2022-11-17-Las-Vegas-Weekly

ASTONISHING. UNPREDICTABLE. MIND-BENDING.

Omega Mart is an immersive interactive experience from the groundbreaking art collective, Meow Wolf. Featuring jaw-dropping work from international and local artists, Omega Mart sends participants of all ages on a journey through surreal worlds and immersive storytelling. Discover secret portals or simply soak up the innovative art as you venture beyond an extraordinary supermarket into parts unknown.

Tickets at OmegaMart.com

EDITORIAL

Senior Editor GEOFF CARTER (geo .carter@gmgvegas.com)

Editor at Large BROCK RADKE (brock.radke@gmgvegas.com)

Deputy Editor EVELYN MATEOS (evelyn.mateos@gmgvegas.com)

Sta Writer SHANNON MILLER (shannon.miller@gmgvegas.com)

Sta Writer AMBER SAMPSON (amber.sampson@gmgvegas.com)

Contributing Writers GRACE DA ROCHA,HILLARY DAVIS, MIKE GRIMALA, CASEY HARRISON, KATIE ANN MCCARVER, DANNY WEBSTER

Contributing Editors RAY BREWER, JUSTIN HAGER, BRYAN HORWATH, CASE KEEFER, DAVE MONDT

O ce Coordinator NADINE GUY

CREATIVE

Art Director CORLENE BYRD (corlene.byrd@gmgvegas.com)

Senior Designer IAN RACOMA Photo Coordinator BRIAN RAMOS Photographers CHRISTOPHER DEVARGAS, STEVE MARCUS, WADE VANDERVORT

DIGITAL

Publisher

ADVERTISING & MARKETING

PRODUCTION & CIRCULATION

IN THIS ISSUE

SUPERGUIDE

Your daily events planner, starring Kevin Hart, the Latin Grammy Awards, Annie, an All-Togethers reunion and more.

COVER STORY

Perfect plays: What to eat at Allegiant Stadium, T-Mobile Arena and beyond.

THE STRIP

It didn’t go exactly as planned, but Adele’s Las Vegas residency is here at last.

TOP TECH

NIGHTS

You won’t catch a Vegas club residency like Emo Nite anywhere else.

FOOD & DRINK

Mexican steakhouse Toca Madera, plus how to do Lavo’s Party Brunch right.

SPORTS

It’s been a rough season for the Raiders so far, but there are reasons to keep watching.

AWARDS Vegas Inc and Cox Business recognize and honor the industry’s best and brightest for the 12th consecutive year.

GAMEDAY GRUB

Photo Illustration ON THE COVER

Emo Nite (Beth Savaro/Courtesy)

SUPERGUIDE

THURSDAY

17 NOV.

LATIN GRAMMY AWARDS 5 p.m., Michelob Ultra Arena, axs.com.

THE HOSTS

DISCOPUSSY TWO-YEAR ANNIVERSARY PARTY

Fremont East funk forum Discopussy was built on a simple and undeniable concept: All you need to create a hot afterhours dance spot is a big, dark, sweaty space and a willingness to book great DJs. An LED octopus with 5,000 light-emitting diodes installed on the ceiling also helps. The Downtown trendsetter has hosted some huge names so far, from its Claude VonStroke residency and DJ sets from Chromeo to groove legends Danny Tenaglia, Chris Liebing and Will Clarke. Discopussy celebrates two years of changing the local nightlife game with sets from Bender and Tiga, a hosted open bar and other special guests and surprises to kick-start the weekend, which also includes a Holy House session on November 18 with Walker & Royce. 11 p.m., free, discopussydtlv.com. –Brock Radke

VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS VS. ARIZONA COYOTES

7 p.m., T-Mobile Arena, axs.com.

STEVE AOKI 10:30 p.m., Hakkasan Nightclub, events.taogroup. com.

NICK THUNE 7:30 p.m., thru 11/20 (& 11/18-11/19, 9:30 p.m.) Jimmy Kimmel’s Comedy Club, ticketmaster. com.

CHIQUIS 9 p.m., House of Blues, concerts. livenation.com.

DARLENE HUTCHINSON: ON THE TRAIL Thru 1/24, times vary, Spring Valley Library, thelibrarydistrict. org.

BARRY MANILOW 7 p.m., thru 11/19, Westgate International Theater, ticketmaster.com.

BECKY G With DJ Ruckus, 10:30 p.m., Zouk Nightclub, zoukgrouplv.com.

CHRISTMAS IN HELL 7 p.m., thru 11/20, Notoriety, notorietylive.com.

UNLV DANCE: IN FULL BLOOM 7:30 p.m., & 11/18, Alta Ham Fine Arts, unlv.edu.

CALL ME KARIZMA 6 p.m., Rockstar Bar, seetickets.us.

ACE AURA With MGMA, Praxisdubz, Nasty, Audio, 10 p.m., We All Scream, seetickets.us.

UNLV WIND ORCHESTRA: THE PRESIDENT’S CONCERT 7:30 p.m., Artemus W. Ham Hall, unlv.edu.

Thalía

Laura Pausini

Luis Fonsi

Anitta

(Courtesy/James Macari; PRC GenteMusic; Mario Alzate; Marco Ovando)

FRIDAY

18

ADELE 8 p.m., & 11/19, the Colosseum, ticketmaster.com.

DIPLO 10:30 p.m., XS Nightclub, wynnsocial.com.

MEN’S COLLEGE BASKETBALL: CONTINENTAL TIRE MAIN EVENT Ft. Baylor, Virginia, Illinois & UCLA, 4 p.m. (& 11/20, noon), T-Mobile Arena, axs.com.

JIM JEFFERIES 10 p.m., & 11/19, Mirage Theatre, mirage.mgmresorts. com.

BILLY IDOL 8:30 p.m., & 11/19, the Chelsea, ticketmaster.com.

JOHN FOGERTY 8 p.m., & 11/19, Encore Theater, ticketmaster.com.

WIZ KHALIFA 10 p.m., Drai’s Nightclub, draisgroup.com.

THE GHOST INSIDE

With special guests, 6 p.m., & 11/19, Brooklyn Bowl, ticketweb.com.

UNLV MEN’S BASKETBALL VS. HIGH POINT 7 p.m., Thomas & Mack Center, unlvtickets.com.

WISIN Y YANDEL 8 p.m., MGM Grand Garden Arena, axs.com.

TIËSTO 10 p.m., Zouk Nightclub, zoukgrouplv.com.

EXCISION

With special guests, 5 p.m., & 11/19, Downtown Las Vegas Events Center, seetickets.us.

KEITH SWEAT 8 p.m., Theater at Virgin, axs.com.

MARTIN GARRIX 10:30 p.m., Omnia Nightclub, events. taogroup.com.

JESSI URIBE & JOSS FAVELA 7 p.m., House of Blues, concerts. livenation.com.

TWO FEET 9:30 p.m., Area15 Portal, area15.com.

