T h r o u g h G e n e r a t i o n s , C r a f t e d
w i t h P a s s i o n b y C h e f N i t t a y a
P a r a w o n g ( 7 0 2 ) 3 6 0 - 8 8 8 5 8 4 2 7 W . L A K E M E A D B L V
Outstanding High School Leader Award
Logan Price, Foothill High School
STEM Student of the Year Award
Taylor Hovey, Green Valley High School
Diazo Wealth Community Impact Award Serving Our Kids Foundation
Nevada State Bank Launchpad Legacy Award Sagebrush Lawyers
Henderson Chamber of Commerce Community Cornerstone Award
Findlay Volkswagen Henderson
Nevada Gold Mines Leadership Henderson Distinguished Alumni Award
Chris DeAngelis, Martin-Harris Construction, Leadership Henderson Class of 2022
McCarthy Building Companies Leadership Henderson Legacy Award
Courtney Redsull, City of Henderson, Leadership Henderson Class of 2013
Aristocrat Community Champion Award
Make-A-Wish Nevada
Photo Credit: Highest Self Studios
To the Men Who Elevate Everything Around Them
There’s something deeply attractive about a man who knows himself. Not just how he looks or what he does, but who he is. You feel it more than you see it: in the way he walks into a room, in how he listens, in how he speaks … or doesn’t. He doesn’t rush. He doesn’t need to prove anything. There’s a grounded confidence there, and that kind of energy is rare.
This issue is about that kind of man. The ones who are building, leading, providing, creating, and evolving. The ones who understand that real strength isn’t loud. It’s steady. It’s present. It’s intentional.
Living in Summerlin, we’re surrounded by men who have achieved a lot. But what stands out isn’t just success, it’s how they carry it. The ones who stay connected. The ones who lead without ego. The ones who know that presence is more powerful than performance.
This month, we’re featuring men who embody that. Different lives, different paths. All with a certain depth you can’t fake.
And that’s what this issue is really about. Not just celebrating men, but recognizing the kind of presence that elevates everything around them.
We hope you enjoy the issue as much as we’ve loved putting it together.
With heart,
SOLÉA RAE, PUBLISHER @REDROCKCITYLIFESTYLE
June 2026
PUBLISHER
Camilla Soléa Rae | camilla.solearae@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Paige Candee | paige.candee@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION MANAGER
Katie Bode | katie.bode@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Paige Candee, Sienna Sinclair, Vivian Greggory, Andres Molina, Jennifer Florendo
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Adam Trujillo, Emily Paine, PR Brown, Adam Kilbourn
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Proverbs 3:5-6
Photo credit: Casey Jade
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1: Miracle Flights SOARée 2026 at Thrive Aviation. 2: Guests supported Miracle Flights’ mission to provide free medical flights for children and families. 3: Mikalah Gordon performed the national anthem. 4: Las Vegas A’s team rallied behind the cause. 5: Honoree Luna, her mother, and Miracle Flights CEO Leslie Baron-Mosley. 6: The innovative event continues to draw new supporters, growing its impact and reaching more families each year. 7: Winners celebrated their all-expenses-paid getaway, flown via private jet courtesy of Thrive Aviation.
Photography by Chad Cordova
1: United Way of Southern Nevada hosted the Women United Fashion Show Luncheon. 2: From young to seasoned, the luncheon celebrated empowerment at every age. 3: Guests supported the “where style meets impact” fundraiser. 4: Richelle Rice and Solea Rea were ready to support the cause. 5: The event raised money to empower women in local return-to-work programs. 6: The event program highlighted how access to professional attire helps women prepare for interviews, secure employment, and build long-term financial stability. 7: The luncheon was held at AREA15.
Photography by Alex Stechschulte
1: Nevada SPCA’s 5th Annual Brunch Bash: Doggybone Ranch. 2: Craig Murrin, Lori Heeren, Amy Lee, Ebone Smith supported the non-profit organization. 3: Mark “The Godfather” Wayman and Richard Metzler helped raise critical funding for Southern Nevada’s homeless and at-risk pets. 4: Emcee Elliott Bambrough, Auctioneer Christian Kolberg, Kelly Vohnn as Dolly Parton, and Parker Kolberg. 5: John Katilometes and Sujana Chand attended the event at M Resort Spa Casino. 6: From boots to bids, guests in Western fashion scoped out silent auction finds. 7: One of Nevada SPCA’s most anticipated fundraisers of the year, didn’t miss a beat—or a bark.
by Mel Lancaster
Photography
1: The Shade Tree’s Champagne & Pearls signature event. 2: The annual spring event brought together more than 240 guests. 3: Jillian Lopez served as mistress of ceremonies. 4: Women of Impact honorees Jenna Adams and Karyn Steenkamp were recognized for exceptional leadership. 5: Amanda Brookhyser, Travis Chance, Charelle Puray celebrated Southern Nevada women leading change. 6: Joyce Smith, Theresa Anderson Hattie, and Niki Brunetti helped honor women shaping a sustainable future. 7: Kate Zhong, Galit Ventura-Rozen, and Valerie Lee supported The Shade Tree’s mission to provide shelter, hope, and resources for women and children.
