Henderson, NV April 2026

Survey 2026 NSB Small Business

Perspectives Powered By People

Download the 13th annual NSB Small Business Survey report for insights from business executives and entrepreneurs across the state. Learn how they are navigating today’s challenges, planning for tomorrow, and shaping Nevada’s business future.

DISCOVER

INSIGHTS ON:

• What is the new top concern for Nevada businesses in 2026?

• How many businesses currently incorporate AI and how has it impacted business performance?

• Does Nevada’s business climate still rate high?

TUNE IN FOR EXPERT ANALYSIS

Don’t miss the May episode of Through the Door, NSB’s business podcast featuring Jeremy Aguero from Applied Analysis as he highlights the key takeaways in this year’s survey report.

Learn more at nsbank.com/podcast

Investing In Our Community

When we hear the word investment, most of us immediately think about money—real estate, stocks, retirement accounts. But it’s so much more than that. It’s something you pour into with intention, belief, and the expectation that it will grow.

Here in Henderson, we see investments happening every single day with local entrepreneurs opening their doors and betting on their dreams, in families choosing this community as the place to raise their children, in neighbors helping each other out, and in business owners reinvesting in local nonprofits, schools, and events that make our city stronger.

And we see it in the everyday choices we make by supporting local, building relationships, and showing up for one another in both the good times and the hard seasons. That is the kind of investment that truly compounds, creating growth that benefits us all. We feel incredibly fortunate to share those stories within these pages.

In this issue, we explore meaningful ways to invest in the life you are building: at home with Sierra Air Conditioning & Plumbing, in your future with Cactus Valley Retirement Resort, in your financial confidence and community through Diazo Wealth, in peace of mind with First Choice Insurance, and even in the journey ahead with Mercedes-Benz, all while remembering that the most powerful investment we can ever make is in one another. Thank you for continuing to invest your time with us. It is truly a privilege to tell the stories of the people who make this community extraordinary.

With gratitude,

CRISSIE J. BOWN, PUBLISHER @HENDERSONCITYLIFESTYLE

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Crissie Bown | crissie.bown@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Paige Candee | paige.candee@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Katie Bode | katie.bode@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sienna Sinclair, Paige Candee, Alexander Fraser, Vivian Greggory, Jennifer Florendo, Andres Molina

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Denise Truscello, Bryan Steffy, Getty Images, Jessica Vargas, Diego Calinawan-Amarosa, Joseph Donato, Dragonfly Portrait Design Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

3:5-6

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: The 30th Annual Power of Love Gala. 2: Guests gathered at the MGM Grand to advance brain health and inspire hope for millions. 3: The gala raised an astounding $12 million to benefit the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health. 4: Camille and Larry Ruvo celebrated three decades of love, legacy, and lifesaving care. 5: Music legend Kenny Loggins was honored. 6: Wolfgang Puck and Charlie Palmer crafted a culinary masterpiece, joined this year by their talented sons. 7: Rachel Platten moved the audience with her performance of the empowering anthem “Fight Song.”

Want to be seen in the magazine?

A beautifully organized space sets the tone for how you move through your day. Our custom closet systems combine luxury craftsmanship with intentional design— featuring boutique-style shelving, elegant drawers, and integrated lighting— creating organization that feels effortless and refined.

Sabor Chefs Introduced Small Bites LV for Effortless Entertaining

Sabor Chefs expanded its culinary offerings with the launch of Small Bites LV, a new concept focused on ready-to-serve appetizers for gatherings and professional events. The service features menus of your choice, such as lobster rolls, pork fennel meatballs, and caprese skewers. Designed to simplify hosting, Small Bites LV emphasizes convenience, presentation, and quality reflective of Sabor Chefs’ established culinary approach.

Photography by Chef Gene of Sabor Chefs

Friends of Henderson Libraries Presented $43,200 Donation

Friends of Henderson Libraries presented a $43,200 check to the Henderson Libraries Board of Trustees during a recent board meeting. The funds represented proceeds raised from the 2025 Library Tree Lane Gala and Boutique, an annual fundraising effort supporting library programs and services across the Henderson community.

Photography by Henderson Libraries

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Nevada State Bank Added Veteran Lender Angie Hagedorn

Nevada State Bank announced the addition of Angie Hagedorn to its mortgage lending team as a Mortgage Lender. With more than two decades of experience in banking and lending, Hagedorn will serve clients throughout Southern Nevada. Her background spans retail banking, commercial and consumer lending, and mortgage origination, as well as financial management experience from her previous role as a chief financial officer.

