Katie Grimes trains with dedication and focus, knowing she has a team that believes in her. At Nevada State Bank, we bring that same commitment to your financial relationship—taking the time to understand your goals and providing the tools to help you grow and achieve them. From world champions to working families, you deserve a bank that believes in you.
KATIE GRIMES Olympic Medalist & World Champion Swimmer nsbank.com/GoGrimesGo
The time of your life can be all day, every day! Start getting more out of your retirement with a community that takes the work out of daily life and gives you more time for fun. Enjoy monthly social activities, fitness classes, clubs, games, and many more ways to connect with other residents. The best part — it’s all included for only monthly price!
When we hear the word “investment,” our minds usually go straight to the tangible: portfolios, real estate, 401(k)s, and the stock market. We think about the future. We think about security. We think about compounding interest.
And while financial health is undeniably a pillar of a secure life, this month’s Investment Issue invites you to widen the lens.
In my own life, I’ve learned that the most critical currency we spend isn’t the money in our bank accounts. It is our energy. It is our attention. It is the time we allocate to the things (and the people) that matter most.
There is a line from a new book that I am writing that keeps coming back to me: “What you tend to flourishes. What you neglect fades.” That is the true definition of investment. It is the act of pouring your resources, whether that be capital, love, or presence, into something with the faith that it will grow.
In this issue, we explore investment from every angle. We look at smart financial moves to secure your family’s legacy, but we also look at investing in your own well-being. You’ll find my feature on Jacó, Costa Rica, where I explore how booking a ticket and stepping away isn’t just a vacation, it is a vital investment in your mental wellness and a maintenance plan for your soul.
We also highlight local businesses that are investing in our community, building the kind of culture that makes our community such an incredible place to call home.
As we move into the fullness of spring, I invite you to audit your own portfolio. Not just your finances, but your life. Where are you pouring into cups that pour back into you? Where are you seeing the highest return on your joy?
Remember: The most valuable asset you manage is your own life. Invest wisely.
With heart,
CAMILLA SOLÉA RAE, PUBLISHER
April 2026
PUBLISHER
Camilla Soléa Rae | camilla.solearae@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Paige Candee | paige.candee@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Katie Bode | katie.bode@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Camilla Soléa Rae, Belanie Dishong, Rishma M. Khimji, Paige Candee, Allison Swan, Vivian Greggory, Alexander Fraser, Jennifer Florendo, Andres Molina
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Denise Truscello, Bryan Steffy, Getty Images, Camilla Soléa Rae, Ashley Marie, Janie Jones, Dragonfly Portrait Design Photography
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 Hannah Leimkuhler
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.”
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1: The Most Beautiful™ Rose launched with an event to celebrate women and the legacy of love. 2: Attendees toasted the collaboration uniting music, art, and horticultural innovation. 3: Mayte Garcia, Prince’s wife, unveiled The Most Beautiful™ rose during an elegant Rose Baptism event. 4: The new luxury rose was bred in Denmark by global innovator Roses Forever. 5: Luxury rose producer April & Ashley introduced the exclusive rose to admirers with pride. 6: Guests gathered to honor the inspiration behind Prince’s tribute song and the women it celebrated. 7: Each rose sold supported Live 4 Love Charities and its creative community programs.
The most powerful investment you will ever make isn’t in the market.
It’s in your mindset.
The right coaching helps you change how you think, decide, and show up and that changes everything.
I started working with Belanie at Live At Choice because I wanted more, more clarity, more confidence, and a better way to handle the pressure that comes with big goals. What I didn’t realize was that mindset work would improve every area of my life, not just my business.
Since then, I’ve done amazing things professionally, paid off debt, married an incredible man, and learned how to be truly present with my clients, friends, and family. Belanie helped me shift from surviving to leading—with peace, intention, and joy. I’m grateful for the growth, but even more grateful for the life I’ve built along the way.
Michele Mere Feist
Fractional CFO
Bottom Line Bookkeeping Solutions
BottomLineFocused.com
See what Live At Choice can do for you, your business, and your mindset.
discoverysession.liveatchoice.com
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.
The Clark County Medical Society Alliance reaffirmed its commitment to advancing healthcare and community well-being through several recent initiatives. The organization awarded $5,000 scholarships to medical students at the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV and Touro University Nevada, highlighting its support for future healthcare professionals. CCMSA is also extending assistance to the Children’s Heart Foundation Nevada and will continue its fundraising efforts at the upcoming annual fashion gala.