KEVIN HART

The Killers, Bruno Mars, Deadmau5, Tenacious D … the New Year’s Eve Las Vegas headliner itinerary has begun to roll out. At Resorts World Theatre, comedian and movie star Kevin Hart will ring in 2023 with performances on December 31 and January 1, but first he’s testing out the room with two Reality Check tour stops. The star of Me Time, Night School and a million other flicks that have hit theaters and Netflix over the past few years will tape both Vegas shows for an upcoming stand-up special, one of a million other projects he has in a pipeline that also includes a Monopoly movie and a remake of John Candy classic The Great Outdoors. Hart has had a significant presence on the Strip in recent years and appears to be making its newest megaresort his latest home. 11/18-11/19, 9 p.m., $90+, Resorts World Theatre, axs.com. –Brock

FOR MORE UPCOMING EVENTS, VISIT LASVEGASWEEKLY.COM.

SUPERGUIDE

Radke

LA LUZ With Naked Giants, 8 p.m., 24 Oxford, etix.com.

(Courtesy/Kristin Cofer)

(Richard Shotwell/AP Photo)

SUPERGUIDE

NOV. SATURDAY

19

LAS VEGAS PHILHARMONIC: SIBELIUS SYMPHONY NO. 2 7:30 p.m., Reynolds Hall, thesmithcenter.com.

ENCHANT

Thru 1/1, times vary, Resorts World, tickets. enchantchristmas.com.

JO KOY 8 p.m., T-Mobile Arena, axs.com.

STONE TEMPLE PILOTS 9 p.m., Fremont Street Experience, vegas experience.com.

LUDACRIS 10 p.m., Zouk Nightclub, zoukgrouplv.com.

WATER LANTERN FESTIVAL 2 p.m., Sunset Park, waterlanternfestival.com.

AEROSMITH 8 p.m., & 11/23, Dolby Live, ticketmaster.com.

SESAME STREET LIVE 2 p.m., & 11/20, 1 p.m., Thomas & Mack Center, unlvtickets.com.

MARSHMELLO 10:30 p.m., XS Nightclub, wynnsocial.com.

LITTLE MISS NASTY BURLESQUE 9 p.m., Area15 Portal, area15.com.

FABOLOUS 10 p.m., Drai’s Nightclub, draisgroup.com.

THE GHOST INSIDE

With We Came as Romans, Comeback Kid, Spiritworld, Shapel Lacey, 6 p.m., Brooklyn Bowl, ticketweb.com.

BENNY BENASSI 10:30 p.m., Marquee Nightclub, events. taogroup.com.

WHISKEY MYERS

With Read Southall Band, 8 p.m., Theater at Virgin, axs.com.

IMMERSIVE NUTCRACKER

THE ALL-TOGETHERS

When Cindy Osborne became a travel nurse early in the COVID-19 pandemic, it signaled an exciting new chapter for her and her husband, Ken. The couple sold most of their possessions, bought an RV and began traveling around the country, spending three months at a time in cities like Durham, North Carolina; South Hero, Vermont; and West Palm Beach, Florida. It also signaled the end of the Osbornes’ Las Vegas-based band, The All-Togethers, whose acoustic, Appalachian folk had been a key piece of the local soundtrack for a decade or so. Or at least, we thought it was the end. But on November 19, The All-Togethers will rise again—for one night only, they say—with the Osbornes reuniting with onetime bandmates Michael Louis Austin, Brenna Lee and Brandon Madejek for a gig at Red Dwarf.

The quintet has practiced twice in preparation, once in Salt Lake City, once here in Vegas, and the latter reminded the Osbornes how much this place still means to them. “We’ve always been slightly nomadic, but coming down the 15, you crest and see the top of the Strat, and the city unfolds before you,” Ken says. “We almost teared up. It’s the first place we’ve considered home in a long time.” With The Devil’s Duo, 9 p.m., free, Red Dwarf, reddwarflv.com. –Spencer Patterson

A holiday tradition for nearly 130 years, The Nutcracker has always been a feast for the senses. The magical Christmas tale, set in the land of toy soldiers and glittering, wintry forests, is one of the ballet’s greatest triumphs.

And its score, composed by one Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, has certainly stood the test of time. Now, the Immersive Nutcracker aims to take that wonder to another place. The winter spectacle, created by the producers of the Immersive Van Gogh exhibit, will bring 500,000 cubic feet of stunning projections to Lighthouse Artspace, highlighting memorable segments moments like “March of the Toy Soldiers” and “The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” in one room. It’s the holiday classic as you’ve never seen it before, and might never again. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., $35, the Shops at Crystals, immersive-nutcracker.com.

–Amber Sampson

(Courtesy)

(Courtesy/Margo Hawk)

MONDAY

20

BIG HEAD TODD & THE MONSTERS

6:30 p.m., Brooklyn Bowl, ticketweb.com.

UNLV WOMEN’S BASKETBALL VS. CSU BAKERSFIELD 2 p.m., Cox Pavilion, unlvtickets.com.

KIM LEE 10:30 p.m., XS Nightclub, wynnsocial.com.

ZION’S YOUTH SYMPHONY: THE GIFT OF CHRISTMAS 4:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m., Reynolds Hall, thesmith center.com.

ERIC D-LUX 10:30 p.m., Marquee Nightclub, events. taogroup.com.

NOV.

NOV. SUNDAY 21

SGT. PAPERS

Let’s get this straight: Sgt. Papers isn’t a Beatles tribute act. It’s a brother duo (Felipe and Ivan García) from Hermosillo, Mexico, whose first release, back in 2017, just happened to be titled Sgt. Papers Lonely Psych Punk Band. Confused? A night under the influence of the Garcías’, um, psych-punk should cure that. It’s the type of fast, fuzzed-out stuff best absorbed in a dive bar, so it’s fitting that Sgt. Papers will play Las Vegas’ Dive Bar on November 21, with support from locals Viaje Nahual and Orange Eats Creeps. Come together, and wish Felipe and Ivan hello/goodbye. 8 p.m., $7-$10, the Dive Bar, eventbrite.com. –Spencer Patterson

MONDAYS DARK 8 p.m., the Space, mondaysdark.com.

VEGAS 4 MEN’S COLLEGE BASKETBALL Ft. Abilene Christian, UC Riverside, Weber State, Wright State, thru 11/23, times vary, Dollar Loan Center, axs.com.

TRACI SKENE

With Kevin Iso, Marcus Monroe, Reggie Conquest, thru 11/23, 7:30 & 9:30 p.m., Comedy Cellar, ticketmaster.com.

THEE SWANK BASTARDS

2 a.m., the Golden Tiki, thegoldentiki.com.

SUPERGUIDE

FOR MORE UPCOMING EVENTS, VISIT LASVEGASWEEKLY.COM.

COMEDY

MUSIC FOOD + DRINK SPORTS MISC PARTY ARTS COMEDY

(Courtesy)

ANNIE Thru 11/27, times

vary, Reynolds Hall, thesmithecenter.com.

(Courtesy Matthew Murphy/Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade)

SUPERGUIDE

LOUD LUXURY 10:30 p.m., Omnia Nightclub, events. taogroup.com.

WORMWITCH With Primitive Brutality, Cielo Impuro, Godless, Throne, Volterrum, Excerebration, 7 p.m., Backstage Bar & Billiards, seetickets.us.

PIECES: FROM THE LVCCLD COLLECTION

Thru 2/5, times vary, East Las Vegas Library, thelibrarydistrict.org.

VICKI BARBOLAK 7:30 p.m., Jimmy Kimmel’s Comedy Club, ticketmaster.com.

