Sophisticated Living Las Vegas WInter 2019/2020 by Sophisticated Living Magazine

{Las Vegasâ€™ Finest}

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WINTER

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{Las Vegasâ€™ Finest}

Winter

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WINTER

on the cover: Mario wears Bottega Veneta by Daniel Lee neoprene coat (Wynn) and moon boots, and Giorgio Armani (The Forum Shops at Caesars) tuxedo shirt with his own pants, jewelry and sword. Photography by Anthony Tahlier / Wardrobe Director Mark Gill / Grooming Rochelle Uribe / Talent Liaison Amaya Jackson

ALL THE FEELS Two brands. One Love. Couple Martin Hinton and Allison Hart are going national with their tribe of loyal fitness followers

OUT WEST Winter fashion and home decor finds from Downtown Summerlin take residence inside Scots Pine by Richmond American Homes, now selling in the master-planned community of Summerlin

THE URBAN SOPHISTICATE Empire star and indie R&B hit-maker Mario gets deep

A LEGEND REBORN A look at the Britannia Hotel in Trondheim, Norway, after a $160 million renovation

CAMPAIGN ISSUE On-the-go furniture and decor

MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE Atlantis, Paradise Island continues to reinvent itself as the Bahamasâ€™ top oceanfront destination resort

MODERN MARVEL Taycan, the first all-electric sports car, marks a new era for Porsche in the field of e-mobility

DIRECT TO YOUR DOORSTEP Master sommelier Ian Cauble brings unique wines to discerning customers

MOST WANTED Members of the Sophisticated Living team share their dream gifts to give or receive this season

TOWN AND COUNTRY A grand tour of locations around the U.S. told through architecture, cooking and more

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MADE TO MEASURE UP Taiwanese sisters Nicole and Felicia Chang were born to be fashion designers

The Eagle Hills home of mega-designer Roger Thomas is a celebration of color and art. Photo by Benedetta Pignatelli

HOLIDAY BLUES Beguiling bijoux for making spirits bright

why settle for ordinary when you can experience excellence eggersmann since 1908

Winter

CROWD PLEASER With three rows of seating, BMW’s X7 transports your troop in luxury

BRONZE AGE Offering the potential for a unique patina that develops over time, bronze is the new “it” metal for approachable luxury timepieces

CULTURE CLUB Angama Mara immerses guests in all aspects of Kenya’s legendary Maasai Mara National Reserve

NEW GUEST EXPERIENCES AWAIT RACING FANS The Breeders’ Cup returns to Santa Anita Park for a record-breaking 10th time

ROM DOT COM StyleLab, a passion project from a doting couple, emerges into a bonafide sales tool for retailers

SOPHISTICATED SOURCE Winter’s coolest fashion, art and interior design trends

SHINE BRIGHT Designer Meredith Marks talks to SL about her muse, her mother and greeting every day with gratitude

FOND FAREWELL Roger Thomas says goodbye to the artful residence he has called home for more than two decades

DEEP DIVE From sea to plate, the fresh seafood selection at Estiatorio Milos is truly the catch of the day

A LIGHT IN THE DARK Mondays Dark shines a spotlight on Las Vegas charities

CALENDAR SL’s cant-be-missed events for the winter

SOPHISTICATED SOCIETY Fall’s best celebrations

SOPHISTICATED WOMAN Beth Barbre, executive director and CEO of the Nevada Ballet Theatre, talks about her love of dance and the things that have kept her going

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Whole fish sashimi from Estiatorio Milos at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. Milos serves its sashimi in a breathtaking fashion featuring the entire fish, including the head and bones, on the plate. Surrounding the perimeter are freshly sliced pieces of sashimi. Photo by Key Lime Photography

Made-To-Measure-Up Nicole+Felicia F/W 2019. Image courtesy of Nicole+Felicia.

PUBLISHER Alison Victoria CREATIVE DIRECTOR Bridget Daley EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Melinda Sheckells EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Lauren Velentzas ——————————————— ART DIRECTOR Jason Yann CONTRIBUTORS Writers Jessi C. Acuña Samantha Beard Neil Charles Victoria Chase Collin Dennis David Himmel Amaya Jackson Andre James Amelia Jeffers Rob Kachelriess Katharine Mallory Caylee Matthews Bridget Williams Photographers James Altman Key Lime Photography Jerry Metellus Benedetta Pignatelli Krystal Ramirez Bryan Steffy Anthony Tahlier Denise Truscello Virginia Trudeau Creative Services Bo Brinkman (Hair and Makeup) Mark Gill (Styling) Kris Kass (Styling) Rochelle Uribe (Grooming) Photo Editing Stephen Luxem ADVERTISING SALES OFFICE alison@slmag.net ——————————————— SOPHISTICATED LIVING MEDIA Eric Williams - CEO Bridget Williams - President Sophisticated Living® is published by AVMM Media Group, LLC and is independently owned and operated. Sophisticated Living® is a registered trademark of Williams Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Sophisticated Living® is published six times a year. All images and editorial are the property of AVMM Media Group, LLC and cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission. Annual subscription fees are $25.00; please add $5 for subscriptions outside the US. Address all subscription inquiries to the website slmag.net. Telephone 937.672.6448.

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All the things that SL Mag Chicago Publisher Alison Victoria is coveting right now

WHAT I WEAR I live in workout attire, and these Niyama Sol leggings are like a second skin. They come in so many fun patterns and colors, and are perfect to mix and match between tops and bottoms. @niyamasol WHERE I SWEAT Studio Remixx, a mix of Pilates, cardio and strength training, is my go-to workout to keep my 5-foot-2-inch frame elongated—as much as 5-foot-2 can elongate. It is intense but worth it—getting my blood pumping and my body moving. @studioremixxlv FOR MY LOCKS I double up on the amazing Kérastase L’Huile Original Hair Oil during winter to keep my ends healthy and strong. @kerastase_official DINNER TIME I permanently crave the rolls, bowls, burritos, ramen and sashimi at Silverton’s Japanese restaurant with Latin flair, Su Casa. Plus, it has a fantastic happy hour menu. @silvertoncasino

Alison Victoria Owner & Publisher alison@slmag.net

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Everything Editor-in-Chief Melinda Sheckells loves this season

WHERE I EAT I recently had the opportunity to visit David Chang’s Majordōmo in Los Angeles in preparation for the Las Vegas opening in winter. Undoubtedly one of this year’s most highly anticipated restaurant arrivals, Majordōmo Meat & Fish at The Venetian Resort features Brian Lhee as executive chef, formerly of Tao and Yusho. He’s one of my favorites. Plus, there will be a raw bar and live fish tanks as well as new dishes such as prime rib and crab noodles. @majordomolv MY FAVORITE STAYCATION If I could move into any resort on the Strip it would be NoMad Las Vegas. In Park MGM, the Las Vegas version of the sophisticated hotel brand has one of the best features ever—a bathtub in the middle of the room. I have stayed at both the New York and Los Angeles NoMads, I love how the rich colors and textures punctuate the surprising décor, which is unlike anything else around town. @nomadvegas IN MY HAIR I am a huge fan of Con1ota handmade couture hair clips. This is a female-owned small business based in Las Vegas, and accessory queen Liz Contenta’s styles and design are so cool and great for gifts. I love wearing the one she made for me with my name both in my hair and clipped on my jacket for a little twist. @contentalizeth Melinda Sheckells Editor-In-Chief melinda@slmag.net 12 slmag.net

WHAT I DRIVE While I am not sure I could handle a car with so much power on the daily, I love taking an Aston Martin out for a spin at Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas. The two have partnered to offer a series of experiences worldwide, giving guests the ability to test drive and view these luxurious automobiles. The session runs 30 to 90 minutes and is led by a professional driving instructor on a customized route. The next event takes place in December at Waldorf Astoria Bangkok. @walasvegas

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All the things that SL Mag Chicago Creative Director Bridget Daley adores this season

BOOTED UP These Army green boots from Isabel Marant represent the color of the season. It’s universal and goes with everything in my closet. Marant is one of my favorite designers, and her shoe game is strong. The leather is so creamy and buttery—absolutely delicious. @netaporter ON MY NECK During my last trip to Las Vegas, I treated myself to a Dior necklace. I’m not a big jewelry person, but this piece makes just enough of a statement for me. It’s the perfect holiday gift to give and/or receive. And, who doesn’t love Dior? @dior WHAT I WEAR Chloé Eau de Parfum has been my scent for more than 10 years. I have tried to change it up, but I always come back. It’s light, fresh and airy. It’s the one thing in my life that has been consistent (wink, wink). @sephora THAT WARM AND FUZZY FEELING I need this Balenciaga allover logo fluffy zip-up jacket. I will live in this all winter long. Is it over-the-top to have a Balenciaga sweater to watch movies in this cold weather? Yes. But, I don’t care. @fwrd TASTE OF THE TOWN Although I am new to the Vegas dining scene, I fell in love with La Cave Wine & Food Hideaway at Wynn. The short-rib tacos are what dreams are made of, and in a city with so many awesome dining options this is a top pick. The small plates make sharing easy—although I dare you to touch my tacos! Dining on the patio overlooking the resort’s pool is just the perfect night. @lacavelv Bridget Daley Creative Director daley@slmag.net 14 slmag.net

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Contributors “In writing about the eclectic Eagle Hills estate of Roger Thomas, I felt like I was profiling the homeowner as much as the residence,” writer Rob Kachelriess says. “He was a fascinating interview subject and to catch him in a moment of transition—with both his home and career—was a revealing look at someone who not only has a deep appreciation and knowledge of art, but also helped design iconic Las Vegas resorts like The Mirage and Bellagio.” Kachelriess is a recent firsttime homeowner and profiles high-end properties for Luxury Estates International. @rkachelriess “Remember in Devil Wears Prada when Anne Hathaway’s character Andy transforms from frumpy journalist to high-fashion style icon?” Las Vegas-based writer Jessi C. Acuña asks. “That’s the vibe that took hold over me when I put on my first Niyama Sol leggings and matching sports bra. I like bold colors, but I’ve been married to my black Under Armour pants and oversized black tank for my workouts. No more! Well, at least until I build up my Niyama Sol collection.” Not only is the brand steadily becoming a cult favorite across the country, Acuña is excited to support a local, woman-run business. @foreverarriving “This fashion season, there has been a major shift to uncomplicated dressing. I have been really inspired by designers focusing on easy, monochromatic looks as shown on the Dior Homme runway, and seeing Naomi Campbell wearing one of the men’s jackets from the show just reaffirms the versatility and timelessness,” says Samantha Beard, who curates this issue’s Sophisticated Source. Beard has been in the fashion industry for more than a decade, traveling extensively and working with iconic fashion houses such as Ralph Lauren and Alberta Ferretti. “I believe this is reflective of the modern lifestyle, as people want to make a statement without overthinking it. Because after all, so much of sophistication is about ease and confidence in what you are wearing,” she says. @sam_beard “I felt a little weird about interviewing Mario on a Friday night—I mean, this guy doesn’t want to work on the weekend, right?” cover feature writer David Himmel says. “It turned out to be more of a social thing than a work thing for both of us. I was blown away by how easily we slid right into the philosophical waxing on all things life. Mario’s an articulate, interesting and genuine guy. Wouldn’t mind spending more Friday nights chilling with him and talking through life’s creative process.” Himmel is an award-winning journalist, the author of The Last DJ and A Camp Story, and co-editor of the digital lit ’zine, Literate Ape. He co-wrote and starred in the comedic short film, Enter the Mollusk, available on Amazon Prime. @thedih13 “Working with Mario was a breeze. He has a mind that never slows down and is deeply intuitive. He is a great guy who is full of energy and ideas, and I had a ton of fun collaborating with him. Looking forward to creating with him again,” says photographer Anthony Tahlier, who shot the multitalented actor/singer for this month’s cover. Tahlier’s work spans many different genres— from people to food to interiors. He prides himself on telling beautiful and unforgettable stories through his lens. @anthonytahlierphoto “Mario is a dream to style. The man is amazing and has no ego. He listens with compassion, care and understanding and is flawless in front of the camera,” says Wardrobe Director Mark Gill of this month’s cover. Gill is a Chicago fashion maverick, working with high-profile clients and using innovative tools to build businesses based on his love of luxury and beauty. He is creative director of Chicago staple fashion-boutique VMR. @iammarkgill

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Allison and Martin

ALL THE FEELS

Two brands. One Love. Couple Martin Hinton and Allison Hart are going national with their tribe of loyal fitness followers. By Jessi C. Acuña Martin Hinton makes a living taking people’s breath away. For more than a decade, he’s been in Las Vegas perfecting his kettlebell fitness classes, which push students to find their edge. So it’s only fitting that the woman who inspired Hinton to reach the outskirts of his own comfort zone would be someone who left him in awe. When Hinton first saw Allison Hart in the studio where he was instructing, she did in fact leave him breathless. But that moment served a deeper purpose for Hinton. “I was in the middle of teaching a kettlebell class and actually walked out to ask her why she never took my class,” he says. “While on her way to Pilates, she told me she would if I incorporated yoga. I realized very quickly that, if I could get yogis in my fitness classes, and fitness folk in my yoga classes, that I could trick them into learning a new discipline that they wouldn’t otherwise try. And, bonus, I could get her in my class.” That was 2011, and the couple hasn’t had much time to catch their breath since. Within two years, Hinton launched TruFusion, a group fitness studio that offers a range of workouts. Known for its

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heated classes, such as Tru Hot Pilates and Hinton’s signature Tru Barefoot Bootcamp, TruFusion packs its high-temperature, highhumidity rooms to the brim. As co-founder (Michael Borden is founder and CEO) and “chief soul officer,” Hinton says it occurred to him to fuse the practices when he attended a Seattle International Kettlebell and Fitness Federation (level 2) training in 2007 and saw the Bikram yoga classes and CrossFit studio were side by side. But he credits Hart for inspiring him to start TruFusion and to meld kettlebells and yoga into one class. “When I first met Allison, beyond taking my breath away, she presented as my muse, that person, the pinnacle person that represents all the people that would come to a place like this,” he says. Turns out Hart’s people came in droves. From TruFusion’s first location in Henderson, Nevada, in 2013, the initial company franchises were sold in 2015, bringing two additional studios to the Las Vegas Valley a year later—one in Downtown Summerlin, the other on the southwest side of town.