Ada’s in downtown Las Vegas was named the Best Wine Bar in Nevada by Mashed.com in its nationwide roundup of standout wine destinations. The recognition added to the restaurant’s growing list of honors, which included a James Beard Award semifinalist nod and international acclaim for its inventive wine list. The acknowledgment further underscored Ada’s continued influence on the city’s evolving food and beverage scene.
Acne Clinic by Justina expanded its presence with the opening of a new location in Tivoli Village while simultaneously introducing PRP Microneedling, an advanced regenerative treatment for skin rejuvenation and acne scarring. The dual debut reflected the clinic’s continued growth and commitment to personalized, medically guided skincare that blends innovative technology with tailored treatment plans.
urgency for ocean air becomes an intentional commitment to rest, ritual, and soul-level recalibration
We often treat vacations as a luxury; a reward we give ourselves only after we have burned out or crossed a finish line. In a world that demands our constant attention, stepping away is not indulgent; it is maintenance for the soul.
I didn’t go to Costa Rica just to see another beach. I went to remember what it felt like to exhale. I went to trade the noise of daily life for the sound of the ocean, and to see if a change in latitude could shift something inside me.
I landed in Jacó, a beach town on the Pacific coast, and stayed on the southern side of it. I rented a condo one block from the ocean. It was walkable, pulsing with music and life. I loved the convenience of having restaurants, cafés, and nightlife steps away. But if you’re planning a trip to truly invest in peace, I would recommend staying at the northern end of town.
Here’s why.
Jacó is known for its volcanic sand. It isn’t Caribbean white; it’s darker, moodier, and more dramatic. A deep charcoal that glimmers when the tide pulls back. It’s beautiful. On the southern stretch where I stayed, volcanic rocks are scattered along the shoreline. It gives the beach character, but it’s not ideal for long barefoot walks.
The northern end is a lot smoother. Softer. Easier.
As you move north, the rocks disappear and the sand opens into wide, flat expanses that mirror the sky. The energy shifts. It feels quieter. Less party, more retreat. Elevated and peaceful while still in town.
And then there are the sunsets.
I have traveled the world, but the sunsets in Jacó are among the most theatrical I’ve ever experienced. They are not just pretty; they are an event. Every evening, I stopped whatever I was doing to witness them, and it became a ritual.
CONTINUED >
“I have chased sunsets across the world, but the ones in Jacó were theatrical. It was like the sky itself was performing just for those of us willing to pause.”
The sky would ignite. Deep orange melting into crimson, then soft blush fading into lavender. It didn’t just fade; it performed. Standing there, feet in warm volcanic sand, I felt aligned in a way that is hard to describe.
If you’re chasing that view, there are two spots I recommend.
On the southern central side, Samudio’s Sunset Rooftop quickly became a favorite. Upscale and relaxed. Intentional without trying too hard. Their happy hour runs from 5 to 7 p.m. offers two drinks for the price of one—reason enough to claim a front-row seat.
And the tuna poke bowl? Exceptional. It’s layered over a crisp rice cake that adds the perfect crunch beneath the fresh tuna. Savory, vibrant, refreshing. It tastes like the ocean looks at sunset.
If you prefer your sunset directly on the sand, Aloha Beach Front Bar & Grill, on the northern end of the beach, places you exactly there. Chairs settled into the beach. You order your drink and sit as long as you want while the Pacific rolls in just yards away. Salt in the air. No rush. Pure Pura Vida.
Still on the northern side, the culinary scene is alive. PuddleFish Brewery has great draft beer, delicious burgers, and live music. The vibe is social and electric, and it’s where the tourists meet at the end of a long and wonderful day. In Jacó, you can choose your frequency.
One of my favorite discoveries, though, wasn’t a single restaurant but the local “sodas.”
In Costa Rica, a soda is a small, family-run restaurant. Simple, authentic, affordable. This is where you eat like a local. The traditional plate is called a casado, meaning “married.” It’s a marriage of flavors: rice, black beans, plantains, salad, tortillas, and your choice of protein.
I developed my own strategy: I would substitute the rice and beans for extra salad and, most importantly, more fried plantains. Golden, slightly sweet, caramelized on the edges. Comforting and grounding in the best way.
Jacó is also the perfect base for adventure.