Photography by Patrick Gray/The Shade Tree
Modern Veterinary Care, Delivered With Compassion
&
Awards
Mary
off by Director of Leadership
welcomes guests at Raiders Headquarters and Intermountain Health Performance Center. 3: Event honored Southern Nevada’s leaders whose vision, service, and commitment continue to shape Southern Nevada’s future. 4: The event was presented by The PENTA Building Group. 5: Henderson Chamber of Commerce Foundation spotlights excellence in leadership, service, and community dedication. 6: Attendees celebrate as honorees are recognized. 7: It was a wonderful afternoon recognizing local contributions and community spirit.
1: Inaugural Leadership
Legacy
Luncheon kicked
Henderson, Cay Mateyko. 2: Henderson Chamber COO
Malloy
Photography by Henderson Chamber of Commerce Foundation
Available for purchase from Greenline West:
Sales@greenlinewest.com 702-680-4300 www.greenlinewest.com 6285 South Valley View Boulevard, Suite E Las Vegas, Nevada 89118
business monthly
The Courts LV Serves Up New Hub for Pickleball Play
The Courts LV is now open, offering Las Vegas a dedicated venue for pickleball play and connection. The complex features multiple courts designed for open play, lessons, leagues, and tournament-level competition, welcoming both beginners and seasoned players. Programming emphasizes instruction, organized play, and social events that encourage ongoing participation. With a focus on consistent access to quality courts and structured activities, The Courts LV aims to serve as a regular gathering place for the pickleball community.
Custom Closets Celebrates 20 Years of Exceptional Design
Custom Closets is proud to celebrate 20 years of transforming spaces and elevating organization for homeowners throughout the community. Since its founding, the company has built a reputation for high-quality craftsmanship, innovative design, and personalized service. This milestone marks two decades of helping clients create functional, beautiful spaces tailored to their lifestyles, and Custom Closets looks forward to continuing to serve the community for years to come.
Fletcher Jones Imports Debuts the All-Electric 2026 CLA Sedan
The all-new, all-electric 2026 CLA sedan debuted at Fletcher Jones Imports and Mercedes-Benz of Henderson, showcasing Mercedes-Benz’s latest evolution of its entry luxury EV. With an EPA-estimated driving range of up to 374 miles and the ability to charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in as little as 22 minutes, the CLA balances daily practicality with road-trip readiness. Guests explored its refined interior, advanced digital features, and seamless electric driving dynamics during showroom walk-throughs and test drives.
Photography by Shot by Bel
Photography by The Courts LV Scan to read more Scan to read more
Grants Bolster Las Vegas Nonprofits’ Affordable Housing Efforts
Blind Center of Nevada and HELP of Southern Nevada have been selected by Bank of America’s Neighborhood Builders program for a significant investment in local affordable housing and support services. Each organization will receive a $200,000 grant over two years, along with leadership training and access to a national peer network. The funding will help launch Visions Park, a 100unit community for visually impaired residents, and furnish Tropicana Trails, a 50-unit permanent supportive housing project.
Photography by Blind Center of Nevada
Local Seniors Awarded $1.9 Million in Frias Legacy Scholarships
The Charles and Phyllis Frias Charitable Trust and The Public Education Foundation recently awarded $100,000 college scholarships to 19 local high school seniors, totaling $1.9 million in support for Clark County students. The Frias Legacy Scholarship recognizes young people who have overcome significant obstacles, echoing the resilience Charles and Phyllis Frias demonstrated while building Nevada’s largest transportation company. Students, families, and education leaders gathered at Worre Studios to mark the announcement.
Photography by The Public Education Foundation
Women’s Giving Group Highlights Local Nonprofit Impact
100 Women Who Care of Southern Nevada will host its quarterly giving meeting at The Cobblestone Cottage, bringing together women who each commit a $100 donation to support one selected nonprofit. Attendees will hear brief presentations from Hear Me Roar Foundation, Junior Achievement, and Street Dogz before voting on a recipient for the pooled funds. The previous beneficiary, Shine a Light Foundation, will also share how it used its earlier award.
