
Holidays & Giving


Holidays & Giving
The holiday season is a time for family, giving, and joy. Here at South Vegas City Lifestyle, we’re excited to celebrate with you through our Holiday & Giving issue, where we highlight what makes this time of year so meaningful.
Family is at the heart of the holidays. Whether you’re sharing a meal, decorating the tree, or just spending time with loved ones, these moments create memories that last a lifetime. Here in Las Vegas, our neighborhoods light up with festive decorations, and families come together in ways that remind us of what’s truly important. It’s these special gatherings and traditions that make the holiday season so warm and inviting.
But the holidays are also about giving back to those in need. For many in our community, this time of year can be difficult. That’s why it’s so important to lend a hand, whether by donating to a local food bank, volunteering, or supporting a neighbor. In this issue, we shine a spotlight on the people and organizations making a real difference in Las Vegas. We hope their stories will inspire you to find ways to give back and help those who could use a little extra care this season.
You will also find holiday inspiration, from festive activities to end of year giving. We’re proud to share stories of kindness and generosity, along with ideas to make your holidays bright and joyful.
As we wrap up the year, let’s take time to appreciate what matters most—our families, our community, and the opportunity to give back. Thank you for being part of the South Vegas City Lifestyle family. We wish you all a happy, healthy, and heartwarming holiday season!
Warmly,
JEFFRY, PUBLISHER
Photo credit: Adam Trujillo
PUBLISHER
Chad Jeffry | Chad.Jeffry@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Paige Candee | paige.candee@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Heather Turk, Alisia Pulella, Eve Bushman, Paige Candee, Alexander Fraser, Mindy Wester
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Virginia Trudeau, Mindy Wester, Darius Johnson, Jessica Vargas, Brandi Thompson, Melissa Hom, Tom Donoghue, Erik Kabik
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
1: The Tyler Robinson Foundation's (TRF) 10th Annual Rise Up Gala at Wynn Las Vegas. 2: Dan Reynolds and Minka Kelly fund the need for pediatric cancer families. 3: Aisha Tyler claims her co-host spot back from the Impractical Jokers. 4: The Woodward family are all smiles at the fundraiser. 5: Imagine Dragons plays “It’s Time” remembering Tyler Robinson and other pediatric cancer children. 6: Wayne Sermon’s guitar goes to a lucky young fan. 7: TRF staff Michelle Gonzaga, Ana Estrada, and Azalea Sanchez.
Photography courtesy of The Tyler Robinson Foundation
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Frey Ranch Distillery, established in 2006 by Colby and Ashley Frey on their 2,000-acre farm in Fallon, Nev., is celebrating its 10-year anniversary of whiskey distilling. With a rich farming heritage spanning 170 years, the distillery uniquely grows 100 percent of its whiskey grains on-site. To mark this significant occasion, Frey Ranch will introduce an anniversary-edition specialty whiskey this winter as part of its new “Harvester Series,” with only 500 bottles available nationwide.
Communities In Schools of Nevada (CIS of Nevada), part of the nation’s leading evidence-based, stay-inschool organization, marked its 20th anniversary with a press conference at Reynaldo Martinez Elementary School, its inaugural site. CEO Tami Hance-Lehr highlighted the organization's history and impact, serving 118 Title I schools and more than 100,000 students statewide. With a network of 120-plus partners, Communities In Schools provides essential support, achieving a 95 percent graduation rate for case-managed students in 2022-2023.
Hope For The City will hold its “Hope For Kids” event this month, a drive-thru holiday lights experience for underprivileged families in the valley. Families can pre-register to receive warm clothes, toys, a holiday meal, and hygiene kits. As the holiday season approaches, the nonprofit is seeking community support through donations to ensure no child is left behind. The community is encouraged to spread joy and hope this season by contributing to this impactful initiative. hopeforthecity.org
Photography by Brian Friedman
ARTICLE BY ALISIA PULELLA | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ACE LAW GROUP
Ace Law Group spreads holiday cheer through its Toys for Tickets initiative
For more than six years, Ace Law Group has demonstrated its commitment to the Las Vegas community through charitable initiatives like the Toys for Tickets Toy Drive each November. This unique program allows individuals with motor vehicle tickets to donate toys in exchange for Ace’s traffic citation help. Each year, Ace Law Group collects about 50 bicycles and 200 toys, all of which are donated to HELP of Southern Nevada, an organization dedicated to assisting vulnerable populations in the region.