Gold Croc Legging, $88

Chakras Kisses HighWaisted Legging, $92 Martin Hinton

With outposts already in eight states, the number is rapidly growing. Former pro athlete and businessman Alex Rodriguez came onboard in 2017 to help promote the brand. The former New York Yankee became a fixture at the original location while he and thengirlfriend (now fiancée) Jennifer Lopez were in town during her Strip residency. The megastars are fans of the classes, and Rodriguez did more than invest—he’s an equity partner, board member and area developer. But launching the studios wasn’t the only thing Hart inspired Hinton to do. While the franchising was kicking off, he had another plan for the already busy Hart. After watching her enthusiasm about a particular pair of leggings they discovered one day in 2014—she prefers not to blend in with the flock—he saw a spark and thought that with her background in art and her obsession with fitness wear she should create her own line. “Niyama Sol was initially created when Martin asked me to help design leggings for TruFusion,” Hart says. “I pushed back a

Peace High-Waisted Legging, $92 Allison Hart, founder of Niyama Sol

little since I already had a very busy professional career in the events business, but he’s very persuasive.” The first collection sold out quickly. The leggings retailed at the first Las Vegas TruFusion location and on Etsy. Eventually the brand expanded to a website and wholesale accounts for other yoga, fitness and fashion boutiques. “I just really thought it was going to be much more of a side hustle than it’s turning out to be,” Hart says. “It’s turning out to be, obviously, successful.” This was no coincidence. Hart studied art in college, and she’d dabbled in fashion design for “a hot minute.” But it’s her day job that confirms both her ease in making clever choices for prints and the sprightly voice behind her 234,000-follower base on Instagram (@niyamasol). As the vice president of creative at Destinations by Design, a full-service event production, entertainment and destination management company, Hart spends her days dreaming up magical moments for her clients.

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Butterfly Kisses HighWaisted Legging, $92

“The Niyamas are the second of the eight limbs of yoga, and are basically five habits to live a happy, healthy and spiritual life,” Hart says. “They include cleanliness, contentment, self-discipline, self-study and devotion to a higher power.” As for the brand’s leggings, it’s clear why they’ve generated a cult following. Made mostly from recycled plastic, the fabric texture feels like a second skin—if that skin were just soaked in a sheet mask and then lathered with non-GMO butter. The cuts are also flattering, with plenty of tummy-tuck looks and booty-enhancing fits. Most have matching sports bra tops that are intended to be worn sans shirt. “We get a lot of similar feedback from our customers: ‘Oh, my God, I put them on and they just make me feel so sexy and wonderful and super comfortable in my own skin wearing them. I never thought I would wear this kind of color or this kind of print,’” Hart says. “Getting people to step out of their comfort zone and wear something beyond the basic legging that they feel more comfortable in—it’s my favorite thing, to transform her and change her mind because she doesn’t think she can wear it.” Hart plans to expand the lifestyle brand by including more elements of the matching set such as sweatshirts and tank tops. She’s already explored swimsuits and men’s boardshorts, sport 20 slmag.net

Kaleidoscope Endless Legging, $92

Shagreen High-Waisted Legging, $88

shorts and T-shirts as well. Much like TruFusion got a boost from Rodriguez, Lopez became a supporter of the brand once she put on a pair. She regularly tags the company on her Instagram account when sporting them in her many workout excursions, and she even created her own capsule collection for the line. As for TruFusion, next up in 2020 are locations in Denver, Houston, San Antonio, West Hollywood and a second Seattle location (Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson owns the original Washington location as well as a couple of upcoming locations). Additionally, the couple is focusing on more TruRetreats, which incorporate yoga, fitness and wellness. “It’s really nice to be able to take people to places with us—places that we love or that we are inspired by and really have them dive deep into the two brands,” Hart says. Previous retreat destinations include Hawaii, where Hinton launched his fitness career, opened his first gym (Five Mountain Fitness Studio) and created fitness programs for the police and fire departments there. “Collectively the two companies cross-pollinate to create this fitness-yoga-fashion concept,” Hinton says. “You’re really chasing a feeling when one works out or when one wears new clothes. It’s not so much how much weight you are losing or gaining or whatever. It’s really how you feel.” sl niyamasol.com; trufusion.com

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Jacket, lululemon. Top, skirt and watch and Dillardâ€™s. Bracelets and rings, Pandora. Sneakers, New Balance. Candlesticks and candles, Ethan Allen. Wine chiller, Crate and Barrel. Slate placemat, West Elm. Location, The Robert, Scots Pine by Richmond American Homes, Summerlin, starting from the $800,000s.

OUT WEST

Winter fashion and home decor finds from Downtown SummerlinÂŽ take residence inside Scots Pine by Richmond American Homes, now selling in the master-planned community of Summerlin Photography by Krystal Ramirez @krystalrmrz / Hair and Makeup by Bo Brinkman @bobeautyvegas Styling by Kris Kass @krisskass / Model Heather, DK Models @dkmodels_lv Shot on location at Scots Pine by Richmond American Homes All fashions and home furnishings courtesy of Downtown Summerlin retailers 22 slmag.net

Prada sunglasses, Nordstrom Rack. Top and pants, Black House White Market. Poncho, lululemon. Boots and ring, Dillardâ€™s. Bracelet, Brighton. Art work, Bobby Wheat Gallery. Pillow, Ethan Allen. Vases, glass and table setting, West Elm. Location, The Rocco, Scots Pine by Richmond American Homes, Summerlin, starting from the mid $700,000s.

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Jumpsuit, hair clips, boots and bracelets, Dillardâ€™s. Necklace, Pandora. Bracelets, Black House White Market. Bracelets, Pandora. Jacket, Macyâ€™s. Throw, pillows, boxes and tray, Ethan Allen. Coasters and vases, West Elm. Candlestick holder, Crate and Barrel. Location: The Raven, Scots Pine by Richmond American Homes, Summerlin, starting from the mid $700,000s.

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Turtleneck, White House Black Market. Bracelets and rings, Pandora. Pants and belt, Dillardâ€™s. Purse, Brighton. Location: The Raven, Scots Pine by Richmond American Homes, Summerlin, starting from the mid $700,000s.

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Téchin NYC (123 Greenwich Avenue, New York, NY) suede shirt and woolcashmere jeans and Mario’s own jewelry.

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THE URBAN SOPHISTICATE Empire star and indie R&B hit-maker Mario gets deep

By David Himmel / Photography by Anthony Tahlier Wardrobe Director Mark Gill / Grooming Rochelle Uribe / Talent Liaison Amaya Jackson

Mario greets me like we are old friends. He steps off the elevator into the lobby of the monstrous and modern high-rise he’s calling home while filming the final season of the hit television show Empire bundled in a hoodie and bomber jacket with his year-and-a-half-old pit bull terrier, Halle, on a leash. It’s time for her evening potty break. We pace back and forth on a small batch of grass outside of a building in Chicago’s South Loop while Halle sniffs around for the good spot. Although I am the interviewer, Mario asks the first questions. How was my ride? How long have I been a writer? What kind of writing do I do, other than profiles on people like him? The actor/musician/ writer/producer wants to know the person he is going to spend a Friday night talking to. Unlike Halle, Mario never succumbs to just going through the motions. Upstairs, with Halle settled sweetly at my feet, it is my turn to ask the questions. I start with the one most burning: After the enormous amount of drama Empire saw last season, where does it go next? “You have to push the bar,” Mario says. “To go six seasons is amazing, especially when you’re playing with the concept of music and the corruption that comes with it. You really have hard story arcs to continue. The uneasiness is in the fact that the Lyon family is broken apart but is still very influential in each other’s decisions,

desires and fears. Everyone still has that passion for music and that passion for winning.” If you happen not to be one of the more than six million viewers tuning in to watch Empire each week, it focuses on Empire Entertainment, a fictional hip-hop record label, the Lyon family members who own it, and the fight to control it and its artists. Mario, whose real name is Mario Barrett, joined the cast as a guest star in Season 5 but was promoted to a regular for this final season. Mario portrays Devon, an up-and-coming hip-hop artist discovered by matriarch “Cookie” Lyon (Taraji P. Henson). His is a rags-to-riches story that is not a far cry from Mario’s own. “Of course, there’s a lot of missing intricate pieces,” Mario says. “The things that are most triggering to me are things like feeling I have no say in my creative integrity. It’s something a lot of artists face and something I faced a lot of times in my career until becoming an independent artist a couple of years ago.” The night we’re speaking is the exact one-year anniversary of the release of Mario’s last album, Dancing Shadows. It was his first independent project through his own label, New Citizen, and the best musical experience of his life. The album debuted at No. 1 on the iTunes R&B chart. He’s been busy since. Alongside Empire, he starred as Benny Coffin in FOX’s production of Rent: Live. And now he’s embracing his biggest moment yet. slmag.net

Empire is set in New York but films in Chicago. Mario has been here three months and has another five to go before returning to his home base in Los Angeles. He has fallen in love with this city—the décor, the artsy, creative energy. It’s not quite a new love as much as a renewed one. WGCI-FM was one of the first radio stations to break a Mario record when he was coming up, so he’s always felt welcome here. But as much as he’d like to get out and do all things Chicago, much of his time when he’s not filming is spent at home, alone. “I’m working on new music,” he says. “On stories, on really making a project that is versatile and has a certain sophistication for a lack of better word. Even though it’s urban, it’ll still have a certain sophistication that lends itself to classic vibes but also to contemplative melodic experiences.” He’s juggling the different worlds of acting and music. Each medium has its own pathway, scratches a different itch. But it’s music that he finds to be the most powerful because it’s the most intrusive. “It affects you energetically, emotionally. Sound is time standing still. Music is time standing still. That three minutes of a song is literally time encapsulated into soundwaves,” he says. For Mario, being creative is easy. The hard part is communicating with precision. His time alone writing allows him 28 slmag.net

to figure out what he wants to say and how he wants to say it. And he’s using nostalgia to make his songs precise. Not as a longing for days of yore but as a reflecting pond. Nostalgia is his blueprint for immersing himself in his art. He can’t re-create a moment, but he can create new moments forged from the human experience that may be his or a friend’s or a girlfriend’s or something more collective, more human and altruistic. “It’s all inner reflections brought to the surface,” he says. “And hopefully, it’s a nostalgic experience for the audience or it will be at some point. If you create something from a real place, the spell is always going to be stronger. And that’s the beautiful thing about what we as artists do.” At 33 years old, Mario has been in the entertainment business for more than half of his life. He grew up in Baltimore’s inner city in a three-bedroom house with 18 people living inside. His father wasn’t one of them. His mother was struggling with a heroin addiction. Most kids in his position don’t make it out. But Mario says he was lucky. He was born with a certain level of patience and observation and intuition that always protected him. And for reasons he cannot explain, he has always been able to tap into those qualities at the right time.

Giorgio Armani tuxedo shirt, Marioâ€™s own pants and jewelry.

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Mario wears Giorgio Armani (The Forum Shops at Caesars) black silk shirt and velvet pants, Tom Ford (the Shops at Crystals) leopard jacket and Dior (The Shops at Crystals) patent leather lace-up shoes.

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Téchin NYC (123 Greenwich Avenue, New York, NY), suede shirt and Mario’s own jewelry.

