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They say happiness is seeing the world through the eyes of a child. The freedom of thought and imagination that children have is astounding. Their minds are completely open, unfiltered to the lenses we’ve all grown accustomed to. When you’re young, there is no judgement, shame, or embarrassment. Children are their most authentic selves, enjoying the world around them for what it is, in that moment. The smallest things can make kids feel overwhelmingly excited and happy. It’s a magical world of wonder, where anything is possible.
As we grow older, we accept opinions from peers, family, and friends that tell us what’s “cool,” and our view of the world becomes skewed. In a time when validation comes in the form of “likes” and “comments,” it’s interesting to think about what you’d do if you could tap into that childlike sense of freedom without the fear of judgement.
The same goes for our pets - they love so freely. All we need is to open the front door and they’re bouncing off the walls with excitement. It doesn’t matter if you’ve been gone for 5 minutes or 5 hours, the sentiment is the same. What if we could show that same enthusiasm to our spouses or families every day? What a world full of joy that would be.
Our kids and pets remind us to be present. There is no later, just the current moment they’re in, and maybe we should receive that lesson. I think we’d all be amazed by the little delights the world has to offer right in front of us if we’re open to receiving them.
In this issue, we’ve curated content catering to the kids and pets in our lives. We feature veteran Yolanda of Yolanda Bennett’s Pet Sitting Services and Boarding who gives us tips on keeping our furry friends safe while traveling during the summer heat, we speak with Marcie Smedley of Henderson Libraries who shares the fun (free) activities available at your neighborhood library, and we hear from Shacara Shaw, who has made water safety her life’s mission with Stay Afloat Fearlessly. Wishing you joy,
CRISSIE JOLIE BOWN, PUBLISHER
PUBLISHER
Crissie Bown | crissie.bown@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Paige Candee | paige.candee@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Chanelle Hayes, Taylor Shea West, Paige Candee, Andres Molina, Lisa Moyer
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jessica Vargas, Michael Roberts, Janie Jones
Christopher DeVargas, Tara Jimenez
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
1: Coronado Prep Preschool held its preschool graduation for the class of 2036. 2: Student celebrates in her cap and gown. 3: The accomplishment was shared together with loved ones in attendance. 4: The graduation theme was "Oh the places you will go." 5: The school's commitment is that every child will be valued, respected, and cherished. 6: The celebration was one to remember. 7: Graduation emphasized the school’s philosophy that the developmental needs and interests of each child are unique and special.
8: Truman Orthodontics-Henderson 20th Anniversary event with Dr. Zach Truman and his wife Sandy. 9: The community came together for the family-oriented high-technology practice. 10: Dr. Zach Truman of Truman Orthodontics - Henderson was joined by his brother Dr. Mark Truman of Truman Orthodontics - Summerlin. 11: A TruCrew team member said "This is a wonderful work environment, a place where we feel like family." 12: The party showed a commitment to achieving beautiful smiles. 13: Guests celebrated the orthodontic care milestone with a pop culture “20-Year Era” Swiftie-twist. 14: Attendees entered into a raffle and enjoyed the festivities.
Foothills Montessori School’s elementary boys basketball team capped an undefeated 9-0 season by defeating Green Valley Christian 38-31 in the championship game. Trevor Kirner, Stone Kabler, and Alex Pepperman led the scoring for the champions. Coach Greg Cannon, with the support of Coach Nick Borden and Coach Mackenzie Gorman, praised the "total team effort” after the Valley Athletic Conference championship game. Foothills Montessori School will be prepared to defend their title in the 2024-2025 basketball season.
Southern Nevada debut. The grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony took place earlier this summer, introducing a unique fitness concept. The studio offers high-energy, musicdriven group classes combining rowing intervals with floor-based strength exercises, providing a low-impact, full-body workout for all fitness levels. This innovative facility brings a fresh approach to fitness, offering residents an engaging and effective way to achieve health goals within a supportive community. therowhouse.com
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Las Vegas residents Allison and John Barnes created Paddleboard Places, a YouTube channel dedicated to paddle board and kayak enthusiasts. Their videos provide location details, parking, fees, launch sites, and highlights for destinations near or around the country. New videos are released every 3 to 4 weeks. Follow @paddleboardplaces and subscribe for the latest updates. youtube.com/@PaddleboardPlaces
Sierra Air Conditioning and Plumbing partnered with Adam's Place Las Vegas for the first-ever Chip In For Children Golf Tournament, raising more than $15,000 for children impacted by grief. Held at the Las Vegas National Golf Course, the event supported Adam's Place's mission to provide mental health and bereavement services to children, teens, and families experiencing loss. Sierra's sponsorship demonstrates its commitment to corporate social responsibility and making a positive impact in the local community.
