Reno, NV December 2025

‘ Twas the night before Christmas

nd all throughout Reno, not a creature was stirring, Not even in the casino.

The home was staged with stylish care, In hopes that a buyer would soon be there.

The family rested well, all snug in their beds, As thoughts of full-price offers danced in their heads.

But what of this market?’ their minds swirled, All that could go wrong had their toes curled.

The very next morning they made a smart call, “We need the David Morris Group, they never drop the ball.”

Now with the right team to guide them along, Their faith in a great outcome was really quite strong.

With a caring word and unparalleled expertise, Their transaction was smooth, not a single crease.

When all was said and done, it was smiles all around, Cheers, celebrations, and true connections abound.

This story shares a strong loop, when you e in need of the best, call the David Morris Group!

SHAUNA GANES, BREANNA BURSELL, DAVID MORRIS

A Letter of Gratitude

Ah, the holiday season. Cool, crisp air, rain and snow, shorter days, and that amazing feeling that we’re reminded of every time we step outside.

We’re entering the time of year where each minute becomes precious. Our family and friends pull us in every direction and closer together all at once. Giving, in so many ways, becomes a priority. And the sights, scents, and sounds of the holidays battle for our attention at every turn. So, this month, I am committed to simply delivering the following message.

Happy holidays from the entire City Lifestyle team. You’ve given all of us the most amazing gift simply by reading our magazine and for that, we’d just like to say, thank you.

Here’s to the most wonderful time of the year!

MIKE MCCARTHY, PUBLISHER @CITYLIFESTYLERENO

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Mike McCarthy | mike.mccarthy@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Nora Tarte | nora.tarte@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Kasey Christensen | kasey.christensen@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Megan Downs, Erin Hanna-Butros Meyering, Nora Heston Tarte, Angela Rudolph Tayour

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Julieta Cervantes, Kristin Gallegos, Eric Marks, Melody Ricketts

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

DECEMBER 2025

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: My Hometown Heroes’ Board Members and Scholarship Recipients at Heroes Night Out Sept. 25. 2: Chris Demers and friends attended the Big Brothers Big Sisters Gala Sept. 27 at GSR. 3: The Chamber held a ribbon cutting ceremony Oct. 10 for Sparks' Les Schwab Tire Center. 4: Little Truckee Ice Creamery celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony Oct. 9. 5: Frey Ranch team members and Chef Charlie Palmer at the Beefsteak dinner at GSR Sept. 27. 6: Christine Johnson, Bob Bohn, and Bri Simmons pose at Bigggest Little Brew Fest Oct. 4. 7: The Argentum Partners Public Relations team attended the Domestic Violence Resource Center’s Purple Gala Sept. 20.

8: Brooke Sullivan and friends attended The BBBSNN Big Chefs Big Gala Sept. 27. 9: City Lifestyle supported the Sierra Arts Foundation at Dinner on the Bridge on Oct 4th. 10: Nevada Women’s Fund, Nevada Commission for Women, and International Women’s Forum hosted She Shapes Nevada Oct. 16. 11: The Nevada Museum of Art held a luncheon and shopping fundraiser, Love of Art, Sept. 26. 12: Kasey Christensen and Alexis Hill attended the Under A Nevada Sky for Walker Basin Conservancy Sept. 13 13: Kasey Christensen and friends dressed up for the Dead Artists Ball Sept. 27. 14: Dolan held its 8th Annual Wine & Dine Event Oct. 22 at Dolan Lexus supporting AACT.

READY TO ROCK

'STEREOPHONIC' COMES TO THE PIONEER CENTER DEC. 2-7

ARTICLE BY NORA HESTON TARTE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIETA CERVANTES & KRISTIN GALLEGOS

“Stereophonic” is heralded as the most Tony Award-nominated play of all time, bursting on the scene in 2023. The dramatic stage production follows a fictional 1970s rock band set in a recording studio as they navigate the struggles that come with fame.