Photography by 100 Women Who Care of Southern Nevada
Nine Nevada Leaders Recognized for Advancing Children’s Healthcare
Cure 4 The Kids Foundation recognized nine Nevada elected officials and policymakers for legislative efforts supporting children’s health and access to care. The honorees represent a bipartisan group addressing healthcare needs across the state. They were acknowledged during an event at the organization’s clinic in collaboration with the Vegas Chamber. Leaders cited workforce shortages, population growth, and policy coordination as ongoing challenges affecting families and pediatric care systems statewide and public health equity concerns overall.
Photography
Decisions That Defined Him
Candid stories from gentlemen on a moment that changed everything —what they risked, what they learned, and how they lead today
ARTICLE BY PAIGE CANDEE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADAM TRUJILLO
DARRYL KULWIN
OWNER | T-BIRD JEWELS
I didn’t build my path on certainty—I built it by stepping into the unknown.
Early in my career, I was living in Los Angeles and had carved out a strong role with a restaurant manufacturing company. I was growing quickly and managing a major territory; there was stability, momentum, and a defined next step.
Then my father unexpectedly introduced the idea of getting into the jewelry business. It meant walking away from a career that was working and stepping into an entirely different industry where I didn’t have the same foundation. It was a risk. But the decision came down to perspective—I wasn’t focused on what I might lose, but on what I might gain.
Looking back, that decision changed my trajectory. It reinforced something I now carry into leadership: early in your career, you often have less to lose than you think. The bigger risk is staying comfortable for too long.
It shaped how I think about risk today. I don’t see it as being reckless—I see it as strategic optimism. Opportunity often sits just outside of what feels secure, and the decisions that feel most uncertain are the ones that end up defining your path.
I originally came to Las Vegas in 1999; and within months we launched the first Toy Drive. My first contract was up in 2002, and I accepted an offer I couldn’t refuse in Portland, Oregon—a place where I had previously found success. This time, it didn’t unfold the same way.
Things became difficult for me personally and professionally. As much as I love the Pacific Northwest, where I grew up, and as meaningful as it was to be close to family, I knew by 2004 I had to move on. There were strong opportunities across the country, but the only real choice for me was Las Vegas. On the surface, it may have looked like the safe move. It wasn’t. It was calculated. I believed Las Vegas was on the verge of explosive growth, and I wanted to be part of it.
“I learned that nothing is permanent, not the highs or the lows, so keep your circle tight. Stay vigilant. Not everyone that is on your team is on your side. Commit to getting a little better every day, but give yourself grace.” “
I returned more battle tested. I had faced real adversity and gained a clearer understanding of my weaknesses—areas I once thought were strengths. I learned that nothing is permanent, not the highs or the lows, so keep your circle tight. Stay vigilant. Not everyone that is on your team is on your side. Commit to getting a little better every day, but give yourself grace. Life is hard enough without being your own enemy. I can’t guarantee that if you work hard enough and smart enough that you’ll win. But I can guarantee what will happen if you don’t.
CHET BUCHANAN
EMMY AWARD WINNING ANNOUNCER, AUCTIONEER & BROADCAST PROFESSIONAL
EDWARD A.
VANCE
FOUNDER & CEO | EV&A ARCHITECTS
One of the most defining inflection points in my career came when I chose to step away from a secure leadership role to start my own firm. It didn’t make sense: I had stability and a clear trajectory. But I felt a disconnect between the work I was doing and the impact I believed architecture could and should have.
At that moment, what was at stake wasn’t just financial security. It was reputation, credibility, the risk of stepping out on my own, and the possibility of failure in a relatively small professional community. I was also acutely aware others would eventually depend on that leap.
What pushed me forward was a conviction that architecture is about more than buildings—it’s about shaping human experience and creating places that respond to their environment and the people who inhabit them. I realized that if I didn’t take that risk, I would spend the rest of my career wondering “what if.”
So, I chose the harder path—uncertain, exposed, but aligned with my values.
That decision changed everything. It gave me the opportunity to build a practice grounded in clarity of purpose, where design excellence, responsiveness, and client trust are inseparable. It also reshaped how I think about leadership.
What I learned is that risk isn’t the enemy; unexamined risk is. Early on, I learned to recognize red flags misalignment in values, unclear expectations, or a lack of transparency in partnerships. Those are things I no longer ignore.
Before making major decisions now, I ask critical questions:
• Does this align with who we are and what we stand for?
• Are we being honest about the risks, or just hopeful about the outcome?
• Will this decision strengthen trust with our clients, team, and partners?
The advice I give younger leaders is this: don’t confuse comfort with clarity. The safest path often leads to stagnation. Be disciplined, surround yourself with people who challenge your thinking, and never ignore what doesn’t feel right because the opportunity looks good on the surface.
In the end, leadership is about making decisions that hold up over time and having the courage to own both the successes and the missteps that follow.