About 30 minutes away, I hiked through 10 waterfalls on private property. Lush jungle overhead. The scent of damp earth. The sound of rushing water. We swam in cool pools beneath cascading falls, washing off the coastal humidity. It felt wild yet accessible. Thrilling without being extreme.
I also visited Playa Blanca, a striking white-sand beach where I caught the final surfing competition of the season. Watching surfers carve through waves as the sun set was mesmerizing. The contrast between Playa Blanca’s white sand and Jacó’s black volcanic shore highlights how geologically diverse this coastline is.
A short drive takes you to Herradura and the Los Sueños Marina. Yachts anchored in calm water, polished shops,
CONTINUED >
international restaurants. It’s relaxed sophistication, a welcoming change of pace.
And then there is Manuel Antonio National Park. If you go nowhere else, go here. Just plan ahead. Reservations are required, and during high season you should book weeks in advance. Arrive early; the park begins clearing visitors around 3 p.m.
Inside, wildlife surrounds you: sloths draped across branches, monkeys swinging overhead, bright tropical birds flashing through the canopy. Tucked within the park, a small white-sand beach feels almost surreal against the dense jungle backdrop; the perfect place to cool off after hiking.
Yet some of my favorite moments were the simplest ones.
After several days of dining out, I craved something uncomplicated. I went to the local fish market and bought fresh fish brought in that morning. Back at the condo, I sautéed it in butter with salt, and finished it with a fresh squeeze of lime juice.
It was phenomenal. I paired it with fresh papaya and orange juice I also made myself. Cooking with local ingredients shifts you from tourist to temporary resident. It slows you down. It makes the experience more intimate. It reminded me that less is often more.
Jacó felt like a beautiful paradox. It had energy and stillness. Adventure and ease. Rooftop sunsets and home-cooked dinners.
One practical tip: avoid traveling between Christmas and the New Year if you can. The festive energy is fun, but traffic is intense. What should have been a relaxed 1.5-hour drive to the airport was nearly four hours. Plan accordingly.
Would I go back? Without hesitation.
Jacó isn’t polished perfection. It’s real. Gritty, beautiful and alive. It’s about presence. It’s about standing on dark volcanic sand, watching the sky explode into color, and feeling grateful you’re there to see it.
For me, it wasn’t just a vacation. It was a reminder to slow down. To taste the food. To watch the sky. To let “pura vida” settle into my bones.
And trust me, those sunsets alone are worth the trip.
“Stepping away is not just a reward; it is a vital investment in our mental wellness. It is maintenance for the soul.”
Your dreams, your family, your legacy—these are too important to leave to chance. Whether you’re just starting to build wealth or thinking about the next generation, we help you create a plan with clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. From tailored financial strategies to smart, protective life insurance options, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Let’s build a future that works for you, not against you. www.pharusfinancial.com | Office: (702) 900-9730 | Mobile: (831) 402-3190
WHY CHOOSING MERCEDES-BENZ IS A LONG-TERM INVESTMENT IN SAFETY, QUALITY, AND COMMUNITY CONNECTION
“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.
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.”
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.
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.”
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 RISHMA M. KHIMJI
As someone who has spent two decades in technology and leading teams, I am often asked a version of the same question – “What is AI actually doing for me?”
In investing, that question is especially important. Financial markets already feel complex, and layering technology on top can sound intimidating. Investment technology is growing rapidly, and artificial intelligence is already reshaping how strategies are built, portfolios are managed, and opportunities are identified. At its core, AI is a set of tools that help people make sense of large amounts of information more quickly and more clearly.
One of the easiest ways to understand AI in investing is to think of it as a translator. Markets generate enormous amounts of constantly changing data every day, and for most people, that volume of information is overwhelming. AI helps translate that complexity into something usable. It looks at patterns across time, compares scenarios, and highlights what may deserve attention. It provides context so you can make more informed choices. Rather than guessing or relying on jargon-heavy advice, AI tools explain what is happening and why it matters.
You do not need to be a finance professional to benefit from AI. Many modern investment platforms now use AI to guide people through basic questions such as goals, time horizons, and comfort with risk. These inputs allow the technology to suggest diversified approaches that align with real-life priorities.
Good AI systems show their work. They help users understand why a certain mix of investments might reduce risk or why rebalancing over time matters. That transparency builds trust and confidence. AI works best when paired with human judgment. The goal is not to hand over control, but to gain insight.