As a stage play, “Stereophonic” is not categorized as a musical, however, the production is rife with music. The cast performs a series of songs meant to be the makings of an award-winning album.

Denver Milord, who plays one of the title characters, Peter, says very few plays get to tour the country. It makes starring in “Stereophonic” a unique experience, and one the audience shouldn’t miss.

“I was just so full of joy thinking about that,” Milord says. “to think that this could be someone’s first play that they ever see.”

Referred to in the industry as a “straight play” despite its strong musical presence, “Stereophonic” is different because the songs aren’t used to narrate what is happening. Instead, actors are performing their dialogue without music and the songs are simply a supplement to what you see unfolding on stage.

"There's... drama and all sorts of entertainment," he says. “It’s a funny show, it’s a moving show… there’s tears, there’s laughs, and there’s rock and roll music.”

Dennyse Sewell, CEO of the Pioneer Center of the Performing Arts, has said she is most excited for “Stereophonic” this season, despite having already seen the production in New York.

“When I had the privilege of seeing it on Broadway in May of 2024, I was utterly blown away. The set design, costumes, dialogue, and characters created an immersive world set in a 1970s recording studio that I wished I could live inside,” Sewell gushed.

The music was written by Will Butler, former member of the indie rock band Arcade Fire. It’s different than a Broadway soundtrack, more akin to a nostalgic rock album—and it’s catchy. Sewell suggests downloading the album and giving it a listen before the show so you can bop along when you see it live.

"We are tremendously fortunate that we’re one of the first cities across the country that will get to experience this brand new show,"

—DENNYSE SEWELL

“Straight plays don’t typically have a long lifespan once they leave New York… so Reno doesn’t often have a chance to experience them,” Sewell says. “’Stereophonic’ was such a phenomenal critical and commercial success on Broadway that they were able to launch a major national tour."

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JAVA JOLLY

ARTICLE BY ERIN HANNA-BUTROS MEYERING PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELODY RICKETTS

Four seasonal coffee sips and boozy espresso beverages to try

Are you feeling naughty or nice this year? We rounded up four festive coffee recipes— two cozy and caffeine-only for those on the nice list, and two spiked creations for the naughty crowd. Whether you prefer a holiday hug in a mug or something with a little extra sparkle, these cups deliver the perfect dose of cheer.

NICE LIST:

RISING FOR PEOPLE COFFEE –JINGLE BELLS LATTE

Rich Guatemalan dark roast with pomegranate, white chocolate, and whipped cream—a winter symphony in a cup.

Brew dark roast coffee. Stir in 2 teaspoons pomegranate syrup, 1 teaspoon white chocolate, and steamed milk. Top with whipped cream and pomegranate seeds. Sprinkle with sugar if desired.

PANGOLIN CAFÉ –

BROWN SUGAR MISO LATTE

Sweet meets savory in this toasty twist on tradition.

Syrup: Combine 250g water, 500g brown sugar, and 40g miso. Dissolve miso in a splash of water, then add all ingredients to a pot. Bring to a boil, stir, reduce 3–5 minutes, and cool. Store chilled.

To serve of : Add a splash to espresso or matcha with steamed milk.

CHAMPAGNE & CHOCOLATE –

PEPPERMINT ESPRESSO MARTINI

Sweet, minty, and perfectly buzzed.

Shake 2 ounces vodka, 1 ounce coffee

liqueur, 1 ounce espresso, ½ ounce peppermint schnapps, and ½ ounce simple syrup (optional). Strain into a chilled glass rimmed with crushed peppermint and chocolate.

NAUGHTY LIST:

1864 TAVERN –

HOLIDAY ESPRESSO COCKTAIL

Smooth, spiced, and a touch tropical.

Shake 2 ounces espresso, 1 ounce Licor 43, 1 ounce Averna, and ice. Strain, discard ice, then dry shake until frothy.

Coconut Cream: Whip 2 ounces heavy cream and 1 ounce coconut milk. Spoon over top, dust with nutmeg.