Photography by Nevada State Bank

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WHY CHOOSING MERCEDES-BENZ IS A LONG-TERM INVESTMENT IN SAFETY, QUALITY, AND COMMUNITY CONNECTION

LUXURY THAT LASTS

“WE UNDERSTAND IT’S PERSONAL. DECADES HAVE BEEN INVESTED INTO CREATING OWNERSHIP EXPERIENCES THAT FEEL TAILORED TO EACH GUEST.”

Luxury has always been about more than indulgence — at its best, it’s about choosing quality that enhances everyday life. Today’s buyers are looking not just for beautiful design and elevated experiences, but for purchases that hold their value over time.

Nowhere is that shift more evident than in the automotive world.

For Jaymie Hampson, Area General Manager of Fletcher Jones Imports and Mercedes-Benz of Henderson, true luxury isn’t fleeting — it’s built to last.

“Mercedes-Benz builds its vehicles to last. That’s always been part of the DNA.” Jaymie explains. “As more focus is placed on technology in other brands, you often see compromises in comfort and quality. MercedesBenz continues to use high-quality materials, rigorous engineering standards, and modular designs that allow upgrades and longevity.”

At the end of the day, it’s not just about how it drives today — it’s about selecting craftsmanship designed to endure.

MORE THAN A FIRST IMPRESSION

Luxury is often associated with aesthetics — the feel of leather, the gleam of polished finishes, the quiet confidence of thoughtful design. Jaymie believes the true value of Mercedes-Benz lies even deeper.

“IT’S NOT ABOUT A SHORT-TERM INDULGENCE — IT’S ABOUT PEACE OF MIND, AND MAKING A CHOICE THAT STILL FEELS RIGHT YEARS FROM NOW.”

“Mercedes-Benz isn’t just about that first luxury impression,” she says. “It’s about sustained quality and industry-leading safety innovations.”

For many families, safety ends up being the deciding factor. In Southern Nevada, where traffic patterns and road conditions can change quickly, those advanced safety systems aren’t just nice to have. They’re something parents genuinely rely on.

“The safety innovations are designed to prevent accidents,” Jaymie notes. “Pre-collision systems and advanced airbag technology ensure that every trip is a calculated reduction in risk.”

She recalls working with a local family shopping for their daughter’s first vehicle. Their decision to stay with the brand was deeply personal.

“While the mother was pregnant with their now 16-year-old, they were in an accident,” Jaymie shares. “They’ve never left the brand because they saw firsthand how Mercedes-Benz prioritizes keeping drivers safe through design and safety features.”

That kind of trust doesn’t fade with time — and it contributes directly to another key investment factor: resale value. With a reputation built on reliability and safety, Mercedes-Benz vehicles consistently maintain strong market demand.

“It’s not about a short-term indulgence,” Jaymie says. “It’s about peace of mind, and making a choice that still feels right years from now.”

INNOVATION THAT ENHANCES DAILY LIFE

Luxury today also means seamless integration with the technology that powers modern life. But innovation, when done right, shouldn’t feel overwhelming — it should feel supportive.

For Mercedes-Benz owners, that translates into a premium ownership experience that extends well beyond the driver’s seat.

“From connected car features to personalized support, the ownership experience is designed to feel seamless,” Jaymie explains. “For many owners, it becomes the most advanced piece of technology they interact with every day.”

From remote connectivity to intuitive interfaces, these features are designed not to distract, but to simplify. They bring ease to daily routines while reinforcing the sense that the vehicle is evolving alongside its owner.

INVESTING BEYOND THE DRIVE

At Fletcher Jones Imports and Mercedes-Benz of Henderson, the philosophy of investment doesn’t stop once the keys are handed over.

For more than 55 years in Nevada, the focus has always been on relationships, not just transactions.

“We understand it’s personal,” Jaymie says. “Decades have been invested into creating ownership experiences that feel tailored to each guest.”

That commitment extends beyond the showroom into the broader community. The team partners with local charities, sponsors cultural programs, and hosts philanthropic events — often alongside the very clients they serve.

“In many cases, we’re introduced to participate in these efforts because our clients are already involved,” Jaymie explains. “It’s a full-circle approach that allows us to dedicate our time and resources to the broader community.”

