Southern Nevada has a proud history of competing — and winning — through boldness and reinvention. We have developed a world-class tourism economy, built globally recognized brands and demonstrated our ability to rebound from significant disruptions. In today’s fiercely competitive global economy, however, we must intentionally design the next chapter of our economic story. Communities worldwide are continuously enhancing their sophistication, and we must keep pace.

Since joining the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance in late August of last year, I have consistently heard from community partners that we must diversify and enhance Southern Nevada’s economy. Our goal is to build upon and complement the strengths we already possess.

To achieve this, the alliance, as Southern Nevada’s regional economic development organization and designated Regional Development Agency, is embarking on a comprehensive strategic planning process. This initiative will guide our economic development priorities both in the near and long term, ensuring that we focus on areas that will yield the most positive impact.

The alliance has a history of reinvention, having been established in 1958 as the Southern Nevada Industrial Foundation, later becoming the Nevada Development Authority, and since 2011, operating under its current name in partnership with the Governor’s Office of Economic Development.

Economic development extends beyond merely attracting companies. It encompasses the ability of local families to access high-wage careers, the opportunity for young people to build their futures at home and the resilience of our economy to withstand disruptions.

Over the past decade, Southern Nevada has made significant strides toward economic diversification, with investment outcomes in 2025 surpassing those of 2024. However, our work is far from complete. While tourism will always be a foundational strength and source of pride for our region, over-reliance on any single sector poses risks. A diversified economy enhances stability, and stability creates opportunities. We are united in our desire for more accessible housing, expanded health care and education, and greater upward mobility for our residents.

This strategic planning effort aims to ensure that the alliance and its partners concentrate on the right initiatives in the right manner. It will validate the region’s target industries and subsectors, narrowing our focus on areas where Southern Nevada has genuine competitive advantages and long-term potential. The planning process will include community interviews, focus groups and surveys to ensure our final strategy reflects the real opportunities and challenges facing Southern Nevada. We will establish flagship goals and a prioritized strategy matrix to direct our attention and resources toward meaningful outcomes.

A crucial aspect of this process involves clarifying roles within the broader economic ecosystem. Economic development is a team sport — when organizations replicate efforts, operate in silos or compete for recognition, the region loses valuable time and credibility, allowing opportunities to slip away. I have witnessed this behavior in various markets, serving as a red flag for prospective companies.

We have already made strides in building partnerships, exemplified by a Memorandum of Understanding signed in November 2025 with the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada to jointly support economic development education and advocacy for community leaders statewide.

Our strategic work will also include a organizational assessment of the alliance, evaluating our mission, resource deployment and engagement model. Economic impact requires operational excellence and measurable execution. Most importantly, this plan — which we anticipate completing by late April — will feature a three-year road map with clear timelines, recommended actions and meaningful metrics to transparently track our progress. A longtime mentor of mine often said, “What gets watched gets measured, and what gets measured gets done.”

Las Vegas has always taken the initiative to shape its own future. This strategic plan presents an opportunity for us to do what we do best: come together, think bigger, act smarter and create something lasting. Together, we can build a purposeful and resilient economic future for Southern Nevada.

Danielle Casey is president and CEO of the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance.

The Nevada women’s basketball team dropped its final home contest of the 2025-26 season on Saturday with New Mexico spoiling Senior Day and pushing past the Wolf Pack for a 63-56 win.

The Wolf Pack led 36-34 at halftime behind a hot-shooting start. Skylar Durley, Imbie Jones and Ahrray Young each had six points as Nevada shot 14-of-25 from the field (56%). But things cooled off in the second half, with the Lobos outscoring the Wolf Pack 19-13 in the third quarter to take a four-point lead into the fourth. Nevada’s shooting woes only worsened in the final period when it made just three field goals, including none in the final four minutes.

Durley led Nevada with 16 points and six rebounds. Young finished with 10 points, three rebounds and three assists. The Wolf Pack made just one three-pointer out of its nine attempts.

The loss drops Nevada to 9-20 overall, 5-14 within the Mountain West Conference. The Wolf Pack now heads to Utah State for Tuesday’s regular-season finale before opening the Mountain West Tournament play next Saturday in Las Vegas.

Watch our coverage of the game below.

Highlights and reaction from Nevada’s loss to New Mexico.

