As a board-certified plastic surgeon-led med spa in Reno, M Spa is fully equipped to achieve your goals with convenient, in-office treatments. Dr. Tiffany McCormack and Dr. Nichole Joslyn — our on-site Medical Directors — are honored to have been voted “Best Plastic Surgeon” for two years in a row at the Reno-Gazette Journal’s Best of Reno Awards, as well as “Best Plastic Surgeon” in Northern Nevada by Reno News & Review. Our core team of providers offers cutting-edge aesthetic services, including:
• CoolSculpting® Elite and CoolTone®
• Laser Hair Removal
• VISIA® Skin Analysis
• Injectables and fillers including Dysport®, Restylane®, BOTOX® Cosmetic, JUVÉDERM®, RHA®, and Sculptra®
• Genius™ Radiofrequency Microneedling
• PRF therapy
• Medical-grade facials and peels
• Aveli® cellulite reduction
• Ultherapy® and Renuvion®
• FemTouch™ intimate rejuvenation
• Laser Skin Resurfacing
We’re passionate about providing high-quality cosmetic surgery procedures for patients seeking long-term results. For non-surgical rejuvenation without downtime, consider treatment at our first-rate med spa unprecedented in quality, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology. M Spa is known for:
UNMATCHED EXPERTISE:
Led by our talented board-certified plastic surgeons — Dr. McCormack and Dr. Joslyn — and expert nurse injectors and aestheticians, we offer the very best care to achieve patients’ goals.
MODERN AESTHETIC FACILITY:
We understand our patients deserve to achieve their goals in a relaxing environment of the highest caliber. Our top-notch facility houses fully equipped treatment rooms and an on-site QUAD A-certified surgical center to highlight our ongoing dedication to a seamless patient experience.
PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCE:
From start to finish, we provide an experience completely tailored to your comfort. We deliver personalized care to enhance your visit at every turn.
FIRST-RATE TECHNIQUES & TECHNOLOGY:
Our team utilizes advanced technology — including VISIA® skin analysis, CoolSculpting® Elite, Renuvion®, and more — to maximize results, accelerate downtime, increase the precision of treatment, and optimize patient safety.
We’d be happy to discuss your concerns during a private consultation with one of our expert providers. Call our office at (775) 415-8995 or visit us online at www.mspareno.com
A dedication to my children
I’ve often used this space to talk about how lucky I am to have an amazing family and supportive friends, and because this is our Kids and Pets issue, I’m going to add to that again this month.
I was recently sitting at a dinner celebrating my middle child's college graduation, looking at my three children and thinking about how fortunate I am that they are all healthy, happy, and giving me plenty of reasons to be proud.
Honestly, more than pride, I was overcome with a sense of redemption. After all, like many parents, I’ve had plenty of moments where I feared I had completely messed things up and that they’d be ruined for life. That I hadn’t been good at following through on rules, that I had too many rules, that I had allowed them to eat too much awful food and watch bad TV, or that I failed to be supportive enough in their moments of crisis. That a dinner like this would never happen.
The reality is that by providing a solid foundation and teaching them to become good decision makers (albeit through plenty of trial and error), allowing them to fail at times but doing so within the context of a strong support system that included both family and community, they had developed skills that would set them up for success.
We all take our own approach to raising our children and, what works for us may be a lot different than what works for other folks but whatever it is, make sure you acknowledge what sets them apart and makes you proud. And don’t forget that you probably did a pretty good job of parenting.
Thank you, my children. You may have made me lose a lot of hair over the years but you sure have put a lot of smiles on my face.
1: Wag N' Wheels raised money for Henry House, a senior/special needs dog rescue, May 10. 2: The Edge Restaurant & Lounge at Edgewood Tahoe Resort hosted a first look June 19. 3: Urban Roots hosted Soil Palooza June 7. 4: The Reno River Festival took place May 30-June 1 at Idlewild Park. 5: The Party Animals rolled into town to celebrate three days of high-energy baseball in May. 6: Reno Beer Works held a ribbon cutting ceremony June 6. 7: Together as One by the Donor Network West Foundation's dinner on the bridge May 31.