A PERSONAL COMMITMENT

For Jaymie, investment is a daily mindset. “I don’t just oversee dealership operations and unplug when I leave for the day,” she says. “I’m deeply invested in making sure we build long-lasting relationships with our guests and community.”

That perspective reflects a larger philosophy: luxury isn’t defined by price — it’s defined by purpose.

“We simply want to be considered when someone has a vehicle need,” Jaymie adds. “It’s up to us to earn and keep the business.”

“LUXURY ISN’T ABOUT A FLEETING THRILL — IT’S ABOUT CRAFTSMANSHIP, SAFETY, AND TRUST THAT STAND THE TEST OF TIME.”

ARTICLE BY ALEXANDER

BY JOSEPH

Advisor Justin Long of Diazo Wealth sees investing as a shared journey, one built on partnership, communication, and community connection

WHEN INVESTING MEANS MORE THAN MONEY

In the world of finance, investing often gets framed as a numbers game: portfolios, performance charts, and returns. But for Justin Long, CFP®, founder and lead advisor at Diazo Wealth, investing is something deeper: a relationship rooted in collaboration and trust. He sees the process as a two-way street where both advisor and client play an active role in shaping not just wealth, but also confidence and clarity. By meeting with clients quarterly, staying closely connected, and giving back through community engagement, Justin’s approach underscores the simple idea that meaningful investing is less about transactions and more about relationships that grow over time.

Q: Investing is a two-way street. What does that mean in the way you work with clients at Diazo Wealth?

A: It means that at Diazo we treat investing as a shared responsibility, not a product we deliver to clients while they watch from the sidelines. At Diazo, we do the heavy lifting, but the best outcomes come when clients stay engaged, communicate changes early, and stick with a plan we build together.

Q: Your approach is very concierge-style, including meeting with clients four times a year. How does that frequent touchpoint change the way you plan and adjust their investments?

A: Quarterly meetings let us keep the plan current, as cash needs, taxes, and risk change throughout the year. This cadence helps us make smaller, smarter adjustments proactively, rather than big reactive moves after life or markets force our hand. After more than two decades of serving my community, I’ve learned that the only certainty in life is change, and meeting with clients regularly ensures we’re ready when that time comes.

Q: You’ve recently opened a new location and grown your team. How does investing in your people and your practice help you show up better for clients?

A: Investing in our team and our practice is ultimately an investment in the client experience. It gives us more bandwidth, more expertise, and better systems to deliver the proactive, personalized service our clients expect.

Q: You’re also active in several local charities. Why is investing in the community such an important part of your philosophy about wealth and “everyone winning”?

A: Wealth is a tool for security, freedom, and impact. Investing locally is part of what we call “everyone winning” because strong communities create opportunity, stability, and a better life for the people who live and work here. We want our clients’ success to be meaningful, not isolated. It truly takes a village. When we invest in our community, the impact lasts and shows up in our daily lives.

CONTINUED >

“INVESTING IS A TWO-WAY STREET. CLIENTS INVEST IN THEIR FUTURE, AND TOGETHER WE INVEST IN AN ONGOING RELATIONSHIP: SHOWING UP REGULARLY, ADJUSTING AS LIFE CHANGES, AND STAYING CONNECTED TO THE PEOPLE AND COMMUNITIES THAT MATTER MOST.”

Q: For someone who has never worked with a financial advisor before, what does it feel like to be your client and how do you invest in making sure everyone wins?

A: It feels calm, organized, and surprisingly human. Most first-time clients come in expecting a sales pitch or a complicated finance lecture, but what they get at Diazo is a clear plan, a consistent cadence, and a team that follows through, and money stops becoming a constant background stress. Being our client feels like having a quarterback; someone who helps make money decisions simpler, coordinated, and intentional. We invest time, structure, and proactive communication so the plan gets implemented and so the outcomes benefit your whole life, not just your portfolio.

Disclaimer: Diazo LLC is a registered investment advisor with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), conducting business only in states where properly registered or exempt. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. This content is for informational purposes only and has not been approved by the SEC or any state securities authority. Forward-looking statements reflect Diazo’s opinions at the time and do not guarantee future performance. Investments involve risks, including loss. Investors should assess their goals, risk tolerance, taxes, and liquidity needs before investing.