AL PITTS
DEPUTY CIO, DIGITAL SERVICES | CLARK COUNTY
A defining moment in my career came during the City of Las Vegas’ 2015 search for a new Director of Information Technology. At the time, I was serving as an IT Business Partner and later as an IT Business Relationship Manager, bringing more than two decades of experience across both public and private sectors to help align technology with enterprise outcomes.
Contributing my perspective to the City Manager role during the search process became more than an exercise in professional insight, it became a moment of clarity. Writing candidly about what the organization truly needed reinforced a conviction I’ve carried throughout my career: sustainable innovation is only possible when built on strong fundamentals. Governance, information management, process discipline, and organizational readiness matter just as much, if not more, than emerging technologies and ambitious modernization initiatives.
That same moment also demanded personal resolve. A cancer diagnosis forced me to evaluate not only my readiness for the role but my responsibility to the organization. After thoughtful reflection, I chose not to pursue the director position—not from a lack of capability or aspiration, but out of respect for the city and the importance of leadership continuity during a critical period. I prioritized my health and ensured the department would have a leader fully able to meet the demands of the role without uncertainty.
That decision reshaped my definition of leadership. True leadership is not defined solely by title or advancement, but by judgment, timing, and stewardship. It requires discipline to step forward when needed, and the wisdom to step back when doing so best serves the mission and the people behind it.
Today, that perspective defines how I lead today. I focus on building durable foundations, enabling meaningful transformation, and balancing technology, people, and process to deliver long-term value. My career is guided by integrity, resilience, and a commitment to decisions that align purpose with performance— especially when stakes are high.
DR. ANDREW SHEEP
OWNER | OUTLIVE CONCIERGE MEDICINE
I was a lieutenant in the Navy, stationed in Guam as an Undersea Medical Officer. It was a good life with a clear path forward, but I knew I wanted civilian emergency medicine, not a military residency, because the training and patient volume would be different. I was willing to risk everything, including separating from the Navy with no backup plan, for that distinction.
I had an uncomfortable truth to face. I had not seen a genuinely sick patient in over four years. I applied to only five programs. I had a new wife, a young child, and no backup plan. What was at stake was not just my career, it was the physician I had decided to become. I had made a promise to myself, and this was the moment when I either honored it or found a comfortable reason not to. I bet on myself. I got into my top program. Everything that followed came from that one decision.
What strikes me most looking back is how much clarity came from having no safety net. When retreat is not an option, you stop second-guessing. You go.
The red flag I will never ignore again is the voice that says the timing is not right, that you should wait for better circumstances. Circumstances are never better. The people I have watched fail at big decisions are rarely those who moved too soon. They are the ones who waited for certainty that never came.
What I tell younger physicians now is this: separate the fear of the outcome from the quality of the decision. I was terrified of rejection. But the decision itself was sound, and I knew it. You do not control what happens, you control the quality of your thinking going in.
Know what you want before you are under pressure to decide. That clarity is what made the choice clean, even when it was frightening. When you are willing to bet on yourself, the people around you learn what is possible. That lesson has shaped every patient I have cared for and every person I have led since.
ROCK’S LEADING MAN
JEFF GUTT TALKS FATHERHOOD, FANDOM, AND FRONTING STONE TEMPLE PILOTS
ARTICLE BY PAIGE CANDEE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY PAINE
While the June calendar is filling up with Father’s Day celebrations and the first official days of summer, Southern Nevada rock fans already have their sights set on the biggest event of the coming season. On Saturday, July 25, Stone Temple Pilots will take the stage at M Resort Spa Casino’s M Pool, bringing a legacy of multi-platinum hits to one of the region’s most electric poolside venues. At the center of this high-energy night is lead singer Jeff Gutt, a man who has successfully navigated one of the most challenging transitions in rock history: stepping into the role of frontman for a band that defined a generation.
“Stone Temple Pilots will bring a legacy of multi-platinum hits to one of the region’s most electric poolside venues.”
With more than 70 million albums sold worldwide, Stone Temple Pilots emerged as a cornerstone of the 1990s alternative rock scene. Their debut album, Core, produced hits like “Plush” and “Wicked Garden” that remain staples of rock radio today. Since joining the fold, Jeff has breathed new life into these classics while helping the band evolve. The group’s most recent studio effort, Perdida, showcased a more introspective side of their artistry, proving that while they honor their roots, they aren’t afraid to explore new sonic territory.
For Jeff, performing in the area feels like a bit of a homecoming. “I’ve actually spent a lot of time in Henderson,” Jeff says. “I recorded with a producer there for a while. It’s a beautiful area. I’m looking forward to STP fans coming out and having a memorable time.”