GATTUSO COALITION
KASEY CHRISTENSEN
TASHA HOLLOWAY
THE RENO-SPARKS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
BRIAN BOSMA
DEB MCCARTHY
JAIME CHAPMAN
place June 5 on
Up provided a special preview of upcoming Pioneer Center Broadway events June 16.
rolled out the blue carpet to celebrate renovations made at Nevada Sunset Winery June 19.
8: The Caliber block party took
Pueblo Street. 9: Curtain
10: DRP
DEB MCCARTHY
DEB MCCARTHY
KATE BOYLE MACDONALD
peaksartfairs.com
rtiashow.com
@rtiashow
WORKING DOG
WHISKEY IS A GOLFER’S BEST FRIEND
ARTICLE BY NORA HESTON TARTE
When geese became a problem at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course, resort management had some decisions to make. Instead of opting for noisy machines or methods that could potentially harm the wild geese trying to call the golf course home, Edgewood hired Whiskey, a five-year-old border collie specially trained to herd wildlife.
Whiskey the dog is part of the Edgewood maintenance crew, and he has a full-time position. While Whiskey doesn’t cash a paycheck, he gets compensated in treats, toys, belly rubs, and all the praise he can handle. “The hard working pup is responsible for chasing away the geese, ducks, and any other pesky critters that hinder guests' golf game,” explains Brad Wunderlich, the director of grounds and agronomy at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course.
Whiskey starts each day patrolling the course with his handler, deterring geese from settling onto the greens and water hazards. Throughout the day, Whiskey will complete sporadic runs to ensure the geese don’t try and settle back in and disrupt golfer’s games or make a mess on the turf. “In between patrols, he gets time to rest, play, and interact with staff and visitors. It’s a balance of work and plenty of well-earned downtime,” Wunderlich says.
Whiskey underwent special training from Flyaway Geese, an organization that promotes humane methods of moving unwanted wildlife. His border collie herding instincts combined with his training focused on migratory birds makes Whiskey the best dog for the job. And as a result of his hard work, not only is golf play smoother and more enjoyable, but the grounds stay in better shape, as well.
“Whiskey… loves running, chasing geese (of course), and playing fetch when he’s off duty."
“Trained border collies like Whiskey are taught to control their energy, use eye contact and body language to move animals, and respond instantly to commands,” Wunderlich says. “The goal isn’t to scare the geese for fun—it’s to create a controlled, humane deterrent.”
“Whiskey… loves running, chasing geese (of course), and playing fetch when he’s off duty. He enjoys being around people and soaks up attention from golfers and staff,” says Wunderlich. “As for dislikes—Whiskey doesn’t like being idle for too long. He’s happiest when he’s got a job to do.”
THE WILD LIFE OF Dr. Alexandra Moore
The founder of Monte Vista Animal Hospital runs her own veterinary practice and home zoo
ARTICLE BY ANGELA RUDOLPH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIC MARKS
Dr. Alexandra “Ali” Moore’s life was all planned out. She was set to go to dental school and take over her dad’s practice. But the day before the entrance exam, she had an epiphany—she wasn’t meant to be a dentist. She was destined to be a veterinarian.
“From an early age, I was that kid who sought out stray animals and tried to keep them,” Dr. Moore says. “I’ve always loved them. Though I don’t remember saying it, my family tells me I used to say that I wanted to be a veterinarian, so it wasn’t too surprising to them when I followed my dream.”
Dr. Moore followed her passion, attending veterinary school in Washington before returning home to Nevada. An animal lover to her core, she became a skilled veterinarian and opened her own practice — Monte Vista Animal Hospital in West Reno.
Growing up amongst the sagebrush, her family has always had pets. Her heart dog, Oreo, was with her from the time she was born until she was about 18. “She’d let me dress her up and she’d pose with stuffed animals,” Dr. Moore recalls.
Her childhood is full of animal memories. As a kid, she helped hatch a bantam chicken named Lucky, who perched on family shoulders by day and cuddled in her room at night.