INVESTING in your next STAGE OF LIFE

Cactus Valley Retirement Resort makes getting older feel like the next chapter you can’t wait to reach

ARTICLE

BY VIVIAN GREGGORY PHOTOGRAPHY BY DIEGO CALINAWAN-AMAROSA

Remember when you couldn’t wait to be old enough to do the next big thing—sit at the big kids’ table, stay up past bedtime, or finally get your driver’s license? Well, Cactus Valley Retirement Resort (cactusvalleyretirement.com) is the next place you’re going to wish you were old enough for. Here, the perks of “making it” in life look like chef-prepared meals, a movie theater downstairs, and friends just steps away—all wrapped into a community designed for more freedom, comfort, and connection.

“Invest in more time! Invest in more living! Invest in more fun!” says Joyce Crowder-McBride, Live In Community Manager at Cactus Valley Retirement Resort. “You have invested your whole life working and raising family to reap the reward of a worry-free lifestyle!” For Joyce and her team, the idea of “investing in your next stage of life” isn’t just about finances; it’s about finally cashing in on all the years of showing up for everyone else and choosing a place designed to show up for you.

Walk through Cactus Valley and it really does feel like its own little city. Joyce explains that their “Main Street amenities bring the conveniences of a vibrant neighborhood right to your door.” Residents don’t need to hop in the car to run errands or meet friends. Instead, they can “enjoy an all-inclusive lifestyle with access to a fitness center, Freedom Dining, a general store, movie theatre, salon, and more — all under one roof.” Breakfast with a neighbor, a workout, a quick trim at the salon, an afternoon film, and happy hour with friends can all happen without ever leaving the building.

For many people, the phrase “retirement community” can feel intimidating, as if it means giving something up. Joyce hears that concern all the time and loves changing that perception. “Cactus Valley isn’t about giving up freedom or independence — it’s about gaining peace of mind, community, and convenience,” she says. The trade-offs are surprisingly appealing: “No more maintenance. No more daily worries. Just the freedom to choose how you spend your time — getting involved in the community, making new friends, and embracing new adventures.” As she puts it simply, “Enjoy the very best of this life.”

That “no more maintenance” piece might be one of the most underrated perks. Instead of worrying about broken appliances, yard work in triple - digit summers, or surprise repair bills, residents can focus on outings, hobbies, and relationships. Family members get a boost of peace of mind too, knowing their loved one has support, community, and activities built in to everyday life rather than having to create it all on their own.

Joyce understands that choosing a retirement community is a major decision. “This is a big decision— not an easy one, but an important one,” she shares. It’s normal to feel hesitant, even if the lifestyle sounds

appealing on paper. Her advice: let your instincts lead you when you walk through the door. “We understand that change can feel hard. But we promise, once you step inside, meet our team, and get to know the amazing residents who call this community home, you won’t want to wait to call Cactus Valley your home too.”

During a tour, Joyce encourages future residents and their families to pay attention not just to the amenities, but to how the place feels. Are people chatting and laughing in the common areas? Do team members greet residents by name? Can you picture yourself joining a card game, sitting down for a chef-prepared dinner, or inviting friends over to the theater for movie night? Those small moments are often what make the biggest difference in daily life.

At its heart, Cactus Valley is about reimagining retirement as the long-awaited “big kid” stage of life—one where your time is finally your own and your environment is thoughtfully designed around comfort, fun, and connection. With Main Street conveniences, chef- driven dining, and a built-in community, it’s less about slowing down and more about choosing where and how you want to live this next, hard- earned chapter. As Joyce reminds her residents and the families who love them: it’s time to “invest in more time, more living, and more fun.”

• Rediscover your energy, clarity and confidence again

• Dr Tanita (Board-Certified OBGYN) and his team are experts in treating symptoms of fatigue, brain fog, anxiety and declining sexual wellness & sleep

HendersonWomensCare.com | (702) 847-6252 | 1348 Paseo Verde Pkwy, STE

SPRING PREP FOR SUMMER COMFORT

In Southern Nevada, summer heat isn’t a surprise—it’s a season you can set your watch by. For Ryan Field, Chief Marketing Officer of Sierra Air Conditioning and Plumbing, that predictability is exactly why your HVAC system deserves a little investment before the triple digits arrive.

“In Las Vegas, investing in your HVAC system in the spring isn’t a luxury;it’s preparation,” he says.

Once the real heat hits, your air conditioner isn’t casually cycling on and off. It’s running almost nonstop for months, and that kind of demand exposes every weak component in the system.

