KIDS & PETS
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Paw prints and fingerprints on hearts forever.
Some of the greatest loves of my life have had four legs, fur, feathers … and even scales.
This month, we’re celebrating the ones who steal our hearts without saying a word—our beloved pets—and the joy, learning, and laughter that comes from watching the world through a child’s eyes. Whether you’re raising tiny humans or doting on your bearded dragon like royalty, there’s something incredibly special about the love we give and receive from the ones who count on us.
Just last week, I had one of those quiet moments that reminded me how deeply connected we are to our animals. It was early morning, and I was washing dishes from the night before, feeling kind of “blah.” My cats were lounging in my bedroom, and I found myself whispering a prayer: “God, please show me that I’m on the right path … that everything is as it should be.”
Seconds later—no exaggeration—both of my cats walked into the kitchen. I picked up a string and began playing with them, and in that moment, I became fully present. Their playfulness lifted my mood instantly. It was such a pure, unexpected joy—and to me, it felt like an answer. A sign. I truly believe animals are angels on earth, sent to guide, comfort, and remind us to live in the now.
In this issue, we’re honoring the families, the pets, the local businesses, and the everyday magic that happens when love leads. Whether your home is filled with wagging tails, galloping hooves, curious little hands, or the occasional lizard basking in a sunbeam—this one’s for you.
Here’s to pet hair on our clothes, finger-painted walls, muddy pawprints, and the kind of love that transforms us.
With all my heart,
CAMILLA DORAND, PUBLISHER @SOUTHVEGASCITYLIFESTYLE
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Camilla Dorand | camilla.dorand@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Paige Candee | paige.candee@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Camilla Dorand, Vivian Greggory, Sienna Sinclair, Paige Candee, Andres Molina
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Camilla Dorand
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
1: Opportunity Village’s “A Runway Affair.” 2: Guests enjoyed a J. Mendel runway show at the non-profit’s signature luncheon fundraiser. 3: Every moment helped raise funds to empower people with disabilities. 4: Friends, fashion, and philanthropy made the afternoon unforgettable. 5: Diana Bennett and Sallie Doebler supported the cause. 6: The event was held at the Las Vegas Aces Headquarters. 7: Annemarie Jones and Stacy Ostrau helped raise funds to empower people with disabilities.
Photography by Opportunity Village
8: Guests gathered at Inspired Closets for an uplifting evening supporting CARE Complex’s mission in Southern Nevada. 9: The Inspired Closets showroom provided the perfect backdrop for a night of purpose and community. 10: Attendees heard stories of hope and resilience, celebrating CARE’s work to empower those overcoming homelessness. 11: Local philanthropists and community leaders connected over curated bites and inspiring conversations. 12: The evening united supporters dedicated to positive change. 13: CARE stands for Critical Assistance Relief Efforts.
Designed by KIM WICKLUND
Ace Law Group Honored as Pro Bono Firm of the Month
Ace Law Group continues to set the standard for community service, having been named April’s Pro Bono Firm of the Month by the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada. The prestigious award was presented at their office, followed by recognition at the All Judges Meeting. This honor highlights Ace Law Group’s commitment to providing vital legal assistance and underscores the crucial role of pro bono work in strengthening Southern Nevada’s justice system. acelawgroup.com
Foster Joy: Volunteer With The Animal Foundation in Las Vegas
The Animal Foundation’s Foster Program is one of Las Vegas’ most fun and rewarding ways to volunteer. With four flexible foster opportunities, any one can help pets needing extra love— whether for an afternoon or a few weeks. Every foster experience plays a vital role in saving homeless animals. Training and supplies are provided, making it easy for families and individuals to make a life saving difference on their own schedule. animalfoundation.com
Pet Brand Pawsper Highlights Functional Fashion and Animal Advocacy
BRAND-NEW, SINGLE-STORY
BUILDINGS FOR SALE
Pawsper, a pet accessory company, introduced its reversible pet scarves designed with both style and practicality in mind. The scarves, which feature a patented hidden pocket for essentials, reflected the brand’s commitment to innovation for pet owners. In addition to its product launch, Pawsper donated “Adopt Me” scarves to animal shelters, aiming to help pets find permanent homes and raise awareness about animal adoption in the community. pawsper.co