As investors gain confidence, AI continues to add value in subtle but meaningful ways. It can monitor portfolios continuously, flagging potential risks or imbalances earlier than a human likely would. It can also model “what if” scenarios, helping investors understand how portfolios may respond to volatility or economic change.
It scales analysis, reduces blind spots, and supports better decision-making. The investor remains in control. AI simply broadens the view.
One of the most common questions I hear is where to begin. From a technology standpoint, the answer is not to look for the most advanced or flashy tool. It is to look for the most understandable one.
Start by choosing platforms that clearly explain how recommendations are generated and what data is being used. Transparency matters.
Look for tools that allow you to stay in control, offering guidance and insight rather than fully automated decision-making.
Strong security practices, reputable providers, and clear privacy policies are essential when personal financial data is involved.
Most importantly, select tools that match your goals. Some apps are designed for learning and long-term planning, while others focus on active portfolio management. The right tool should feel like a partner, not a pressure point.
AI in investing is already delivering benefits that resonate with everyday people:
• Clarity: Clear explanations instead of dense financial language
• Efficiency: Less time spent trying to interpret charts and reports
• Consistency: Ongoing monitoring without emotional reactions
• Confidence: Decisions supported by data rather than guesswork It is about understanding what you own and why.
Any time technology touches personal finances, trust is essential. As a technology leader, I believe strongly in responsible design. AI tools should be transparent, ethical, and easy to understand. That balance between innovation and responsibility is something many technology leaders actively champion.
“When AI is done right, doesn’t replace human judgment, it strengthens it,” said Debbie Banko, CEO of Link Technologies. “It can make people more confident, not more overwhelmed. It brings clarity to complexity, inspires smarter questions, and keeps humans at the center of every decision.”
AI is not here to replace human judgment in investing. It is here to support it. When used thoughtfully, it helps people move from confusion to clarity.
When technology is designed well, it does not demand attention. It earns trust by being useful, understandable, and supportive over time.
From a CIO’s point of view, this is what good technology always does. It works quietly in the background, making complex systems easier to understand, so people can focus on what truly matters.
“AI ISN’T REPLACING HUMAN JUDGMENT — IT’S STRENGTHENING IT WITH CLARITY AND CONFIDENCE.”
Helen K Vasquez 5540 S Fort Apache Rd., suite 110 Las Vegas, Nevada 89148 (702) 629-5625 | hvasquezagency.com
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.
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.
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A concierge practice built on trust, presence, and a deep commitment to understanding your life, your story, and your long-term wellbeing.
Outlive Concierge Medicine offers an elevated approach to wellness where your needs come first. Led by Dr. Andrew Sheep, the practice provides direct access, extended appointments, and truly attentive care. With a focus on prevention, longevity, and whole-person wellbeing, each visit feels intentional and supportive. It’s personal healthcare reimagined, designed to help you thrive.
Discover a more personal standard of medicine.
Three non-surgical technologies are helping locals invest in strength, pelvic health, and brain-driven pain relief
ARTICLE BY ALEXANDER FRASER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BTL INDUSTRIES
EXOMIND focuses on the brain, where perception of pain, stress, mood, and focus all intersect. During a typical session, patients sit comfortably in a chair while a device is positioned near the head, delivering a gentle tapping sensation over 20 to 30 minutes. There’s no pain and no downtime, and treatments are done as a series to gradually retrain neural pathways. By helping regulate mood, stress response, and cognitive function, EXOMIND can indirectly ease chronic pain, reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and support clearer thinking, especially when combined with other regenerative and functional therapies.
Pelvic Floor Strength Without the Gym
Pelvic health is often overlooked in conversations about back pain, balance, and everyday confidence, but EMSELLA puts it at the center. Patients remain fully clothed and sit on the EMSELLA chair for about 28 minutes while the device delivers thousands of supramaximal contractions, often compared to doing over 11,000 Kegels in one session. The experience is described as strong muscle engagement without pain. Over time, this targeted strengthening can improve bladder control, pelvic stability, intimate wellness, and core support, which may translate into less strain on the low back and hips and greater comfort in daily movement.
For years, many people living with chronic pain or neuropathy have been told the same three options: medicate, inject, or operate. At The Wellness Room inside the Neuropathy and Pain Centers of Las Vegas (nvpainrelief.com), Medical Director Robert Odell, MD, PhD, and Director of Health & Wellness Michael Fluhr are working to expand that script with non-invasive tools that focus on restoration rather than just relief. Described as a “clinic within a clinic,” The Wellness Room was created to give patients a relaxing, dedicated space for restorative treatments that help the body heal and strengthen from within. Their latest investment—three new technologies called EXOMIND, EMSELLA, and EMSCULPT NEO— reflects a growing shift toward walk-in, walk-out treatments that support the body, brain, and long-term function.