Today, Dr. Moore, her husband Adam, and their three children practically have a menagerie of their own.
“The kids all have aquariums in their rooms. We have two dogs, a bearded dragon, ten chickens, koi in our pond outside, and a bunny named Ananeihm,” she says. “The chickens make me laugh the most. They have the biggest personalities! Tawanda is a bully, and Higgy, a speckled Swedish flower hen, behaves the most like a dog.”
Though the bunny is delightful, she added, it requires the most care — fresh hay daily and constant litter box cleaning.
CONTINUED >
Dr. Moore loves her life as a veterinarian. “Veterinary medicine is really a people business,” she says. “I spend the majority of my day chatting with people. The biggest draw for me is getting to help both people and their pets.”
While she doesn’t treat exotic animals professionally, she offers advice to help keep all pets safe. For rabbit owners: be sure to provide unlimited fresh hay to maintain dental health. And always support a rabbit’s back feet when holding them—kicking too hard can cause serious injury.
She also warns pet owners to steer clear of foxtails, a common and dangerous weed in the region. “The weeds that look like wheat are everywhere, but they’re incredibly hazardous. We’ve found them in dogs’ ears, lungs, and paws. Avoid them if possible!”
Whether the animals belong to her or someone else, Dr. Moore’s mission remains the same: to love them, care for them, and help keep them safe.
And as a third generation Nevadan, doing it all in her home state makes work even better. “I love it here and wouldn’t want to live anywhere else!” she says.
DR. ALEXANDRA MOORE MONTE VISTA ANIMAL HOSPITAL
Dr. Alexandra Moore is the founder and medical director of Monte Vista Animal Hospital. She is a proud graduate of the University of Nevada, Reno and Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Moore holds a bachelor’s degree in Biology with distinction, a minor in psychology, and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, and is a dean’s list and WICHE recipient.
HEAR ROAR
them
Empowered Ventures sparks movement to women-ownedupliftbusinesses
ARTICLE BY LIZA BELKA PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELODY RICKETTS
What started as a simple idea to help local women-owned businesses connect and grow has become something much bigger. Fellow local woman-owned business, Empowered Ventures, a collaborative, women-driven platform and directory, is now leading what they hope to be a regional shift toward visibility, equity, and collective empowerment.
Co-founded by Hindi Marciniak, Morgan Massie, and Nyla Allen, Empowered Ventures is their response to a challenge many women in business know too well: a lack of access, visibility, and real support.
“Women are often told to build something from nothing — and do it quietly,” says Marciniak, CEO of Empowered Ventures. “We wanted to flip that script and create a space where women could be loud, visible, and supported.”
The idea for the directory was sparked by a local Facebook group for women-owned businesses created by Marciniak that quickly grew to more than 4,000 members.
That space evolved into what is now the Empowered Ventures Directory, a user-friendly, values-driven resource that helps consumers discover women-owned businesses across various industries and identities. Whether it’s a Black-owned skincare line, a Latina-owned design studio, or a veteran-owned consultancy, the directory aims to highlight the diversity and strength of women entrepreneurs.
And at just $5 a month to join (about the cost of a latte), it’s intentionally accessible. “This is about leveling the playing field,” says Marciniak. “We knew we needed to build something affordable, inclusive, and scalable.”
Morgan Massie, chief learning and development officer, helped develop the member experience. “For me, it’s all about connection,” she shares. “Our coaching team, events, and partnerships exist to help women not just be seen, but grow, lead, and thrive.”
Massie brings over two decades of leadership and coaching experience, now leading Empowered Ventures’ training programs and community-building efforts, offering everything from workshops to curated networking that’s designed to feel authentic, not transactional.
The third powerhouse behind the Empowered Ventures team is Nyla Allen, chief business officer and longtime wellness entrepreneur. Allen is the mind behind the business’ strategy. With over a decade of experience in building award-winning spas in Northern Nevada, Allen shares how she knows firsthand the isolation and resilience that often accompany a woman’s entrepreneurial journey.