WRECKNO With SloanWolf, Chiee , Discopussy, discopussydtlv.com.

UNLV MASTERS SINGERS: VIENNA COURT AND CATHEDRAL 7:30 p.m., Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall, unlv.edu.

VEGAS

EMO NITE

10 p.m., Zouk Nightclub, zoukgrouplv.com.

MEN I TRUST

With Homeshake, 8 p.m., Brooklyn Bowl, ticketweb.com

MYSTIC FALLS PARK WINTER WONDERLAND

Thru 1/1, times vary, Sam’s Town, samstownlv.com.

LUIS ALFONSO

PARTIDA & LUIS ANGEL

With Eduin Caz, 7 p.m., Theater at Virgin, axs.com.

CHRIS LORENZO 7 p.m., Downtown Las Vegas Events Center, seetickets.us.

SNOW CARNIVAL HOLIDAY FOREST Thru 1/8, times vary, M Resort, themresort.com.

THE HEIZ 10 p.m., Sand Dollar Downtown, thesanddollarlv.com.

DRINKSGIVING WITH FLO RIDA

There’s never really a slowdown when it comes to partying in Las Vegas, but the closest thing would probably be Thanksgiving. And it makes sense, considering the family-focused holiday is all about staying home, eating too much and watching football. But the Fremont Street Experience won’t let you go quietly this year. The casino-lined Downtown promenade is bringing back its “blackout block party,” DrinksGiving, running from the afternoon into the wee hours Wednesday for everyone who needs a rager before turkey day. From 4 until 8 p.m., the Great Onesie Bar Crawl gives you an excuse to wear your pajamas in public as you bounce between Fremont Street watering holes, and then Flo Rida hits the Third Street Stage for a live concert. Here’s hoping pumpkin pie cures hangovers. 4 p.m., $35+, Fremont Street Experience, vegasexperience.com or greatonesie.com. –Brock Radke

GOLDEN KNIGHTS VS. OTTAWA SENATORS 7 p.m., T-Mobile Arena, axs.com.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WADE VANDERVORT

GAMEDAY

R UWhat to eat at a Vegas game or concert this season

We’ve all been there, sitting in our seat inside an arena or stadium, starting to feel hungry. And usually, we head for whatever food is closest and will satisfy that hunger as quickly—and hopefully cheaply—as possible. ¶ But luckily, at Southern Nevada’s two largest venues for sporting events and concerts, you don’t have to settle for what happens to be nearby. The dining options at Allegiant Stadium and T-Mobile Arena are deep and diverse, to the point where, alongside the action on the field, ice or stage, food plays a significant role in making a trip to those venues memorable. ¶ So go forth and explore, not just the stalls and stands near your seat but far from it. The farther the walk back, the more you can order and work o returning, right? (Prices subject to change.).

BA few of our favorite Allegiant Stadium bites

Gold Standard Burger at Holsteins

The Cosmopolitan’s gourmet burger spot has long been a favorite for tourists and locals due to rich, complex flavor combinations. Holsteins is setting the standard at the stadium, too, with this burger stacked with smoked bacon and aged cheddar. $18.

Supreme Tostada Nacho at Nacho Daddy Clyde’s Sandwich at

Tender, juicy chicken with the right amount of crunch and the right amount of heat—that’s what turns a kids’ meal of tenders into a grown-up treat. Find it at Clyde’s in Section $13.

Is there a more iconic stadium snack than nachos?

The o erings at Allegiant have come a long way from that plastic tray of chips and cheese sauce, and these loaded nachos bring fresh elements to the table.

$17.

(Nacho Daddy photo by Steve Marcus)

Clyde’s Hot Chicken

GAMEDAY

Silver & Black Thundercup at Sweet & Boozy

Sicilian Veggie Slice at Slice House

If the dough is flavorful, crisp and light, and the sauce is a slow-simmered blend of beautiful tomato goodness, you don’t need meat on your pizza. Of course you can get pepperoni at Slice House in 118 (or Tony Gemignani’s other stadium spot, Pizza Rock, in 109) but you won’t miss it with this satisfying Sicilian spectacle. $13.

Ice cream + cookies = win. Sweet & Boozy in Section 106 o ers spiked treats and drinks, too, but a simple sundae splits the uprights every time. $18.

Pinkbox Doughnuts

Trash Can Nachos at Guy Fieri’s Tailgate

Find Raider superfan Fieri’s food near the Hall of Fame display on the 200 level, including some burger options you won’t find at his casino restaurants. But the crowd pleaser has to be this piled-high nacho bucket with carne asada and barbecue sauce. $16.

One of the city’s favorite and fastest-growing doughnut shops is furthering its community connections by becoming the o cial doughnut partner of the Vegas Golden Knights and the Las Vegas Raiders. The stadium site is in Section 128, and while it couldn’t possibly o er all the flavors at your neighborhood shop, you can wash down your doughnut with a frosty Modelo here. $8.

Brisket Mac Bowl Bowl at Rollin Smoke

The country-style barbecue of Rollin’ Smoke resonates because the flavors and recipes feel like a family get-together—and because it serves some of the best side dishes in the city. We’re not even sure if we deserve this creamy mac and cheese layered with eye-rollingly delicious beef brisket. Wait, is there a football game happening right now? $17.

(Food photographs by Wade Vander vort)

A few of our favorite T-Mobile Arena bites

Prime Rib Sandwich at Four Peaks Carvery

Industry leader Levy Restaurants runs the F&B show at the Fortress, and the team takes pride in creating memorable cuisine beyond those recognizable brands we all know and love. Translation: This mouthwatering mountain of meat drizzled with creamy horseradish from the nondescript vendor stand in Section 9 could supplant Shake Shack as your go-to sandwich selection. $18.75.

Meatball Bowl at Pizza Forte

The family behind local legend Ferraro’s Ristorante launched Pizza Forte years ago to add some love to the quick-casual category. With the focus on quality, it’s easy to understand why this food has become popular at multiple sports venues in Las Vegas. If you’re not in the mood for a slice or a sandwich, raise your game with these perfect meatballs decorated in marinara, ricotta and pesto. $15.

Fresh doughnuts at Freed’s Dessert Shop

You’re lucky if there’s a Freed’s Dessert Shop location in your neighborhood, and the same can be said if your seat is near Section 15. Tiny, sweet treats don’t get enough credit as ideal sports snacks, especially if they’re fresh-fried and dusted in cinnamon and sugar. Better get a couple orders. $16.

The Bobbie at Capriotti’s

Chicken & Chorizo Skewers at Pacha Mamas

Mexican food institution Border Grill first scored big with its BBQ Mexicana concept, and now we get to sample the Central and South American flavors of Pacha Mamas, definitely something new in concession food. These boldly flavored skewers—also available at the Aviators’ Las Vegas Ballpark—might make you forget the score. $15.

Arguably the city’s all-time favorite sandwich, the Bobbie deserves a place on the menu at the events center where Las Vegans love to congregate most. Though we’re also partial to Capriotti’s cheesesteak for easy munching as we cheer on the Golden Knights, ’tis certainly the season to indulge in this turkey- and stu ngfilled classic. $20 (includes chips).