From Mount Baker’s soaring backdrop to the hillside village of Oceanside with its hidden tunnel beach, the Pacific Coast’s best moments often come in small-town America. Each waterfront has its own mix of boardwalks and marina sunsets, whether you’re strolling the sand in Brookings or catching the last light in Fort Bragg. Add in Victorian mansions, occasional Mediterranean-style flourishes, and that storybook, salt-air atmosphere that feels tailor-made for seaside fun. Below are the 6 friendliest towns on the Pacific Coast.

Brookings, Oregon

Although easy to overlook at first, Brookings leaves a lasting impression once visited. Located near the southern tip of Oregon’s coast, just six miles from California, it offers long, sandy beaches ideal for beachcombing, swimming, and relaxing—often with fewer crowds thanks to the area’s “Banana Belt” climate. North of town, Harris Beach State Park provides stunning scenery, diverse trails, and a rocky pocket beach perfect for memorable photos. Chetco Point Park surrounds Macklyn Cove with peaceful oceanfront paths, tide pools, a scenic lookout, and picnic areas nestled among rocks.

Within town, you’ll find bars, grills, a brewery, and a charming selection of shops and galleries, including Manley Art Center & Gallery—ideal for a midday break or relaxing after sunset. During summer, Azalea Park hosts free concerts and features a bandshell, sports facilities, and kids’ play areas. Take a photo at Capella by the Sea, a unique wood-and-stone chapel built by film producer Elmo Williams, then cross the Chetco River to Harbor, another delightful nearby community. At Chetco Brewing Company, the beer is proudly “homegrown,” crafted with ingredients from the property—like Irish moss for clarifying—without pesticides, herbicides, or additives, resulting in a crisp, refreshing taste.

Depoe Bay, Oregon

Perched above the Pacific, Depoe Bay is a charming, compact town famously known as the world’s smallest natural navigable ocean harbor. Marine enthusiasts visit to see this up close, but that’s just part of the appeal. Combining its small-harbor claim with a larger reputation, Depoe Bay is celebrated as the whale-watching capital of the Oregon coast. From March to December, humpbacks, gray whales, and even orcas can be seen along with a variety of sea life. Unlike many locations where whale watching requires tickets, you can often view these giants for free during migration season from the town’s expansive observation deck.

Beyond whale watching, there’s plenty to explore. Visit the Whale Watch Center, or arrange a trip with Dockside Charters and Whale Watching Tours—an ideal gift for nature lovers. The museum at Whale Research EcoExcursions costs less than $5 and is located right at the harbor. Bayfront hotels in Depoe Bay are a popular choice for couples, especially for special occasions like honeymoons. For a rugged shoreline experience, Depoe Bay Scenic Park, next to the iconic Arch Rock Café, provides spots for wading, picnicking, and photography. When it’s time to dine, Gracie’s Sea Hag offers exceptional oceanfront seafood along with a bar and vibrant music scene.

Fort Bragg, California

About 150 miles north of San Francisco, Fort Bragg feels even more remote—in the best way. The area’s loudest sounds are the soothing waves, and the stars are the only bright lights in the night sky. The air is fresh and crisp, and the streets are pleasantly quiet—thanks to the outdoor attractions that steal the spotlight, from quick dips in the ocean to birdwatching and year-round whale-watching. You can explore Noyo Harbor by kayak from the docks, or take a scenic ride on the Skunk Train (or a rail bike) through meadows and redwoods. For a relaxed day, visit the Glass Fire Art Glass Gallery, stroll the trails at Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, then enjoy the sunset at Point Cabrillo Lighthouse, whose beam reaches 15 miles into the sea after dark.

Downtown Fort Bragg offers history walks, wine tastings, pub crawls with local brews, a cooking school, and the Discovery Center featuring a Blue Whale skeleton. Just south, many visitors go to Pomo Bluffs Park, a 25-acre area with benches and interpretive signs along the coastal trail for hiking and biking. Watch fishing boats bring in salmon, Dungeness crab, and abalone, then dine at The Wharf with waterfront views. For more open space, MacKerricher State Park provides wetlands full of birds and seal-watching opportunities, plus nearby Glass Beach, where colorful sea-tumbled glass sparkles like tiny treasures from the ocean.

