Once a remote outpost nestled between sunburned valleys and wind-worn mountains, Las Vegas was never meant to be the North Star. As settlers moved onto Paiute lands, the springs of this desert oasis offered only a brief rest for dreamers chasing fortunes farther west. But something happened in the Mojave. People stayed. Drawn by its daring spirit and boundless possibility, they began to shape a city that would defy its desert origins.
From the moment I picked up Bryan Thompson years ago from his hotel in San Diego, I knew he was meant for stardom. It seemed to illuminate around him. He had moved from Indianapolis to Southern California, eager to make his name in the contemporary jazz community, and I had been asked, as a music journalist, to take this talented sax player under my wing.
Traveling more was something I added to my bucket list for 2025, and getting married was on there too; both came true. When my husband, then fiancé, set our wedding date, the first thing we started dreaming about was where we'd go for our honeymoon. We tossed around ideas — Disneyland for childlike wonder, New York for its city lights and Cancun for its beaches — but Naples, Florida, quietly stole our hearts.
Las Vegas has long been a city of dazzling lights, towering resorts and a rhythm that draws the world to its famous Strip. But beyond the neon and spectacle lies another story — one of resilience, community and second chances. It is here, in the quieter neighborhoods of the Historic Westside, that Vera Jackson Moore is rewriting what it means to begin again.
Assisting Lives in Las Vegas (ALLV), previously known as Assistance League of Las Vegas, is a volunteer-driven nonprofit organization with 501(c)(3) status. Since its founding in 1976, the organization has enriched the lives of children and adults in need through hands-on programs, services and philanthropic initiatives. Its volunteers collectively contribute more than 65,000 hours each year to support at-risk children and families in the Las Vegas community.
In our 16th year of attending the Venice Film Festival, the magic and glamour still excite us as much as they did the first time. Now in its 82nd year, the festival, held in Lido, Venice, Italy, continues to attract Hollywood A-listers and celebrities either as part of the competition or as guests. The whirlwind of screenings, premieres, red carpets and after-parties has made this festival one of the most sought-after and well-attended international events.
As the holiday season approaches, giving back takes on new meaning in Las Vegas, a city known for its glittering lights and big stages but also home to quiet acts of service that change lives. Three local leaders have turned their personal journeys into powerful missions. Through athletics, mentorship and wellness-focused programs, they are shaping futures for kids and young women who might otherwise go unseen.
Chef Fabio Viviani's journey has taken him from humble beginnings to "Top Chef." Over decades, he has created a refined, inviting atmosphere with a thoughtful menu of handmade pasta, fresh seafood, indulgent entrees, decadent desserts and handcrafted cocktails for his guests to savor with every sip and bite. Viviani, as well as being a celebrity chef, is also a renowned hospitality developer, restaurateur, best-selling cookbook author and television personality.
There is a cliché that states, "money makes the world go around," and funding (money) is indeed needed by charities and nonprofits to provide services and products. The Autism Community Trust focuses on raising funds and donating to charities and nonprofits that provide services to the autism community in Southern Nevada. There are several organizations offering resources, support groups and therapeutic services for individuals with autism and their families.
This past fall, New York Fashion Week (NYFW) powered by Art Hearts Fashion took place at the Angel Orensanz Foundation, featuring five days of runway shows and designer presentations. More than 40 international designers showcased collections representing diverse styles and cultural influences, including Alexis Monsanto, Almee Couture, AnaOno, Coral Castillo, Cross Colours, Danny Nguyen, Haus of Harleen, Kene Kaya, Keziah, Mila Hoffman, Montecristi NYC, Raquelle Pedraza, Starielle, Vizcarra, Wanda Beauchamp and others.
