegas Arts District, Soulbelly offers some of
the valley’s best BBQ in a honkytony setting, with live music and a great bar. It’s the creation of celebrity chef Bruce Kalman (“Top Chef: Colorado,” “BBQ Brawl,” “Chopped,” “Hell’s Kitchen”), who was best known for his Italian cooking before relocating to Las Vegas. Soulbelly is his first restaurant to focus on the regional barbecue recipes he developed with his rock star buddy Dave Grohl, offering meats smoked directly in front of the Main Street restaurant along with a great collection of sides. 1327 S. Main St., Las Vegas; 702.482.4404; www.soulbellybbq.com. $$
Brunch
TOASTED GASTROBRUNCH
Are you looking for a bottomless mimosa brunch on a weekday? Chef Sami Ladeki has you covered. The owner of Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza chain shocked many when he converted the West Flamingo Road location into a Toasted Gastrobrunch. But the morning classics’ menu in traditional and innovative forms quickly won over locals. The booze program has something for everyone: signature cocktails, prosecco, wine, three Bloody Marys, eight coffees, three bellinis and five mimosas. And yes, bottomless options are available. 9516 W. Flamingo Rd.; 702.638.9500; toastedgastrobrunch. com. $$
Café/Deli BRONZE CAFE
Fast casual meets healthy at Bronze Café, where the salads, sandwiches and sweets have secured a loyal following among locals throughout the valley. Focusing on “fit-friendly” eats, the menu features a sizable vegan section. But carnivores are not ignored, with options like the Bacon Chicken Chop salad and the What What sandwich, made with turkey, pepperoni, Arcadia greens, basil aioli, oregano vinaigrette, tomato and red onion. There’s an entire pastry case of all-vegan sweets—many of which are also gluten-free. 2380 N. Buffalo Dr.; 702.852.2830. $
Eclectic
ADA’S FOOD + WINE
The most experimental restaurant by superstar chef/restaurateur James Trees (Esther’s Kitchen, Al Solito Posto), Ada’s sometimes feels more like a workshop than a fixed concept. For now, Chef Jackson Stamper seems to be having fun mixing his takes on traditional Spanish tapas with unexpected comfort foods. Veteran sommelier Kat Thomas (Bellagio, Aria, The Mina Group, Sirio
Maccioni) augments the choices with a list of lesser-known, reasonably priced wines. Tivoli Village, 401 S. Rampart Blvd.; 702.462.2795; adaslv. com. $$
D.W. BISTRO
A Las Vegas original, DW Bistro takes the innovative step of creating its culinary niche by combining the flavors of Jamaican cuisine and New Mexican regional food in a Parisian-style restaurant. Owner Bryce Krausman and founding Chef Dalton Wilson took this bold concept and named it DW, an acronym for “Dining With” that represents the restaurant and the brand. More than a decade later, the menu continues to evolve. DW’s weekend brunch is among the most popular off the Strip. The Gramercy, 9275 W. Russell Rd.; 702.527.5200; dwbistro.com. $$
EAT YOUR HEART OUT FOOD
Durango Hotel & Casino’s Eat Your Heart Out food hall blends quick and casual counters with full-service, sit-down mini restaurants. The former include new-to-market concepts like Irv’s Burgers, Uncle Paulie’s substyle sandwiches (from L.A.), and New York’s Prince Street Pizza. Among the larger spaces, Philadelphia’s Marc Vetri offers his most casual Las Vegas concept with Fiorella Pasta Bar. At the same time, native Gene Villiatora provides a fresh take on Hawaii street food at Ai Pono Cafe. Shang Artisan Noodle, Yu-Or-Mi Sushi, Vesta Coffee and one of Station’s beloved Oyster Bars are also highlights. Durango Resort, 6915 S. Durango Dr., Las Vegas; 702.767.7777; durangoresort. com/eat-your-heart-out. $$
Italian
AL
SOLITO POSTO
Chef James Trees’ Tivoli Village Italian spot differs from his Arts District restaurant, Esther’s Kitchen, in one main way: its focus. Where Esther’s has a West Coast energy, Al Solito Posto (“the usual place” in Italian) is a tribute to the East Coast Italian cuisine that dominated Las Vegas during the Rat Pack’s heyday. Here, Trees and his team prove that the classic red sauce dishes many of us grew up with (think chicken parm) deserve more respect than they receive at your local pizza place. Tivoli Village, 430 S. Rampart Blvd.; 702.463.6781; alsolito.com. $$
AMARI
Amari is much more than the resident Italian restaurant at UnCommons in the southwest valley. The focaccia bread and pizzas are made with
the same exquisite dough, using a 25-year-old ancient grain starter that produces complexity in taste and texture. The menu features updated Italian classics, including a shrimp scampi reimagined as a pasta dish and a deconstructed chicken cacciatore. It all pairs well with wine, cocktails or the restaurant’s exceptional amaro selection. UnCommons, 6825 Tom Rodriguez St., Las Vegas. amarilv.com. $$