Jim Morman, AAMS® Financial Advisor

COOL W E ATHER CHIC

SEREN OFFERS TIMELESS WINTER STAPLES AT RANCHARRAH STOREFRONT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELODY RICKETTS

(Left)

Apiece Softest Cashmere T-neck $495

Nili Lotan Shon Jean $410

Utzon Reversible Shearling Jacket $2,795

R.Comey Combat Boot $645

Amanu Belt $395, LPO Silk Pouch $155

Nili Lotan Denim Shirt $450, J.Haller Blazer $985

TWP Demie Leather Pant $1,995

R.Comey Cheke Slingback Point Heel, $575

Liffner Penne Suede Bag $695

TWP Dutton Plaid Shirt $575

Merino Wool Tneck $290

J.Haller Crease Jean $440

BMB Belt $230, L.Yang Cashmere Beanie $165

TWP Reversible Shearling Jacket $3,995

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Stylists: Logan Mallonee, Jubie Crow, Stephanie Hulka Burnett

Nili Lotan Gaia Silk Shirt $570

J.Haller The Easy Jean $460

TWP Harper Blazer $1,195

J.Haller Suede Kitty Point $595

J.Bird Non stop earrings $148

CONTINUED >

Tibi Top $445, Tibi Skirt $475, TWP Cashmere Coat $3,495

TWP Vest $495, TWP Avery Trouser $695, Utzon Shearling $4,495

Simkhai Black Dress $645, RC Cheke Slingback $575

Simkhai Green Dress $845, Simkhai Siren Sandal $395

Shop all of the looks at Seren, 7450 Rancharrah Pkwy. Suite 160 or www.shopseren.com

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CONNECT INFORM ADVOCATE 2025

The Reno+Sparks Chamber of Commerce exists to advocate, inform, and connect.

As the largest business organization in Northern Nevada, we give a voice to our members -- every sector, every size, every day.

We advocate for pro-business policies with federal, state, and local elected bodies.

We inform our members of news, resources, and tools to help them succeed and sustain commerce.

We connect our members to educational opportunities with subject matter experts, and to one another through signature networking and business events

12 Days

of Giving

ARTICLE BY ANGELA RUDOLPH TAYOUR

Give a little each day, or choose one nonprofit to support - even in the holiday season we have friends in need

A safe place to sleep, a full stomach, a second chance at a happy home—together we can be the light for people when times seem darkest. Organizations throughout our community are dedicated to bridging the gap for those in need, whether that’s putting food on the table, helping pets find loving families, fostering creativity and confidence, or improving our shared experience as a society in other ways. Here are some organizations that could use your support to be the light in times of darkness.

1.  THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF TRUCKEE MEADOWS

The Club serves more than 14,500 youth, offering safe, supportive programs with meals, tutoring, sports, and family resources. Community members eager to

4.  THE KARMA BOX PROJECT

Support those experiencing homelessness by supporting the Karma Box Project. The Project goes beyond donation boxes with programs including a Safe Camp on the Cares Campus, a resource center, a warming center, a homeless response team, and an outreach team. The Project’s GRIT program works with people in recovery to help them integrate and thrive. The organization exchanges gift cards for work as part of its pre-employment program. Donations of gift cards and monetary support to help the team are crucial to the Project’s success. Learn more at KarmaBoxProject.org .

5.  THE PIONEER CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

The Pioneer Center is northern Nevada’s premier venue and a cornerstone of the region’s cultural life. It offers world-class performances, free community events, and arts education, reaching thousands each year. Support the Pioneer Center through donations, by attending events and performances, or by volunteering (waitlist available). Learn more and support at PioneerCenter.com .