Photography by Anthony S. Adgers
Kim and Jason Jacobs of Great Harvest Bread Co in Henderson are celebrating their 10th anniversary of owning two Henderson locations. The bakery, known for its made-from-scratch breads, sweets, and quality sandwiches has continued to grow, adapt, and thrive, thanks to its commitment to quality products, business and community partnerships, and exceptional customer service. To celebrate, the bakery will host a weeklong celebration from August 19th to 24th, featuring discounts, giveaways, prizes, and special pop-up events. greatharvesthenderson.com
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We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.
Want to suggest a monthly pick?
Water Sports at Lake Las Vegas https://lakelasvegaswatersports.com | 702.600.9860
Henderson Libraries https://www.hendersonlibraries.com | 702.707.2665
Henderson Multigen Center https://www.cityofhenderson.com | 702.267.5800
Ethel M Chocolate Factory https://www.ethelm.com | 702.435.2608
Cowabunga Bay https://cowabungavegas.com | 725.267.2262
Clark County Museum https://www.clarkcountynv.gov | 702.455.7955
Shang-Gri-Law Prehistoric Park (The Dinosaur House) https://www.shangrilaprehistoricpark.org | 702.565.4645
Boulder City/ Hoover Dam Museum https://www.bchdmuseum.org | 702.294.1988
The Lion Habitat Ranch https://lionhabitatranch.org | 702.595.6661
Nevada State Railroad Museum Boulder City https://nevadasouthern.com/activities | 702.486.5952
17TH ANNUAL WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE
SEPTEMBER 4 & 5, 2024 | MGM GRAND CONFERENCE CENTER LAS VEGAS
Led by the Foundation for Women’s Leadership and Empowerment, the 17th annual Women’s Leadership Conference (WLC) provides a unique opportunity to connect with a dynamic network of inspiring women leaders and discover powerful leadership strategies. This acclaimed #1 women’s conference in Las Vegas equips women leaders with the tools and tips to take control of their future, own their power, and achieve their ambitions.
Through this year’s theme, we are empowering women leaders to take charge with a new sense of purpose, claiming our opportunities, and owning our voices to make our marks – recognizing that our careers, our relationships, and our lives are Ours To Own.
HOW STAY AFLOAT FEARLESSLY TEACHES SURVIVAL SKILLS AND CONFIDENCE FOR ALL ABILITIES AND AGES
ARTICLE BY CHANELLE HAYES PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA VARGAS
I n s t r u c t i o n
At just 25 years old, Shacara Shaw is making waves in the world of swimming instruction. Her private business, Stay Afloat Fearlessly, caters to clients of all ages and abilities, from six-month-old infants to an 81-yearold adult. Shaw's passion for water safety and her ability to connect with students have earned her a stellar reputation in the industry.
“I work with any and everyone, including clients who have disabilities, whether physical, mental, or both,” she said. Being a private swim instructor allows Shaw to focus on the individual needs and goals of each client. “That’s something I always like to highlight when introducing someone new to my business.”
Shaw has even built a name for herself beyond Henderson. “I travel a lot and have clients all over the United States,” she said. Outside of the Las Vegas Valley, one of the main cities she teaches in is Chicago, where she is originally from. “I developed a love for swimming at a young age,” she said. “In my teenage years, I attended the South Side YMCA and became a lifeguard there when I was 16.”
Shaw says that obtaining certification in CPR/first aid is a straightforward process with several reputable organizations, such as the Red Cross, offering training. “For those involved in aquatic activities like swimming, certifications in water safety are available,” she said. “Given my experience working with swim companies, maintaining these certifications is essential for ensuring safety standards are met.” CONTINUED >
After graduating high school, Shaw attended Florida A&M University, earning her bachelor’s degree in fine arts and a minor in architecture. Even with her degree, she realized her true passion and launched her business. “I came up with the name Stay Afloat Fearlessly because not only am I a private swim instructor, but I’m also a financial coach.” With her dual profession, Shaw helps clients stay afloat in their personal and financial journeys.