By 25, he had four albums under his belt—all reaching the top five on Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip Hop charts. He had worked with legendary producers such as Clive Davis, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Babyface, and Timbaland, to name a few. He had embarked on an acting career and even competed on Season 6 of Dancing with the Stars. Despite the success, he felt like he was on a path to destruction. He’d been screwed over and painted into a corner by the industry heavies who often know little to nothing about artistic creativity. He needed a change. “The reason I’ve been able to preserve myself in this industry is because I’ve learned to tap into different techniques. I consider myself a mystic. I’m not religious, but I’ve studied world religions and I’ve taken the best of everything and capsuled it into my own personal belief. If you’re destined for greatness it’s going to come, but you have to re-create the will

every couple of years, you have to reinvent yourself. Not as an artist but as a person.” His next shift will come with his next projects. The new music, the movie and TV scripts he’s writing, maybe opening a museum in a few years. He’s taking advantage of the fresh energy he’s experiencing and implementing it into new, tangible ideas. He says you can’t be afraid to reinvent yourself, to look at the shadows and the darker parts of ourselves that we so often project through. His acting, his music, his creativity—it’s all evolving. “It’s time to take responsibility for our personal energy that affects us all collectively,” Mario says. “Once people understand how that alchemy works, things are going to shift immediately.” With that, Halle wakes up and demands we give her some good ’ol rubs behind her ears. For her, in that moment, that was all the energy she needed. sl

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VIEWING & AFTER

PARTY

FOR ALL AGES PRESENTED BY 102.7 THE COYOTE Hosted by Justin Frazell Thursday thru Saturday PRESENTED BY COWBOYS & INDIANS

DEC. 5 & 6 ................................................................ NED LEDOUX DEC. 7........................................................................... CHRIS HEERS DEC. 8 .............................. HOLLY TUCKER & CHRIS HEERS DEC. 9 .....HOLLY TUCKER & CHASE & THE PURSUIT DEC. 10 & 11 ..................................................... LAINEY WILSON DEC. 12 ............................................BEST OF THE WEST BALL RANDY BROWN & ROGER CREAGER DEC. 13 ....................................................................RANDY BROWN DEC. 14........................................................... VOODOO COWBOYS

I - 1 5 & B L U E D I A M O N D • 7 0 2 . 2 6 3 . 7 7 7 7 • S I LV E R T O N C A S I N O . C O M

A LEGEND REBORN

Opened in the late 1800s as a haven for well-heeled Brits, following a $160 million renovation, the historic Britannia Hotel in Trondheim, Norway is poised to define Norwegian hospitality for luxury travelers well into the next century. Written by Bridget Williams Warm and fuzzy feelings distilled from childhood memories can sometimes percolate in the subconscious and impact our lives years later, as the re-opening of the Britannia Hotel in Trondheim, Norway attests. At the tender age of 14, Trondheim native Odd Reitan, now a self-made billionaire, resolved to one day own the world's most northerly "palace" hotel, first opened in 1870. Reitan has remarked fondly of being warmly welcomed into the grand confines of the hotel's glass-domed Palmehaven dining hall on special occasions as a young boy. As a present-day visitor, it is easy to imagine Reitan as a wide-eyed boy surveying the voluminous space, first unveiled in 1918 as a magical touch of the tropics in this most non-tropical of places. After acquiring the Britannia, Reitan knew that too much nostalgia could be stifling. The multi-year, $160 million renovation he orchestrated preserved the hotel's most significant historical attributes while adding amenities to lure the next generation of tastemakers with an eye for luxury. Commanding a city block in the center of this pristine city, located just 60 miles south of the Arctic Circle, the juxtaposition

of old and new is apparent as soon as you enter the Britannia's lobby. Awash in Italian marble, dotted with gleaming crystal chandeliers, and featuring art by contemporary Scandinavian artists, the dĂŠcor strikes just the right balance between masculine and feminine. It reminded me of a finely tailored gray pinstriped suit dressed with a pink silk pocket square. Just past a dramatically scaled staircase that conjures many a moment of grand arrival over the years is a bank of high-tech elevators that transport guests quickly and quietly between floors. Colors of the carpet runners that line corridor on each floor dissolve from grey to blush and cream, reminding me of the way the sun gradually dissipates the marine layer. A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, each of the 257 rooms and suites boast Carrara marble bathrooms and handmade beds by renowned Swedish company HĂ¤stens, the latter of which speaks to the hotel's no-expense-spared attention to detail. The bed in my two-floor suite provided a sleep so deep I awoke with the folds of my luxurious pillowcase imprinted upon my cheek.

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Junior Suite Photo by Wil Lee-Wright.

Britannia Bar Photo by James Eric Hensley.

Standing on the balcony of my room, I was able to detect the subtle scent of the briny Norwegian Sea that wafts over the rooftops of this fjord town. By a lucky coincidence, my visit coincided with Syttende Mai, or Norwegian Constitution Day (May 17), so from morning until night, I was treated to an endless parade of parades. Similar to 4th of July but dressier, the holiday was wonderfully devoid of any shows of military force or political grandstanding (except for the Star Wars club marching in stormtrooper garb). Everyone was attired in traditional dress or their Sunday best, singing, waving flags, and eating copious amounts of ice cream. I truly believed that this might be the happiest place on earth that day. Of the eight Michelin-starred restaurants in Norway, two are in Trondheim: Fagn and Credo. Britannia's Executive Chef Christopher Davidsen, a 2017 Bocuse d'Or silver medalist, has his eyes on a star for Speilsalen, the most elevated among the six restaurants and bars at the Britannia. An immersive experience 34 slmag.net

Signature Suite Bath

View from the chambre séparée at Speilsalen

for the senses, patrons are treated to multi-course meals that are planned, prepared, plated, and presented with expert precision. A former ballroom, the dining room is outfitted with original scenic wallpaper, crystal chandeliers and a pair of glass greenhouselike chambre séparée that accommodate up to 12 guests each. Befitting each course is custom Christofle china adorned with patterns culled from the hotel's archives. "My philosophy is to use high technique with local ingredients and a twist of flavors from around the world," said Davidsen of the menu at Speilsalen. Like the Britannia's owner, nostalgia informs the cuisine, allowing Davidsen to take favorite ingredients and treasured dining experiences from his childhood and reinterpret them as culinary fine art. Four-time Norwegian wine sommelier champion Henrik Dahl Jahnsen oversees the wine pairings. "When our doors open, the curtain goes up, and the show can begin," Davidsen remarked.

Britannia Spa

The event space at Terna Brygge, located on the island of Sula.

Palmehaven Photo by Wil Lee-Wright

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Head bartender Øyvind Lindgjerde spent three months devising the cocktail menu for the Britannia Bar. Photo by Lars Petter Pettersen.

Reneé Fagerhøi, chef/owner of Bula restaurant

Traditional attire is popular on Syttende Mai, Norway's Constitution Day.

With a 10,000-bottle wine cellar, the hotel's Vinbaren is heaven on earth for oenophiles. Descending into the cellar via a stairwell lined with mirrors, reminded me of images of Coco Chanel's Paris apartment. The wine list includes both established and emerging regions, and Jahnsen said their aim is that each guest can find a bottle from "home." The house vintage Champagne from Maison Ayala is exclusive to the Britannia and pays homage to a partnership that spans more than a century. As a self-professed cocktail connoisseur, I was partial to the fanfare at the chic Britannia Bar, where the sometimes weird and always wonderful cocktail menu literally encompasses smoke and mirrors. Head bartender Øyvind Lindgjerde spent three months devising the cocktail menu, even building a bar in his home to use as a laboratory. The bar's inventory includes 25 types of aquavit, a flavored spirit produced in Nordic countries since the 15th century. Wellness facilities include a massive fitness room, an indoor swimming pool, and a spa. The latter encompasses five treatment rooms, snow-bathing, an ice bath, several types of 36 slmag.net

Fresh-from-the-sea fare at Terna Brygge.

saunas, and a whirlpool positioned under a ceiling designed to replicate the Northern Lights. Trondheim is a very walkable city, and during the summer months, explorations on foot can stretch into the wee hours under the midnight sun. After a sublimely satiating feast at Speilsalen, rather than head to bed on a full stomach, I changed into my walking clothes and set out to explore the city. I began my trek with a stop at the exquisite and ancient Nidaros Cathedral, the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world before moving on to admire the colorful buildings lining the canals. By the time I reached the top of a nearvertical street that is home to the world's only bicycle lift, I was nearly breathless. Near the top was my final destination: a large park surrounding the Kristiansten Fortress. By the time I arrived, it was approaching the midnight hour; yet the light was as bright as the spirits of those gathered here to walk their dog, listen to music, picnic, or just soak up the sweeping views of the city and the sea. It was one of those magical travel moments I won't soon forget.

Wharf buildings along the river Nidelven in Trondheim

The island of Sula is home to 60 year-round residents.

Also memorable were meals at Bula Bistro (bulabistro.no) and Rom & Kjøkken (toromogkjokken.no). With a red bandana tied around her head like a modern-day Rosie the Riveter, Reneé Fagerhøi, the chef/owner of Bula, turns out food as lively colorful as her personality. Growing up on what she describes as a "biodynamic commune with no TV," Fagerhøi said that after becoming a chef, she appreciated the cooking skills picked up as a child. Her ten-course tasting menus are designed to "reflect what's happening in the world," and might encompass everything from pig ears to scallops. "It can be anything as long as it's delicious," she explained. Outside the city limits, some 5,000 islands beckon. Zipping along the water at up to 67 knots (78mph) aboard an open-air Rigid Inflatable Boat operated by Fjordrafting (fjordrafting.no) was my favorite mode of transport. The jostling and jumping, particularly in areas where the waters were a little choppier, is best described like riding a wooden rollercoaster. For a more sedate sailing, book a fishing or island-hopping tour with Wold KystTransport (woldkysttransport.no/en/). The company owns a spectacular renovated farmhouse, constructed in 1929, on the

The Nidaros Cathedral is the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world.

island of Bogøya, that is available to rent. With just 16 residents on the island, staying here is the epitome of getting away from it all. Slightly more populated, but still only home to 60 hearty souls year-round, Sula is the largest island in the region. The lightkeepers house is available to rent from a couple who also operates a small café with offerings made from ingredients foraged on the island's scrubby, windswept hillsides (sulakultur. com). Surprisingly upscale for such a remote place is Terna Brygge (ternabrygge.no), a seasonal restaurant and event space. If you are longing for langoustine or any of the sea's delicacies, don't miss the "Everything on the Table" spread put on by Ansnes Brygger Restaurant on the island of Ansnes (ansnesbrygger.com). Exactly as it sounds, copious amounts of seafood are accompanied by beer brewed next door. In a country where it's nearly night for four months out of the year, this feast was yet another reminder that Norwegians certainly know how to make hay while the sun shines. Rooms at the Britannia Hotel start at $250/night and include breakfast at Palmehaven. For more information or reservations, visit Britannia.no/en. sl

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Of Note... Campaign Issue

Compiled by Colin Dennis

Clockwise from top left: Large Navy Carlyle Campaign Dresser from AVE Home ($3,033; avehome.com). Duncan Hughes for Dowel Furniture Bar Cart ($2,300; dowelfurniturecompany. com). Jonathan Charles Campaign-Style Flip-Top Desk ($3,150; jonathancharles.com). Theodore Alexander Delight Campaign Desk ($3,150; theodorealexander.com). Theadore Alexander Officer's Chest ($3,300; theodorealexander.com). Matthiessen Folding Bench from Richard Wrightman (price upon request; richardwrightman.com). The Officer's Field Set by Richard Wightman was designed to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Gurkha soldiersâ€™ service to the British Crown (price upon request; richardwrightman.com). Opposite page: Jacques Column Table Lamp from Jonathan Adler ($795; jonathanadler.com). Barnett Wheeled Bookcase from Sweetpea & Willow ($1,093; sweetpeaandwillow.com). Jonathan Charles Campaign-Style Screen in Santos Rosewood ($3,350; jonathancharles.com). Dunlin Campaign Safari Chair in teak ($698; dunlin.com/au).

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MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

With a focus on elevated dining experiences and a commitment to promoting Bahamian culture and protecting the oceans, iconic Atlantis, Paradise Island continues to reinvent itself as the Bahamas’ top oceanfront destination resort. Written by Caylee Matthews

It happens every time. About 15 minutes after taking off from Miami International Airport en route to the Bahamas, a ripple of oohs and aahs begins to cascade down the aisles. "Look at that water…so blue!" Like moths to a flame, all eyes are glued to the windows. It is a sight that continues to enchant, no matter how many times you've been privileged to see it. It had been decades since my last visit to Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island in the Bahamas, and I arrived with a little skepticism packed in with my swimsuit. However, any preconceived notions I had were quickly dispelled by the resort's upscale offerings, which make it possible to "stay small" within this behemoth property. There are five distinct lodging options at Atlantis, with The Reef and The Cove occupying the top spots in terms of luxury and amenities. Perfect for upscale family travel, The Reef is fresh off of a complete room renovation. Its studio rooms, one-to-three bedroom 40 slmag.net

suites, and two-and-three bedroom penthouses offer homelike amenities such as a kitchen and separate living area. Moving from the hustle and bustle of the iconic Royal Towers and into The Cove, it's easy to feel like you've entered a cocoon of tranquility. The over-the-top theatrical décor of The Royal gives way to The Cove's chic, soaring open-air lobby designed to frame the ocean view. The sound of water slipping over sleek square marble fountains and bubbling in the koi ponds that flank the central passageway helps to soothe the senses. Guests of The Cove have exclusive access to the 9,000-squarefoot adults-only Cove Pool, where you can sip a cocktail while a DJ sets the mood with music. For the ultimate beach day, book one of 20 spacious beachfront cabanas that sport fun and fresh interior design by Lulu De Kwiatkowski, founder of the lifestyle brand LULU DK.

View of The Cove from the balcony of a suite at The Reef

The adults-only Cove Pool

Dolphin Cay

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Beach cabanas at the Cove Pool boast interiors by LULU DK.

Sunset view of the marina from Café Martinique.