CONTINUED >

inspire and empower local youth can make a difference by donating or volunteering — tutoring, coaching, leading projects, or helping at events. Learn more at BGCTM.org

2.  SIERRA ARTS FOUNDATION

The Sierra Arts Foundation passionately supports the arts, arts education, and both professional and emerging local artists — vital parts of a thriving community. Donating, attending events and exhibitions, or volunteering all help nurture and sustain the arts in our region. Learn more at SierraArts.org

3.  SAFE EMBRACE

Safe Embrace provides victims of domestic abuse, sexual assault, and human trafficking a variety of resources with prevention and intervention services. Volunteers are appreciated, especially those from the legal community, but the most helpful way to support this impactful, life-saving and life-changing organization is through monetary donations. SafeEmbrace.org

“ORGANIZATIONS THROUGHOUT OUR COMMUNITY ARE DEDICATED TO BRIDGING THE GAP FOR THOSE IN NEED, WHETHER THAT’S PUTTING FOOD ON THE TABLE, HELPING PETS FIND LOVING FAMILIES, FOSTERING CREATIVITY AND CONFIDENCE, OR IMPROVING OUR SHARED EXPERIENCE AS A SOCIETY IN OTHER WAYS.”

6.  STEP2

STEP2 helps women, mothers, and expectant mothers overcome addiction through tools, treatment, and support that creates a ripple effect, supporting families for generations to come. You can help by donating or volunteering, which looks a lot like assembling furniture, decorating, assisting with moves, and more. Learn how to get involved at STEP2Reno.org.

7.  NOTE-ABLE MUSIC THERAPY SERVICES

NMTS supports physical, social, and mental health needs in our community by offering a range of lowcost adaptive music, music therapy, and neurologic music therapy services, improving mental and physical well-being, while enriching our community’s arts landscape. Spreading awareness, attending events, donating money, and volunteering with NMTS are great ways to support. Learn more at NMTSReno.org

8. VETERANS GUEST HOUSE

Serving those who have served our country, Veterans Guest House offers veteran families overnight lodging, meals, transportation, post-operative personal care, and other supportive services at no cost to ensure access to essential healthcare. Volunteering through greeting guests, cooking, helping with housekeeping or yardwork, or assisting at fundraising events are great ways to support the organization, in addition to donating monetarily. VeteransGuestHouse.org

9. THE DISCOVERY

The Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum aims to inspire generations of lifelong learners through exhibitions and programs. By donating or volunteering, you can help provide unique and engaging experiences through hands-on activities, exhibitions and programs for people of every age and interest. Learn more and donate at NVDM.org

10.  THE CHILDREN’S CABINET

Working to keep children safe and families together, The Children’s Cabinet offers more than 40 free programs and services for youth and their families. Volunteers are vital. Help by packing groceries, assisting at youth programs, or supporting community events. Monetary donations also make a critical, lasting impact. Learn more at ChildrensCabinet.org

11.  THE FOOD BANK OF NORTHERN NEVADA

The Food Bank works to improve the health of children, adults, and seniors by providing access to nutritious food. Serving more than 160,000 people each month, both the need for and impact of the Food Bank continue to grow. Volunteers can sort, pack, and distribute food, or help with food drives. Learn more and give at FBNN.org

12.  CANINE REHABILITATION CENTER AND CAT SANCTUARY

CRCCS rescues overlooked, long-term, shelter pets, providing recovery, training, and loving new homes. Support their mission by donating funds, food, or supplies, attending events, or volunteering to help these dedicated rescuers give pets a second chance at life. Learn more at CRCCS.org

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Basque cheesecake is Nevada's official state dessert

ARTICLE BY MEGAN DOWNS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIC MARKS

Move over pumpkin pie – there’s a new showstopper at the dessert table. Burnt Basque cheesecake, with its caramelized top and creamy center, was recently named Nevada’s most iconic dessert by Conde Nast Traveler.

“I was inspired by it, figured it out, and then started with simple flavors of chocolate and vanilla,” - Alana Saporiti

The decadent treat is baked at a higher temperature—typically around 400 to 475 degrees—forming the rich dark caramelized surface while also allowing for a soft, custardy center.