If there’s a failing capacitor, low refrigerant, restricted airflow, or dirty coils, summer will find it, and usually on the hottest day of the year. Spring is the opportunity to tune the system, clean it properly, test performance, and make proactive repairs before the strain sets in. It’s also when scheduling is more flexible and you’re not competing with emergency breakdown calls across the Valley.

From a financial standpoint, a spring tune-up is smart risk management. A well-maintained system runs more efficiently, keeps energy bills under control, and lasts longer in a climate that’s especially demanding on equipment. “In Las Vegas, your HVAC system isn’t just another appliance,” Ryan says. “It’s one of the most important investments in your home.”

A spring HVAC tune-up is one of the smartest home investments local homeowners can make

ARTICLE BY VIVIAN GREGGORY

Waiting until something breaks has consequences you can feel and see, starting with comfort. Once a system fails in triple-digit heat, indoor temperatures rise quickly. Mechanically, small issues that could have been handled in spring turn into major failures while under stress. A weak capacitor becomes a full system outage, dirty coils lead to overheating, and low refrigerant can cause the unit to ice up or shut down completely.

So, what does good preventive maintenance actually look like? Ryan is clear: it’s a full system tune-up, not just a quick filter change. That means inspecting refrigerant levels, testing electrical components, measuring airflow, cleaning condenser coils, clearing drain lines, calibrating the thermostat, and verifying overall performance.

“If a homeowner wants to get ahead of the busy season,” he says, “the first step is simple: schedule a maintenance visit now, before demand spikes.” After that, change air filters regularly, keep vents and returns clear, and make sure the outdoor condenser unit has room to breathe. If a system is older or has struggled in past summers, a spring efficiency check can help avoid tough, last-minute decisions in the middle of a heatwave.

“Summer comfort is about preparation,” Ryan says. A proactive approach in early spring protects your home, your budget, and your peace of mind by turning HVAC maintenance into one of the smartest investments you can make before the heat hits.

Breathing Health Into

FOREVER FOUTZ‑ISMS

Invest in your future smile with practical habits that keep your teeth—and your future self—happier, healthier, and grinning longer

ARTICLE BY PAIGE CANDEE PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA VARGAS

When Barton H. Foutz, DDS, says, “You only need to take care of the teeth you want to keep,” he isn’t just being clever, he’s giving you his whole philosophy in one line. For him, a forever smile isn’t about perfection; it’s about partnering with patients, so their teeth look good, feel good, and actually last.

At Foutz Family Dentistry, patients quickly learn they’re part of the team. “Our responsibility is to use the best education, materials, techniques and motivation,” he says. “But their personal desires and efforts are probably the most important factor in keeping their teeth and helping them function well through the rest of their life.” Translation: he’ll bring the expertise, but you still have to pick up the toothbrush.

One of his favorite sayings, “Your future self will thank you,” comes from decades of watching long-term patients reap the rewards of early care. Some have been with him nearly 40 years. “We’ll sometimes reminisce and talk about what would have happened if we hadn’t done the work when we did,” he shares. Because they invested in their mouths early and stuck with regular care, they’re still smiling, chewing, and laughing comfortably today.

Of course, many people wait until something hurts before calling the

dentist. Dr. Foutz gets it, but he doesn’t recommend it. He likes to “get things while they are small,” helping patients see tiny problems before they turn into big, expensive, time- consuming problems. It’s easy to show the difference in cost for catch-up treatment later versus consistent care now, but the real conversation is about quality of life: esthetic, functioning teeth that last, plus a commitment to maintenance so the work holds up.

If he could give readers one simple habit this month, he’d start with the basics: brush well and thoroughly two to three times a day, floss twice a day, and see your dentist regularly. “You don’t know what you don’t know!” he says. That professional set of eyes—and X-rays—can spot what your bathroom mirror can’t.

Another favorite Foutz-ism: “The mouth is the gateway to your overall health.” In his practice, that means focusing on both the frame (facial and soft tissue esthetics) and the picture (the teeth themselves). The goal is optimal care in a compassionate, comfortable environment where patients feel heard, informed, and genuinely cared for.

And if you walk out repeating his one-liners to your kids or partner? Dr. Foutz would probably call that a win—for your teeth, and for your future self.

LOCAL AUTHOR SHOWCASE

Meet over 30 authors from the Vegas Valley who write in a variety of genres, from poetry and memoirs, to crime novels, inspirational stories, and everything in between.

Paseo Verde Library Saturday, May 02 10:00am - 12:00pm

hendersonlibraries.com/local-author-showcase

New Season. Fresh Glow.