(Photographs by Wade Vandervort/Sta )

Range roving

Dollar Loan Center’s bar & grill beckons, even during the daytime

BY SPENCER PATTERSON

Eating inside an arena can feel like a necessary evil—overly expensive, not-so-satisfying food wolfed down so we can get back to watching that game or concert. But what if arena grub actually made us crave it, to the point where we dropped in even on non-event days or nights? Enter Craggy Range.

The newish sports bar and grill sits inside Dollar Loan Center, home to the Henderson Silver Knights hockey team, but it can be accessed from the outside, too, starting at 2 p.m. every day. So whether you’re arriving early for an HSK tilt on the ice or simply in the neighborhood, hungry for solid food and drink options and an array of sports-focused screens, Craggy deserves consideration.

CRAGGY RANGE

Pair it with a snack—a basket of fries or tots, queso dip with chips or maybe some shishito peppers. And wash all that down with one of 16 rotating draft beers (locals like Able Baker, Bad Beat and Lovelady, plus Guinness, Stella and other standbys), or a handful of eligible cocktails and glasses of wine. Cost per pick? Five bucks, which means you could clean up on a sizable taco, a mountain of tots and your pint of choice for just $15.

SPORTS BAR & GRILL Dollar Loan Center, 200 S. Green Valley Parkway, 833727-2449, the craggyrange.com. Monday-Saturday, 2-9 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Happy hour runs weekdays from 2 till 5, and it’s a fun one. Design a “double-shelled” taco—soft and crunchy, with guac, refried black beans or nacho cheese between the layers and your pick of pulled pork, shredded chicken, ground beef, grilled shrimp, blackened cod or roasted cauli ower inside, along with various cheeses, sauces and veggies.

If you’re still hungry, or if happy hour’s not happening, don’t stress out. The main menu is wide-ranging and fairly priced, from a trio of sliders with tots ($12), a roast beef Range Dip sandwich ($16) or sh & chips ($16) to bowls of mac & cheese ($13) and shrimp & grits ($16).

And if you’re a meat eater, try something made with bison—the bison burger, bison meatball linguine or even a cup of the ground bison chili. It’s a nod to the OG Craggy in White sh, Montana, part of a restaurant group headed by Golden Knights owner Bill Foley, who continues to sweeten the Vegas scene, on and o the ice.

Near the Mack

UNLV District haunts for pre- and post-gaming

BY BROCK RADKE

CROWN & ANCHOR PUB

For nearly three decades, the Crown has been the quintessential British bar in the Vegas Valley, and though soccer is the most-watched sport here, it’s equally friendly for fans of all stripes. Its legendary fish and chips goes all-you-caneat on Mondays, and every Tuesday is UNLV Day, when students and sta get a burger meal for $6 and a dollar o 20-ounce drafts. 1350 E. Tropicana Ave., 702-7398676, crownandanchorlv. com.

NAKED CITY PIZZA

It’s one of the most popular Bu alo Bills bars in the city, but its proximity to the Thomas & Mack Center, stellar wings, pies and sandwiches and a great beer selection all add up to an excellent experience. Naked City also does a killer take on Bu alo chicken fries, the dish that got UNLV grad Guy Fieri through college. Score extra points by ducking into O ce Bar next door for a shot and a beer. 4608 Paradise Road, 702-722-2241, nakedcitylv.com.

HOFBRAUHAUS

You might not think of the traditional Bavarian beer hall for this purpose, but we recom-

mend you stop in at the bar for a Dunkel on your way to the game, and then, after UNLV wins, celebrate in the always-partying dining room with a Hefeweizen and a schnitzel with mushrooms. 4510 Paradise Road, 702-8532337, hofbrauhauslas vegas.com.

PARADISE CANTINA

This was a regular designated UNLV hoops pre-game meetup spot before the pandemic and the bar’s appearance on Bar Rescue

After upgrades to the design and food menu (while maintaining great drink prices and happy hour specials), the Cantina’s looking better than ever. 4480 Paradise Road, #1250, 702-4340031, paradisecantinalv. com.

CHEBA HUT

A college district needs a great sandwich shop, and this cannabis-inspired eatery does the trick daily from 10 a.m. until midnight. If you skipped dinner while cheering the team onto victory, fill up on the White Widow with chicken, bacon and ranch, and keep the good vibes going with your favorite local brew or a Brass Monkey (PBR and OJ). 4550 S. Maryland Parkway, 702-3330121, chebahut.com.

Tacos, queso and chips, shishito peppers, fries and cocktails at Craggy Range

(Photographs by Christopher DeVargas/Sta )

(Sun File)

INFLATION EASING

1Prices at the wholesale level rose 8% in October from a year ago, the fourth straight decline and the latest sign that inflation pressures in the U.S. are easing from painfully high levels. The annual figure is down from 8.4% in September.

LOMBARDO’S TRANSPARENCY PLEDGE DIES QUICK DEATH

Despite the rows of empty seats, a reporter from the Las Vegas Sun, the Weekly’s sister publication, was told by Joe Lombardo’s campaign director Elizabeth Ray that the event was at capacity and didn’t have space for the newspaper to cover the address. A Sun photogra pher was allowed into the auditorium.

The Lombardo campaign, which organized the event, also didn’t credential the Nevada Current online news site.

The Sun’s news coverage of the gubernatorial election included an in vestigation that debunked false claims made by Lombardo supporters—and apparently Lombardo himself—about corruption during the COVID-19 crisis.

The editorial boards of the Sun and Current have been critical of Lombar do, the Clark County sheriff who nar rowly defeated incumbent Gov. Steve Sisolak in this month’s midterm elections.

Lombardo has refused to entertain questions by Sun reporters, or sit down with the Sun editorial board, for months. Both the Sun and the Current were also denied access to the GOP’s election night watch party at Red Rock Resort with the same explanation: There wasn’t enough space.

“This is the second time in a week the governor-elect used the ‘there is no room’ excuse to bar a Sun reporter from covering him. There must always be room for a reporter to ask ques

tions of the government,” said Brian Greenspun, the Sun ’s editor and pub lisher. “But of course, what Lombardo is really saying is there is no room in his mind for anything but the easiest of questions.

“This is all about the governor-elect holding a grudge,” Greenspun contin ued. “However, by trying to retaliate against my newspaper for aggressive news coverage and an editorial board that supported Gov. Sisolak, he is hurting the residents of Nevada by disrespecting them, and disrespecting the office he is about to hold.”

As a candidate, Lombardo can choose which outlets to accept in terview requests from, said Stephen Bates, a UNLV professor specializing in the First Amendment. Lombardo also didn’t speak with the Sun through out the campaign cycle, with Ray either ignoring calls or opting to send written statements.

Only time will tell if Lombardo’s intentional denial of access continues once he’s in office.

“It seems like a terrible idea and a terrible precedent to set,” Bates said. “It suggests, maybe, that as governor he won’t stand behind open govern ment, which we knew from his time [in charge of] Metro.”

Lombardo’s dislike for the Sun isn’t new, as he is on record saying he wants to put the newspaper out of business. –Ray Brewer

GRAND PRIX PREP

2MGM Resorts International plans to build grandstand seating along the Strip in front of the Bellagio for next year’s Formula One race. Race festivities for the Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix are set for November 16-18, 2023. The race course will include a section of the Strip.