Photography by Samantha Skyler
Because
Photography by Marie Paule Combiescou
Local Experts Emphasize Home Safety for Families and Pets
Sierra Air Conditioning & Plumbing recently highlighted the importance of maintaining healthy air and water quality in Nevada homes, noting the impact on children and pets. The company advised families to change AC filters monthly, schedule HVAC maintenance twice a year, and conduct annual plumbing checks with a free water test. Sierra also recommended setting thermostats between 74–79°F rather than turning systems off, aiming to prevent breakdowns and ensure consistent comfort for all household members. sierracoolslv.com
Photography by Michele Sylvester
Children’s Advocacy Alliance Welcomes New Executive Director
The Children’s Advocacy Alliance appointed Elisa Cafferata as its new executive director, selecting her for her extensive leadership experience in Nevada’s nonprofit and public sectors. Cafferata brought a track record of policy expertise and a collaborative approach to the organization. Board leaders cited her alignment with the Alliance’s mission and her ability to guide efforts in early childhood education, children’s health, and welfare as key factors in her selection. caanv.org
Photography by Mills College Office of Alumnae Relations
JUSTICE Prevails
RECENT AWARDS RECOVERED FOR INJURY CLIENTS
• $38.8 Million Dollar Jury Verdict
• $7.2 Million Dollar Award
• $2.1 Million Dollar Award
• $2.0 Million Dollar Settlement
• $2.0 Million Dollar Judgement
• $1.9 Million Dollar Settlement
BUILDING CONFIDENCE TOGETHER
For many kids and tweens, the journey to self-confidence is paved with challenges—none more visible than the state of their skin. Whether it’s the first pimple before a big presentation or persistent redness that draws unwanted attention, skin issues can feel like a spotlight on insecurities. The emotional impact goes far beyond the mirror: teasing, bullying, and social anxiety are all too common, leaving kids feeling isolated when belonging matters the most. In this context, clear skin becomes more than just a cosmetic goal; it’s a foundation for self-esteem and resilience.
Yet, the path to clearer skin is rarely a solo journey. Behind every confident smile is a network of support—especially from parents, who play a crucial role in helping their children navigate both the physical and emotional hurdles of skin conditions. Clinics like Acne Clinic Las Vegas by Justina (acneclinic.co) offer not just expert treatment, but a holistic approach that brings families together in the fight for confidence and well-being.
A TEAM EFFORT: CLINIC, PARENT, AND CHILD
Justina Sy, founder and Expert Corrective Skincare Specialist at Acne Clinic Las Vegas, knows firsthand how deeply skin disorders
Photo credit: Tori Prieto
can affect young people. “Suffering from skin disorders can be really tough and often takes a toll on a person’s self-esteem,” Justina shares. Her approach is rooted in reassurance, patience, and teamwork. “When treating our clients, we make sure to reassure them that they are making progress and that the effort will be worth it in the end.”
Progress can sometimes be hard to see, especially for kids eager for quick results. To keep spirits high, Justina’s clinic takes progress photos so both children and their parents can see real improvements. But the clinic’s support doesn’t end at the office door. “As professionals, we provide the best recommendations based on the skin condition, but it’s up to the parents to support lifestyle changes. This includes things like adjusting diet, cleaning sports gear daily, and reminding, or helping, their child with skincare routines.”
EMPOWERING KIDS, SUPPORTING PARENTS
Clinic visits and procedures can be daunting for children, but Justina stresses the power of positive reinforcement. “Parents should always remind their kids that they look good and are doing great, especially during visits or procedures that might feel uncomfortable.” She encourages parents to foster a calm, supportive environment and to reach out to the clinic with concerns, rather than letting anxiety trickle down to their children.
For parents juggling treatment, school, and social life, Justina offers practical advice: “Take it one step at a time and focus on building a consistent routine that fits your family’s lifestyle. Prioritize small, manageable habits rather than trying to do everything perfectly at once. Communication is key, keep an open dialogue with your child about how they’re feeling.”