Playing at a venue like M Resort offers a distinct vibe compared to the massive arenas or amphitheaters that typically house a band of this stature. While the lights of the Strip are visible in the distance, the pace here is different. “Vegas is very flash and
“Before I was touring the world with Stone Temple Pilots, I was a fan of the band… I really just try to experience the songs the way I always have and bring that to everyone who loves them.”
glam,” Jeff notes. “There’s a time and place for that. Luckily, it’s close, but just far enough away. It’s great to connect to people in a more intimate setting.”
That connection is something Jeff takes seriously. Before he was touring the world with Stone Temple Pilots, he was a fan of the band, just like the people in the audience. That perspective allows him to treat the catalog with a unique blend of reverence and personal flair. “I really just try to experience the songs the way I always have and bring what it does for me to everyone who loves the band,” Jeff explains.
His journey to the top of the rock world wasn’t an overnight success story, which makes him particularly relatable to the local community of hospitality workers and gigging musicians in the valley. Jeff understands the grind because he lived it. “Being that I was a working musician myself and had to sing four to five nights a week to pay my rent, I can relate,” Jeff says. “We share the same goals and struggles. The stories that stick with me the most are the ones that remind me we are all the same. Those are the ones I remember.”
Now, as a seasoned veteran and a father, Jeff views his role through a different lens. Success is no longer just about personal accolades; it’s about legacy and shared experiences. “In the beginning, being a musician was all about myself and what the music meant to me,” Jeff shares. “But becoming a father changes your perspective. It helps you realize that music is for everyone and belongs to everyone. Showing my son the music I grew up loving really cemented that for me. These bands that inspired me weren’t mine anymore, they became ours.”
Stone Temple Pilots will take the stage as part of M Resort Spa Casino’s 2026 Concert Series at M Pool. Experience a high-energy night of live music under the stars as the summer season kicks off in epic fashion.
When: Saturday, July 25, 2026
Time: Doors open at 7 p.m.; Concert starts at 8 p.m.
Where: M Pool at M Resort Spa Casino Tickets: Starting at $30 (plus taxes) Purchase: themresort.com or ticketmaster.com
Don’t miss this chance to see Jeff and STP perform iconic hits in an intimate setting.
What defines a true gentleman? It isn’t titles or accolades, but how he treats others, builds relationships, and leaves things better than he found them. For John Michaelson, CEO and attorney of Michaelson Law, that definition has guided both his career and his life’s work.
“To me, being a gentleman in business starts with respect,” he says. “It means carrying yourself with dignity, even when you disagree.” In a profession often characterized by conflict, his approach stands apart. Rather than focusing on winning at all costs, John emphasizes perspective and long-term connection. “In law and in life, you’re not always going to see eye to eye with people, but how you handle those moments matters. I always try to keep the bigger picture in mind.”
That bigger picture, for him, is community. Having served Southern Nevada for more than three decades, John sees his role as both an advocate and a steward. “I’m incredibly proud of Nevada, and I think about how we can continue building something meaningful here,” he shares. “Even in disagreement, I ask myself, ‘How do we handle this in a way that strengthens relationships instead of burning them?’ Because at the end of the day, this is a community. You want to be able to shake hands and work together again.”
That philosophy extends into the culture of his firm. With a team of more than 25 attorneys and professionals, Michaelson Law has built its reputation on trust, education, and long-standing relationships. “We’ve built a culture where people are proud to work, where they feel supported, and where we’re all focused on helping others,” he says. Through community presentations and ongoing education, the firm equips families and business owners with the tools to make informed decisions.
At the heart of that work is a simple and powerful idea: legacy is about more than wealth.
“Legacy, to me, isn’t about money. It’s about people,” John explains. As a father, that perspective is deeply personal. “I want my kids to be proud of how I live and how I treat others. I want them to have the tools and confidence
to build their own success. It’s about giving them a strong foundation, good character, and a real understanding of relationships.”
He’s quick to point out that legacy isn’t reserved for high-profile founders or major fortunes. “There are everyday people, grandparents, parents, who leave just as meaningful a legacy through love, consistency, and the way they show up for their families.”
Through estate and business planning, Michaelson Law helps clients translate those values into practical, lasting plans. One of the most common hurdles, he notes, is simply getting started. “The biggest misconception is that estate planning is complicated or overwhelming. It’s not. We make it simple.” He adds, “I always tell people, just reach out. Call, text, schedule a time. That’s it.”
“EVEN IN DISAGREEMENT, I ASK MYSELF, ‘HOW DO WE HANDLE THIS IN A WAY THAT STRENGTHENS RELATIONSHIPS INSTEAD OF BURNING THEM?’ BECAUSE AT THE END OF THE DAY, THIS IS A COMMUNITY.”