The world’s population hit 8 billion on November 15, 11 years after reaching 7 billion.

GAMING BOARD CHANGE

3The chairman and executive director of Nevada’s Gaming Control Board will leave the organization at the end of the month. J. Brin Gibson, who was appointed to the board in late 2020, will be replaced by Brittnie Watkins.

STUDENTS

DISSECT, DEBATE ISSUES AT YOUTH FORUM

After a two-year pandemic hiatus, the Las Vegas Sun Youth Forum brought together hundreds of bright young minds and their insights on current events.

On gun control, abortion, water policy, statutes of limitations, the breaking up the Clark County School District and more, about 450 juniors and seniors from CCSD high schools dissected and debated the issues with clarity, civility and wisdom.

Students gathered in small groups November 8 in Liberty High School classrooms, professionally dressed, taking notes and raising their hands to add to the conversations as adults moderated.

The Youth Forum was established in 1956 by Las Vegas Sun founder and publisher Hank Greenspun.

Greenspun had a simple notion that adults should listen to the thoughts and opinions of youths—an elementary concept, yet given the times, a revolu tionary idea.

That started what has carried on through multiple presidential administrations, wars and significant historical events, giving Las

Vegas students plenty to discuss.

“I wanted to participate in something and hear other people’s viewpoints,” Rancho High School’s Andrew Henderson said.

He came in thinking the drinking age should be raised until young people are more physically mature, but he came around to an argument for personal liberty. He had an “oh, I never thought of that before” moment, he said.

Linda Young, a discussion moderator and former School Board member, told her group that it was the upcoming generation to advocate for what’s right for all people.

“You’re going to pick up the mantle,” she said. “It’s going to be your turn.”

El Mundo Spanish News co-founder Eddie Escobedo Jr., who facilitated a lively gun control debate, has been a forum moderator for nine years. He said the return of the forum is another sign of getting back to normal since COVID-19 hit the world.

“They are so smart they scare me,” he said of the students. “It scares me wonderfully.” –Hillary Davis

U.S. Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto took a victory lap early No vember 13, thanking supporters who helped narrowly re-elect the nation’s first Latina senator after topping Republican challenger Adam Laxalt.

Speaking to roughly 150 supporters inside a facility at the Interna tional Brotherhood of Carpenters Local 1977 near the Strip, Cortez Masto thanked Neva da voters who helped her win by about 6,000 votes.

Shortly after Clark County updated mail ballot results the previ ous night, the race was called in Cortez Masto’s favor by the Associated Press, MSNBC, CNN and other major news orga nizations.

“We knew this was going to be a tough campaign. But like all of you, I’m a Nevadan. And I know what it takes to deliver for my state,” Cortez Masto said. “Just know whether you vot ed for me or not, I will always fight for you.”

Cortez Masto was returned to Washing ton, D.C., to represent Nevada, along with all four incumbent House representatives—Dem ocrats Dina Titus, Su sie Lee and Steven Horsford, and Repub lican Mark Amodei. Casey Harrison

‘I WILL ALWAYS FIGHT FOR YOU,’ SAYS VICTORIOUS CORTEZ MASTO

POLITICS

UNLV guard EJ Harkless (55) avoids Incarnate Word defender Benjamin Griscti (24) to get up a shot during an 88-63 UNLV win November 12 at the Thomas & Mack Center. UNLV next hosts High Point on November 18 and Southern Illinois on November 21. (Steve Marcus/Staff)

HOT SHOT

(Steve Marcus/Staff)

BY SHANNON MILLER

Alongside the economy, abortion proved to be pivotal in the 2022 general election, which defied his toric trends and polling that foretold a red wave in Congress.

Nevada Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto’s projected victory over Repub lican opponent Adam Laxalt secured Democrats’ control of the Senate. Though House control remained un decided at press time, reports say the issue carried several Democratic can didates to victory in the midterms, which typically generate opposition to the sitting president’s party.

After Cortez Masto’s race was called, the senator re-affirmed her commitment to protecting the right to abortion in Nevada, and fighting against a national abortion ban that has been introduced in Congress.

“Six years ago, when you elected me to the U.S. Senate, I cast the deciding vote to protect health care for millions of Americans,” Cortez Masto said during her November 13 victory speech at the Carpenters International Training Center. “I am ready for more tough fights like that. So when Republicans try to force through a federal abortion ban, I’m going to stop them.”

Though reproductive rights advocates can take comfort that the majority of Nevada’s congressional delegation will fight against any infringement on Nevada’s abortion protections, concerns remain that pro-life gubernatorial candidate Joe Lombardo, the projected winner, will attempt to restrict access or erect bar riers to abortion statewide.

Although the Clark County sheriff has said he respects the will of Ne vadans, who established the right to abortion by ballot question in 1990, Lindsey Harmon, executive director of Planned Parenthood Votes Nevada, says there’s “always a risk.”

“The talking point when [the U.S. Supreme Court] overturned Roe v. Wade was that they were going to turn it back to the States, which we

NEVADA ABORTION RIGHTS STILL LOOK STRONG AFTER 2022 MIDTERMS, ADVOCATES SAY

knew was a smoke screen for their real intention [to] impose a federal abortion ban. And then Lindsey Graham came right out and said it,” she says, adding that U.S. Supreme Court justices Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett are “good examples” of officials who said they would not interfere with abortion laws and then cast votes to the contrary once they’d been confirmed.

“You’ve got all these congressional candidates rolling back their position on Roe—really so that they can get elected to office and then follow the party [to] enact this ban,” Harmon says. “That is what is at stake and has been at stake in this election the entire time.”

Voters established the right to an abortion up to the 24-week mark via ballot question, meaning it can be overturned only by a direct majority vote of the people.

Following June’s overturning of Roe v. Wade and its longtime federal protec tions, abortion became a key campaign issue heading into the midterms. Dem ocrats and their campaigns presented abortion as something Republicans would attempt to restrict and ban na tionwide, while Republicans and their supporters ran ads arguing that abortion isn’t endangered in Nevada and that politicians were attempting to “scare” voters with a non-issue.

“There are a lot of things outside of what is currently in our statute, which gubernatorial candidates, elected officials or a state legislature certainly could enact, which would influence how abortion is accessed in that state,” Har mon says. As examples, she mentions requiring physicians to prescribe medi cation abortion (and excluding midlevel providers), making it more difficult for providers to become licensed, and sup porting “trap laws” such as mandatory waiting periods and ultrasound require ments, which create barriers to access.

Outgoing Gov. Steve Sisolak’s execu tive order provides a different example. Just days after the Supreme Court rul ing, the governor ordered Nevada not to provide information or assist any state seeking to prosecute abortion providers or patients. Harmon and other advo cates, including the Nevada-based Wild West Access Fund, have said the order permitted abortions to continue freely in the state—at a time when providers were experiencing an influx of out-ofstate patients.

In the months since, Lombardo and his campaign have waffled on whether the order will stay in place after his in auguration. He reportedly told a Reno TV station in August that he “absolute ly” would look into repealing the order. The following month, he walked that statement back.