“CLEAR SKIN IS MORE THAN A COSMETIC GOAL— IT’S A FOUNDATION FOR SELF-ESTEEM, RESILIENCE, AND BELONGING, BUILT
THROUGH TEAMWORK BETWEEN KIDS, PARENTS, AND EXPERT SUPPORT.”
PERSONALIZED CARE FOR EVERY YOUTH
Every youth’s journey is unique, and Justina’s team tailors their approach to each individual. “We always start by getting to know each child or teenager as an individual, understanding their age, personality, and how they feel about their skin,” she says. Younger children may need extra reassurance, while teens often appreciate being involved in decisions.
Throughout the process, the clinic ensures that both kids and parents feel heard, supported, and empowered—transforming what can be a source of distress into an opportunity for growth and confidence. With patience, teamwork, and expert guidance, clearer skin becomes a steppingstone to something far more important: a confident, resilient child ready to face the world.
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Whether you’re recovering from burnout, elevating your performance, or committed to aging optimally, our personalized protocol helps restore what time and stress deplete.
Your journey begins with an intensive optimization month, followed by seamless monthly maintenance—because your body deserves to operate at its highest potential every day.
KIDS AND PETS WELCOME FOR A LIFESTYLE ORIENTED LOCAL-STYLE BEACH ESCAPE
ARTICLE BY PAIGE CANDEE
When the Vegas sun starts sizzling, sometimes the only cure is a salty breeze, sandy toes, and a place where your kids and pets are not just tolerated—they’re treated like VIPs. Enter The Seabird Resort (theseabirdresort.com), Oceanside’s sparkling answer to the family-friendly beach getaway, and just a short drive or flight from the desert. This isn’t your average
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE SEABIRD RESORT
hotel—it’s the largest beachfront resort to open in San Diego County in half a century, and it’s designed for families, fur babies, and anyone who dreams of swapping neon lights for ocean nights, at least for a weekend.
From the moment you step into The Seabird, you’re greeted by a living room that feels like it belongs to your coolest, most stylish friend. Local artwork, curated by the Oceanside Museum of Art, fills every corner—don’t miss the hand-woven, thrifted T-shirt installation, a nod to the resort’s passion for ocean conservation and environmentalism. The vibe is relaxed and homelike
with a touch of coastal chic, and the staff are genuinely delighted to see your kids—and your dog—walk through the door. At check-in, little guests get to pick a special toy from a wagon, and pups are greeted with tail wags and treats.
Rooms at The Seabird are designed for families, couples, or individuals, and even your furry friend. The ocean views from the balconies make you feel like you’ve moved right into a postcard. The delight continues off the front steps. Just a quick stroll across the street lands you on a wide, sandy beach. The resort’s Beach Rambler trailer is your headquarters for all things sun and surf:
“WHERE SANDY PAWS AND HAPPY KIDS PROVE ANYONE CAN BE A SEABIRD.”
complimentary boogie boards, chairs, umbrellas, and snacks, so you can pack light and play hard.
Kids will find their tribe at The Seabird’s “Little Seabirds” program, which offers daily crafts like sand art, rock painting, and seashell decorating—plus the occasional bubble party or movie night with popcorn. The pool deck, with its ocean views and heated water, is a favorite for families, and the poolside food and beverage service means you never have to leave your cabana or lounge chair for lunch.
Picky eaters and foodies alike are covered at Piper, the resort’s signature
restaurant serving California’s coastal cuisine, features garden-fresh produce, handmade pastas, locally sourced seafood, and more.
As the sky turns gold and the ocean breeze cools, evenings at The Seabird bring a sweet tradition: s’mores kits are available, so families can gather around fire pits to toast marshmallows and swap stories under the stars.
And don’t worry, parents, there’s plenty for you, too. The Shore Room is the go-to spot for sunset cocktails with a panoramic view of the Pacific, and the spa offers everything from massages to sound baths for a little grown-up indulgence.