HELP of Southern Nevada was chosen as the toy drive’s beneficiary because their mission aligns closely with Ace Law Group's values. Supporting this program allows the firm to contribute directly to improving the lives of those in need, reinforcing their dedication to making a positive impact in Southern Nevada.
The most rewarding aspect of the Toys for Tickets event is witnessing the joy and support it brings to the community. For Ace Law Group’s partners and staff, the experience is deeply fulfilling, knowing that their efforts are helping children who might otherwise go without gifts during the holiday season. This initiative not only strengthens their connection to the families they serve, but also unites the team with a shared purpose, making the hard work worthwhile.
To promote safe driving, Ace Law Group shares these tips:
1. Stay alert and avoid distractions: Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents. Whether it is texting, adjusting the radio, or chatting with passengers, taking your attention off the road for even a moment can have serious consequences. If you need to use your phone or GPS, pull over safely first. A split second of distraction can lead to lifelong regrets.
2. Stay within speed limits and drive for the conditions: Speeding can turn minor accidents into major ones, especially in poor weather or heavy traffic. Adjust your speed to match the road conditions—whether wet, icy, or crowded—to reduce the risk of serious injuries or fatalities.
Ace Law Group's Toys for Tickets initiative exemplifies the power of community involvement, spreading joy to children in need while reinforcing the importance of safe driving, creating a brighter, safer holiday season for all.
The weather outside might not be frightful, but that doesn’t mean the holiday season isn’t in full swing throughout Southern Nevada.
The Las Vegas Valley has truly been giving The Big Apple a run for its money in recent years as the merriest place to be outside of the North Pole during the holiday season. It doesn’t matter if you’re in Summerlin, Henderson, or South Vegas, or visiting the Strip, holiday cheer can be found around every corner thanks to several seasonal events and attractions that are sure to get even the biggest grinch in the holiday spirit.
Looking for holiday lights? Southern Nevada has plenty of them, including 80,000 square feet of breathtaking light sculptures at Enchant Christmas and more than 1 million lights at World of Illumination. Still need to check off some names on your holiday gift-giving list? Holiday shoppers can support local artisans at several seasonal events in town, including LV Craft Shows’ Nutcracker Night Market, which features a variety of vendors selling unique gifts and delicious treats. Since it’s always better to give than receive, revelers can even celebrate the holiday season while supporting a worthwhile cause at The Magical Forest at Opportunity Village, as proceeds from the annual fundraiser have benefitted those with disabilities in the valley since 1992.
ARTICLE BY HEATHER TURK
“A Very Vegas Christmas” It doesn’t matter if you're in Summerlin, Henderson, or South Vegas, or visiting the Strip, holiday cheer can be found around every corner thanks to several seasonal events and attractions.
Enjoy beloved holiday tunes like “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” and “Christmas Time is Here” when the Las Vegas Philharmonic presents “A Very Vegas Christmas” at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts on December 7. The holiday concert will include performances from a variety of talented guest singers as well as a heartwarming cameo by 12 legendary Las Vegas showgirls.
http://www.thesmithcenter.com/ tickets/las-vegas-philharmonic
Tivoli Village “The Nutcracker” Enchant Christmas
Celebrate the holiday season at Tivoli Village this December with complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides throughout the retail center Thursday through Saturday, December 5 through 21. For those visiting on December 5, 12, and 19, guests can also do some holiday shopping at LV Craft Shows’ Nutcracker Night Market. The free event features unique gifts for sale, plus live entertainment, and dazzling lights.