“Empowered Ventures is about building something we didn’t have when we started out,” Allen explains. “It’s about being seen, but also being supported — financially, emotionally, and strategically.”
“Every time someone uses the directory, they’re voting for [equality].”
- Hindi Marciniak
While local response has been positive, building the directory wasn’t without challenges. From aligning visions to navigating tech logistics, the co-founders relied on trust and shared values to keep moving forward. “It hasn’t been perfect,” says Massie, “but it’s been purpose-driven.”
Since its launch, members report landing new partnerships, getting discovered by customers who would’ve never found them otherwise, and perhaps most importantly, feeling a new sense of belonging.
“We’ve had women come to events in tears,” says Allen. “Not because they were sad, but because for the first time, they felt seen.”
In addition to being a tool for entrepreneurs, Empowered Ventures was designed for conscious consumers who want to support women-led businesses but don’t know where to start. “Every time someone uses the directory, they’re voting for [equality],” says Marciniak. “They’re investing in their own community.”
And the team’s vision hopes to extend far beyond Northern Nevada. Plans are already underway for a mobile app, strategic national partnerships, and even a Women’s Business Summit later this year.
“We’re building an ecosystem,” Massie says. “One that celebrates individuality but thrives on connection. It’s local, national, and entirely human.”
While Northern Nevada is where it all began, the team hopes Empowered Ventures can be a model of what is possible when women are fully supported in business.
“This isn’t about creating a moment,” Allen adds. “It’s about creating momentum.”
Your life. Your money. Your terms. Whether it’s investing some extra income, preparing a future for your family with your retirement secured, or saving for a home or education costs, we’re here to coach you through it. We’re ready when you are. Cont act us today.
Jim Morman, AAMS® Financial Advisor
Marina Town Centre
325 Harbour Cove Drive Suite 221 Sparks, NV 89434
775-353-1039
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
ARTICLE BY ERIN HANNA-BUTROS MEYERING
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NEED 2 SPEED BY EIGHTY8 STUDIOS, SIERRA NEVADA JOURNEYS, THE DISCOVERY
PLAY LIKE A KID
Reno Adventures for Families, Couples & Friends
Ever catch yourself longing for that carefree joy of childhood—when play wasn’t just an escape but a way of life? “Playing like a kid” doesn’t require a time machine, just the right attitude—and the right playgrounds. In Reno, there’s something for everyone ready to recapture that spark. Here’s how to tap into that youthful spirit—whether you’re wrangling kids or sneaking away for a grownups’ night out.
WHY IT MATTERS
Play isn’t just for kids. It’s the antidote to burnout and the spark for creativity, belonging, and even romance. Whether you're showing your kids how fun learning can be or lacing up for VR battles and vintage car wanderings with your sweetheart, you're honoring that inner child we all still carry.
Reno’s playgrounds (and there are so many more) remind us that it’s never too late to rediscover how to laugh without reason, learn without pressure, or hang out unfiltered—with family, friends or yourself.
CONTINUED >
WITH OR WITHOUT KIDS: SHARED ADVENTURES THAT SPARK WONDER
• Sensology at Grand Sierra Resort
Inside the Grand Sierra Resort’s Fun Zone, Sensology turns senses into games. Each room is built to stimulate sight, touch, smell, and more—perfect for curious little hands and bigger minds. Visitors describe it as “an immersive experience that engages all five senses.” Kids under 6 need adult accompaniment, ensuring that parents can jump right into the fun, too. But honestly, it’s just as fun as an adult-only hang. https:// www.grandsierraresort.com/activities/sensology-reno
• Birdeez – Indoor Urban Golf + Games
For a whimsical competitive spin, Birdeez delivers 27 holes of indoor mini-golf set in urban-art backdrops, plus electronic darts and tasty eats. One of the best parts of “playing like a kid” means trying something for the first time, or not caring about the outcome, and golf, even indoor - is a great test of that. https:// birdeezreno.com/
• Need 2 Speed – Indoor Karting & More
Is your crew into high-energy thrills? Need 2 Speed’s new two-story indoor go-kart track, VR arcade, Reno’s only duckpin bowling lanes, and even mini-golf is a jackpot. Plus, the new spot
“Life is challenging… you need time to decompress,” says Need 2 Speed owner, Chris Utgaard.