Nevada’s Basque roots run deep. Basque shepherds settled in the state in the 19th Century, but the cheesecake itself was born in San Sebastian, Spain in 1988 at La Vina, where chef Santiago Rivera first baked the now-famous dessert. By the 2010s the dessert’s fame had exploded, fueled by social media foodies eager to taste the culinary magic of San Sebastian—a city with world renowned pintxos (Basque tapas) and Michelin-starred chefs.

When Flour Bakery owners Alana and Gianni Saporiti took over two Cake by the Slice locations in Northern Nevada, they were looking for a creative and new offering.

“I was inspired by it, figured it out, and then started with simple flavors of chocolate and vanilla,” says Alana.

From there, Flour’s offerings grew to include hazelnut, matcha, black sesame seed, and the bakery’s best-seller: Ube, which turns the cheesecake into a stunning shade of electric purple. Seasonal flavors rotate and December’s star is dragon fruit.

Flour Bakery offers a personal four-inch takeaway cheesecake, or a large ten-inch cheesecake that can feed 25.

Adding a personal touch, one of Flour’s employees is Basque and grew up baking the dessert with his grandmother. “He said ours tastes just like he remembers,” Alana says.

WHERE TO FIND BASQUE CHEESECAKE LOCALLY:

• Flour Bakery: 9570 S. McCarran Blvd #109, Reno; 113 Los Altos Parkway #102, Sparks

• Louis Basque Corner, 301 E. Fourth St.

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events

DECEMEBR 1ST - 31ST

Virginia City's Christmas on the Comstock

Virginia City

Christmas on the Comstock is a month-long holiday celebration in historic Virginia City. For the entire month of December, the town features festive lights, parades, holiday train rides, saloon crawls, and other seasonal events. Visitors can enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities and experience the holiday atmosphere in this historic Nevada town.

DECEMBER 1ST

Sports West Holiday Market

Sports West | 10:00 AM

The community is invited to peruse and purchase wares from independent vendors and artisans at Sports West's annual holiday market. It's a great place to get your holiday shopping done early while supporting local. The event runs until 6 p.m.

DECEMBER 2ND - 7TH

Stereophonic

Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts

The most Tony Award-nominated play of all time has landed at the Pioneer Center! Secure your tickets to the show, which follows a fictional 1970s rock band as they navigate stardom, creating an album, and more.

DECEMBER 4TH

First Thursday

Nevada Museum of Art | 5:00 PM

Meet up with friends for this long-standing monthly tradition of live music, beer, and plenty of fun. Live music hosted by Spike McGuire and presented in partnership with Loud as Folk, a regional singer-songwriter showcase. The event runs 5-7 p.m.

DECEMBER 5TH

STEP2's Jingle & Mingle Gala

Silver Legacy Resort Casino - Grande Exposition Hall | 6:00 PM

Purchase tickets for STEP2's largest fundraising event of the year, benefitting women battling substance use disorder in our community. The event includes a seated dinner, raffle prizes, silent and live auctions, and a moving tribute to the women whose lives have been transformed through the organization.

DECEMBER 7TH

Urban Roots' Handmade Holiday Faire

Urban Roots Teaching Farm | 11:00 AM

Another holiday shopping extravaganza! Get your holiday shopping started while supporting local. The event offers food, crafts, art, and appearances by Mr. and Mrs. Claus until 2 p.m.

CONTINUED

DECEMEBER 12TH - 14TH

Spirit of the Season

Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts

The Reno Phil Orchestra & Chorus is taking you on a holiday-themed road trip across the U.S. The family-friendly event is a symphonic celebration exploring every corner of the country.

DECEMBER 13TH

Hands ON! Second Saturday

Nevada Museum of Art | 10:00 AM

Until 6 p.m. community members can drop in for a free date at the museum! Hands on art projects take place 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Art Expeditions are held at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.; and adults-focused public tour starts at 11 a.m.; and storytelling is available at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m.

DECEMBER 26TH - JANUARY 11TH

KTMB’s Christmas Tree Recycling Event

Multiple Locations

KTMB offers a place to discard your Christmas tree after the holiday season has ended. Details on specific drop-off locations and more are available at ktmb.org