http://www.tivolivillagelv.com
A cherished holiday tradition in Las Vegas since 1981, Nevada Ballet Theatre’s production of “The Nutcracker” dances into The Smith Center on select dates December 14 through 27. Audiences can join Clara and her prince as they travel to a land of toy soldiers, mischievous rodents, and visitors from faraway lands while listening to a full orchestra perform the score during select performances.
https://nevadaballet.org/ performances/the-nutcracker/
Enchant Christmas will continue to illuminate the Las Vegas Ballpark through December 29. Guests can step inside the original story “Reindeer Games” to search for bell-shaped light sculptures hidden throughout the World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze, shop for unique wares from local artisans, go ice skating, visit with Santa, and more during the event, which has been a Summerlin favorite since 2021.
www.enchantchristmas.com
Through December 29, families venture to the M Resort in Henderson to experience the world’s largest animated drivethru audio-visual experience: World of Illumination. The theme for this year’s milelong course is “Candy Rush,” featuring hundreds of light displays synched to holiday music—including a gingerbread village and sweets as far as the eye can see.
www.worldofillumination.com
Make merry memories this holiday season while supporting Southern Nevadans with disabilities at The Magical Forest at Opportunity Village. Running select evenings through December 31, the fundraiser invites guests to stroll through a colorfully lit forest, play carnival games, take photos with Santa and enjoy a variety of other activities, including rides on the Forest Express Passenger Train.
Get into the holiday spirit by drinking some holiday spirits at the fifth annual Miracle on Spring Mountain. The immersive experience transforms The Sand Dollar Lounge on Spring Mountain Road into a Christmas-themed bar through December 31, with seasonal cocktails, nightly entertainment, pizza pop-ups with celebrated local chefs and kitschy décor that would put the Griswolds’ holiday decorations to shame.
www.miracleonspringmountain.com www.magicalforest.org
A holiday staple since 1994, Sam’s Town’s Mystic Falls Park winter wonderland display will bring Christmas cheer to guests through January 1, 2025. The free attraction not only features wintry décor, including an 18-foot Christmas tree decorated with thousands of twinkling lights, but also a nine-minute laser light show set to holiday songs that runs hourly from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
www.samstownlv.com
Of course, Las Vegas wouldn’t be the Entertainment Capital of the World without some festive holiday productions, and The Smith Center for the Performing Arts is hosting several holiday shows this December. A few of Las Vegas’ biggest headliners are also getting into the holiday spirit, with special holiday shows like Barry Manilow’s “A Very Barry Christmas” at Westgate Las Vegas December 5 through 7 and 12 through 14, and Terry Fator’s “A Very Terry Christmas” running December 1 through 3, 5 through 7, 11 through 16 and 19 through 24 inside The STRAT.
With so many festive events and attractions to choose from, what the Las Vegas Valley lacks in snow it definitely makes up for in holiday cheer.
ANDRE CARTER Financial Advisor | Town & Country Bank
ARTICLE BY ALEXANDER FRASER
As the year draws to a close, many individuals are looking to make charitable contributions while also considering their financial future. Andre Carter, a financial advisor at Town & Country Bank, offers expert advice on how to navigate end-of-year giving and financial planning for 2025.
"With the end of 2024 approaching, charitable giving can be an excellent way to not only support causes close to your heart, but also maximize your tax benefits, especially with recent changes in tax laws," Andre explains. He recommends strategies such as bunching donations and donating appreciated assets to maximize tax advantages.
For those over 70½, Andre suggests utilizing Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from IRAs. "You can donate up to $100,000 directly from your IRA to a qualified charity, which counts towards your required minimum distribution (RMD) and reduces your taxable income," he notes.
Balancing holiday generosity with long-term financial stability is a common concern. Andre advises, "Start with a budget specifically for holiday spending. Determine how much you can comfortably afford to spend after considering your essential living expenses and savings goals."
Looking ahead to 2025, Andre emphasizes the importance of reviewing and updating financial goals.