Outside The Seabird is walkable downtown Oceanside offering a laid-back, family- and pet-friendly coastal vibe with surf shops, quirky boutiques, local art galleries, and plenty of spots to grab ice cream or relax at a sidewalk café.
If you’re craving a date night or a little grown-up adventure, just head across the street to The Seabird’s sister property, Mission Pacific Hotel. This adult-oriented retreat offers elevated retail, a rooftop pool and bar, and a sophisticated atmosphere that’s earned it the number one spot among resorts in the continental US in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards for 2024. Separating the two hotels is the iconic “Top Gun” house, now a pastel-blue landmark where you can snap a photo on a Maverick-style motorcycle—because why not make your own movie moment?
With surf lessons, local shops and restaurants within walking distance, and a staff that genuinely appreciates your visit, The Seabird Resort is the kind of place that makes you feel like you belong. So next time the Vegas heat has you dreaming of ocean breezes, remember anyone—kids, pets, parents, couples, friends alike—can be a Seabird.
Cat Café Magic
INSIDE THE HEARTS ALIVE VILLAGE SANCTUARY WHERE CUDDLES, COFFEE, AND SECOND CHANCES FILL THE AIR
BY
BY
There’s something magical about walking into the Cat Café at Hearts Alive Village on Rainbow. The energy shifts: it’s soft, calm, and quietly joyful—a sanctuary not just for cats, but for people, too.
ARTICLE
CAMILLA DORAND PHOTOGRAPHY
CAMILLA DORAND AND CAT CAFÉ
Opened in 2022, this space was created as a haven for rescue cats in transition and has since become a heart-centered destination for anyone in need of comfort, connection, or just a little reprieve from the world. You step inside, and you’re greeted by cats—some curious, some aloof, most content to just lounge by the window, stretch out on a tower, or curl up in a nook with pure, unapologetic cattitude
There’s an entire process happening behind the scenes. Cats rescued from the streets or shelters are first brought into an acclimation room, where they adjust to safety, warmth, and quiet. Once they build confidence, they move to the free-roaming room—learning how to socialize with other cats. Only when they’re truly ready do they join the café, where they can interact with people, receive love, and offer it freely.
While I was there, interviewing Christy Stevens, the executive director and heartbeat of Hearts Alive Village, a sweet, skinny cat jumped on my lap and made herself at home. She had clearly known neglect, yet she purred with trust, curled into me, and stayed. That moment said it all—this place is healing.
The café itself is donation-based: $15 unlocks your visit, with complimentary coffee, tea, snacks, and of course, all the cat cuddles your soul can handle. Families come in, kids giggle on the floor, couples sip tea while scratching ears and noses. It’s a place where love lives in the quietest gestures.
When she was just 10, Christy’s daughter dreamed of this. In her fifth-grade journal, she imagined a rescue and sanctuary—and that dream became Hearts Alive Village. Today, it’s more than just real, it’s thriving.
In a world that can be loud and overwhelming, the Cat Café offers something rare: a moment of peace, a purring reminder to slow down, and the comforting truth that healing doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, all it takes is a cat in your lap.
BUILDING BRIGHT SMILES and big confidence
The kid-friendly approach at Truman Orthodontics-Henderson
ARTICLE BY SIENNA SINCLAIR
The journey to a perfect smile is a confidence-boosting adventure at Truman Orthodontics-Henderson. (trumanortho.com). Led by Dr. Zach Truman, this family-friendly office is redefining what it means for kids to get braces—making the process not only stress-free, but also genuinely fun and empowering.
A WELCOMING SPACE DESIGNED FOR KIDS
As soon as families enter the Henderson office, they’re welcomed by an environment that feels more like a fun play zone than a typical orthodontic clinic. “We’ve created an experience that helps kids feel comfortable from the moment they walk through our doors,” says Dr. Truman. The office features a lively arcade area, braces-friendly snacks, and a coffee bar that has become famous among patients for its hot chocolate. Before their first visit, new families receive a short, upbeat video tour, ensuring that everything feels familiar and exciting.