The team describes these additions as part of a larger commitment to evidence-based care that fits real life. Patients want to
feel better without sacrificing weeks of recovery or becoming dependent on medication. Each of the new devices is designed to meet that demand while addressing different contributors to pain: from the way the brain processes stress, to the strength of the pelvic floor, to the stability of the core. Sessions are done in-office, require no anesthesia or incisions, and allow patients to return to normal activities immediately.
Rather than chasing symptoms, the goal is to help patients “invest in themselves” through proactive, restorative care. That might mean rebuilding muscle to take pressure off the spine, retraining neural pathways that amplify pain, or improving bladder control and pelvic stability so daily life feels easier and more confident. The result is a model of pain management that looks less like crisis care and more like long-term wellness, where strength, mood, and mobility are all part of the same plan.
Core Strength and Composition in One Step
EMSCULPT NEO blends high-intensity electromagnetic energy with radiofrequency to build muscle and reduce fat in the same treatment. Applicators are placed over areas such as the abdomen, glutes, arms, or thighs, and patients feel intense, rhythmic muscle contractions paired with a warming sensation over roughly 30 minutes. Each session delivers the equivalent of about 20,000 contractions in just 30 minutes, helping enhance strength and tone at a deep muscular level. With no downtime, a series of sessions can help improve core stability, posture, and overall body composition. For patients with chronic low back pain or weakness, stronger muscles can mean less mechanical strain, better support for the spine, and a renewed sense of energy and physical confidence.
ARTICLE BY BELANIE DISHONG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY MARIE
When you think of investment, you think of return. You put something in, and over time, it grows. It multiplies. It pays dividends. Now imagine this: If you could choose the dividends in your life, what would they be?
Greater confidence?
Stronger relationships?
A thriving business?
Clarity in your decisions?
Peace in your home?
Freedom in your schedule?
We are intentional about financial investments. We study options. We measure risk. We evaluate potential return. Yet rarely do we approach our internal lives with the same level of intention. What if you deliberately chose the kind of mindset that would produce the dividends you most desire?
I have spent decades studying, teaching, and living this truth. As the founder of Live At Choice and The Live At Choice Coaches Academy, I have had the privilege of working with entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, families, and individuals who were capable, intelligent, and driven. Yet many of them felt stuck. Not because they lacked strategy. Not because they
“The most powerful return on investment isn’t money—it’s peace, alignment, and the freedom to choose with intention.”
lacked opportunity. But because unseen internal patterns were shaping their choices.
We invest in education. We invest in business growth. We invest in health and wellness. All of these matter. But if the internal foundation is misaligned, even the best opportunities fail to produce the results we desire.
Mindset is not positive thinking. It is not affirmations. It is not pretending circumstances are different than they are. It is understanding how your beliefs formed, how they drive your decisions, and how they quietly determine your outcomes.
Every result in life follows a sequence: beliefs shape thoughts, thoughts influence actions, actions create results. When the results are not what we want, most people try to change the action; few pause to examine the belief beneath it.
That examination is where real investment begins.
True investment in yourself requires courage, inquiry, and a willingness to look beyond performance and productivity and ask deeper questions.
What am I believing about myself?
What assumptions am I carrying?
Where did they come from?
Are they serving the future I say I want?
When individuals take the time to understand the internal framework driving their lives, something shifts: clarity replaces confusion, confidence grows, certainty develops, decisions become cleaner, action becomes more consistent, and results begin to align.
This is not about fixing something broken. It is about elevating something capable.
Over the years, I have seen business owners double revenue after uncovering internal barriers they did not know existed. I have seen leaders strengthen teams simply by shifting how they view responsibility and ownership. I have seen individuals rediscover joy in their families by releasing stories they did not realize were shaping their reactions.
The return on investment is not merely financial. It is peace, alignment, and the freedom to choose deliberately rather than react automatically.
We cannot control every circumstance in life: markets shift, industries evolve, people disappoint us, and plans change. But we can learn to respond rather than react. We can learn to think deliberately. We can learn to operate from awareness instead of habit. That is an investment no downturn can erase.