“Months ago, I said I would evalu ate repealing an executive order that I believed at the time and continue to believe was nothing more than political theater,” reads a September 27 state ment on Lombardo’s campaign website. “However, because there are efforts in other states that could impact Nevadans, I have made a commitment not to repeal that executive order until the Legislature can make clear that Nevada is not going to prosecute women who seek an abor tion or medical providers that provide

“Nevada Democrats just gained a su permajority in the Assembly, maintain ing a woman-majority chamber in an election that was defined by protecting abortion rights,” reads a press release from the committee. “Nevada Demo crats already secured a majority in both chambers, and this supermajority will play a crucial role in keeping incoming Republican Governor Joe Lombardo’s dangerous agenda in check.”

With so much at stake, Harmon says

“The talking point when [the U.S. Supreme Court] overturned Roe v. Wade was that they were going to turn it back to the States, which we knew was a smoke screen for their real intention [to] impose a federal abortion ban. And then Lindsey Graham came right out and said it.”

legal abortions.”

On November 14, a Lombardo cam paign spokeswoman said the gover nor-elect “stands by his position” and referred to that September 27 website statement. And in October, Lombardo told the Reno Gazette Journal that, if presented by the state Legislature, he would sign a bill to codify protections for providers and out-of-state patients in statute.

Reproductive rights advocates also celebrated the re-election of Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford, who has been outspoken about protecting those rights. At press time, a spokesman for the attorney general said in an email that, “The election has not changed our position. Our office will not help states prosecute those coming to Nevada to seek reproductive health care legal un der Nevada state law.”

Projections of a Democratic superma jority in the Nevada Legislature are also heartening for advocates. According to the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee, that will be essential for maintaining existing reproductive rights in the state.

her political advocacy branch launched the “largest midterm program ever,” and knocked on more than 176,000 doors to speak with voters about their top issues and abortion. In addition to Planned Parenthood, NARAL ProChoice America ran its “largest-ever” midterm mobilization effort, putting $2.2 million toward ads in Nevada and other battleground states “aimed at educating voters about the importance of reproductive freedom.”

Democrats spent nearly $415 million on ads supporting abortion rights, ac cording to The New York Times. Despite some criticism that Democrats might have erred by not focusing enough on the economy—undoubtedly Americans’ No. 1 concern in the 2022 general election— the strategy paid off for Democrats and pro-choice advocates in all states that had ballot measures related to abortion access in 2022: Kansas, California, Ken tucky, Michigan, Montana and Vermont.

“We really invested,” Harmon says. “While folks are certainly concerned about the economy, they also really care about bodily autonomy and access to reproductive health care.”

(Left to right)

Catherine Cortez Masto, Aaron Ford, Joe Lombardo (AP Photo & Steve Marcus/Photo Illustration)

TIME TO SING

Adele ’s delayed Las Vegas residency starts now ... right?

BY BROCK RADKE

Those fans who arrived in Las Vegas in January only to discover Adele had canceled the opening of her residency show with just 24 hours notice? They had the toughest stories, the greatest heartbreak. But there were others.

Tauny Durruthy thought she had conquered Christmas last year by securing a coveted Playstation 5 for her kids, but her husband René stole the show with tickets to Adele’s second scheduled weekend at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace.

“My daughter cried her eyeballs out in shock, and I spent the rest of the day trying to overcompensate for my measly gift,” she jokes. “Needless to say, we were completely devastated when we heard the news.

“Try explaining to a 10-year-old that Adele canceled her concert via Instagram the week before the show. Not fun.”

The wholesale postponement of Weekends With Adele still feels like one of the biggest disappointments in Las Vegas entertainment history, especially considering the

time it took to get the beloved Brit back on the Colosseum calendar. She shut down the show on January 20 and new dates weren’t announced until July 25.

The residency nally arrives on November 18 and continues on Fridays and Saturdays through March 25 after adding eight concerts on top of the original plan.

It might still sting some, but will all the drama change the way we feel about Adele and her music? All 32 shows have sold out through Ticketmaster’s Veri ed Fan program and tickets are only available through secondary sources starting around the $700 mark. Her show has seemingly maintained the status of hottest ticket on the Strip, even as other headlining residencies and new production shows have launched over the course of the year. Perhaps her plan to take an extended break from music after her Weekends in Vegas has only increased the demand. That’d be good news for Caesars, which will bene t from the completion of the expanded residency run but will never make up for the many nights the Colosseum was empty

WEEKENDS

WITH ADELE

November 18-19 (continuing through March 25), 8 p.m., the Colosseum, adele.com.

during 2022 because of the sudden cancellation.

For Durruthy, it’s still Adele or bust. After living in Las Vegas for 16 years, her family moved to Mexico over the summer, but she’s coming back with her mother and now 11-year-old daughter to catch the concert later this month.

“This is more than just a concert for us. This is generational bonding and memories,” she says.

“I’ve been rocking with Adele since she made her rst album, 19 ... but Adele is mostly special to me because of the memories I’ve made with my oldest daughter while listening to her music. I always sang ‘Someone Like You’ to my daughter when she was a baby, and still sing it to her from time to time.”

It’s no surprise that true-blue fans won’t let 10 months of waiting get in the way of such a special event, but has it altered their expectations of the performance?

“We would’ve been ne watching her sing in a chair in the middle of the stage if we had to,” Durruthy says. “Adele’s customers don’t go to concerts looking for waterfalls and reworks. We want to see her sing and feel the feels.

“I will be looking for reworks and waterfalls now, because I’m curious to see what held the show up for a whole year.”

Adele (AP Photo/ Photo Illustration)

COOKING WITH CANNABIS

+Making edibles and infusing cannabis into your recipes can be a fun and easy process. Learning the basics allows you to turn any feast into a cannabis-infused treat.

WHY MAKE YOUR OWN EDIBLES?

The convenience and ease of premade edibles from a dispensary is handy, but if you want to experiment with making your own, it can be a fun and fulfilling process. Plus, making your own means you can customize the process from start to finish.

Decarbing your flower at home can be done in the oven at low heat. Here’s how:

1. Preheat oven to 225 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Break dried flower into small pieces and place on baking sheet in a single layer with space in-between each piece.

3. Heat in the oven for 45 minutes.

4. Remove baking sheet and let cool.

5. Once decarbed, it’s ready to bind with a fat.

START WITH A BASE. There are several ways to infuse cannabis into food, but creating an infused oil or butter is typically the foundation of any edible endeavor. Making cannabis butter or oil is simple and it’s extremely versatile.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT INGREDIENTS—

SPECIFICALLY, THE MAIN INGREDIENT . When selecting flower to cook with, you can use any of your preferred strains. Even better, you can combine strains during the process to fully customize your experience. Do you want to whip up an infused cookie that’s part amaretto sour with just a hint of head cheese? When you’re making your own edibles, you can. Playing with combinations is fun, and the possibilities are limitless.

PRO TIP: Once you find the strains you like and are infusing with them regularly, you can prebatch cannabis butter or oil and keep it on-hand. Having multiple di erent oil or butter infusions is the easiest way to quickly mix-andmatch strains in your recipes.

Once you have cannabutter or cannabis oil, you can use it with any recipe you’d like, including savory ones. Experiment, have fun and play with the process.

Keep in mind that cooking with cannabis will make your space smell like cannabis.