PERSONALIZED CARE AND EARLY INTERVENTION
Truman Orthodontics-Henderson believes every child’s smile is unique and deserves individualized attention. Consultations are always complimentary, and the team often gets patients started with braces on the very same day. “At Truman OrthodonticsHenderson, we believe that great orthodontic care should be personal, approachable, and fun,” Dr. Truman explains. The practice emphasizes the importance of early orthodontic evaluation, helping parents understand that proactive care can set their children up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
MAKING ORAL HYGIENE FUN AND REWARDING
Good oral hygiene is a cornerstone of the Truman OrthodonticsHenderson experience, and the team goes the extra mile to make it engaging for kids. “Good oral hygiene is a big deal to us—and we like to make it fun, too!” Dr. Truman shares. Every year, the marketing team visits local schools to teach children ages 5 to 7 about brushing and dental care. When patients begin treatment, they receive hands-on brushing demonstrations and a fun, easy-to-follow video (featuring a local celebrity) to guide them at home.
To keep motivation high, Truman Orthodontics Henderson offers the Patient Rewards HUB—a VIP rewards system where kids earn points for good brushing, punctuality, and following instructions. These points can be redeemed for gift cards to their favorite stores, turning daily orthodontic care into an interactive and rewarding game.
“This is orthodontics made simple and enjoyable.”
BRACES AS A FORM OF SELF-EXPRESSION
One of the highlights for young patients is the ability to customize their braces. Kids can choose from a rainbow of colors, making their orthodontic gear a form of self-expression. This simple choice transforms appointments into something to look forward to and helps children feel proud of their progress.
CELEBRATING MILESTONES AND BUILDING CONFIDENCE
Every visit to Truman Orthodontics Henderson is treated as a milestone.
The staff celebrates each individual’s progress, helping them see their orthodontic journey as an accomplishment. “The change wasn’t just cosmetic—her whole smile lit up from the inside out,” Dr. Truman recalls about a young patient whose confidence blossomed after treatment corrected a stubbornly rotated tooth. Such stories are common at Truman Orthodontics, where the focus is on building self-esteem as much as straightening teeth.
HOW PARENTS CAN SUPPORT THE JOURNEY
Parents play a crucial role in their child’s orthodontic adventure. Dr. Truman advises, “One of the best ways parents can support their child’s treatment is by bringing them to all their appointments—and enjoying the coffee bar while you’re here doesn’t hurt either!” He also emphasizes the importance of regular six-month cleanings with the family dentist to ensure optimal oral health throughout treatment.
A FAMILY LEGACY OF SMILES
While the Henderson office is Dr. Zach Truman’s home base, his brother, Dr. Mark Truman, leads the Summerlin location, ensuring that families across the valley have access to the same high standard of care and fun, kid-focused approach.
At Truman Orthodontics-Henderson, braces are more than just a treatment—they’re a journey filled with encouragement, celebration, and plenty of smiles. As Dr. Zach Truman puts it, “This is orthodontics made simple and enjoyable.”
Journey To Clearer, Brighter Skin
Where
FROM LIVING ROOM
TO LIFELINE
How Baby’s Bounty changed the start for Vegas’ littlest residents
ARTICLE BY SIENNA SINCLAIR | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BABY’S BOUNTY
In 2008, Kim Amato saw a problem that was both urgent and invisible: too many newborns in Las Vegas were leaving the hospital without the basic supplies needed for a safe, healthy start. Driven by empathy and a determination to help, Kim began gathering essential baby items in her own living room, assembling “Baby Bundles” for families who had nowhere else to turn. From these humble beginnings, Baby’s Bounty ( babysbounty.org) was born—a grassroots effort that has grown into a vital safety net for Nevada’s most vulnerable infants and their families.
Kim’s vision was simple but profound: every baby deserves a safe start, regardless of their family’s circumstances. Early on, she worked closely with hospital staff and caseworkers who confirmed the need was real and widespread. Many families, including
victims of domestic violence, teen mothers, and those experiencing homelessness, were being discharged with little more than the clothes on their backs. “I’m not a social worker,” Kim once said. “I’m just a girl with a dream.”