When Atlantis opened two decades ago, food and dining weren't at the forefront. Over time, the resort whipped up a magic sauce of celebrity chefs culled from around the globe. Upping the ante even more, they added up-and-coming Bahamian chefs and culinary innovators, thereby solidifying its reputation as a foodiefriendly destination. Today, there are 40 restaurants and lounges on the property, including celebrity chef collaborations with José Andrés (Fish by José Andrés), Nobu Matsuhisa (Nobu), Todd English (Olives), and Angelo Elia (Casa D'Angelo). Far from being cookie-cutter, each of these establishments offers a uniquely Bahamian twist on their signature fare. Opened in February 2019, Café Martinique in the bustling Marina Village is Atlantis' newest and its only upscale dining concept to feature a seasonal, plant-forward menu. Head Chef Alessio Pitzalis is a native of Sardinia and a locavore at heart. He deftly combines Mediterranean-inspired flavors with Bahamian ingredients procured through relationships with local producers 42 slmag.net

Fish by José Andrés

Studio room at The Reef

and farmers, as well as foraging for the island's most exclusive bounty. The Café's 300-label wine vault boasts sought-after vintages from Bordeaux, Burgundy and the Napa Valley. On the casual dining side, Bahamian Julie Lightbourn opened a second location of Sip Sip, her landmark Harbour Island Restaurant, at The Cove. Her award-winning Lobster Quesadilla is legendary, and the Grouper Reuben (exclusive to The Cove) is a legend-inwaiting. McKenzies started out serving covetable conch dishes from a ramshackle stall under the bridge to Paradise Island. A bonafide destination, management at Atlantis helped McKenzies' proprietors open a second conch stand in Marina Village. Sun & Ice, created by Bahamian chef, photographer, and author Wayne Moncur, employs a farm-to-table philosophy for its ice creams, gelatos, and sorbets. Just as the food scene has evolved, so has the resort's commitment to making a positive impact on both the Bahamian culture and the ocean environment. Following hurricane Dorian, the resort pledged $3million for relief efforts. This gift is in addition

Bahamian chef Julie Lightbourn (right) shows off her award-winning lobster quesadilla.

The Leap of Faith waterslide at the Aquaventure waterpark.

to a partnership with chef JosĂŠ AndrĂŠs and his World Central Kitchen team that involves assembling meals in Atlantis' kitchens for delivery to those in need on Abaco and Grand Bahama islands. The Atlantis Blue Project Foundation is the resort's nonprofit organization dedicated to saving sea species and their habitats. Guests can have a direct hand in conservation through activities such as the Sea Turtle Release Experience. The adventure begins beneath the resort, where you get a behind-the-scenes understanding of the resources needed to care for the resort's 50,000 marine animals. It's here where you meet and name the juvenile sea turtle that will be released. From there, it's a short and scenic boat ride to the release spot at Green Cay. It's an immensely pleasurable experience to snorkel alongside your turtle in the open ocean at the moment moments it is released into its new home. You can also get up close and personal with the dolphins at Dolphin Cay. The 14-acre marine mammal habitat includes an education center and an animal-rescue rehabilitation hospital

Atlantis' Sea Turtle Release Experience provides a unique swim-along opportunity.

whose first residents were 17 rescue dolphins from Hurricane Katrina. Creative and interactive activities available at Dolphin Cay ensure that the health and safety of the dolphins are paramount. Other resort amenities include its famous 141-acre Aquaventure waterpark, the 30,000 square-foot Mandara Spa and fitness center, Atlantis Kids Adventures for children ages 3-12 and CRUSH teen club. Tom Weiskopf designed the resort's awardwinning oceanfront18-hole golf course. Even with more activities to do than there are hours in a day, one could argue that five miles of white-sand beaches are Atlantis' most enviable amenity. Nearly every corner of the resort provides views of rhythmic waves that beckon you to the crystal blue waters. It is an old-as-time siren song and one that is nearly impossible to refute. For more information, including rates, special offers, and reservations at The Reef or The Cove at Atlantis, visit atlantisbahamas.com. sl

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MODERN MARVEL

Taycan, the first all-electric sports car, marks a new era for Porsche in the field of e-mobility. Written by Andre James / Photography courtesy of Porsche USA "Hey Porsche" is a song released by the rapper Nelly in 2013. It is also the casual command used to control many aspects of the 2020 Porsche Taycan. It is one of the numerous ways the brand's first allelectric sports car differentiates itself in the burgeoning e-mobility field. Porsche invested some six billion euros for the launch of the Taycan, demonstrating the company's commitment to electric mobility. Even before its simultaneous three-continent debut on September 4th, more than 20,000 Porsche enthusiasts around the globe made a down payment to join the ranks of prospective buyers. Moments after the reveal, a production Taycan set off from Niagara Falls on a 408-mile "real world" road trip to New York City. After traveling 250 miles, and with 39 miles of range remaining, the Taycan stopped for a top-up charge at an Electrify America charging station in Bloomsburg, PA. A two-minute charge, which brought the battery up from 14 percent to 85 percent, was enough to power the sedan for the remaining 158-miles into New York City. Taycan buyers get three years of free charging at the 300 Electrify America stations currently operating in the United States. 44 slmag.net

Recognizable as part of the Porsche family in general and the Panamera in particular, Michael Mauer, Head of Style for Porsche, said that the Taycan is unique in terms of its proportions. "With a brand that is as strong as Porsche, it would not be a good idea to ignore all of the brand's characteristic design elements," he explained. The design team mated the brand's most familiar design cues with features unique to the Taycan to craft a unique brand expression. Selecting a name for a vehicle without a predecessor presented an exciting challenge for the Taycan development team. "A name for a car is ultimately an emotional decisionâ€”but one that should be based on facts and arguments. That requires a systematic approach and a lot of attention to detail," said Michael Reichart, project manager for the Taycan naming project. The Taycan moniker made the cut following a year-and-a-half of small-to-large focus groups around the globe, along with linguist and legal reviews. Composed of two terms of Turkish origin, Taycan roughly translates to "soul of a spirited young horse."

The innovative chassis systems include adaptive air suspension with three-chamber technology including PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) electronic damper control, as well as the Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control Sport (PDCC Sport) electromechanical roll stabilization system including Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus). Capable of generating more than 750 horsepower, and with a top speed of 155 mph, the Taycan Turbo S clocks the zero to 60 mph sprint in 2.8 seconds; the 670 horsepower Taycan Turbo comes in under 3.5 seconds. The Turbo S has a range around 260 miles, while the Turbo's range is up to 280 miles on a single charge. For many, the familiar throaty rumble of a Porsche serves as its acoustic calling card and is an attribute noticeably absent in an electric vehicle. To compensate, the company offers "Porsche Electric Sport Sound" as a $500 standalone option on the Turbo model, and as standard on the top-of-the-line Turbo S. While the soundtrack is definitely dissimilar from its petrol-powered siblings, one could argue

that it is better than silence for those who desire an auditory indicator for all of that horsepower. Inside the cabin of the four-door sports car, there's a reduction in the number of classic hardware controls such as switches and buttons in favor of touch operation or the "Hey Porsche" voice control function. Standout material options include sustainably tanned Club Leather OLEA, which uses olive leaves in the tanning process; eco-friendly Race-Tex, a high-quality microfiber material partially made of recycled polyester fibers; and a floor covering made from Econyl, which uses recycled fishing nets in its manufacture. "We promised a true Porsche for the age of electromobility â€“ a fascinating sports car that not only excites in terms of its technology and driving dynamics, but also sparks a passion in people all over the world, just like its legendary predecessors have done. Now we are delivering on this promise," said Michael Steiner, Member of the Executive Board of Porsche AG â€“ Research and Development. Pricing for the 2020 Porsche Taycan stars at $152,250. First deliveries are expected in December. sl slmag.net

MASTER SOMMELIER BRINGS BOUTIQUE WINE TO YOUR DOORSTEP Written by Neil Charles

To be anointed with the title Master Sommelier (MS) is to be recognized as a wine professional occupying a position in the very highest echelon of the trade. Of the hundreds who aspire to the qualification every year, fewer than five percent eventually acquire the honor, an epic achievement that can take many years of dedicated study to realize. Although the idea of becoming a sommelier and drinking great wine every day sounds romantic and wildly appealing, the fact is that the sommelier’s job is essentially to sell wine while providing a uniquely positive experience for the client at the same time. Wine is about pleasure, or at least it should be, and a sommelier’s primary objective is to lead a guest to a rarefied realm of pleasure while making a profit for his or her employer. At a busy upscale restaurant, sommeliers may get to spend just a few minutes with a guest, during which time they need to take stock of the person’s preferences and find their comfort zone before guiding them towards two or three compelling options that will appeal on every level. “Just because we know a lot about wine doesn’t mean we have the same tastes as somebody else,” says Master Sommelier Ian Cauble. “People drink what gives them pleasure, and our job as wine professionals is to bring things that make people happier.” All this requires a host of skills, some of which are inherited, some of which are acquired. Of the former, elevated intelligence, patience, and an ability to read minds are useful traits; a comprehensive knowledge of the subject ranging from vintages, grapes and regions, to winemaking, pairings, and trends, accounts for much of the rest. Although crucial to the process, the most visible aspect of being a sommelier -- that is, the service itself -represents only the tip of the iceberg. For Cauble, the stressful process of becoming a member (one of only 269 in the world) of the ultra-exclusive Court of Master Sommeliers was complicated by the fact that he was one of a handful of candidates followed for almost a year by film cameras that unflinchingly recorded the extraordinary pressure that such an undertaking can inflict. The entire process can be witnessed in the excellent award-winning 2012 documentary “SOMM”, which has become a Netflix hit. In spite of the added anxiety of a hovering film crew, “it was an honor to share my story with the world,” says Cauble. “Although at times, it added a lot of pressure to know that at the end of the movie people would find out if I had either failed 46 slmag.net

or succeeded.” The outcome has been well-known for years now, but the documentary still makes for thrilling viewing. Growing up in Huntington Beach and studying at Sonoma State University, Cauble caught the food and wine bug early on. After a lengthy period of travel around North Africa and Europe, culminating in a lengthy stay in Portugal, he landed a job at a well-known wine merchant in Beverly Hills. The next stop was Las Vegas, home to the highest concentration of Master Sommeliers anywhere. It was here that he began his studies in earnest and, having been crowned Best Young Sommelier in the World in 2011, went on to pass the MS the following year. Five years ago, Cauble and his business partners created a new direct-to-consumer wine retail company, SommSelect, geared towards hunting down unique, often small-production wines seldom, if ever, seen in even high-end wine stores. Operating from a warehouse in Napa, SommSelect offers two new wines a day and three different membership levels that encourage wine lovers to expand their horizons. “A lot of people come home on a Friday night, and open the same wine they’ve been drinking for months,” he says. “We offer them the opportunity to try something different, and provide them with the expert and informed opinion of a Master Sommelier.” To that end, each email offering comes with a comprehensive account of the wine’s origins, its story and taste profile, as well as a detailed recipe for a compatible dish, providing customers all the facts they need to make a well-informed purchase. The memberships, which include a blind tasting option, allow aspiring oenophiles to engage in the tasting and analytical processes key to becoming a master. With so many retail outlets going the corporate route, pushing more or less identical lineups of predictable, mass-produced wines, SommSelect forges a refreshingly independent path: selections are based entirely on Cauble’s and his team’s personal assessments of a wine’s quality, and there are many surprises. With an eye on consumers at all levels, SommSelect keeps its prices fair by importing directly and offers extremely attractive shipping and storage options. While SommSelect doesn’t promise to make you an instant wine expert, it is as close as we have come to having a personal sommelier. We can thoroughly recommend dipping into some of their offerings for a taste of what the pros are drinking. You just might find some new Friday night favorites. sl For more information visit www.SommSelect.com.

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MOST WANTED

Members of the Sophisticated Living team share their dream gifts to give or receive this season.

Being able to fully disconnect is the ultimate luxury for me. This burly and self-sufficient expedition vehicle from EarthRoamer would give me the freedom to travel where I want without the need for propane, a noisy generator, or water, sewer or electrical hookups. Built-to-order in Colorado, the top-of-the-line $1.5 million EarthRoamer XV-HD includes a full bathroom with a separate shower, washer/dryer, a full kitchen, Bose Surround Sound entertainment, and even in-floor radiant heating. For more information, visit earthroamer.com. Eric Williams, CEO of Sophisticated Living Media

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You can't buy time, but owning a private jet sure can help you save it! I want to add this Cessna CJ3+ to my holiday wish list. With a nine-passenger capacity, each of my daughters could invite a friend, cousin or their grandparents (pets too!) to join us on our next vacation. Contact Doug McCollum at SpiritJets for the purchase price and operating costs: 636.530.7616, dmccollum@spiritjets.com. Carrie Edelstein, Editor-In-Chief, St. Louis edition

Below: It's no secret that I can manage quite nicely in the kitchen with just a microwave and a drawer full of protein bars. However, in an effort to earn some culinary clout, I recently started working with Century Entertainment and Furnishings (centuryliving.com) on plans for a new modern kitchen in my 150-year-old house. I have been coveting this La Cornue Grand Palais 180 range in British Racing Green (from $59,100) ever since I spied it a few years ago in the window of the companyâ€™s showroom on the Rue de Bourgogne in Paris. More information and a list of distributors can be found at lacornueusa.com. Photo by Nathan Kirkman. Bridget Williams, President of Sophisticated Living Media and Editor-In-Chief of the Louisville and Lexington editions

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Considering how important a good night's sleep is, the gift to give and to receive this holiday season is the Hästens 2000T series mattress. It is the legendary manufacturer's first three-part bed, and however you turn, it always feels like you are floating. I have been through so many different brands and styles in my quest to find the ultimate in sleep comfort, and when I discovered this cloudlike respite, I knew I had found my forever bed. For more information, visit chicagoluxurybeds.com. Alison Victoria, publisher, Las Vegas and Chicago editions.