As the season shifts, so should your skincare. Our customized spring treatments gently exfoliate, deeply hydrate, and restore your natural glow — leaving you luminous, balanced, and ready for the sunshine ahead. Renew. Rebalance. Reset. HYDRAFACIAL

Protection Before Premium

Invest wisely in coverage that grows with your life and assets

For many families and business owners, insurance can feel like a line item to minimize rather than a strategy to strengthen. But according to Ashley Mastowski, Founder and CEO of First Choice Insurance Group ( yourfirstchoice.agency), true financial security starts with a mindset shift: protection first, price second.

ARTICLE BY SIENNA SINCLAIR

“It’s all about having proper limits, policies and coverages,” Ashley says. While minimum coverage may meet state requirements, she warns that it often falls short when real life intervenes. “You can’t control everyone else and what they carry for limits, so control what you can, which is your policy, it’s worth it,” she says.

In Nevada, where many drivers carry only the minimum required coverage, the consequences can be significant. Insufficient protection can expose families to wage garnishment and lawsuits after serious accidents, risks that extend beyond vehicles to homes, businesses, and personal assets.

This philosophy applies to business owners as well. Ashley understands the

temptation to cut costs, she runs an agency herself and speaks with owners navigating the same pressures daily.

“I own a business just like these business owners I’m talking to every day and cutting corners to move the needle on my profit & loss statement isn’t worth that one accident to lose everything you’ve worked for in the blink of an eye,” she explains.

One of the biggest blind spots she sees today is cyber protection. “Ninety percent of businesses don’t carry cyber insurance and attackers are out there targeting small businesses because they know this is a big vulnerable piece,” she adds.

As investments grow, whether through a new home, expanding business, or growing

“Cutting corners to save on premiums isn’t worth risking everything you’ve worked for— true protection always comes before price.”

family, insurance should evolve alongside them to reflect real-life changes and responsibilities.

“If you just had a baby, you should think about more life insurance,” she says. “Did you just get married? You probably purchased a large ring that needs proper insurance, most people think their high value items and collectibles are covered under their homeowners’ policies and they are not!”

Her agency conducts annual reviews to catch these changes. Opening a business, acquiring collectibles, or lifestyle shifts can impact personal risk exposure. “Our job is to provide the options and your job as an insured is to decide what level of risk do you want to have,” she says.

Another critical piece of the puzzle is consolidation.

“We understand pricing is important, but that shouldn’t be your main focus,” she says. When policies are scattered across different agencies, gaps

can emerge. Lowering limits on one policy might disqualify an umbrella policy, or cancellations might go unnoticed until a claim is denied.

From a commercial perspective, mismatched policies can create confusion around coverage responsibilities. “We might think your workers comp policy should cover something specific and you might be thinking this would be covered under your general liability policy,” she explains.

“At the end of the day, it’s unfortunately a required expense,” she says. “We are in a litigious society and you can sue someone for looking at you wrong.”

“We all think ‘well, it won’t happen to me’, but I’ve been in this industry a long time and I have seen it all. It can happen to you,” she says.

And when that moment comes, the real investment isn’t the premium saved, it’s the protection in place.

The ‘A Games” is similar to the well-known “X Games,” but for individuals on the Autism Spectrum and their sibling or buddy Events have been modified to ensure inclusive participation! Registered individuals will have the opportunity to participate in two of eight events: Rockwall, Obstacle Course, Skate Events, Scooter & Biking.

Event day festivities include a DJ, music, silent auction, kids fun zone, food trucks, award ceremony and much MORE!

DENTAL SERVICE

WHY CHOOSE US?

• DENTAL IMPLANTS, DENTURES, CROWNS, AND CLEAR ALIGNERS HELP WITH

• STATE-OF-THE-ART EQUIPMENT.

•

MEDICARE ACCEPTED

INVESTING IN DIGNITY

STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY THROUGH ACCESS: HOW PROJECT MARILYN IS ENDING PERIOD POVERTY IN NEVADA

Most people in Southern Nevada will never see period poverty on a billboard. It doesn’t look dramatic from the outside. It looks like a mom in the grocery aisle doing math between pads and pasta, a teenager skipping school because she’s terrified of staining her jeans, or someone folding socks into their underwear and pretending they’re fine.