Without a plan, families can face unnecessary stress and conflict. “What I’ve seen over the years is that when people don’t plan, they unintentionally leave chaos behind,” he says. “Planning ahead is one of the greatest gifts you can give your family. It brings clarity, protection, and peace of mind.”
But beyond documents and directives, John focuses on something deeper: the transfer of wisdom. “Money comes and goes, but wisdom, confidence, and strong relationships are what sustain a family over time,” he says.
“It all comes back to relationships and community,” John reflects. “If you focus on those two things, everything else tends to follow. Leave your community better than you found it and take care of your people.”
In the end, that philosophy defines both the man and the legacy he continues to build— one grounded in respect, strengthened by relationships, and designed to endure.
RESIDENTS, BUSINESSES UNITE TO SAVE SOUTHERN NEVADA’S LIMITED WATER RESOURCES
Drought on the Colorado River has tested our community’s adaptability and resilience for the past two-and-half decades. And the community has collectively risen to meet that challenge.
Between 2002 and 2025, businesses and residents reduced their water use per person by 58 percent—even as Southern Nevada welcomed more than 876,000 new residents. The community’s collective conservation successes are driven by a range of policies and programs developed by the Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) in collaboration with Clark County and the cities of Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, Henderson and Boulder City.
By far, the most successful of these programs is the Water Smart Landscapes Rebate Program (WSL), which offers single-family homeowners and commercial and multi-family properties a cash incentive for each square foot of grass they replace with drip-irrigated, water efficient landscaping. Since 1999, residents and businesses in Southern Nevada have upgraded more than 250 million square feet of grass, saving about 217 billion gallons of water.
In addition, the seasonal watering schedule—which limits the days and times landscapes can be irrigated—significantly contributes to water savings.
The commercial sector is also doing its part to conserve our limited resources. Thousands of businesses and multifamily property owners have participated in SNWA’s Water Efficient Technologies (WET) program, which offers financial incentives to businesses that install water-efficient devices and technologies, such as high-efficiency toilets, icemakers, and cooling systems.
Golf courses have stepped up their water-conservation game by adhering to annual water budgets that limit use to four acre-feet of water per irrigated acre. In addition, golf courses have replaced more than 43 million square feet of grass, saving 2.3 million gallons every year and utilize advanced irrigation technology.
Meanwhile, resort properties on the Strip and beyond follow water-efficiency plans and manage water used for landscape irrigation and cooling systems. As a result of these efforts, resorts account for only 7 percent of the community’s water use while directly and indirectly supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs.
Lastly, new development across Southern Nevada is designed with water efficiency in mind from the start. Developers follow strict water-smart building codes that significantly reduce water use both indoors and outdoors, from efficient plumbing fixtures to drought-tolerant landscaping.
Together, we have saved more than 200 billion gallons of water by focusing conservation efforts where they matter most—outdoors.
ARTICLE BY VIVIAN GREGGORY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADAM TRUJILLO
REDEFINING Men’s PORTRAITS
Adam Trujillo helps every day guys see themselves differently
Most men don’t walk into a photography studio excited. They walk in skeptically, uncomfortable, and perhaps dreading it. Adam Trujillo knows this because he hears it all the time. “That’s honestly one of the most common things I hear,” he says. Guys worry about looking stiff, awkward, or too posed. They just want to get through it without looking ridiculous.”
But something shifts during a session at Adam Trujillo Photography. By the end, most clients say: “I thought this was going to feel awkward, but that was actually a great experience.”
That’s not an accident. It’s the result of years of refining an approach built specifically for men who aren’t models, who don’t spend time in front of cameras, and who just want to look like the best version of themselves.
Adam’s process starts long before the shutter clicks. He guides clients through wardrobe choices, grooming suggestions, and the overall look they want to achieve. “Whether it’s a clean and professional look or more relaxed and editorial, we help them show up prepared and confident,” he explains.
Once in the studio, the experience is conversational, not performative. “We’re not jumping straight into ‘performing’ for the camera. We talk, we get comfortable, and I start with simple, natural movements instead of rigid poses,” Adam says.
“I’ll often demonstrate things myself so they can see and feel what works, rather than over-explaining it,” he adds. “Within the first few minutes, something shifts. They realize they’re not being judged, they’re being guided. And that’s when the confidence starts to show up naturally.”
“For men, I typically use more sculpted, directional lighting—something that creates depth and shadow rather than flat, even light,” Adam says. “That contrast helps define the jawline, cheekbones, and overall structure of the face without needing heavy editing. Strong posture, slight angles of the body, controlled chin positioning, and relaxed hands all play a role. Even a small adjustment, like shifting weight or dropping a shoulder can completely change how confident someone looks in a photo.”
The key, Adam says, is restraint. “You don’t need exaggerated expressions or forced intensity to look strong. Some of the most powerful portraits come from subtle confidence, calm expression, grounded stance, and good lighting. That’s what keeps it looking modern, natural, and not overdone.”