I spend a lot of time cooped up inside working on the computer, and I’m also father to three young boys, so free time is a rare luxury for me. Biking, particularly the off-the-beaten-path variety, has always been one of my passions. I’d be just excited as my sons on Christmas morning if I were to find this $7,000 Santa Cruz Tallboy X01 with a top-of-the-line carbon frame under the tree (santacruzbicycles.com). Jason Yann, Art Director for Sophisticated Living Media

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This holiday season, I'd love to help my wife Jen channel her inner Kardashian with a pair of Porsche Design limited edition P8478 aviator sunglasses ($750), in this year's Color of the Year, a gold hue that would look great with her hair. And for me, well, I'd love the Porsche men's P8478 limited edition polarized sunglasses in black ($635), though if I'm honest, a pair of Reading Tool P8801 readers ($280) are probably more my speed (and just might up my cool factor in staff meetings). For more information, visit Porsche-design.us. Jeffrey Cohen, Editor-In-Chief, Indianapolis edition

Are you listening Santa? Blue is my favorite color, and these stunning earrings are the perfect blend of understated sophistication with a pop of sparkle and glamour. Exclusive to the Diamond Cellar, these 18K white gold, diamond and tanzanite earrings (61.92 carats in total) retail for $53,650. For more information visit diamondcellar. com. Amelia Jeffers, Publisher & Editor-InChief, Columbus edition

I’m not normally a whisky drinker, but I do covet luxury spirits of all types. And this year, the gift of a liquid asset feels just so right. On my wish list is a $2,500 dram of Glenfiddich 50-year-old, available in one of my favorite spaces in Las Vegas, The Talon Club, The Cosmopolitan’s high-limit gaming lounge. Just 50 bottles of this are released every year for 10 years, and only a handful are available domestically. The vessel is a work of art, made of twocolored glass and outfitted in a hand-stitched leather-bound case. Offering its players every type of food and beverage imaginable, I once even had a pizza delivered to the Talon Club from the resort’s “secret pizza” parlor. Let me tell you, nothing goes better with a prestigious sip than a gooey cheese pizza. Melinda Sheckells, Editor-in-Chief, Chicago and Las Vegas editions

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Bibliotaph... Town and Country

Compiled by Victoria Chase For author Nathanael Johnson, what started as a father-and-daughter nature hunt during daily walks in their San Francisco neighborhood turned into an in-depth quest to discover the secrets of the flora and fauna in the larger urban jungle. His resulting narrative provides an interesting perspective for rediscovering the natural world all around us. Nathanael Johnson—Unseen City: The Majesty of Pigeons, the Discreet Charm of Snails & Other Wonders of the Urban Wilderness—hardcover, 256 pages, Random House (randomhouse.com)

Canadian photographer Ian Brown spent twelve years traveling eighty thousand miles across the United States in an old truck to document what the idea of the "American dream" looks like to a diverse crosssection of the population. Each of the 175 portraits in the book are accompanied by handwritten notes from each subject that tell, in their own words, what the American dream means to them. Available in April, 2020. Ian Brown—American Dreams: Portraits and Stories of a Country—hardcover, 368 pages, Ten Speed Press (crownpublishing.com) A valuable resource for architects, engineers, and designers, this stunning compendium details hundreds of building façades in contemporary architecture, using photography and engaging text to examine the aesthetic and functional properties of each. Oscar Riera Ojeda—FAÇADES: A Visual Compendium of Modern Architectural Styles—hardcover, 448 pages, Prestel Publishing (penguinrandomhouse.com)

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The son of Swedish immigrants who settled in New Jersey, Harrie T. Lindeberg (1880–1959), went on to become the standard-bearer of the American Country House Era. More than 200 photographs richly illustrate Lindeberg's penchant for melding Scandinavian, European, and American architectural traditions into residences that have stood the test of time. Peter Pennoyer and Anne Walker— Harrie T. Lindeberg and the American Country House—hardcover, 256 pages, The Monacelli Press (monacellipress.com)

bib 'li' o 'taph, [bib-lee-uhtaf, -tahf ]: a person who caches or hoards books Credited with paving the way for a neighborhoodtransforming brownstone revival when it was first published in 1972, this reissue provides updated and expanded text and new color photography, ensuring that it will remain the go-to guide for brownstone architecture and interiors. Charles Lockwood, Patrick W. Ciccone, Jonathan D. Taylor—Bricks & Brownstone: The New York Row House—hardcover, 352 pages, Rizzoli (rizzoliusa.com)

Inspired by the flavors, ingredients, and flair of Mexico City, chef, restaurateur, and culinary pacesetter Gabriela Cámara shares 150 fresh-first and vegetable-forward recipes for simple, authentic and sophisticated contemporary Mexican cuisine. Gabriela Cámara and Malena Watrous—My Mexico City Kitchen: Recipes and Convictions—hardcover, 368 pages, Lorena Jones Books (crownpublishing.com) Welcoming readers into their homes in Hudson Valley and New England, authors and tastemakers Joan Osofsky and Abby Adams partner with culinary stars to provide a guidebook for inspired seasonal soirees. Joan Osofsky and Abby Adams—Entertaining in the Country: Love Where You Eat: Festive Table Settings, Favorite Recipes and Design Inspiration— hardcover, 192 pages, Rizzoli (rizzoliusa.com)

Classically trained chef, journalist, and founder of the popular cooking school at Maine's Salt Water Farm, Annemarie Ahearn shares recipes, ageold cooking techniques, and tips on tools to help the reader find fulfillment and confidence in the kitchen. Available in April, 2020. Annemarie Ahearn—Modern Country Cooking: Kitchen Skills and Seasonal Recipes from Salt Water Farm—hardcover, 264 pages, Roost Books (roostbooks.com)

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MADE-TO-MEASURE UP Nicole + Felicia

Written by Victoria Chase Some would say that Taiwanese sisters Nicole and Felicia Chang were born to be fashion designers. Their family's Taipei-based wedding gown manufacturing business supplies dresses for high-end brands including Elie Saab, Pronovias, Viktor & Rolf, and Demetrios, among others. Nicole and Felicia grew up surrounded by fantastical fashion, and in the process, absorbed everything from fit to fabrics. Today, even before reaching their thirtieth birthdays, the sisters are making their mark in the competitive world of luxury bridal and evening wear. Heeding their father's advice, before joining the family business, the sisters broadened their horizons by attending college at the University of California at Berkley. Nicole studied political economy, while Felicia focused on environmental economics and city planning. After graduation, both girls felt the pull of their family tradition and returned to Taiwan to launch their eponymous brand in 2015. Initially catering to Asian consumers with a perspective that both celebrated their culture's aesthetic and capitalized 54 slmag.net

on a rabid consumer need for what's new and next, Nicole + Felicia set out to offer a viable alternative to historic and largely European brands. Working in the familiar realm of bridal and then expanding into evening wear, a cadre of young, talented designers work as a team to carry out Nicole and Felicia's vision for a given season. Nicole+Felicia gowns represent a wide array of flattering silhouettes rendered in luxury fabrics and bold colors. Strategically placing their dare-to-be-different designs on key celebrities in Asia allowed the brand to quickly garner positive press and inquiries from potential customers around the globe. Targeting their made-to-measure designs to strong, confident, and independent women, the sisters say they want to inspire their clients to invest in pieces that are timeless, rather than just being influenced by trends. Wearing a Nicole + Felicia dress, they add, is for the woman who wants to be the benchmark. sl

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HOLIDAY BLUES Beguiling bijoux for making spirits bright

Compiled By Bridget Williams

Clockwise from top left: Anaya Celeste Dark Lotus 18K white gold, abalone, diamond, and tanzanite Ring (price upon request; ananya.com). BQ Jewelry sapphire and platinum earrings (price upon request; baiyangjewelry.com). Adam Foster Fine Jewelry lapis necklace (price upon request; fosterjewelry.com). CIRARI 18K yellow gold ring with turquoise, brown diamonds, and white agate ($3,290; cirari.com). John Hardy Naga sterling silver cufflinks with blue sapphires ($495; johnhardy.com). Marco Bicego Paradise iolite and blue topaz three-strand bracelet ($2,400; us.marcobicego.com). Tamara Comolli Mikado Flamenco earrings with Swiss topaz ($3,300; tamaracomolli.com). Carrell Soleil sapphire and diamond ring ($9,900; carelle.com).

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Clockwise from top left: Anne Sisteron diamond Lapis Star necklace ($865; annesisteron.com). Are Vartanian 18K white gold, paraiba tourmaline, and white diamond necklace ($1,000,000; aravartanian.com). Giovanni Ferraris sapphire and diamond earrings (price upon request; ferraris.it/en/). Graziela titanium, emerald and diamond earrings (price upon request; grazielagems.com). Reinstein Ross 20K peach gold Sunflower Vine bangle with blue sapphires ($27,000; reinsteinross.com). Assael aquamarine, black jade, and South Sea pearl earrings (price upon request; assael.com).

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CROWD PLEASER

With three rows of seating, BMWâ€™s X7 transports your troupe in luxury. Written by Andre James / Photography courtesy of BMW USA Part of the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) segment, BMW's longanticipated X7 three-row crossover is the latest and largest model in the BMW X line-up and represents the carmaker's ongoing model offensive in this niche. The SAV's commanding presence, when viewed from the front, comes courtesy of the largest kidney grill ever for a BMW. The generous width of the car is further accentuated by slim twin headlights with striking blue x-shaped elements. Rear doors are longer than those at the front, which speak to the spaciousness inside. This design element, combined with ample ground clearance, makes getting in and out a breeze. At the rear, the space between the LED taillights in bridged by a chrome bar, a design cue borrowed from the BMW 7 Series sedan. The electric twosection split tailgate offers hands-free operation with the optional Comfort Access Package. The Design Pure Excellence equipment line, the M Sport package and BMW individual options offer a dizzying array of 58 slmag.net

customization options for customers looking to create a truly personal expression in terms of appearance and performance. Accents in matte aluminum or high-gloss chrome, XL wheels, six colors of Vernasca leather, and oversized intakes are but a few of the alternatives that can be opted for on the outside. Inside the elegantly appointed cabin, three rows of seats can comfortably accommodate up to seven passengers. Two individual seats with space between them can be specified for the middle row as an option, a first for an SAV. Drivers of the X7 can control various seating positions throughout the vehicle using a control panel integrated within the driver's door. Adding to the feeling of spaciousness is the standard electrically-operated panoramic glass roof that extends to the third row. At night, the Sky Lounge spreads LED light across the glass roof to mimic a starry sky. Customers can create their desired ambiance throughout the cabin by selecting from six lighting hues and a variety of settings via the iDrive control system.

The standard BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes a Control Display and a fully digital instrument cluster. Intuitively grouped in the center console are the iDrive Controller, the gear selector, the start/stop button, the Driving Experience Control switch, and buttons regulating the air suspension and optional off-road modes. Luxe glass applications are an available option for selected controls. "Hey BMW" is the casual prompt to summon the digital helper as part of the standard BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. For those desiring to be on a first-name basis with their digital PA, the driver also has the option of giving the system a name of their choosing. Over time, the PA learns the driver's routines, preferences, and habits and can subsequently apply them in the appropriate context. Saying "Hey BMW, I'm cold," will prompt the PA to spring into action and adjust the temperature accordingly. For getting even cozier with the car, there's a Caring Car function. It offers a choice of four in-car experiences that encompass functions such as seat massage, fragrance, and music to suit the

driver's current mood. Also of note is the Digital Key function, which allows the car to be locked and unlocked using a smartphone, thereby dispensing with the need for a conventional car key. The trio of turbo-charged engine variants benefit from the latest generation BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive and newly developed, precisely tuned chassis technology. Thereâ€™s a twin-turbo 456-hp 4.4-liter V-8 in the X7 xDrive50i and a 335-hp 3.0-liter six-cylinder in-line engine in the X7 xDrive40i. The 4.4-liter Turbo V8 with an M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology package in the X7 M50i enables the 0 to 60mph sprint in 4.5 seconds. All three engines boast an eightspeed Steptronic transmission with a wider gear ratio and new control electronics that help to increase the drive system's overall efficiency. A pillow-like ride comes courtesy of its two-axle air suspension with automatic self-leveling. Built at the BMW Plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, pricing for the BMW X7 starts at $74,895. sl slmag.net

ENAMORED OF ENAMEL First crafted in Cyprus around the 13th century BC, enamel endures in popularity for fine jewelry and watch artisans. Compiled by Bridget Williams

Clockwise from top left: Jaipur Bougainvillea plique-à-jour enamel and emerald ring from Alice Cicolini ($6,845; alicecicolini.com). 14K yellow gold and enamel Amour band from Alison Lou ($950; alisonlou.com). 18K yellow gold Russell kyanite and French enamel medallion ring from Sig Ward Jewelry ($4,840; sigwardjewelry.com). Swallow one-ear gemstone and enamel earring from Lydia Courteille ($8,285; lydiacourteille.com). Course Correction 18K and Champlevé enamel ring from Foundrae (price upon request; foundrae. com). Daya Bee drop enamel earrings from Jennifer Behr ($282; jenniferbehr.com). Sterling silver and enamel Geometrica bracelet by Belle Etoile ($495; belleetoilejewelry.com). Andy Lif Jewelry plique-à-jour enamel and diamond hoop earrings (price upon request; andylifjewelry.com). Majesty earrings from Aisha Baker with blue enamel, diamonds and round citrine (price upon request; aishabaker.com). Holly Dyment 18K yellow gold Monday diamond, pearl, and enamel ring ($6,791; hollydyment.com).