"As a private instructor, I like seeing someone start from being so fearful to swimming confidently,” she said. “One of my first clients, who was three years old, made me realize how good of an instructor I was. She used to scream at the top of her lungs because she didn’t like the water, but within six weeks of instruction, she could swim about 25 yards without me being in it.”
Shaw first gained experience working with children as a lifeguard and has loved it ever since. “It's so interesting because I have been an only child for 21 years,” she said. “I was never around young kids until my younger sister was born. Children gravitate to me, which makes teaching them how to swim so easy. It makes the parents of my clients feel at ease too."
"I WORK WITH ANY AND EVERYONE, INCLUDING CLIENTS WHO HAVE DISABILITIES.”
When giving swimming lessons, Shaw's main goal is getting clients to understand and use survival skills in the water. “Floating on your back is my first approach,” she said. “It’s the safest position to be in.” Learning how to float on your back is an energy-efficient way to stay afloat and helps clients develop a proper stroke technique. Shaw also includes other methods in her instruction, such as developing stamina, proficiency, and health. Through Stay Afloat Fearlessly, Shaw is not only teaching essential survival skills, but also instilling confidence in her clients. Whether it's a three-year-old overcoming their fear of water or an adult with disabilities learning to swim, Shaw's approach is tailored to each individual's needs. With her affordable prices and commitment to safety, Shaw, who can be reached at 708-315-1788 or safearlessly@gmail.com, is making waves in the world of swimming instruction and empowering people of all ages and abilities to conquer the water.
Photo credit: Michael Roberts
ARTICLE BY TAYLOR SHEA WEST
The summer heat can be dangerous for everyone, including our pets. In Southern Nevada, temperatures can reach up to 120 degrees, so it's crucial to ensure our furry friends are adequately cared for at home and when boarding.
When it comes to keeping pets safe during the scorching summer months, Yolanda Bennett, local veteran and The Las Vegas Pet Sitter of Yolanda Bennett’s Pet Sitting Services and Boarding, offers this valuable advice, “Use cooling items like towels, vests, mats, and treats. In our desert environment, spray rocks with cool water, check water bowls, and walk pets only in the early morning or late evening—self-check the pavement—and limit their outdoor activity.”
During summer vacations, finding a reliable pet boarding facility can be nerve-wracking. Yolanda offers tips to ease your worries and ensure your pets are well cared for.
“Ensuring your pet's safety is vital, and finding a trustworthy pet sitter is crucial,” said Yolanda. “Ask others about their experiences and check recommendations. Do a meet and greet to assess cleanliness and security.”
Bennett advises considering cooling vests, mats, treats, and hydration to keep pets cool in your absence.
“Select facilities with shaded areas, cool treats, and ample water,” said Yolanda. “Reputable facilities should provide employee qualifications, including veterinary degrees, animal behavior certifications, pet first aid and CPR training, and industry association participation.”
You should always research the facility, and do not be afraid to ask as many questions as you want.
“Ask what they do in emergencies if your pet gets too hot and ensure their plans are effective. Be sure to confirm your pet has Bordetella, Rabies, and DHPP vaccinations,” said Yolanda.
While we hope our pets will never experience heat difficulties, we should know the signs.
"Look for uncontrollable panting, rapid heart rate, foaming at the mouth, lethargy, agitation, vomiting, and changes in tongue and gum color," said Yolanda. "Move your pet to a cool space, wrap them in a wet and cold towel, check temperatures, and contact your veterinarian. Rush to an emergency vet if symptoms worsen."
Yolanda offers 24/7 services including pet CPR, dropoffs, pick-ups, and car storage, at affordable prices. As a retired Air Force veteran and Business of the Year awardee, she is dedicated to providing exceptional care and a safe home away from home for pets.
ARTICLE BY TAYLOR SHEA WEST PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENDERSON LIBRARIES
HOW HENDERSON LIBRARIES IS INSPIRING CREATIVITY AND LEARNING
Public libraries are for everyone, from our youngest to our oldest community members. When it comes to programming for children and teens, Henderson Libraries aims to provide programming that meets the needs and interests of families in our community.
“Our librarians are trained to present programs that engage audiences of all ages,” said Marcie Smedley, executive director of Henderson Libraries.
"We offer programs throughout the week and Saturdays – story times in the mornings, school-age and teen programs in the afternoons, and programs on the weekends."
Through teaching and entertaining preschoolers during story time librarians are providing early literacy tips for parents and caregivers on how to employ techniques that get children ready to read.