Adam has been running his business in Las Vegas for 20 years, collaborating with entrepreneurs, executives, creatives, and everyday professionals. As a born-and-raised local and business owner himself, he understands what it means to put yourself out there and represent yourself with intention.
“I’m not just taking a photo, I’m helping someone present themselves with intention,” he says.
His goal goes beyond the final image. “It’s to create an experience where someone walks away seeing themselves differently, in the best way possible,” Adam says. “When someone feels confident, seen, and guided, that’s what shows up in the final image. That’s what makes a portrait stand out.”
“Some of the most powerful portraits come from subtle confidence, calm expression, grounded stance, and good lighting.”
Rediscover Retirement
Retire in a community where every meal is an experience, every detail is curated, and every day is a celebration. From chef-inspired dining and vibrant social events to resort-style amenities, our dedicated team handles every detail, allowing you to savor each moment with peace of mind! This is retirement as it should be—effortless, enriching, and uniquely you.
Dining on Your Time
THE ART OF Showing Up
HOW INTENTIONAL DADS QUIETLY REDEFINE MODERN MASCULINITY BY SHOWING UP FOR FAMILY, NEIGHBORS, AND FRIENDS
ARTICLE BY SIENNA SINCLAIR
The art of showing up rarely looks like a movie moment. More often, it’s a dad on the living room floor playing board games with his kids after a long day, or a man in a polo shirt standing on metal bleachers at a Friday night game, holding a handmade sign while his teenager pretends not to see him and secretly hopes he never stops cheering. It’s every day, ordinary, easy-to-miss stuff, and that’s exactly what makes it powerful.
In a suburban community, being “the reliable guy” doesn’t usually come with a title or a speech. It looks like the neighbor who quietly rolls your trash cans back to the side of your house when you forget. The one who notices that the widowed woman down the street hasn’t opened her blinds in a few days and gently checks in, maybe dropping off a meal or offering to change a lightbulb that’s just out of reach. It’s the dad who coaches the youth soccer team on weekends, ties shoes on the sideline, and teaches kids to shake hands after a tough loss. These small, steady actions show people they matter.
Showing up is less about grand gestures and more about consistency. It’s replying to a text from a friend who’s having a hard day instead of letting it sit. It’s remembering a co-worker’s big presentation and sending a quick “You’ve got this” message. It’s the guy who helps set up folding chairs in a school gym before a fundraiser and stays late to stack them again when everyone else has gone home. Think of the man standing behind a long table at a school carnival, handing out tickets with a smile, or quietly refilling water cups at the fun run finish line. He’s not there for recognition. He’s there because he said he would be.
For a long time, masculinity was measured by what a man could provide: the paycheck, the roof, the car in the driveway. Provision still matters, but modern masculinity is expanding to include something deeper: emotional presence. It’s the dad who sits on the edge of a child’s bed, listening to fears that don’t have easy answers. The husband who admits when he’s wrong and
“Showing up is less about grand gestures and more about consistency — the small, steady actions that quietly tell people they matter.”
is willing to say “I’m sorry.” The friend who shows up with coffee and an open ear, not solutions, when someone’s world has quietly come apart. Emotional presence doesn’t show up in a bank statement, but it’s what people remember years later.
In a world that constantly pushes speed, hustle, and personal success, showing up is a quiet rebellion. It’s choosing to spend a Saturday afternoon helping a neighbor move boxes out of a garage instead of squeezing in one more errand. It’s blocking out time on the calendar not just for meetings, but for movie night on the couch, complete with popcorn and mismatched pajamas. Picture the simple scenes: a man raking leaves alongside an older neighbor, a dad high-fiving his kid after a backyard basketball game, a couple walking their dog at sunset and waving to every passerby.
The art of showing up is exactly that, an art. It isn’t perfect. Plans fall through, people get tired, life gets messy. But the reliable guy keeps returning, again and again, to the people and places that matter. He doesn’t have to be the loudest, the flashiest, or the most impressive. He just has to be there. In a suburban community, that quiet reliability becomes its own kind of legacy, one small act of presence at a time.
TINY HABITS, BIG PRESENCE
Want to show up more without overhauling your life? Start micro. Pick one recurring moment you can own each week: a quick walk with your kid after dinner, a five-minute check-in call to a relative, or dropping off a favorite snack on a neighbor’s porch. Put it on your calendar like any other appointment—and treat it the same way. Small, predictable touchpoints quietly tell people, “You can count on me,” long before any big gesture ever will.
“Modern masculinity is expanding beyond paychecks and driveways to include something deeper: emotional presence. It’s the dad listening in the dark and the friend who shows up with coffee and an open ear.”