"Begin by assessing any significant changes in your life over the past year—this could include a job change, new family members, or even shifts in your financial priorities," he suggests. He also recommends considering economic indicators such as inflation and interest rates when adjusting financial plans.
When it comes to long-term financial stability, Andre highlights three key practices: prioritizing consistent saving, managing debt wisely, and regularly reviewing financial plans. "Automating your savings—whether for retirement, emergencies, or future goals—ensures you're building financial security even during months when spending is higher than usual," he explains.
Andre concludes with an encouraging reminder: "Financial health is a journey, not a destination. It's easy to feel overwhelmed or discouraged if you hit bumps along the way, but small, consistent actions over time can lead to significant long-term gains."
By implementing these strategies, people can approach the new year with confidence in their financial future.
Securities and Advisory Services offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Andre M. Carter, Representative. Not FDIC Insured • No Bank Guarantees • May Lose Value • Not a Deposit and Not Insured by any Government Agency • Town & Country Wealth Management and Town & Country Bank are not affiliated with the Osaic Wealth.
ARTICLE BY EVE BUSHMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDI THOMPSON
D’Agostino’s Trattoria shares a festive “sip slow and enjoy” cocktail
Pistachio flavors are a customer favorite in many desserts at D’Agostino’s. Therefore, pistachio was at the top of the list with the restaurant’s new cocktail program. Owners Dan and Brandi Thompson share their festive “sip slow and enjoy” cocktail here so you can make it home or pull up a chair at D’Agostino’s to try it.
• 2 oz. vodka
• 6 oz. pistachio liqueur
• 2 oz. white chocolate liqueur
• Mix all ingredients in a shaker halfway filled with ice
• Pour into Martini glass
Boil and reduce 2 cups of cold brew coffee until it’s a sugary consistency. Chill. Pulse unsalted shelled Pistachios until a fine dust. Dip and garnish the rim of the glass with the cold brew and then the pistachios.
Chantilly Cream infused with Irish cream liqueur
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon powdered sugar
• 1 dash Vanilla
• 3 tablespoons Irish cream liqueur Mix ingredients for 2 to 3 minutes on medium speed
GIVING THE GIFT OF EDUCATION YEAR-ROUND
As the holiday season is upon us, many people feel inspired to give back to their communities. However, for organizations like Shoes for Scholars, the spirit of giving is a year-round commitment. This Las Vegas-based nonprofit is making a significant impact on the lives of students in Title 1 middle schools by rewarding academic achievement with new shoes.
Founded by May Kane, Shoes for Scholars collaborates with local schools to implement incentive programs aimed at improving students' test performance. The organization's impact is tangible, with more than 3,000 students benefiting from their programs since its inception in 2022. More impressively, 300 students were rewarded with brand new shoes, leading to a 15 percent increase in math scores and a 6 percent boost in attendance. May’s passion for education stems from her own experiences as a first-generation American. "I relied heavily on my teachers and classmates for support and resources," she explained. "I knew I wanted to
channel that support into my career while instilling excitement in the school environment."
The organization's reach continues to grow, with partnerships now extending to six schools. Geni Hubbard, secretary and director of events for Shoes for Scholars, shares her enthusiasm for the cause: "I believe in the mission, and together we are building a better future for the Title 1 students."
Throughout the year, Shoes for Scholars hosts a variety of events to engage the community and raise funds. These include pickleball and golf tournaments, as well as their signature "Goal Getters Party." Twice a year, each partnering Title 1 school celebrates student achievements, awarding new shoes to deserving students in front of faculty, parents, and the Shoes for Scholars team.
The organization's impact extends beyond just providing footwear. It's about boosting confidence, encouraging academic excellence, and showing students that their hard work is recognized and valued.
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“By rewarding academic achievement with shoes, we inspire students to believe in their potential for success.”
As May puts it, "Our mission is to promote the idea that 'school is cool' and to inspire every student, regardless of their economic background, to believe in their potential for success."