ANIMA BY EDO
Anima is the second restaurant by the team behind the award-winning Spanish restaurant EDO, which includes repeat James Beard Foundation Award nominee Chef Oscar Amador. While a few dishes cross over between restaurants, Anima has a distinct menu with stronger Italian and Mediterranean influences. Prices are a solid value for food of this caliber. Like EDO, Anima offers tasting menus. The kitchen team is gracious about working around any allergies or preferences. The Gramercy, 9205 W. Russell Road; 702.202.4291; animabyedo.com. $$$
LA STREGA
Chef Gina Marinelli gained her local fame on the Strip, running celebrity chef Scott Conant’s D.O.C.G. in The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. After leaving that position, she traveled to Italy’s Amalfi Coast. It’s those travels that inspire La Strega. There’s no chicken parm on this menu. Instead, you’ll find lots of seafood, light pasta, delicious pizzas, steaks, chops and game meats. Fun fact: The restaurant’s name is Italian for “The Witch.” 3555 S. Town Center Dr.; 702.722.2099; lastregalv.com. $$
OSTERIA FIORELLA
Chef Marc Vetri is a Philadelphia culinary legend who operates a brilliant fine-dining restaurant atop the Palms. Osteria Fiorella is more approachable, or as he puts it, “a little bit more red sauce-y.” You’ll find lasagna al forno, rigatoni with sausage ragu and bucatini pomodoro, amazing pizzas, and more exotic pasta like Swiss chard tortelli in a sage brown butter sauce. His devotion to quality ingredients and pristine execution, however, is consistent among all his restaurants. Red Rock Resort, 11011 W. Charleston Blvd.; 702.797.7777. redrockresort. com. $$
Mexican BBQ MEXICANA
A casual sister concept to Border Grill at Mandalay Bay, celebrity chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue
Milliken’s BBQ Mexicana infuses U.S. barbecue with Mexican spice in a casual, quick-service setting. After years of serving local sports fans at T-Mobile Arena, Allegiant Stadium and the Las Vegas Ballpark (and conventioneers at Mandalay Bay), it now offers burritos, bowls, tacos and salads on Sunset Road. The smoked brisket burrito (aka the Burnt Ends Burrito) is a Las Vegas original created on a food truck that’s become an urban legend among local foodies. 8480 W. Sunset Rd. Ste. 200; 702.552.0111; bbqmexicana. com. $
Pizza
DOM DEMARCO’S PIZZERIA & WINE BAR
Dom DeMarco’s is a descendant of the famous Di Fara Pizza in Brooklyn, and its New York pedigree shows in its square Sicilian and round Brooklyn-style pies in the Queensridge/Peccole Ranch neighborhood. Pizza lovers can whet their appetites with eggplant pizzettes or the ever-popular garlic knots, while those who aren’t in the mood for pizza can choose from several pasta dishes. The covered (and heated) outdoor patio offers a great al fresco experience year-round. 9785 W. Charleston Blvd.; 702.570.7000; domdemarcos. com. $
Seafood
OTHER MAMA
Chef/owner Dan Krohmer, a Morimoto veteran, studied sushi in Japan before spending some time cooking for rock and pop superstars on the road. He knows his stuff when it comes to nigiri and sashimi. What’s more surprising is how amazing his other creations (seafood and otherwise) can be. Hush puppies with caviar, oysters Rockefeller with pork belly, and spicy tuna tartare with waffle fries are all jaw-dropping. 3655 S. Durango Dr.; 702.463.8382. othermama.com. $$$
Steak
ECHO & RIG
Chef Sam Marvin’s Tivoli Village spot offers a full-fledged butcher/restaurant combination. The butcher shop (with a glass meat locker on full display) shares the first-level space with the restaurant’s bar and lounge. The steakhouse upstairs offers an extensive list of small plates and plenty of steaks—including tri-tip, hanger, NY, ribeye cap, wagyu filet tenderloin, skirt and Spencer. Portion sizes are reasonable, allowing them to keep the prices reasonable. Tivoli Village, 440 S. Rampart Blvd.; 702.489.3525; echoandrig.com. $$$
HARLO STEAKHOUSE & BAR
Harlo is what you get when you take an indulgent, modern steakhouse from the Strip and transplant it into Downtown Summerlin. Chef Gina Marinelli (the creative force behind local Italian favorite La Strega) offers fantastic cuts of beef from around the country grilled over an open flame alongside pasta, side dishes and seafood. The caviar presentation is a sight, as the precious eggs are carefully weighed on a triple-beam scale. Downtown Summerlin, 1720 Festival Plaza Dr.; 702.333.0402; harlosteak. com. $$$$