HIGH-END MULTI-DISCIPLINARY RESIDENTIAL DESIGN
NEVADA | CALIFORNIA | UTAH | COLORADO | MONTANA
AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST
Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short
Creative Director: Jen Birn
Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill
Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX
MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.
After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.
Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?
A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”
THE QUIET STANDARD:
MIKE JOHNSON
“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”
— Mike Johnson
Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?
A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”
Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?
A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”
This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.
MIKE JOHNSON
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A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JUNE 3RD
Circus of Bubbles with Kirk Marsh
Summerlin Library | 4:30 PM
Circus of Bubbles is not just an ordinary show; it is a whimsically enchanting experience that combines the art of bubble-making with dazzling lights and mesmerizing music. For more information on this event at Summerlin Library, call the library branch at 702-507-3865.
JUNE 3RD – 6TH
Disney’s Newsies
Super Summer Theatre | 8:00 PM
Super Summer Theatre will kick off the summer season with “Disney’s Newsies,” based on the movie about the newsboys’ strike of 1899 during which young newspaper sellers stood up for their rights. It will be performed at 8:05 p.m. on June 3rd to 6th and June 10th to 13th. Buy show tickets at supersummertheatre.org.
JUNE 5TH
The Spazmatics
Rocks Lounge at Red Rock Resort | 9:00 PM
All the awesome sounds, styles, and way cool dance steps from the 1980s decade, The Spazmatics recapture all the best of the worst of the 80s with outstanding musicianship combined with creative flair and style makes for an evening of pure energy and entertainment. For more information, visit stationcasinoslive.com.
JUNE 6TH
Free ‘Jazz in the Park’ Series: Al Di
Meola
Clark County Government Center Amphitheater | 4:00 PM
Al Di Meola will be the final performer to take the stage at the Clark County Government Center Amphitheater for unforgettable nights of Jazz under the stars. For more information, visit clarkcountynv.gov.
JUNE 13TH – 19TH
Daily Juneteenth Celebration
DISCOVERY Children’s Museum | 10:00 AM
DISCOVERY Children’s Museum will host a variety of engaging and educational activities for children and families from June 13th through the 19th in honor of Juneteeth. The festivities will continue all week, culminating in a grand event on Friday. Learn more at discoverykidslv.org.
JUNE 19TH
Michelle Johnson’s Freedom
– A Juneteenth Celebration
The Smith Center for the Performing Arts | 7:00 PM
Critically acclaimed vocalist and “Las Vegas’ First Lady of Jazz,” Michelle Johnson, returns to The Smith Center for the Performing Arts on June 19 with an exciting concert experience that blends music, movement, and the power of story to explore freedom in all its forms. Buy tickets at thesmithcenter.com.
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Mens & Womens Haircuts Blowouts & Styles Grey Coverage or Blending, Lived-In & Dimensional Color
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JUNE 20TH
DIY Tincture Class - Hormone Balancing
Herbally Grounded | 1:00 PM
Learn the art of crafting your own hormone-balancing tinctures in this fun and informative DIY class. In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn about amazing herbs that support the body in balancing hormones, balancing menstrual cycle, manage menopausal symptoms, or simply promote overall hormonal health. Reserve your spot at herballygrounded.com
JUNE 20TH
My Scars Are Beautiful 10-Year Anniversary Celebration
Canyon Gate Country Club | 6:00 PM
For 10 years, My Scars Are Beautiful has supported trauma survivors as they move from crisis to courage, from surviving to transforming. The 10-Year Anniversary Celebration will be an intimate evening honoring survivors and reflecting on a decade of impact and community strength. Reserve tickets at myscarsarebeautiful.org
JUNE 21ST
Raise A Stein to Father’s Day
Hofbräuhaus Las Vegas | 11:00 AM
On Sunday, June 21, say Prost to Papa with a special Father’s Day menu at Hofbräuhaus Las Vegas to help make it a day to remember. Raise a stein to celebrate dad this Father’s Day at hofbrauhauslasvegas.com
JUNE 24TH
Early Childhood Education & Literacy Community Conversation
CSN Cheyenne | 9:00 AM
As literacy and early learning remain top priorities in the post COVID era, this community conversation will convene educators, policymakers, nonprofit leaders, and community members to address key challenges in childcare, early childhood education, and literacy. Participants will collaborate on solutions to strengthen outcomes for children and families across the region. Learn more at uwsn.org/earlyedconversation
JUNE 24TH
Sip and Design Centerpiece Floral
The Wine Garden | 7:00 PM
Arrangement
Design your centerpiece floral arrangement while sipping a glass of wine. This is the perfect opportunity to unwind and learn a new skill. Reserve your spot at thewinegardenlv.com Want
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