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Clockwise from top left: “Tanzanite – Silver” from Lundis Bleus with central dial accented by tanzanite blue vitreous grand feu enamel ($3,836; lundis-bleus.com). The reverse face of Jaeger-LeCoultre's Reverso Tribute Enamel Alfons Mucha features an enameled miniature of a painting (price upon request; jaeger-lecoultre.com). 18K yellow gold Twinkle Star enamel necklace with diamonds from Colette ($4,376; colettejewelry.com). 14K gold Lift the Veil medallion charm from Lulu Frost ($895; lulufrost.com). The Vulcain Art of Enamel limited edition timepiece with cloisonné dial (price upon request; vulcan-watches.ch/en/). Breguet Classique 5177 with grand feu blue enamel dial ($23,700; breguet.com). Roxanne Assoulin Alphabet Soup enamel stretch bracelets ($425 as shown; roxanneassoulin.com).

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THE GREATEST SNOW ON EARTH Utah offers a host of new and below-the-radar options for those in pursuit of perfect powder and smaller crowds. Written by Caylee Matthews Even in this era of Instagram travel, where a post of a picturesque spot prompts the masses to overrun a given location, there are still fairly undiscovered places where you can pursue your passion. For skiers, Brian Head Resort in Southern Utah remains one of those places. When compared with other ski destinations, Utah boasts impressive numbers for those seeking pristine powder and smaller crowds, including 500” of annual snowfall and nearly one-third less volume on their lifts and runs that resorts in neighboring states. Here’s our quick guide to planning your Utah ski getaway in both well-known and off-the-beaten-path locations: VAIL RESORTS New for the 2019-20 season, Vail resorts launched the Epic Day Pass (starting at $106), which allows guests to ski for up to 50 percent off the lift ticket window prices. 62 slmag.net

For guests looking to ski more days in the 2019-20 season, the Epic Pass and Epic Local Pass (launching at $939), provides unlimited, unrestricted access to all of Vail Resorts’ owned and operated properties and additional access to partner resorts around the world. To refuel after a day on the slopes, be sure to check out the flown-in-fresh oysters and lobster rolls at Rime Seafood and Raw Bar (rimerawbar.com), located at the top of Mountaineer Express lift. High West Distillery’s Nelson Cottage offers one-seating-anight dinners with expert whiskey pairings from the world’s only ski-in/ski-out distillery (highwest.com). PARK CITY AREA With 7,300-acres, 41 lifts, and seven terrain parks, Park City Mountain Resort is the largest resort in the

Riders on the Giant Steps Express are treated to expansive views that include the red rock formations of Ashdown Gorge Wilderness Area and Cedar Breaks National Monument. Photo by Mike Saemisch.

United States and offers a plethora of dining and lodging options. The winter ski season is expected to commence on November 22nd and close on April 12th. APEX RESIDENCES PARK CITY (apexparkcity.com) Park Cityâ€™s newest private residences are nestled at the highest elevation in Canyons Village at Park City Mountain and offer unparalleled access to the largest mountain resort in the country. A ski bridge and trails that run through the community offer a true ski-in, ski-out experience. Three distinct home styles, designed to bring the outdoors in, will fuse modern architecture and sophisticated alpine charm. A neighborhood slope-side clubhouse encompasses a state-of-the-art fitness center, games room, outdoor swimming pools, a steam room, sauna, and spa treatment rooms.

LIFT (liftparkcity.com) Featuring the space and refinement of a single-family home, the convenience and amenities of a boutique hotel, and the intimacy of a private club, Lift Park City, which opened this past summer, offers a vibrant pedestrian neighborhood of new residences, shops, and restaurants. In addition to a selection of exclusive penthouses and spacious four-bedroom homes, Lift has adjacent access to the mountain resortâ€™s soon-to-debut high-speed chairlift and a luxe pool deck overlooking the Retreat ski-home trail. SOUTHERN UTAH Known year-round for the scenic natural wonders found in Zion National Park and Cedar Breaks National Monument, Southern Utah is also home to a pair of high-elevation ski areas with big-time powder and little-town crowds.

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Brian Head Ski Resort Photo by Jay Dash. Brian Head Ski Resort

EAGLE POINT (eaglepointresort.com) Located 17 scenic miles from Beaver, this independently-owned ski resort encompasses 650 skiable acres high in the Tushar Mountains. Lauded for being extremely family-friendly, the heart of the village offers plenty of ski-in/ski-out lodging. With an average of 400-inches of snow each season, the remarkably varied terrain across 40 runs can amply occupy beginners to experts. A professionally-designed terrain park integrates natural and human-made features. Operating dates for the 2019-20 winter season are December 20th through April 12th. BRIAN HEAD RESORT (brianhead.com) First opened in the winter of 1964-1965, this family-operated resort is nestled within Cedar Breaks National Monument and enjoys 360-inches of snowfall annually. Just 3.5 hours by car from both Salt Lake City and Las Vegas, dates for the upcoming winter season are anticipated to be November 15th through April 12th. Being further afoot means that it often gets bypassed for closer peaks, but going the extra distance is worth it for nearly empty powder runs. Boasting an annual snowfall of over 360” and Utah’s highest base elevation, two connected mountains 64 slmag.net

(Giant Steps and Navajo) offer 71 runs and eight chair lifts. For the ultimate off-piste experience, Snowbird’s Powderbird helicopter provides access to pristine backcountry skiing. Lodging options range from moderately-priced hotel rooms to more upscale condominiums and rental homes. The boutique Compass Rose Lodge in Huntsville (compassroselodge.com) boasts a private observatory. Don’t miss the Kansas City-style pork ribs and the festive atmosphere at The Last Chair Saloon in the town of Brian’s Head, the highest city in Utah. Fun add-on activities include snowmobiling through Cedar Breaks National Monument to explore snow-dusted red rock hoodoos and wine tasting at IG Winery, Utah’s premier winery in nearby Cedar City. SUNDANCE For those who live the mantra “Sleep, Eat, Ski,” check-in to Sundance Mountain Resort (sundanceresort.com) and work up an appetite on the slopes at Red Mountain Resort. For dinner, head to the highly-rated Tree Room, followed by a nightcap at Owl Bar, where Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid famously plotted their schemes. sl

ROM DOT COM

StyleLab emerges as a passion project from a doting couple into a bona fide sales tool for retailers. By Jessi C. Acuña When fashion denizen Christina Czap met tech wizard Felipe Saint-Jean eight years ago in New York City they never imagined their love story would also take an entrepreneurial turn. At the time, Saint-Jean, has just earned his doctorate in computer science from Yale, with a focus on cyber security, and Czap was a senior digital stylist and top seller for a major etailer. And much like Czap and Saint-Jean, technology and fashion do have a very important place in each other’s lives. After observing her talent for selling, he began to create technology solutions to help her work better and smarter— problem No. 1, there was no highly sophisticated software for stylists to communicate with clients. “Christina’s always being very progressive about how she would do outreach, how she would connect with her customers, seeing whatever media channels that the customers would communicate,” says Saint-Jean. And now with the launch StyleLab, Saint-Jean, and Czap, who works at Conde Nast’s Vogue, have an ideal partnership in both life and business. StyleLab takes his nearly decade’s worth of tech created for Czap and packages it into a niche software company that provides solutions for luxury ecommerce. The adaptable, user-friendly tool helps associates and online stylists create content to push sales. It is currently piloting with some of the biggest luxury commerce companies in the world. A native of Napa Valley, California, Czap has lived the fashionable life all over the United States thanks to a fashion career that spans high levels sales positions in both brick and mortar and ecommerce that has taken her from Las Vegas to Miami and later to New York City. In December 2012 she met Saint-Jean. She’d arrived in the big city 90 days prior. He’d been there only a month. “Since the day he met me he had started building things for me to use,” says Czap. “The first thing he built eight years ago was kind of like a website where I could put imagery for my clients to visit.”

Christina Czap and Felipe Saint-Jean

Saint-Jean, who is originally from Chile, has an impressive resume with work and research extending to the governments of Chile, Peru and the U.S. Most recently, he’s developed software for students and faculty for the Department of Education of New York. “She was always so determined to give a luxury experience to her clients, and I wanted to build her tools to make her life easier and help her be successful,” says Saint-Jean. “If my top clients say, ‘I need looks for a wedding this weekend,’ our tool does this [magazine] editorial style content that looks beautiful and tells a story,” says Czap. “You can do collages, you can do product rows, and then you can send it as email or you can send as a PDF, or you can send it as a URL through a text. It populates as a Link Preview when you send it through iMessage.” This is service experience at its finest—a personalized lookbook for customers from their trusted retail network. It’s fast and convenient for both the shopper and the seller. As for translating this into sales, Czap says it depends on how the retailer wants the customer to buy. “We can disable all the links so they just look at it and they write back to the sales associate, ‘Hey, I like this, this and this, send it to me.’ Or, we can enable the links and it can route them to the website. It has tracking in it, so it could give the commission to the sales associate.” Currently, StyleLab has four clients since launching earlier this year. Even more than the pride she takes in innovating for the industry she loves, Czap basks in many hours of partnership and dedication that the couple have poured into this passion project. “This company is a romantic startup,” she says. “It is a love story.” sl digitalstylelab.com slmag.net

SOPHISTICATED SOURCE Curated by Samantha Beard

RopedIn Secret Combination necklace featuring diamonds set in platinum, price upon request, Harry Winston, Bellagio, 702.479.2479

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Blue coasters, Kim Seybert, The Design Bar, thedesignbars.com

Hudson Baby Bourbon Whiskey, Liquor World, 702.902.1800

Louxor bar set, $3500, Baccarat, The Forum Shops at Caesars, 702.693.6877

Hendrickâ€™s Gin, Midsummer Solstice Limited Release, Total Wine, 702.933.8740

Assorted tonics and sodas, Three Cents Artisanal Beverages, threecents.co.uk

Vermouth, Del Professore, delprofessore.it

Torched collection cocktail shaker ($125) and jigger ($35), Michael Aram, The Design Bar, thedesignbars.com

16-piece limited edition gift set, Tane x Tequila Casa Dragones, casadragones.com

Ancho Chile liqueur, Ancho Reyes, Leeâ€™s Liquor, 702.458.5700

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+33+ Eau de parfum, price upon request, Chrome Hearts, Wynn Plaza, 702.668.2092

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Farren lace-up bow leather booties, $995, Tabitha Simmons, Bergdorf Goodman, berdorfgoodman.com

Star hoodie, $850, Saint Laurent, The Forum Shops at Caesars, 702.750.3480

Dagger earrings in 18k yellow gold, rose-cut whitepavĂŠ white and champagne diamonds, black diamond and ruby, $3,800, Pamela Love, pamelalove.com

Double-breasted pleated leather coat, $8,990, Alexander McQueen, Wynn Las Vegas, 702.369.0510

Coat and trousers, $3,850 and $1,350, Prada

Porcelain piercing vase in black/white, $781, Fornasetti, amara.com

Skeleton logo-print iPhone case, $95, Off White, Mr. Porter, mrporter.com

Serpent bar stool in blackened Steel, $3,900, Kelly Wearstler, kellywearstler.com

Nail lacquer in black cherry, $37, Tom Ford, Neiman Marcus, 702.731.3636

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Metallic one-shoulder ruffled dress, $2,650, Altuzarra, The Shops at Crystals, 702.359.0570

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Embroidered linen napkins, price upon request, Di Pasquale Guthmann, dipasqualeguthmann.com

Luna 3 sonic facial cleanser in lavender, $199, Foreo, foreo.com

Feuille de Lavande scented candle, $65, Diptyque, Wynn Plaza, 702.735.0127

Daybreak SP suede and mesh sneakers, $100, Nike, mrporter.com

Winter 2019 look, Dior Homme, dior.com

Color Full shampoo and conditioner, $38 and $40, Rahua, rahua.com Hilma af Klint: Paintings for the Future coffee table book, $65, Guggenheim Store, guggenheimstore.org

Herbarium down quilt cover and pillow case, $680 and $140, HĂ¤stens, Chicago Luxury Beds, chicagoluxurybeds.com

Spring/Summer 2020 look, Givenchy, Wynn, 702.737.1091

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Orange Colored Sky Waterlily collection wool and silk rug, $16,600, Jurgen Dahlmaans of Rug Star at Oscar Isberian, isberian.com

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Leather shirt in Tigerâ€™s Eye, $456, Ganni, thefrankieshop.com

Eye tint liquid eyeshadow in camel smoke, $28, Giorgio Armani, Nordstrom, Fashion Show, 702.862.2525

Fall/Winter 2019 look, Max Mara, maxmara.com

Camel-hair kitten-heel mules, $585, Giuliva Heritage Collection X Le Monde Beryl, matchesfashion.com

Fall/Winter 2019 look, Hugo Boss, The Grand Canal Shoppes, 702.836.0940

The Pouch butter calf clutch, $2,700, Bottega Veneta, The Shops at Crystals, 702.220.4751

Plaid cashmere-wool jacket, $2,995, Ralph Lauren Purple Label, Ralph Lauren, ralphlauren.com

Pedestal base lounge and ottoman in Ayers Rock Volo leather, $4,723 and $2,316, Jehs and Laub at Design Within Reach, dwr.com Zik 3 camel leather-grain headphones and wireless charger, $400, Parrot at Saks Fifth Avenue, Fashion Show, 702.733.8300

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SHINE BRIGHT

By Amaya Jackson

Designer Meredith Marks talks to SL about her muse, her mother and greeting every day with gratitude. Meredith Marks’ jewelry has been worn by celebrities such as Rihanna and Charlize Theron, but her designs have always been about being as livable as they are luxurious. Launched in 2009, Marks’ eponymous line is inspired by everything from her mother’s and grandmother’s jewelry collections to plants and nature. She has won a number of awards and has expanded into handbags and apparel. Marks sits down with SL to discuss her must-haves, her guilty pleasures and her thoughts on what sophisticated really means.

friends, Marcellas Reynolds, just published his first book. It is a coffee table book and is beyond incredible, tracking the journey of the black model and telling the story of all of these strong women who changed the industry for generations to come. What is your favorite cocktail? Vida Reposado on the rocks. Coffee or tea? Both, but always coffee first thing in the morning.