ADVERTORIAL PRESENTED BY DEEP ROOTS HARVEST

1 cup of unsalted butter 1/2 cup water (add more if needed)

3 grams of decarbed cannabis METHOD

1. In a saucepan, bring butter, watter and cannabis to a slow simmer on low or medium heat. Add water as needed to help regulate heat and avoid browning the butter.

2. Heat on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.

3. Pour the hot mixture into a glass container and use a cheese cloth to strain out the cannabis pieces from the butter. Discard leftover flower.

4. Refrigerate until the butter fully hardens. While cooling, the butter will naturally separate from the water, making it easy to lift out when cool. Discard water.

Tip: When it comes to dosing, start at a low dose, especially as you’re learning to make edibles.

Calculating the accurate THC dosage and potency is vital when cooking with cannabis. Ignoring this step can create a final product that sends you into space, or one that does nothing at all. There are several online edible dosage calculators that will do this for you—and we recommend using a tool like this to avoid any mishaps. Check out howtoedible.com for a great dosage calculator and plenty of helpful recipes. If you want to give it a shot on your own, here’s the basic math.

Convert the flower weight to milligrams

Determine the estimated milligrams used in the full recipe

Determine the dosing per serving

Weight of flower in milligrams

Grams of flower x x

number of estimated milligrams

1,000

THC percentage of flower

number of servings in full recipe

EMO NITE November 23, 10 p.m., $25+. Zouk Nightclub, zouk grouplv.com.

ATTUNED TO THE PARTY

Morgan Freed and T.J. Petracca (Courtesy/Ken Winfry/ Zouk Nightclub)

Emo Nite resumes its groundbreaking Zouk Nightclub residency

BY BROCK RADKE

Morgan Freed and T.J. Petracca aren’t DJs, musicians or producers.

They’re the engineers of the party known as Emo Nite, a cultural phenomenon with which Las Vegas is suddenly very familiar.

Not being a DJ duo didn’t stop Emo Nite from landing a residency at Zouk Nightclub at Resorts World this year, launched during last month’s When We Were Young emo and pop-punk music festival on the Las Vegas Strip.

“There were hundreds of thousands of emo kids in Las Vegas,” Petracca says. “The festival was canceled Saturday [due to high winds], and so many people were bummed, ourselves included, but it sort of made it all the more special for us on Saturday. We were able to pull in a few more special guests to perform during our set, and we got a lot of feedback from people saying, ‘You saved the weekend for us,’ which was really nice to hear.”

Known to regularly incorporate a wide range of artists as guest performers in their parties, Emo Nite gathered Boys Like Girls singer Martin Johnson, State Champs singer Derek DiScanio, Neck Deep singer Ben Barlow and electronic duo 3OH3! for the Zouk debut.

Freed and Petracca founded Emo Nite eight years ago as a party at a small dive bar in LA’s Echo Park neighborhood, a celebration of the often-maligned genres of rock they never stopped loving. It wasn’t designed or intended to scale up to a major Vegas nightclub, but the guys never imagined they’d play at Coachella, either. Welcome to 2022.

“T.J. and I started doing Emo Nite because we wanted to give space for people who didn’t fit in. This is not a normal nightclub thing. You don’t hear this stuff in clubs,” Freed says. “We didn’t realize we’d grow up to be entertainers, but that’s kind of who

we are. We want to make sure every single person who walks into that club is entertained until the moment they leave. Whether you know Emo Nite or not, you’re gonna have a good time.”

The Coachella set actually paved the way for the Vegas residency; the Zouk Group’s careful curators caught the show and started imagining how the enhanced experience would play in the hi-tech environment at Resorts World.

Petracca says this stage of Emo Nite is about evolution: “How do we take these anthems everyone comes to sing along to and combine them with house music, EDM, the club hits everyone wants to dance to? We had to create a whole new product here [at Zouk].

“When we got the residency, we had to double the amount of music we created for Coachella, work on a whole bunch of new mixes and mashups, and create new visuals to go along with all of it,” he continues. “It’s a unique thing for us, and I don’t think it’s like anything else Zouk has on the roster.”

Emo Nite is actually unlike anything happening at any Las Vegas nightclub, given the built-in culture for its core genres. And with at least half a dozen dates coming next year at Zouk and Ayu Dayclub—and When We Were Young returning to the Las Vegas Festival Grounds in October 2023—there’s clearly plenty more space for emo on the Strip.

“I think when the world went through a lot of big changes, people were more willing to feel more emotions, and maybe they would go back and listen to what they felt when they were growing up,” Freed says. “We hate the word ‘resurgence,’ because it never went away for us, but in the mainstream, there has been a bit of a resurgence, because people have been through all these things these songs talk about.”

CHANGING COURSE

Southern rocker Lennon Roach moves from the military to music

BY AMBER SAMPSON

Lennon Roach joined the military with every intention of dedicating 20 years of his life to it. He had no way of knowing it would help him become a fullblown rock musician.

The Alabama native, who inherited his father’s love for drumming, went into the Air Force at 19, with his first assignments taking him to Korea and to England.

“That really kick-started my sing ing,” says Roach, who served for eight years. “I was a drummer, but I didn’t have a drum set in my tiny barracks room. So I was like, ‘All right, you don’t get to beat the sh*t out of things anymore. You have to actually tell people how you feel.’”

Roach downsized to an acoustic guitar and became known in his unit as the Southern gentleman who could actually sing. “I had a lot of friends in the service who would be like ‘What the hell are you doing? Why are you doing this job with us? You should be trying to be a musician.’ I always shrugged it off,” he says.

That all changed in 2018, when Roach was stationed at Nellis Air Force Base. After getting deployed and seeing several countries, he began to wonder if it might be time to end his military career. A deep dive into the local music scene—which saw Roach playing open mics, then graduating to shows at Downtown venue Horse Trailer Hideout—con firmed that hunch.

“I started meeting more people that wanted to build a band with me. That’s when I was like ‘Holy sh*t. This is something that could actually hap pen,’” he says. “I’d never lived in an area … [with] so much music talent.”

Roach forged friendships with

well-known locals including Paige Overton, former frontwoman of The Clydesdale, and The Rhyolite Sound’s Jake Shepard and Larry Reha, the latter of whom, he says, was especially instrumental to his success.

“[Larry’s] been a pretty big mentor for me in figuring out where I belong in this Vegas music scene,” Roach says. “I wouldn’t be doing anything if it wasn’t for Larry.”

The Life I Stole, the debut EP Roach recorded at Reha’s Sonic Rodeo and at Blvckbox Studios, is slated for a spring release. Roach and Overton have a duet on it called “Out West,” which piggybacks off his September single, “Honey Bee”—a breakup track about searching for someone better.

“Honey Bee” highlights Roach’s Southern growl and bluesy twang. Being from Alabama, “I like to take country influence and apply it into more of an easier digestible rock ’n’ roll sound, with a sprinkle of coun try,” he says.

He regards country star Chris Stapleton as a hero, loves Lynyrd Skynyrd and credits Colter Wall as a “country artist that really helped me get through my deployment. “

The Life I Stole is Roach’s personal reflection on military life and the frustrations that followed. “It’s really a collective piece on different things I was not happy about in my life that I decided to either kill or change,” he explains.

Stomping rocker “Dying Eyes” embodies that concept. “I’m killing an old version of myself in that track, and that’s the big picture of what the record is: If you’re not happy with where you’re at, you have so many options,” he says.