“For teens, we listen to what they tell us about the programming they want,” said Smedley. “Our team engages with teens who come into the library, and we learn about what types of activities they’d like to attend at the library.”
Henderson Libraries offer a variety of programming and services for youth.
“Some of our programs for children include early literacy story times to help our youngest community members get ready for school and ready to read. We also offer a variety of school-age programs, including STEAM programs,” said Smedley. “We have a Reading with Rover program where struggling readers in grades first through fifth are paired with a certified therapy dog and trained literacy coach to help them with their reading fluency and comprehension.”
For teens, they offer a variety of high-interest programs, including after-hours programs, LEGO challenges, Teen Writing Contest, and volunteer opportunities.
“Additionally, for both young children and teens, we offer a variety of online resources from homework help to resources to learn coding,” said Smedley.
The primary goal for creating programs for children up to age five is to teach early literacy and pre-literacy skills. Whereas programming for teens aims to provide a space to experience the library and its offerings in a way that caters to them.
In addition to books, the library offers online resources to support students and learning. One of the most helpful resources is Brainfuse Online Tutoring, an online service that connects students with a live tutor for homework help.
Henderson Libraries also offer preparation and practice for college entrance exams: PressReader and Flipster (online databases for research) and Learning Express Library.
You can get a library card for your family to utilize everything at the library. Youths will need to visit with a parent/guardian, fill out a quick form, and have the parent/guardian present ID and proof of address. Library cards are free and provide access to all resources.
“Along with having ADA-accessible libraries, we strive to make the spaces and programs reflect the community, and to provide a welcoming and comfortable space for families,” said Smedley. “We have an outreach vehicle, Leo, which visits various locations and attends special events throughout the community to serve families.”
Smedley encourages you to visit the library often. Each time you come, you’ll learn and discover something new. “From books and resources to programs and activities, we have so much to offer. Take advantage of the knowledge of our team,” said Smedley.
To stay informed about upcoming events and programs at Henderson Libraries, visit hendersonlibraries.com.
ARTICLE BY PAIGE CANDEE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTOPHER DEVARGAS
If your kids or teens have been buzzing about a quirky Las Vegas spot they’ve seen on social media, chances are they’re talking about Omega Mart. Located within AREA15, this one-of-a-kind experience by Meow Wolf takes visitors on an unforgettable journey through interactive art and immersive storytelling, disguised as the most extraordinary grocery store you’ll ever encounter.
Omega Mart bills itself as “America’s Most Exceptional Grocery Store,” a collaborative effort between the famed art collective Meow Wolf and the fictional family-owned business Dramcorp. What starts as an innocuous visit to an odd supermarket quickly unravels into a mind-bending adventure that defies expectations. Far from your average shopping trip, Omega Mart offers a surreal exploration of over 60 unique environments, each teeming with secret passages, mysterious clues, and artistic wonders.
Upon entering, you’re greeted by aisles of peculiar products, each one seemingly plucked from a dream. The shelves are stocked with items that defy logic, inviting curiosity and interaction. Every cereal box and can of soda conceals potential gateways to other realms, turning a simple grocery run into an expansive journey through the imagination. Unlock a world of imagination at Meow Wolf's Omega Mart
But Omega Mart is more than just eye-catching art; it’s an immersive, narrative experience. Visitors receive RFID cards that unlock interactive stations throughout the different rooms and floors of the exhibit, deepening the story and offering clues to the mysteries within. Performers posing as Omega Mart employees enhance the experience, guiding participants and adding layers to the unfolding mystery.
The journey doesn’t stop at the grocery aisles. Omega Mart spans four giant themed areas, each designed by a diverse group of more than 325 artists and collaborators from Las Vegas and around the globe. These anchor spaces transition into surreal landscapes, from alien terrains to mystical portals, providing a continuous stream of visual and sensory surprises. Every corner of Omega Mart holds a new discovery.
Central to Omega Mart’s allure is its detailed and ever-evolving storyline. The exhibit is saturated with hundreds of hours of video content and countless interactive elements, allowing each visitor to uncover the story at their own pace. Whether you’re a casual explorer or a dedicated detective, Omega Mart has layers of depth and intrigue, making it an engaging experience for all ages.
Moreover, Omega Mart’s commitment to accessibility sets it apart. As a certified Autism Center, the exhibit is inclusive for autistic and sensory-sensitive guests. This IBCCES certification highlights Omega Mart’s dedication to creating a welcoming environment for everyone.