When you invest in your internal foundation, every external investment becomes stronger. Strategy works better. Leadership deepens. Relationships stabilize. Opportunities expand.
Your greatest asset has never been your bank account. It has always been your ability to choose, and when you strengthen that ability, you strengthen everything.
That is the investment that pays dividends for a lifetime.
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.
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Jess Smith is the founder of the popular food blog InquiringChef.com, which she started in 2010 after moving to Thailand with her husband. She explored Thai cuisine, took cooking classes, and documented her experiences on the blog. Over time, her passion for cooking grew, leading her to focus on quick, easy meals for families. Today, Inquiring Chef receives over 5 million page views annually and supports a small team. She shares new recipes weekly through email, her blog, and social media, helping home cooks simplify mealtime without sacrificing flavor.
Smith is now an author. Her debut cookbook, Start with a Vegetable, published in 2025 reimagines meal planning by putting vegetables at the center of the plate.
“Start with a Vegetable was the result of a natural transition in the way I started thinking about preparing dinner for my family. At the end of a busy day, I often didn't have the energy to think about dinner in parts by preparing a separate protein, vegetable, and starch,” says Smith. “I realized that if I put a vegetable at the center of the dish, the rest was easy to fill in.”
The book features 100 flexible recipes proving vegetables aren’t just a side—they’re key to simple, satisfying meals.
As chief recipe developer for the Cook Smarts meal-planning app, Smith worked closely with families struggling to get dinner on the table. She noticed a common challenge: people wanted to eat more vegetables but didn’t know how to build meals around them.
“As I started planning and testing recipes for the book, I just loved how easy it made dinnertime feel. Are there carrots in the fridge? Here are a bunch of ways to turn them into dinner. Nearly all of the 100 recipes are complete meals and include easy swaps to make them vegetarian. The book is truly flexitarian, with vegetable-forward recipes for all types of eaters.”
Unlike most cookbooks, Start with a Vegetable is organized by ingredient. Each chapter focuses on a different vegetable, offering multiple ways to turn it into a meal.
“The concept is resonating with many readers who tell me they love that the chapters are organized by vegetable, making it easy to use whatever they have on hand.”
Smith went through a rigorous testing process, starting with over 300 ideas before narrowing them down to 100.
“I always have running lists of recipe ideas. I started sorting recipes into categories, making sure there was variety for each vegetable. I wanted different cooking methods and types of dishes, so each chapter might have a soup, a salad, a roasted dish, a stove-top dish, and a sandwich or pasta.”
After perfecting the recipes in her own kitchen, she passed them to a trusted friend, an everyday home cook, to ensure they worked under realworld conditions.
“I want to know how these recipes worked for a home cook who was shopping at regular grocery stores and trying to make dinner for a family on a weeknight. She sends me feedback on any ingredients that are hard to find, anything that is unclear in the recipe, and tracks how long it takes her to make it with real-life interruptions.”
To further refine the book, Smith enlisted 30 volunteer home cooks through Instagram and her email list to test the recipes.
“My goal was to ensure that the recipes in this book are reliable, easy, and adaptable. I wanted this to be a cookbook for real home cooks. I'm so grateful to that team of volunteers for helping to ensure that it is.”
To order a copy of the cookbook visit: InquiringChef.com
Sweet carrots and tart cranberries complement each other in every bite of this tangy couscous. It makes a light meal on its own but becomes a showstopper when spread on a platter and topped with braised meat, roasted cauliflower steaks, or seared tofu. If you want to add a little creaminess, serve the couscous with a spoonful of plain yogurt.
• 1 pound carrots
• one 15½-ounce can chickpeas
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1½ teaspoons ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for boiling
• ½ cup orange juice
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup dry regular or whole wheat couscous
• ⅓ cup sliced almonds
• 1 lemon
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
Step 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F
Step 2. Peel the carrots and slice them diagonally into 1-inch ovals. Drain and rinse the chickpeas
Step 3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the carrots and chickpeas with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, cumin, ginger, dried thyme, and ½ teaspoon of the salt, coating evenly.
Step 4. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the seasoned veggies and chickpeas on it in an even layer.
Step 5. Bake until the carrots become tender, 25 to 30 minutes. Stir halfway through cooking.
Step 6. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over high heat, combine the orange juice, water, and ½ teaspoon of salt. When the mixture begins to boil, remove it from the heat, stir in the couscous, cover, and let stand for 5 minutes.