What is the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning? I greet every morning with an open mind, open heart and a hot cup of coffee. The tone of the entire day starts with setting my mindset to appreciate all that I have. My coffee is a reminder of how fortunate I am to be in a position to pursue my

Guilty pleasure? Caviar. What’s your favorite country to visit? France.

dream to design and to create every single day. Most sophisticated city… London. Name one thing that you can’t live without. My family. I have been blessed to have strong relationships and an incredible,

Place you go for utter peace… Virgin Gorda.

supportive family. Name your top three vacation must-haves. Beautiful spa, What is your favorite piece in your closet? My metal Dolce &

tranquil beach, calm mind.

Gabbana chastity belt from over 10 years ago. What is the most elegant gift to give or to receive? Anything Meredith Marks. Who or what inspires you? My mother.

Most sophisticated structure or building… Vessel at Hudson Yards in New York Where is your favorite place to go when you come to Chicago? Lakefront.

Who is your muse? Audrey Hepburn. No one should ever wear… A bad attitude Most sophisticated person ever? Again, my mother. Everyone should own… A good backgammon set. Proudest career moment? When I opened my store in Park City, Utah. Who is your dream client? I work to help empower women and make them feel good about themselves and what they wear. Most often it is true that we feel our best when we look our best. My dream client is any woman out there who I can help feel better

Most universally flattering color… Black. Current must-have from your collection? Stardust ring. Describe your line in three words. Sophisticated,

and stronger by wearing my pieces.

versatile, luxury.

What are you reading right now? Supreme Models: Iconic Black

How do you define ‘sophistication’? Someone experienced in

Women Who Revolutionized Fashion. One of my oldest, dearest

fashion and culture.

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Meredith Marks wearing the Kat bracelet. Photo by Karlina Vitolina

Meredith Marks newest apparel, the Delilah Denim, paired with Meredith Marks jewelry. Photo by Elisha Knight

Meredith Marks new Leigh Pendant in silver black diamonds. Photo by Elisha Knight

Above, Leather & Lace jacket paired with the large Sage necklace. Photo by Elisha Knight Below, The Kat bracelet and ring paired with the Poison ring. Photo by Elisha Knight

Meredith Marks showcases one of her favorite piecesâ€”the Reid earrings in blue topaz. Photo by Romer Pedron.

Below, the Stardust bangle and Chloe ring. Photo by Elisha Knight

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FOND FAREWELL Roger Thomas says goodbye to the artful residence he has called home for more than two decades By Rob Kachelriess / Photography by Benedetta Pignatelli Roger Thomas is one of the most accomplished interior designers in the world. He spent 40 years of his career with Mirage Resorts and Wynn Resorts, shaping the image of iconic properties such as The Mirage, Bellagio and Wynn, helping to bring Las Vegas casino resorts into a new era of sophistication. Yet when it was time to build his own home 21 years ago, Thomas was much too busy to design it himself. He was consumed with the opening of the Bellagio, so he left the big decisions to his architect, Mark Mack. “I said to Mark when I hired him, ‘Two designers are one too many, and I’m far too distracted with the new hotel to be really as effective as I’d like to be,’” Thomas remembers. “’So you have to take the whole thing.’” 76 slmag.net

An idea to thoroughly decorate the home in lavender was quickly discarded. (“I don’t think I’m quite as gay as an entirely lavender house,” Thomas jokes). Then Mack suggested primary colors—red, yellow and blue. Thomas agreed as long as he could make the final choices. “It turned out to be cobalt, brick and straw,” he says. “Those are great colors.” The tones gave character to the timeless nature of the home—a more than 5,000-square-foot three-bedroom masterpiece of concrete and steel in the affluent Eagle Hills neighborhood of Summerlin. Mack created a bold structure of rectangular lines and large windows that guide an effortless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. The strength of the architecture is balanced by the tranquility of mature trees that frame a swimming pool and secluded koi pond.

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After the house was finished, Thomas regrouped with his architect and decided more work needed to be done. A pool house was built behind a yellow wall in the outside yard with a full bedroom and bathroom, although Thomas admits it’s been “used as a storeroom exclusively ever since.” Mack added a woodburning oven and barbecue area. A breezeway was constructed to connect the main house to the maid’s quarters—a necessity in raising Thomas’ then 8-year-old daughter Drew, who made a special request of her own in designing the home. She wanted a secret door, inspired by one in the library of Steve and Elaine Wynn’s Shadow Creek residence. “And that was her favorite thing in the whole house,” Thomas says. With social energy to spare, the home has hosted countless dinner parties over the years, often with a completely different guest list from week to week. Knowing that formal spaces such as living rooms and libraries rarely see foot traffic, Thomas elected to make the kitchen a large furnished focal point—a move well ahead of its time. By comparison, the master bedroom is quiet and isolated with thick walls blocking out any trace of sound, even on windy nights. “You wake up in the morning, press a button at bedside, the windows open and you’re in heaven,” Thomas says. While remodeling projects are a favorite recurring pastime in Summerlin neighborhoods, there have been no renovations 78 slmag.net

to the home—only relatively minor changes. Some flooring was darkened to create a sense of warmth and red Venetian plaster in the master bedroom was covered with handmade Maya Romanoff wallcovering, but most of the decor has an ageless quality that will still be in fashion another 21 years from now. “The wood finishes, the library shelving, the kitchen cabinets—everything is original,” Thomas says. The home’s evolution is more accurately represented by Thomas’ comprehensive art collection. Highlights include a wallmounted Swiss Box by Donald Judd and blown-glass pieces by Dale Chihuly that were samples from the artist’s famous Fiori di Como display at the Bellagio. Even the furniture resembles artwork, from a Milanese cabinet by Tomaso Buzzi to 1930s-era chairs by Paul Dupré-Lafon. Portraits of Thomas were done by notable artists, including photographers such as Christopher Makos, painters such as V. Douglas Snow and an especially cherished two-panel portrait by Andy Warhol. “I had 10 portraits done when I was 30,” Thomas says. “Because I knew I would never want to have them done when I was older—and because I thought American portraiture was not being used anymore.” Then he jokes again: “The Robert Mapplethorpe [photographic portraits] look like the best post office ‘wanted’ posters.”

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Thomas says he added art slowly for two years. “When I moved into this house, I didn’t hang a single piece of art or put out a single accessory for six months,” he says. “Because the sculpture of the house was so sublime, I wanted to not only enjoy it, but figure out for sure where I wanted to hang things.” More than two decades later, Thomas is in another period of transition. After making a few unsuccessful attempts to retire, he’s finally wrapping up his time at Wynn Resorts and plans to travel extensively with husband, Arthur Libera. Thomas sold the Eagle Hills home to his brother, taking comfort that it will stay within the family. However, in transferring ownership, he is downsizing the art collection. Some pieces donated to the Nevada Museum of Art 10

years ago now hang at The Smith Center, where Thomas served on the board of directors for 10 years. “I’ve already given away an entire collection of books,” he says, citing extensive works from his library on the topics of Native American art history, early 19th-century French design and art related to gender and sexuality. While its contents are being repurposed, the home itself remains a work of art all by itself—a masterpiece that will inspire generations to come. “That’s what great architecture does,” Thomas says. “It fills you every day, not just when you walk in the first time. I still wake up every morning feeling like I’m on vacation in this house.” sl slmag.net

DEEP DIVE

From sea to plate, the fresh seafood selection at Estiatorio Milos is truly the catch of the day. By Rob Kachelriess / Photography by Key Lime Photo / keylimephoto.com

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Salt-Crusted Lavraki serves 6 to 8 people and the fish is cooked entirely in sea salt, then presented table-side, where it is cracked open to reveal the beauty beneath. The dish comes with steamed horta, a traditional Greek way of preparing a variety of greens. Milos uses rainbow Swiss chard.

When dining at Estiatorio Milos at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, thereâ€™s a good chance your meal was swimming in the waters of the Mediterranean within the previous 36 hours. Head chef Jesse

Maldonado runs a tight operation at the restaurant, which combines an ambitious fresh fish program with traditional Greek recipes in a bright, open, fine-dining atmosphere.

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The windows offer stunning views of the iconic Las Vegas Strip, but guests are likely to first direct their eyes toward the “seafood market” near the kitchen—a photogenic display of the day’s catch, kept on ice while waiting to be selected. Maldonado orders the seafood a day in advance, working with a trusted network of sources. “They know we care about our food,” he says. “They know we care about our products. They know how picky we are when it comes to quality.” Fish is packed in insulated boxes within eight hours of being snatched from the European waters. It’s immediately flown across the Atlantic Ocean to Las Vegas and brought straight from the airport to Estiatorio Milos. “I’m not lying when I say the fish is fresh,” Maldonado says. “Water from the ocean is still on it. You’ll see the hooks on the fish. It’s put in the boxes as soon as possible.” While Estiatorio Milos is partial to sourcing from the Mediterranean, seafood is ordered from all over the world. On any given day, the restaurant can feature shrimp from Madagascar, langoustines from Scotland or carabineros from Spain. Closer to home, stone crabs are flown in from Florida and blue crab is supplied by a small-batch producer in Maryland. It’s very much a family affair for Maldonado. His father and brother help in the kitchen, while his sister works the front of the house.

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Together, they’re part of a team that crunches numbers and calculates customer projections to order enough seafood daily without wasting it. Saving fish for later or repurposing it into other dishes is not an option. “It’s very risky because if I have bad weather in Portugal or Greece, or if we have a delayed flight, we might end up with no fish,” Maldonado says. The chef won’t know for sure until his alarm goes off at 3 a.m. and he checks his email. His usual reaction: “OK, I have fish coming. I can go back to sleep.” The drive, commitment and knowledge to secure the best fish in the world is reflected in the customer service at Estiatorio Milos. Once a table is seated, a captain who leads the service team discusses the day’s seafood selection with the party. Guests are then invited to walk over and browse the market. It’s very much an educational experience, with the captain sharing details on everything from taste to texture. The fish chosen is the same fish delivered to the table. The catch can be prepared three ways. The simplest is as sashimi—served raw in thin slices. “Emperor snapper is especially good for this,” Maldonado says. “The texture of the meat is so light, it works well as sashimi.” Most customers, however, prefer simple grilling. After the fish is pulled from the display, it’s scaled, seasoned and grilled over an open flame. “We put the fish on racks, so it will never actually touch the grill,” Maldonado says.

Milosâ€™ fresh seafood market changes daily based on the fishermenâ€™s catch. This presentation offers a variety of rare and luxe fish and seafood, from different types of fish to lobster, stone crab, sardines and Carabineros from Spain. Milos offers some of the freshest Mediterranean seafood in the world, with each item going from the ocean to plate within 36 hours.

Dorade Royale is available for lunch or dinner and is one of the most popular items on the menu.

Barbouni are best served pan-fried with dried Greek oregano and sea salt from Kythira. The dish is accompanied by an herb salad featuring dill, parsley, fennel tops, spring onion, lemon zest and red onion.

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Dorade Royale, grilled Mediterranean Sea Bream with ladolemono (lemon and olive oil)

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Whole fish sashimi. Guests can choose any fish from the market and have it presented this way—making for a luxe, custom experience you can’t find anywhere else in Las Vegas. It s prepared two ways. In one version, it is decorated with shallots, Fresno chilis, micro-herbs, and a squeeze of lime juice. The other side of the fish is prepared with micro-thyme and the zest and squeeze of a lemon. The whole fish is then finished with My Sister’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil and sea salt harvested on the island of Kythira.

Once it’s ready, the fish is opened up or “butterflied” and deboned. It’s seasoned with Greek sea salt from Kythira and finished with capers, parsley and ladolemono—an emulsion of olive oil and lemon. “We’re so proud of the freshness of the fish, we don’t use excess sauces,” Maldonado says. “We don’t overpower anything.” Larger fish can be baked in a salt crust for parties to share. Maldonado recommends fish that are at least three pounds. The size helps preserve moisture and minimizes the chance of any unwelcome dryness. “We create a shell with the salt and bake it in the oven,” the chef says. “It takes anywhere from 45 minutes to one hour. It depends on the size of the fish.” The meal is then brought tableside, where the captain cracks open the salt shell and portions the fish for the party. “If you’re looking for something light or easy to please a guest [who’s] not into strong flavors, Mediterranean sea bass is a very nice fish to have done in a salt crust.”