La Conner, Washington

La Conner is a charming town nestled on a delta near the mouth of the Skagit River, and it’s the oldest town in Skagit County. Its historic downtown showcases beautiful architecture from the early 1860s, a period when pioneers like Alexander Underwood, Michael Sullivan, Sam Calhoun, and A.G. Tillinghast settled in the area shortly after the Civil War. Originally named Swinomish, the town was later renamed by John Conner in honor of his wife, Louisa A., following his purchase of John Hayes’ trading post in 1869. This marked the beginning of the town’s first post office and general store on the west side of the Swinomish Slough. With a proud history and a strong focus on preservation, the entire town is proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Today, La Conner remains a vibrant community that still hosts the Swinomish Tribal Community. It beautifully combines the laid-back charm of a historic fishing village with the lively spirit of a well-loved artists’ colony. It’s also a peaceful wintering spot for graceful swans and Canada geese. Located along the stunning Salish Sea between Seattle and Vancouver, it’s a perfect place to relax and explore. Whether you visit in April for the colorful Tulip Festival or anytime throughout the year, you’ll enjoy browsing charming galleries, chatting with friendly locals, and admiring breathtaking views of Mount Baker reflected in the water. From the cheerful daffodils of March to classic cars and the lively “Brew on the Slough” event in October, La Conner’s welcoming calendar is packed with delightful events. Enjoy its unique boutiques, tasty dining options, and three fascinating museums—making it a wonderful weekend getaway.

Oceanside, Oregon

Oceanside feels wonderfully calming even before you arrive—true to its name, it’s a place that gently reminds you of just how much the ocean influences our world. It offers everything you might hope for: expansive horizon views, a tranquil beach, and a charming oceanfront café where time seems to slow down on purpose. Offshore, the stunning Three Arch Rocks—part of a protected wildlife refuge—anchor the breathtaking scenery. At Maxwell Point, the coastline creates a delightful illusion of distance and scale. During low tide, you can stroll through a tunnel to reach Tunnel Beach, then continue past rocky points to explore a series of secluded coves that feel like a hidden world miles away.

With cozy beach rentals and charming B&Bs, settling into a relaxed rhythm is easy: start your day with breakfast at Blue Agate Cafe, return later for comforting seafood, homemade desserts, and drinks at Roseanna’s Cafe, and wind down beneath the majestic silhouette of the arched rocks overhead. There are so many iconic spots to explore—Symons State Scenic Viewpoint, Lost Boy Beach, and the Short Beach Trailhead—all just a short hike or drive away. And despite its quiet charm, this community remains wonderfully laid-back, nestled into a hillside that feels like a natural amphitheater, offering sweeping views from Oceanside Beach State Recreation Site.

Tofino, British Columbia

Stretching from Washington through Oregon and into California, the U.S. “West Coast” continues north into British Columbia. With geography on its side, Tofino is pure Vancouver Island charisma—wild beaches, moody skies, and the real possibility of spotting black bears. With access via a reasonably priced charter flight or a ferry-and-bus combo, it’s surprising that something this rugged and authentic sits so close to Vancouver’s bustle. Start your day at the beloved Rhino Coffee House, then choose your own pace: fishing, kayaking, hiking, or simply sinking into the sands of Tonquin Park, which stretches from wilder Tonquin Beach near the tip to the calmer shoreline around Chesterman Beach.

Home to about 1,400 residents, including many surfers who share a love for whale-watching, Tofino proudly proclaims itself as the end of the Trans-Canada Highway. It offers a cozy selection of campsites, perfect for any adventure. Whether you’re riding the waves or quietly watching gray and humpback whales, just being here feels special — taking in the cedar-scented sea breeze as eagles soar above. Tofino completely avoids the chain-store scene, making it a truly relaxing retreat. Its mild climate features gentle winters and summers that are rarely too hot. For art lovers, Roy Henry Vickers Gallery highlights regional works, while Wolf in the Fog offers inventive, farm-fresh dishes and cocktails in a warm, inviting setting.

These colorful beachside towns greet you with captivating views, crashing waves, and ocean-fresh air—pairing old-world charm with a distinctly modern maritime culture. As varied as Washington, Oregon, California, and coastal British Columbia, they offer a little something for every kind of traveler. From Depoe Bay’s whale-watching scene to Fort Bragg’s wild coastline and Tofino’s surf-town spirit, spotting the ocean’s “friendly giants” is practically part of the itinerary.

And beyond the water, every slow turn down a quiet street reveals artisan boutiques, local eateries, and weathered cottages with real character. Whether you’re road-tripping the coast, escaping city noise, or overdue for a proper vacation, the blend of local life and wildlife delivers the kind of trip that stays with you. Watch whales from Depoe Bay, kayak Noyo Harbor in Fort Bragg, then head north to Tofino for that far-flung, end-of-the-road feeling—without ever losing sight of the sea.