Over the past 16 years, Baby’s Bounty has transformed from a living room operation into a statewide organization with
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a 9,000-square-foot headquarters and a reach that extends across Nevada. The nonprofit now runs three core programs: Baby Bundles, monthly diaper banks, and Diapers for Diplomas, which supports parenting students in higher education. The impact is staggering—over 10,000 Baby Bundles distributed, more than 5 million diapers and 10 million wipes provided to over 45,000 Nevada children, and crucial support for hundreds of parenting college students.
Each Baby Bundle is, as CEO Kelly Maxwell describes, “a baby shower in a bag for clients living in poverty.” The bundle includes a portable crib, an infant regulation car seat, clothing, blankets, toiletries, and feeding supplies—everything needed to care for a newborn for the first six months of life. These items are not just comforting; they are life-saving, reducing the risk of infant injury and death by ensuring safe sleep and travel.
The need for Baby’s Bounty’s services has only grown. Diaper need—families unable to afford enough diapers to keep their children clean and healthy—remains a critical issue, affecting more than half of Nevada families with young children. As Kelly puts it, “No family should have to make the choice between paying for diapers or paying for other crucial household needs.”
Behind the scenes, a small staff and a dedicated army of volunteers keep the
organization running. “Volunteers are the backbone of our success. They sort, package, and distribute diapers and supplies to families, and provide hands-on assistance at events,” says Kelly. Community involvement is not just welcomed—it’s essential to meeting the ever-increasing demand.
Baby’s Bounty’s journey from a single mother’s living room to a statewide lifeline is a testament to the power of empathy, action, and community. By bridging the gap for families in crisis, the organization continues to honor its founding vision: ensuring that every baby in Nevada gets the safe, healthy start they deserve.
events
AUGUST 1ST – 3RD
Monster Jam Freestyle Mania
Thomas & Mack Center | 7:00 PM
For the first time ever, Monster Jam® trucks team up with Freestyle Motocross (FMX) bikes to deliver gravity-defying skills and thrills at Thomas & Mack Center August 1-3, 2025. Tickets are on sale now at UNLVtickets.com.
AUGUST 6TH
Teddy and Me!
Windmill Library | 4:30 PM
Children from grades Kindergarten to 5th are invited to bring their teddy bear to the library to hear a story and do a fun bear craft. For more information, call 702-507-6030.
AUGUST 16TH
Sips & Sounds Summer Series
Opportunity Village | 10:00 AM
Sips & Sounds Summer Series closes out with Tiki cocktail tastings from Silver Reef Brewing Co. and food pairings from Via Brasil and Loaded Empanadas before listening to surfer sounds. All of the beverage tastings will take place inside the Magical Forest, and the concerts will be held indoors at Camelot Hall. Ticketing information is available at ovevents.org
AUGUST 22ND
Shakespeare’s The Comedy of Errors presented by Nevada Shakespeare Festival
Windmill Library | 4:30 PM
Join Nevada Shakespeare Festival for this adaptation that involves a variety of interactive and inventive theatrical storytelling elements with actors playing multiple parts, many quick changes, puppets, masks, and dance. This 75-minute adaptation promises to be a wildly fun retelling of a Shakespearean classic. For more information, call 702-507-6068.
AUGUST 23RD
Dive-In Movie Nights: Shrek
M Resort Spa Casino | 7:00 PM
Summer fun is back at M Resort Spa Casino with the return of its highly anticipated Dive-In Movie Nights. From animated classics and musical favorites to laugh-out-loud comedies, the Dive-In Movie lineup offers splash-worthy entertainment for everyone. For additional event details and a list of prohibited items, visit themresort.com/entertainment.
AUGUST 29TH
The Wallflowers
M Resort Spa Casino | 7:00 PM
The Wallflowers will take the stage at M Resort Spa Casino inside the M Pavilion on Friday, August 29, delivering an unforgettable night of classic hits and fan favorites. Tickets are available at themresort.com or ticketmaster.com