The evolving nature of the seafood display is both intriguing and unpredictable. No one item consistently dominates the orders. “It depends on the day of the week,” Maldonado says. “It’s always changing.” While the fish program is the heart and soul of the restaurant, a commitment to sourcing the best available ingredients is seen throughout the entire menu at Estiatorio Milos. “Everything you get at the table, I can guarantee it’s fresh,” the chef says. “Starting with the tomatoes on the salad. I chase tomatoes all over the country. I build relationships with different farms to get the quality we need the entire year.” But there’s nothing quite as rewarding for Maldonado as unloading a new delivery of fresh seafood. “Every day is Christmas for me,” he says. “The feeling of opening a box and seeing fresh fish in the middle of the desert, you can see the goosebumps. It’s amazing.” sl cosmopolitanlasvegas.com slmag.net

A LIGHT IN THE DARK Mondays Dark shines a spotlight on Las Vegas charities. By Rob Kachelriess / Portrait by Jerry Metellus It’s a long-running tradition on Broadway for shows to close—or “go dark”—on Monday to give cast and crew a night off. Here in Las Vegas, the idea has evolved into something else. On two Mondays each month, about 400 people pack an intimate venue called The Space to watch Mondays Dark, a stage production that’s completely different each time around. “It’s a 90-minute variety show where you never know who is going to show up and what is going to happen,” founder and actor Mark Shunock says. “There’s always eight to 10 headliners, performers on the Strip who donate their time and talent. Sometimes comedians show up, sometimes magicians show up, sometimes a chef might show up and bring food to hand out to the audience.” Each show follows a loose theme such as Motown, the Beatles or the ’80s culture of Stranger Things. Tickets are always $20 with a few premium seats available next to the stage. The best part? The money goes to a different charity partner for each performance. “We raise $10,000 for them in 90 minutes,” Shunock says. An anniversary party with the 21 charity partners of 2019 will be held at the Pearl Theater at Palms in December to celebrate $1 million raised for more than 100 charities in six years The next 21 charities for 2020 will be announced at the celebration. The concept for Mondays Dark first came about in 2013 after Shunock arrived in Las Vegas to perform in Rock of Ages, a stage musical based on ’80s rock culture. In between shows, he was contractually obligated to make promotional appearances at ribbon cuttings and other events. After a while, he wondered if there was another way for entertainers to get together in addition to walking red carpets and getting their pictures taken for a couple of minutes. “I started reaching out to performers and said, ‘Hey, if I threw a party, would you come and perform and we’ll give the money away?’” Shunock remembers. “That’s pretty much how it started.” The original idea was to hold Mondays Dark inside The Act, a small nightclub at the Grand Canal Shoppes, just upstairs from where Rock of Ages was performing at The Venetian. The debut was put in jeopardy when The Act suddenly closed. Fortunately,

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the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino stepped in and offered to help out, hosting Mondays Dark at venues such as Body English and Vinyl. “We went from almost a talk show format to a goofy party to a variety show,” Shunock says. “We’ve sort of settled on that variety show format because it works. It was the most successful way to get more people involved.” In early 2017, the team behind Mondays Dark took a leap of faith and opened The Space as its own venue in a quiet industrial area west of the Strip. The main room is more than 3,000 square feet and can be set up in numerous configurations to host a variety of concerts and events throughout the week. “We’ve had Tony winners, we’ve had Grammy winners. It blows my mind when I look at the calendar,” Shunock says. The venue also includes a smaller black box theater and a podcast recording studio. “The Space took off quickly. It’s now a community center for Las Vegas. It’s got a life of its own.” The Space hosted the touring production of Evil Dead: The Musical HD throughout October. This gave Mondays Dark an opportunity to experiment with other venues, including the House of Blues at Mandalay Bay and outdoors on The Lawn at

Downtown Summerlin. Both venues allowed Mondays Dark to double its attendance to almost 800. “I saw it as an opportunity to introduce Mondays Dark and the brand to people who maybe have never heard of it,” says Shunock, who isn’t ruling out more occasional alternative venues in 2020. “It makes sense. It’s good for us to keep it fresh.” Now that Mondays Dark has crossed the million-dollar mark, Shunock is already looking forward to raising the next million. “We won’t see that for another few years, but all indications are we will if we keep going. There are so many charities who want to be part of the program.” At least 175 charity partners are on a waiting list. Shunock says one of the most rewarding aspects of Mondays Dark is being able to highlight smaller, lower-profile charities that don’t have the resources to promote their message widely. Meanwhile, The Space has been able to build support beyond its regular Monday night performances. “We definitely rely on corporate sponsorship throughout the year,” Shunock says. “A lot of businesses have backed us. They are true partners of Mondays Dark and believe in what we’re doing and how we give back to the community in a different and unique way.”

In addition to overseeing The Space and hosting Mondays Dark, Shunock is the in-arena host for the Vegas Golden Knights at T-Mobile Arena. He performs similar duties for Top Rank Boxing’s televised weigh-ins on ESPN. He doesn’t rule out performing in a nightly production again at some point, but is happy with where he is now. “It’s fantastic to be in Vegas,” he says. “To have a home base, have a life and be able to give back.” The Canadian native and Broadway veteran has performed in shows around the country, spending much of his career in New York and Los Angeles, where he met his wife, fellow performer Cheryl Daro. When the two came to Las Vegas for Rock of Ages, Shunock figured they’d be in town for about six months before returning to L.A. or New York. But things changed. “My wife and I fell in love with Las Vegas, and we’re still here six years later,” he says. It’s that love for the city that has brought the entertainment community together to help a wide variety of charity partners. As he looks ahead to the next six years and beyond, Shunock remains committed to the core mission of Mondays Dark: “We’re trying to change the way people think about giving.” sl mondaysdark.com

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SOPHISTICATED SOCIETY November–March 11/22-23, 11/27, 11/29-30 11/23 11/26–12/1

Mariah Carey “All I Want For Christmas Is You” at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, caesarspalace.com

12/5 12/6 12/7 12/13–24 12/19

Repeal Day Party in the Underground at The Mob Museum, mobmuseum.org A Baroque Holiday – Handel’s Messiah at The Smith Center, lvphil.com A Classic Holiday at The Smith Center, lvphil.com Nevada Ballet Theatre The Nutcracker at The Smith Center, nevadaballet.org Immunize Nevada Big Shots Breakfast Las Vegas at Panevino, immunizenevada.org/bigshots

1/7–12 1/18 1/25

Escape to Margaritaville at The Smith Center, smithcenter.com Dvorák, Brahms and Smetana at The Smith Center, lvphil.com Nevada Ballet Theater Black and White Ball at Caesars Palace, nevadaballet.org

2/4–9

The SpongeBob Musical at The Smith Center, lvphil.com

3/7

Keep Memory Alive’s 24th annual Power of Love gala at MGM Grand Garden Arena, keepmemoryalive.com

26th Annual Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation Profiles of Courage Gala at Bellagio, nvccf.org Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts, smithcenter.com

R.U.N 7 and 9:30 p.m., Wed.–Sun. Luxor Las Vegas Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group debuts its newest show and first live-action thriller, R.U.N at Luxor Las Vegas. The mix of special effects and human performances promises to leave audiences on the edge of their seats with a bold, gritty story. “With R.U.N, we reinvent the concept of a thriller, drawing inspiration from action movies and graphic novels,” says Daniel Lamarre, president and CEO of Cirque du Soleil. “This action-packed live performance, happening in front of and around the audience, offers a new form of entertainment to a more diversified Las Vegas guest.” The show plays in the R.U.N Theater at Luxor Hotel and Casino at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Tickets start at $59, with special producer’s seating available for $250. cirquedusoleil.com/run

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NEVADA DONOR NETWORK INSPIRES ALL

The Nevada Donor Network raised more than $300,000 at its 2019 Inspire Gala. The funds will go toward the network’s creation of a transplant and research institute for organ and tissue donations in Nevada. More than 350 guests attended the party at Four Seasons Las Vegas. The night honored community and donor heroes, such as the Sigler family and Dr. Deborah Kuhls. Country singer Granger Smith and the Plain White T’s performed. Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Montana gave a heartfelt address, while guests enjoyed a cocktail hour, dinner and live auction. 7 8

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1) Cast members Nicole Unger and Luke Striffler from “Friends! The Musical Parody.” Photo by Gabe Ginsberg/Getty Images 2) Esteemed attendees. Photo by James Altman 3) Plain White T’s. Photo by Gabe Ginsberg/Getty Images 4) The Vegas Vivas! cheerleaders. Photo by Gabe Ginsberg/Getty Images 5) Singer/songwriter Granger Smith. Photo by Gabe Ginsberg 6) Alex Tuch. Photo by Gabe Ginsberg/Getty Images for Nevada Donor Network 7) Joe Montana. Photo by James Altman 8) Brienna Love. Photo by Gabe Ginsberg/Getty Images

A RECORD-BREAKING NIGHT WITH IMAGINE DRAGONS

The sixth annual Rise Up Gala raised $3.2 million for the Tyler Robinson Foundation, Imagine Dragons’ nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families facing a pediatric cancer diagnosis. More than 850 guests came to the event at Wynn Las Vegas, and the band performed. Foundation supporters and Imagine Dragons fans unable to attend had an opportunity to enjoy the festivities from home through a live stream of red-carpet arrivals and the band’s special acoustic set. The Rise Up Gala honored those who have made notable contributions to the foundation through direct personal efforts, philanthropic support or by raising public awareness for pediatric cancer. This year’s honorees included Zappos and Zappos for Good. 3

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1) The winner of a guitar raffle with Imagine Dragons. Photo by Gabe Ginsberg 2) Dan Reynolds and Shaquille O’Neal. Photo by Bryan Steffy 3) Jaymes Vaughan. Photo by Bryan Steffy 4) Sean Giambrone with TRF Family, the Lingenfelters. Photo by Bryan Steffy 5) Oliver Trevena. Photo by Bryan Steffy 6) Cast of Le Rêve – The Dream. Photo by Bryan Steffy 7) Alexandra Daddario and McKenna Roberts. Photo by Bryan Steffy 8) Tim and Amy Cantor. Photo by Bryan Steffy

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BONEYARD BALL HONORS TIM BURTON

The Neon Museum’s annual fundraising gala, The Boneyard Ball, honored film director/artist Tim Burton and celebrated his new exhibit “Lost Vegas” at the Las Vegas landmark. The party was held at Encore. Guests enjoyed a cocktail hour with Burton, and The Killers performed. One of cinema’s most creative filmmakers, Burton was honored with the Neon Museum’s GLOW Award, given yearly to significant people who help in the museum’s success. Before the event and the exhibit’s opening, Burton spoke at a press conference and held a book signing for more than 500 fans.

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1) An exhibition at Tim Burton’s “Lost Vegas.” Photo by Studio J 2) Guests in costume at The Boneyard Ball. 3) President and CEO of The Neon Museum Rob McCoy and filmmaker, artist, writer, animator Tim Burton. Photo by Denise Truscello/WireImage 4) An exhibit from “Lost Vegas” at The Neon Museum. Photo by Denise Truscello/WireImage 5) The Killers’ Ronnie Vannucci. Photo by Rob Loud 6) Guests in costume at The Boneyard Ball. 7) The Killers’ Brandon Flowers. Photo by Rob Loud 8) Tim Burton receives the Glow award at The Boneyard Ball.

DENIM & DIAMONDS GALA TAKES OVER LAS VEGAS BALLPARK The Grant a Gift Autism Foundation’s 10th annual gala was held at Las Vegas Ballpark. The theme was “Denim & Diamonds,” and comedian Jeff Civillico hosted. Cocktails and a silent auction kicked off the night. Guests enjoyed a plated dinner and entertainment by Asperger’s Are Us, an HBO-featured comedic troupe. All attendees received gift bags courtesy of Michael E. Minden Diamond Jewelers. The event raised more than $1 million, almost double last year’s gala.

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SOPHISTICATED WOMAN By Melinda Sheckells / Portrait by Virginia Trudeau Shot on location at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts

Beth Barbre, executive director and CEO, Nevada Ballet Theatre, leads a gracious life filled with the beauty of movement. Are you working with any groups outside your company? I am honored to be a member of the Nevada chapter of the International Women’s Forum, a group of amazing women who mentor and encourage humane leadership. What Las Vegas neighborhood or suburb do you live in? We live in The Hills neighborhood of Summerlin, which is a dream come true for us. I am able to walk to NBT’s studio and offices as well as the TPC golf course. What moments of your career so far stand out? Becoming the youngest company manager of the New York City Ballet, the nation’s leading ballet company, and staging the first production of three separate ballet companies performing George Balanchine’s masterpiece, Jewels, at The Smith Center. What is your favorite quote or motto? Mr. Balanchine’s advice on truly appreciating ballet: “See the music, hear the dancing.” Who is your mentor or muse? My mentors are two of the most sophisticated women in history: Barbara Horgan, founding and managing trustee of the George Balanchine Trust, and Nancy Houssels, the co-founder and co-chair of Nevada Ballet Theatre. They both understand the transformative power of ballet. Name your No. 1 life-changing, aha moment … In the summer of 2007, I realized Las Vegas had two magical and contrasting dance groups: Nevada Ballet Theatre and Cirque du Soleil. We put them together to create A Choreographers’ Showcase, our unique dance collaboration, which can only happen here in Las Vegas. 96 slmag.net

What sets your soul on fire? Dancing! What is your biggest mistake or regret? I regret that I did not have a chance to meet George Balanchine, the greatest ballet choreographer of the 20th century. He died just before I joined New York City Ballet. What is your biggest challenge, professional or personal, that you work on every day? Pursuing excellence for NBT in management, mentorship of staff and achieving our artistic mission. Give us one word that best describes how you live your life … Gracious. Use three adjectives to describe the sophisticated woman you aim to be … Humble, grateful and dedicated. sl nevadaballet.org

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