Step 7. When the carrots become tender, sprinkle the almonds on them and continue baking until the almonds lightly toast, 4 to 5 more minutes.
Step 8. Juice the lemon for 1 tablespoon fresh juice.
Step 9. In the same mixing bowl used to season the veggies, whisk together the lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and the cranberries.
Step 10. Fluff the couscous with a fork and add it to the carrots, chickpeas, and almonds. Stir well to combine.
Step 11. Serve warm or refrigerate for 30 minutes and serve chilled. Just before serving, stir in the parsley.
APRIL 11TH – 12TH
Tacos and Tamales Festival
Desert Breeze Event Center | 10:00 AM
Hosted by Clark County Parks & Recreation, this two-day celebration is a showcase of culture, community, and seriously delicious eats. Watch the high-flying action of Lucha Libre wrestling, experience the creativity of a spray paint art battle, and browse unique finds from local artists, makers, and the Kids Market. Buy tickets at eventim.us
APRIL 11TH
Summerlin Hospital | 10:00 AM
Safe Kids Clark County will host a free car seat checkup event at Summerlin Hospital. Donations are welcome to directly help buy car seats for the community. Learn more at safekidsclarkcounty.org
APRIL 11TH
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
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.
APRIL 16TH – 19TH
Home + History Las Vegas Festival
Nevada Preservation Foundation | 10:00 AM
Home + History Las Vegas, the valley’s largest annual heritage festival presented by the Nevada Preservation Foundation, returns April 16th to 19th. The four-day festival honors Southern Nevada history and architecture through a diverse array of programs and more than 40 immersive experiences and special events led by local historians. Purchase tickets at nevadapreservation.org.
APRIL 16TH
Smith Center for the Performing Arts | 11:30 AM
Hosted by the esteemed Tech Impact Advisory Board, the Southern Nevada Celebration of Impact Luncheon will bring together technology and business executives who are committed to sustaining and improving the lives of individuals in Southern Nevada. Explore sponsorship opportunities at techimpact.org.
APRIL 17TH
Ascaya Henderson | 9:00 AM
Collective Women’s Leadership hosts Rooted in Wellness, an intimate half-day retreat at Ascaya Henderson on April 17, 2026, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Enjoy a keynote by Sarah Wragge, calming yoga, lunch featuring SWW products, swag bags, and complimentary private consultations. Tickets are $199; limited availability. For more information visit: collectivewomensleadership.com.
APRIL 18TH
Tour de Summerlin
Downtown Summerlin | 7:00 AM
The 2026 Tour de Summerlin marks the 25th year of cycling through the beauty of Southern Nevada. Tour de Summerlin offers three different ride distances (20, 40, 80 miles). Whether you’re a hard-core rider or just enjoy getting out on the bike, each route offers plenty of bike lanes and beautiful scenery. Register at tourdesummerlin.com.
APRIL 18TH
Earth Day Celebration
Springs Preserve | 10:00 AM
Show your love for the planet at the Springs Preserve Earth Day Celebration featuring eco-friendly craft activities, conservation-focused exhibits, and attractions, environmental and green industry exhibitors, and food for purchase from local food trucks. The event is hosted by the Southern Nevada Water Authority’s Youth Conservation Council. For more information, visit springspreserve.org.
APRIL 18TH
Downtown Summerlin | 4:00 PM
Visit the Kendra Scott boutique in Downtown Summerlin and mention HELP of Southern Nevada at checkout for 20% of your purchase to be donated back to HELP in support of its mission. Learn more at kendrascott.com and helpsonv.org.
APRIL 25TH
Grand Prix Plaza | 8:00 AM
The 25th annual Make-A-Wish Nevada Walk for Wishes presented by Allegiant Air will take place at Grand Prix Plaza. Walk for Wishes is the Las Vegas Valley’s largest walk and fun run, raising funds to help Make-A-Wish Nevada grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses across the state. For more information, visit wish.org/nv.
APRIL 30TH
Las Vegas Ballpark | 7:00 PM
Banana Ball has become the fastest and most entertaining game in sports. With its fast-paced rules and emphasis on continuous play, Banana Ball strips away the often criticized lulls and lengthy pauses typical of traditional baseball, delivering a high-octane and entertainment-packed game that keeps both players and fans on their toes. Learn more at bananaball.com.
Nevada’s Premier Automotive Experience Proudly Serving the Community since 1946.