For those looking to get involved, Shoes for Scholars offers numerous opportunities. Community members can participate in fundraising events, spread awareness, help purchase shoes for students, or even host their own fundraising events. Geni suggests that locals can also "volunteer their time at events, sponsor events, gather shoes for the Title 1 students, or provide raffle items at events."
As we enter the holiday season, it's worth remembering that organizations like Shoes for Scholars work tirelessly year-round to make a difference. Their commitment to education and student success serves as a reminder that the spirit of giving knows no season. By supporting such initiatives, we can all play a part in building a brighter future for our community's youth.
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
Elevate your holiday hot chocolate with a charcuterie experience
As winter settles in and the air chills, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Take it up a notch and indulge in a hot cocoa charcuterie board. Picture a delightful spread of various hot chocolate flavors, mix-ins, and toppings, inviting you to create a personalized, delicious mug of joy.
Ingredients
• ¼ cup 60% cacao chocolate morsels
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa
• 1/3 cup white granulated sugar
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups half and half
• 1 pinch salt
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
Heat all ingredients (except vanilla extract) in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-low heat until almost boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Gone are the days of selecting only between marshmallows and whipped cream as toppings. With a hot cocoa charcuterie board, you can delve into a world of flavors, textures and spices that will make each sip an adventure.
Begin by selecting a variety of flavors and mix-ins, such as mini marshmallows, salted caramels, white chocolate morsels and peppermints. Pair your hot cocoa with delectable treats like cookies, gum drops, crème-filled wafer rolls or chocolate-covered espresso beans. Consider adding biscotti, chocolate-dipped spoons or chocolate-coated pretzels as well as whipped toppings and an assortment of sprinkles.
DECEMBER 5TH
Magical Forest
Opportunity Village | 5:30 PM
The Magical Forest at Opportunity Village is officially open for the 2024 holiday season. Enjoy a winter wonderland with millions of sparkling lights, exciting rides, great food and beverages, and endless holiday cheer. The park will be open on select evenings through December 31. Tickets available at www.MagicalForest.com
DECEMBER 7TH
Very POPera Holiday Presented by Vegas City Opera
Windmill Library | 3:00 PM
A Very POPera Holiday is jam-packed with a mix of holiday favorites, old and new, made popular by Josh Groban, Andre Bocelli, John Legend, Brightman, Michael Bublé, Carrie Underwood, and other artists. For more information, call 702-507-6068.
DECEMBER 7TH
Downtown Las Vegas Events Center | 10:00 AM
Opportunity Village will celebrate its 20th year hosting the Las Vegas Great Santa Run where thousands of people dressed as Santa run and walk every year. Race-day registration and packet pickup begin at 8:00 a.m. Pre-race festivities begin at 9:00 a.m. with the races starting at 10:00 a.m. To register, visit www.lvsantarun.com.
DECEMBER 7TH
M Pavilion | 8:00 PM
Better Than Ezra is headed to Las Vegas for an exciting stop on their current Legends of the Fall Tour performing at M Resort Spa Casino's M Pavilion on Saturday, December 7, 2024. Ticketsare available at themresort.com or ticketmaster.com.
DECEMBER 14TH
St. Jude’s Ranch for Children | 5:00 PM
Don’t miss this winter wonderland holiday event for the whole family! The 18th Annual Night of Lights is set for Saturday, December 14th from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Get ready for a fun holiday experience complete with lights, s’mores, games, entertainment, arts and crafts, and more. Help spread holiday cheer by exploring sponsorship opportunities at https://stjudesranch.org.
DECEMBER 21ST
Arts District Las Vegas | 4:30 PM
Deck the halls with tacky threads at the Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl in The Arts District. Don your most outrageous holiday sweaters, rally your festive friends, and prepare for a night of merry mischief. Learn more at www.dothecrawl.com
Nevada State Bank has served the banking needs of families and businesses across Nevada for more than 60 years. With branches from north to south, urban to rural, and with more than half a century of Nevada banking experience, we’re here for you.
Your bank should help you succeed. Your bank should be NSB. To learn more, call 866.706.4508 or visit nsbank.com.
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