ARTICLE BY PAIGE CANDEE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DRAGONFLY PORTRAIT DESIGN PHOTOGRAPHY

Period poverty is defined by three key barriers: lack of access to proper period supplies, lack of access to hygiene facilities, and lack of access to education surrounding menstruation. But in everyday life, it looks like

missed opportunities: missed school days, missed shifts at work, missed community events. It can mean choosing between essentials, staying home to avoid stigma, or navigating daily life with anxiety and discomfort.

That’s where Project Marilyn comes in.

Founded by Wendi Schweigart, Project Marilyn exists to ensure everyone can experience a healthy, dignified period. The organization distributes thoughtfully assembled period kits designed to last an entire cycle through schools, period partner agencies and outreach initiatives, including the Period Supplies are School Supplies program.

At its core, the work is about more than products. It’s about participation. When communities support menstrual equity, they strengthen more than access to hygiene supplies; they reinforce education, financial stability, mental health, and opportunity. Access to period supplies means students can stay in class, employees can show up to work, and individuals can fully engage in daily life without shame or interruption.

Project Marilyn itself was born from a deeply personal place. Named in honor of Schweigart’s mother, Marilyn, the nonprofit reflects a legacy of resilience and care for others. After her mother’s passing, Schweigart was moved by a desire to create something meaningful, something that honored the quiet strength and sacrifices she had witnessed growing up.

That inspiration has since transformed into tangible impact across Southern Nevada, reaching schools and community partners with essential supplies and support.

For those who have never had to think twice about affording period products, it may be easy to overlook the issue. Many people instinctively donate food, clothing, or school supplies, which are all vital resources. Yet, menstrual products are often left out of the conversation, despite being a recurring, unavoidable necessity.

Supporting solutions like Project Marilyn means helping neighbors stay in school, maintain employment, and participate fully in community life. It fills a gap that often goes unseen but deeply felt.

By treating menstrual care as community care, Project Marilyn is not just addressing a need, it’s building a stronger, more inclusive Southern Nevada where dignity is recognized as a basic necessity, not a luxury.

APRIL 2026

Nevada’s Premier Firm for Business and Estate Law

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

APRIL 11TH

A Games presented by FEAT of South Nevada

Sport Social | 10:00 AM

Inspired by the energy and spirit of the “X Games,” this inclusive event by FEAT of South Nevada is uniquely designed for children on the autism spectrum. Participants will have the opportunity to enjoy two of eight adaptive events, each created to ensure accessibility, and fun. Register at agameslv.com. To coordinate a contribution, contact Geri@featsonv.org or 702-376-8927.

APRIL 11TH

Lied Library’s Silver Soirée

Lied Library, UNLV Campus | 6:00 PM

The Lied Library will transform into a world of discovery and enchantment for the Silver Soirée, an unforgettable celebration of 25 years of inspiration, innovation, and impact. Proceeds from the Silver Soirée will support student employment in the University Libraries. library.unlv.edu

APRIL 12TH

5th Annual GiGi’s 5K Dash for Down Syndrome

Mission Hills Park | 8:00 AM

Join GiGi’s Playhouse Las Vegas on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at the 5th Annual GiGi’s 5K Dash for Down Syndrome. Get the whole family moving for acceptance. Register or sponsor at gigisplayhouse.donordrive.com.

Headliner

APRIL 12TH

Vegas Knight Hawks “Championship Knight” Home Opener

Lee’s Family Forum | 4:30 PM

Celebrate the start of the 2026 season on Championship Knight as the Vegas Knight Hawks raise the 2025 IFL National Championship Banner to the rafters on Sunday, April 12, at 4:30 PM. Fans in attendance will receive a replica championship banner at the doors while supplies last. leesfamilyforum.com

APRIL 18TH

Coronado Prep Spring Event

Coronado Prep School | 10:00 AM

Join Coronado Prep School for a fun and welcoming Spring celebration. Enjoy bounce houses, games, food, and family-friendly activities. Tour the campus, meet the incredible teachers, and discover what makes the Coronado Prep community so special. For more information, visit coronadopreppreschool.com

APRIL 26TH

18th Annual Serving Our Kids Foundation Bowl A Thon

Sunset Strike Zone at Sunset Station 11:00 AM

Join the fun on April 18 at 11:00 a.m. for the 18th Annual Bowl-A-Thon at Sunset Strike Zone, benefiting The Serving Our Kids Foundation. For more information or additional questions email info@servingourkids.org or call 702-685-2626. servingourkids.org

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