“Playing—whether you’re a kid or an adult—means touching the world, hanging with friends, and everything here is designed to do that.”
has distinct specials during the week and is equipped with two full bars, an extensive patio, and football bowling alongside several fire pits. https://www.need2speed.com/
• SMASH Reno – Smash, Splash, & Scream
Got little ones with big energy, or just want to rage after a bad day? iSMASH in Sparks offers safe, explosive fun—rage rooms, splatter paint, even axe throwing for teens. You can say it’s for the kids… even if you end up enjoying it, too. https://ismashusa.com/
• The Discovery – Hands-On Science & Events
At the Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum, 67,000 sq. ft. of interactive science exhibits await. From LEGO® Robot Rumbles to Small Wonder Wednesdays for the tiniest explorers, and $5 after-4 p.m. weekday fun, it's STEM meets playtime. Plus, the museum hosts a slew of adult only events listed on the website. https://nvdm.org/
DATE NIGHT, FRIENDS & “KID AT HEART” ESCAPES
• Drive-In Movie Nights at West Wind El Rancho
This season, you can spice it up… cozying up under the stars to catch current movies, instead of inside a theater. Bring blankets—or a convertible—and your favorite movie snacks. This is an oldie date night idea but a goodie nonetheless! https://www.westwinddi.com/
• Trivia Night at Noble Pie Parlor
Down a slice, raise a pint, and test your trivia chops at Noble Pie Parlor. Known for NY-style pizza and award-winning wings, it's a favorite local hangout. Trivia night adds a playful twist—it’s the perfect way to flex your brain over garlic-parm or award-winning buffalo wings (including vegan) and craft cocktails. https:// noblepieparlor.com/
• Grown-Up Getaway Camp Through Sierra Nevada Journeys
For something more transformative, the Grown-Up Getaway Camp by Sierra Nevada Journeys invites you to dive into outdoor learning—without kids in tow. Try kayaking, hiking, zip lining, archery, and more. As CEO Sean Hill explains, “Grown-Up Getaway Camp is more than a fun weekend—it’s a gateway into our mission. When adults experience the joy of outdoor learning, they become champions for the thousands of students we serve. Every camper helps fund scholarships that get more kids outside to learn and grow.” Hosted Aug. 15-17, just visit the website for availability: https://www.sierranevadajourneys.org/
• National Automobile Museum – Date Night with Classic Cars
Transport yourselves back in time by wandering through 240+ vintage cars at the National Automobile Museum (Harrah Collection). Open daily, with admission around $15, admissions vary by age. Book a private screening in their in-museum theater or enjoy the riverfront patio with cocktails. https://automuseum.org/
AT WESTSIDE DENTAL STUDIO, WE BELIEVE THAT THE TINIEST DETAILS TRULY MAKE THE BIGGEST IMPACT WHEN IT COMES TO CREATING AND MAINTAINING STELLAR SMILES. THAT’S WHY IT’S OUR MISSION TO PLACE EACH PATIENT AT THE CENTER OF THEIR ORAL HEALTH BY LOOKING AFTER EVERY DETAIL. THROUGH TAILORED CARE, CONTINUED EDUCATION, AND INDUSTRYLEADING TECHNOLOGY, WE STRIVE TO BUILD LIFELONG, MEANINGFUL RELATIONSHIPS WITH OUR PATIENT FAMILY.
DOG gone GOOD
Try these simple and healthy homemade treats for your furry friends. Not only are they easy to make, they are nutritious and seemingly delicious.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Peanut Butter Dog Treats
Ingredients:
• 2/3 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter
• 2 eggs
• 2 1/2 cups flour (whole wheat preferred)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix all ingredients except flour and blend well. Gradually add the flour until the dough isn’t sticky. Roll dough into a ball. Lightly flour your surface and lightly knead. Use a rolling pin to roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters and place dough on baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Drizzle with peanut butter (optional).