T-BONES CHOPHOUSE
This modern American chophouse provides spectacular views, an expansive menu, handcrafted cocktails, an extensive wine list and stunning indoor and outdoor dining. T-Bones Chophouse features USDA Prime dry and wetaged beef cuts, grass-fed bison and premium Japanese wagyu. Their seafood options include Alaskan king crab, Dover sole, branzino, crab cakes and Bigeye tuna. Round it out with sides such as spicy cream corn, freshcut French Fries or mouthwatering mac and cheese. Be sure to check out the happy hour menu. Red Rock Resort, 11011 W. Charleston Blvd.; 702.797.7777; redrockresort.com. $$$
Vietnamese THE BLACK SHEEP
Long before Chef Jamie Tran captured the hearts of America on “Top Chef: Portland,” she almost single-handedly made the southwest a foodie destination for locals in the know. At The Black Sheep, she takes the Vietnamese comfort food recipes she learned from her parents and tweaks them with the French fine dining chops she picked up working for legends like Charlie Palmer and Daniel Boulud. 8680 Warm Springs Road, Las Vegas; 702.954.3998; blacksheepvegas.com. $$
Wine Bar
WINEAUX
Decorated in white and beige with marble accents and bathed in natural light, Wineaux is a bright, open, modern space. Retail sales are a large portion of the business. But low welcoming couches lining a wall of windows lure wine lovers of all experience levels to open a bottle in the store (we counted over 40 priced below $50) or even just a glass. Chef Shawn McClain (Balla Italian Soul, Libertine Social) has created a beautiful menu of shareable seafood, flatbreads, spreads, and gourmet snacks. 6887 Helen Toland St., Las Vegas; 702.527.6009; wineauxlv.com; $$
THE MANE EVENT
New Westside salon makes luxury haircare a social affair
BY JEN SMITH
Hair House Social is a new luxury salon on the Westside redefining the upscale self-care experience. It debuted in May inside Sunset Canyon Plaza.
“It’s a place where people can gather and feel good about themselves and leave feeling better than how they came in,” says owner and founder Laila Abdelnour, “not just [in] how they look, but [with] their soul.”
The salon offers 12 chairs for about 19 experienced stylists and a separate room for a spray tan artist. As an “extension-heavy salon,” Hair House Social uses 100 percent human hair extensions from Platform Hair Extensions, a company founded seven years ago by a stylist Abdelnour assisted. Additional services include coloring, blowouts, haircuts for both men and women and add-ons like nourishing and smoothing treatments. Hair House Social also carries the full line of Oribe hair care products.
Sleek marble, wood and ceramic details create a homey feel in the roughly 2,500-square-foot space. Abdelnour enlisted the help of a St. George-Utah based designer to create a soothing
environment. Beyond beauty services, Abdelnour hopes to offer both a social and educational space within the salon, with guest stylists holding workshops.
“I would love to teach my salon more extension methods, more color methods, even business classes for hair stylists because that’s a huge thing lacking in our industry,” she says.
Abdelnour is a Las Vegas local. She started on the traditional education track but always knew her calling was in the beauty industry. After graduating from UNLV with a hospitality degree and starting a job, she quickly realized she wanted to pursue a career in styling hair. Trusting her instincts, she quit her job and began the process of becoming a hairdresser.
“I believe in signs from the universe and following your gut instincts because that has truly gotten me to where I am today,” she says.
Abdelnour attended Paul Mitchell hair school in Las Vegas, where she garnered her business acumen and spent eight years building her client base. Opening her salon and incorporating that social element was important.
“I’ve had my clients tell me that they’ve been sitting at the processing area, which is more of like a hangout area, and they’ve made friends with other people’s clients, and they’re [meeting up] outside the salon,” she says.
By bringing Hair House Social to the Westside, Abdelnour expresses that she is living her dream.
“All of our stylists are amazingly talented and just wonderful people. I’ve created my dream space with my dream team,” she says. “I’m like, ‘somebody pinch me.’ I still can’t believe it sometimes.”
Hair House Social is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Mondays, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays. The salon is closed on Sundays. hairhousesocial.com