Since its opening, Omega Mart has captivated more than one million visitors. Its success lies not just in its visual spectacle but also in its ability to transport audiences into a whimsical narrative universe. Omega Mart isn’t just a place to see art—it’s a place to live it, inviting everyone to step outside their everyday reality and into a world where the impossible becomes possible.
For those planning a visit, whether you plan to unravel the mysteries of Dramcorp or simply soak in the creativity, set aside at least an hour and a half to fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Local Las Vegans, whether you’re looking to entertain your children or reconnect with your inner child, Omega Mart offers the escape from the ordinary. Step into Omega Mart (meowwolf.com/visit/las-vegas) and prepare to have your perspective shifted and your imagination set free. You truly have no idea what’s in store.
AUGUST 1ST - 8TH
School Supply and Swim
Henderson Multigenerational Activity Pool | 6:00 AM
Make a splash at the School Supply and Swim drive. Donate new, unused school supplies at any one of the open activity pools and receive free admission during operating hours. Donations will be accepted starting July 31 through August 8. For more information, visit cityofhenderson.com.
AUGUST 2ND
Cottage Grove Parking Garage 9:00 AM
When was the last time you visited UNLV? Alumni are invited back to campus for a custom 60-minute campus golf cart tour. Reminisce about your studies and discover the newest buildings being developed. Stops include the Carlson Education Building, Tam Alumni Center, and the UNLV Bookstore. All participants will receive a complimentary goodie bag. Register at unlv.edu
AUGUST 2ND
Summer Pool Party
Henderson Multigenerational Activity Pool | 7:00 PM
Dive into the City of Henderson's pool party, where you can experience fun lights, an inflatable bounce house, lawn games, snacks, and music. Register at cityofhenderson.com
AUGUST 2ND - 3RD
The Beverly Theater | 9:00 PM
Las Vegas' only indie film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue presents The Room with Greg Sestero. Both 9:00 p.m. screenings will feature a Q&A with the man who lived through it all. For showtimes and to purchase tickets, visit thebeverlytheater.com
AUGUST 10TH
Back to School Bash
Black Mountain Recreation Center | 4:30 PM
Enjoy a night of activities, including carnival-style games, bounce houses, dancing, crafts, and dinner. Participants will go home with a backpack of school supplies to ensure success on their first day of class. Advanced registration is required, as space is limited. Registration ends August 5th. Register at cityofhenderson.com
AUGUST 24TH
Downtown Recreation Center | 9:00 AM
The Henderson Hot Wheels 500 will feature various activities and multiple racetracks for all ages – no driver’s license required. Cars will be provided, but attendees can also bring their own vehicles. Parents/guardians who are not participating do not need to register. Ages 12 and under require a parent or guardian. For more details, call 702-267-5717.
Whether your pup has the obedience of a dog show finalist, or social behavior that makes you want to play dead around others, you can develop more owner confidence with help from this expert trainer.
ARTICLE BY LISA MOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES | STYLED BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
“Socializing your dog is beneficial for both dogs and their owners,” says Taryn Tyler, a certified dog trainer. “It creates confidence for both dogs and owners and displaces the anxiety we feel when our dogs aren’t behaving like we want them to.”
Taryn stresses that teaching a dog to sit or stay is less about tricks and more about the relationship that builds between animal and owner. “We all love our dogs, but they can be stressful when they can’t seem to click in our home environments.
• Socializing is more than taking your dog in public. A guy can dump a bunch of mulch in your driveway and spread it , but he’s not a landscaper until he’s following a plan. When the doorbell rings or a visitor comes into the house, what’s our expectation for the dog? When we’re in public and the dog’s attention is diverted, what’s our plan to refocus them? Socialization is 99 percent working on small steps as part of a larger plan.
• Socializing isn’t about our dogs being the center of attention in public. Everyone loves seeing a dog, but our best outcome for the dog is to go unnoticed. Sitting by our side, ignoring external stimuli, remaining calm—those are things we strive for when socializing a dog.
• When socializing dogs with other dogs, start small. Take a walk with another dog to get them to just exist in the same vicinity. Once they’re able to not be excited by the other dog, work on limited playing in controlled environments.
• If someone comes into your home, let them know what boundaries you’re working on with your dog. You can even suggest asking them to carry a few treats and work on some of the behaviors your dog is already comfortable with.
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S k a t e O n D o w n a n d
C h e c k O u t D r. F o u t z ”