No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls
Ingredients:
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup milk or half and half
• 3 cups oatmeal
Directions:
In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, peanut butter and milk on medium for 1 minute. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups oatmeal and stir. Use a small scoop or spoon to create 1/4 inch balls. Roll balls into remaining 1/2 cup oats to lightly top. Place into a closed container and refrigerate.
Birthday Cake for Your Pup
Ingredients:
• 1 egg
• 4 tablespoons peanut butter
• 1/2 cup apple, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a ramekin and set aside. Combine all ingredients and mix well. Pour batter into ramekin and sprinkle a few apple slices on top. Bake for 20 minutes.
staying in the clean energy loop
Nevada is becoming the lithium capital of the U.S.
Nevada is quickly becoming a key player in the future of clean energy. Leading the change is the Nevada Tech Hub and its “Lithium Loop,” a statewide system that keeps every part of the electric vehicle (EV) battery process in Nevada. From mining raw materials to building and recycling batteries, the Lithium Loop is about more than just technology. It’s a way to help grow Nevada’s economy, reduce our reliance on foreign supply chains, and invest in our local communities.
The Nevada Tech Hub is one of 31 regional partnerships chosen by the federal government to help the U.S. lead in critical technologies. By bringing together local and state government, schools, businesses, and nonprofits, Nevada is working to turn its natural resources into long-term opportunities.
So, what exactly is the Lithium Loop?
It all starts in the ground. The Silver Peak mine in Esmeralda County is currently the only active lithium mine in the U.S., and future projects at Thacker Pass and Rhyolite Ridge will continue to scale Nevada’s production. Once extracted, lithium is refined
ARTICLE BY LIZA BELKA
by companies like American Battery Technology Company and then sent to manufacturers, such as Dragonfly Energy, to create EV batteries. Eventually, materials from these batteries are reclaimed by recyclers like Redwood Materials, completing the “loop.”
And the benefits of this loop are big for the country, especially for Nevada.
“We’re not only creating high-quality jobs,” says Dick Bartholet, regional innovation officer at the University of Nevada, Reno. “We’re also making sure people have access to the training they need to land them and have career pathways.”
That’s why the Nevada Tech Hub is investing in colleges, workforce groups, and even re-entry programs to develop a talent pipeline ready for this new, “clean energy economy.”
Beyond jobs, the Lithium Loop is designed to strengthen national security by reducing reliance on foreign materials and adding resiliency to critical supply chains. Environmentally, it enables a more full-circle, low-waste approach for producing the batteries that will power everything from cars to gridscale energy storage.
While still in development, the Lithium Loop is already taking shape, with more than 70 consortium partners, $21 million in secured federal funding plus $7.5 million from the state, and representation
across 16 of Nevada’s 17 counties. As new facilities are established in the next few years, the full loop will position Nevada not only as the lithium capital of the U.S., but as a model for regional innovation and inclusive economic growth.
“Nevada Tech Hub is about more than batteries,” Bartholet adds. “It’s about strengthening the communities we call home and making sure the clean energy transition benefits every Nevadan.”
GETTING A BOOST
At-risk youth find more than just a way to graduate with Boosted Diplomas
When it comes to academic success, not all students start on the same foot. For foster youth and other at-risk students in Washoe County, the barriers can be high. Circumstances like frequent school changes, disrupted home environments, and a lack of consistent support often lead to disengagement and, too often, dropping out. Boosted Diplomas is working hard to change that.
Launched in 2019 by education advocate Cooper Richardson, the nonprofit pairs students with long-term tutors and Educational Advocates (EAs) who help them navigate both academic and personal challenges. The program is free for students and provides consistent one-on-one mentorship from the first grade through college.
“We created Boosted Diplomas because we saw the gap,” says Richardson, co-founder and executive director. “There were students who needed academic support, but did not have the resources to access it. This program exists to make sure no student slips through the cracks just because of their circumstances.”
Different from traditional school tutoring programs, Boosted Diplomas follows students wherever they go, regardless of school or life changes. Student Educational Advocates attend team meetings, court hearings, and work directly with schools to ensure students receive the support they need. For some students, the difference has been life changing.
“I used to skip school and run away because I hated it,” shares one student. “But Boosted Diplomas gave me someone who believed in me. Now
ARTICLE BY LIZA BELKA PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIC MARKS
I’ve earned my HiSET diploma and I’m planning to start a business. I feel like I have a future.”
“Boosted Diplomas helped me so much, I even received a car to help me go towards my dreams,” another student shares. “The diploma is a huge step towards my dreams. I want to become a barber and cut hair. Eventually, I want to start my own business. I know for sure if it wasn’t for Boosted Diplomas, I wouldn’t be here.”
When asked if there’s a specific person or moment in the program that stood out, one student says, “Gary Pregal has helped me with everything. From getting a ride to school, to setting up classes, to keeping me on track. He spent a lot of time trying to put things together for me. He has helped me so much.”
And these kinds of transformations are not unusual, according to Boosted Diplomas Education Advocate Kelly Jesch. “What sets this program apart is our ability to build trust and help students envision success … even when they’ve never seen it before.”
With a 91% graduation rate among active seniors last year and a growing community of volunteers and supporters, Boosted Diplomas is more than a service; it’s hope.
“We don’t just want kids to pass classes,” says Richardson. “We want them to believe in what’s possible and know they don’t have to do it alone.”
realty report
The vision for this expansive residence was inspired by the unique character of the Nevada highlands, allowing the character of native landscape to inform the design. Spaces are thoughtfully orchestrated, allowing the home to live inside/out, with a harmonious connection to nature and grand vistas beyond.
Glenhaven is Reno’s most exciting luxury community. A private enclave of just 24 expansive homesites with privacy and views, all just moments away from city life. Please be in touch to schedule your private tour to explore our homesites, Buy & Build packages, and completed homes coming Summer 2025. ONE OF A KIND. ONE OF 24.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
VARIOUS DATES THROUGHOUT AUGUST
Xanadu the Musical
Reno Little Theater
This roller disco classic comes to life on the Reno Little Theater stage. Don’t miss the show before it ends!
THROUGH AUGUST 10TH
Classical Tahoe
University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe
Come together and enjoy classic music underneath the stars in Lake Tahoe. Performance dates run through Aug.10.
AUGUST 1ST - 10TH
Hot August Nights
Various locations
The largest nostalgic car show in America returns to Reno for its 39th season. This year’s event will see cars from numerous categories stretched across several sites within The Biggest Little City.
AUGUST 2ND - 10TH
Friends of Washoe County Library Book Sale
Reno Town Mall | 10:00 AM
For nine days book lovers can load up their TBR piles at a discount all while supporting a good cause!
AUGUST 2ND
Beatles Tribute Mania
National Automobile Museum | 5:00 PM
Come for the music, stay for the rest! Fans of all ages will enjoy food trucks, fun games, and exciting raffles.
AUGUST 2ND
Dancing on the River
Reno City Plaza | 5:00 PM
Dancers of all skill levels are invited to head to the river and dance the Cumbia and Bachata. Lessons will be provided from 5-6 p.m.
AUGUST 3RD
Reno Phil presents Revolution: The Music of the Beatles
Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts | 4:00 PM
It's the ultimate fest for fans of The Beatles. Listen along as the Reno Philharmonic and talented vocallists revisit some of the London-based bands biggest hits accompanied by video, animation, and hundreds of rare and unseen photos.
AUGUST 16TH
8th Annual Northern Nevada International DragonBoat Festival
Sparks Marina Park Lake | 9:00 AM
The Sparks Marina will play host to this cultural experience and 2,500-year-old tradition. Watch dragon boats race across the marina and enjoy an outdoor festival at the same time.
AUGUST 23RD
Urology Nevada Cancer Foundation’s 5K
Get ready to run for a cause! The Urology Nevada Cancer Foundation is raising awareness for prostate cancer with a 5K event that aims to support early detection efforts and provide resources to those affected by the disease.