Lennon Roach (Courtesy/Adam Lerner)

STAND-UP GUY

Jo Koy ’s latest Vegas homecoming will be historic

BY BROCK RADKE

Jo Koy is our guy. All the big comedians are coming through town these days: Kevin Hart at Resorts World, Jerry Seinfeld back at Caesars Palace, Adam Sandler at Cosmo, Sebastian Maniscalco and Jim Gaffigan and Chris Tucker at Wynn. Koy’s name might not always be grouped in with those guys—he certainly wouldn’t put himself in that category—but the guy has been absolutely destroying his arena tour this year. This is a comedian who got his start in Las Vegas coffee shops while attending UNLV and has slayed audiences this year at Radio City Music Hall, Climate Pledge Arena in his original hometown of Seattle and the SM Mall of Asia Arena in the Philippines.

He’ll follow up last week’s Madison Square Garden gig by becoming the first comedian ever to headline T-Mobile Arena. What makes that even sweeter is that he totally gets it.

“There are other arenas, big giant ones in Las Vegas, but there’s something special about T-Mobile, just sitting there on the Strip,” Koy says. “Locals claim it. And people from out of town, when you say T-Mobile Arena, they know it. It’s already an iconic part of Vegas.”

Koy says he’s been pinching himself through out the tour, over the types of venues he’s get ting to play. Maybe that’s because he’s reached a new echelon in his comedy career over the past few years, when he’s broadened his horizons with his first book, the autobiographical Mixed Plate: Chronicles of an All-American Combo, and the first film he can really call his own, Easter Sunday. That Jay Chandrasekhar-direct ed comedy flick was released this year and is based on some of Koy’s most popular stand-up subjects—his family.

“Making a movie, people don’t know what it takes. It’s stressful, it’s so rewarding, it’s a lot of fun and there’s zero sleep,” he says. “But there was a lot of responsibility on my shoulders to make this movie, a lot of representation [issues].

“There were so many firsts I had to take care of before I could even think about trying to make it funny. It was the first time you had a story in a Hollywood film where the lead is a Filipino woman.”

Anybody who spends time on Netflix—where Koy’s recent specials Live From the Los Angeles Forum and Comin’ in Hot remain in heavy ro tation—can see we’re living in the most diverse

era of comedy yet. It might just be an hour-long stand-up special here, a movie there, but the impact of this particular progress in the enter tainment industry cannot be measured.

“People saw the movie and will say, ‘Oh, he’s making a movie about what he talks about onstage,’ and yeah, I am, but it’s the first one. Just imagine how Filipinos feel, to be living in this country for so long [without that],” Koy says. “My grandmother lived here for 50 years and never saw anything like that in her lifetime. My mom is 75 now, and that’s the first movie she’s ever seen like that. That’s what that movie meant—a lot of people being felt, being seen.”

And after his Easter Sunday experience, Koy is ready to play his part to ensure other deserv ing artists are being seen.

“I want to continue producing. I’m addicted to being behind the camera now, and I want to showcase the other talent that’s out there,” he says. “I know how hard it was for me, and now that the door is open, I want to keep it open and present more talent, not just Filipino talent but other cultures and ethnicities that want to be heard. I want to see what I can do to help make that happen.”

Joy Koy

(Photo by Christopher DeVargas/Staff, Grooming by Natasha Chamberlin)

JO KOY November 19, 8 p.m., $51-$700. T-Mobile Arena, axs.com.

Experience cinematic immersion at an epic scale through state-of-the-art technology that includes interactive 4K projection, 360˚ audio, in-floor vibrations and scent systems.

Journey across the universe. Leave your footprints on the Moon. Explore the planets at an extraordinary scale.

Come face-to-face with the world’s most exotic animals. Gaze at the splendor of the savanna’s sunrise.

TOTAL PARTY PACKAGE

BY BROCK RADKE

AMexican steakhouse laser-focused on topnotch ingredients, farm-to-glass cocktails, sophisticated design and entertainment bordering on theatrical, Toca Madera appears to be tailor-made for the Las Vegas Strip.

But while Noble 33 Hospitality co-founders Mikey Tanha and Tosh Berman first met while par tying at XS Nightclub more than 10 years ago, this elegant concept was launched in West Hollywood and then expanded in Scottsdale, Arizona. Still, the Vegas location, which debuted in August in the former pub space between Aria and the Shops at Crystals, was built as the brand’s flagship.

“I think Vegas exemplifies the importance of creating a new style of what … dining is, not just feeding people but giving people experiences,” Berman says. “For Mikey and I, so much of this is based on creating a space that fits the needs of us personally. As we’ve gotten older, we’ve become a little less interested in traditional nightlife venues … and we’re going to restaurants to bridge those elements.”

Does that place Toca Madera in the recent wave of glamorous Strip restaurants redefining the classic dinner-and-a-show ex perience? It does. And yet, dis tinguishing characteristics are easily found in both elements.

“People are loving it,” Tanha

says. “I think we’ve carved our own little niche, and we’re bringing something unique.

“The experience part is what we do,” he continues, noting that the company has its own design firm anchoring the creative spirit of all its projects. “We don’t just want to be an average restaurant that turns up the music; we want to be a stateof-the-art restaurant with top culinary and beverage offerings, and the feedback so far has been that the food and beverage is some of the best our guests have experienced in this city.”

The menu was freshly crafted for Las Vegas and is now being introduced at the other loca tions. The obvious showstopper

Every night feels like industry night at Toca Madera

Shops at Crystals, 725-255-9030, tocamadera.com. Sunday-Wednesday, 4 p.m.-midnight; Thursday-Saturday, 4 p.m.-1 a.m.

is a 40-ounce Wagyu beef toma hawk steak served flaming with bone marrow and roasted salsa verde ($325), but you don’t have to be on the baller budget to embrace the Toca Madera experience. Start with familiar favorites like guacamole or queso fundido (both $18) or amp it up with crispy tacos of bluefin tuna ($18) or Maine lobster ($20).

Raw bar offerings and salads could pave the way for your favorite cut, or you could opt for chicken or shortrib enchi ladas ($38), seared salmon in hibiscus-lime butter ($38) or the signature, indulgent truffle burger ($48).

Not enough choices? There

are separate vegan and taco menus, yielding intriguing bites like chipotle tofu tosta ditas ($22), truffle mushroom tacos ($18) and more.

With these dynamic options and plenty of energy, it’s no surprise that Toca Madera is starting to win over the city’s hospitality industry. And nothing could make its opera tors happier.

“It’s one of the most ful filling things to me, to see casino hosts and marketing hosts and nightclub hosts coming in two or three times a week, sending their clients and friends who are in town,” Tanha says. “That puts the biggest smile on my face.”

Party Brunch

n When dayclub season ends, Lavo Party Brunch begins. The weekend affair pairs all the decadence of daytime brunch with all the debauchery of a late-night club bash. If dancing on tables and making it rain (Lavo dollars) is your vibe, you’re in the right place. Before you really get started, fuel up on these amazing dishes.

Chicken & Waffles

Lavo’s take on this Southern classic doesn’t deviate far from its roots, but it does add enhancements. The touch of spicy crema atop these lightly breaded chicken bites adds some kick and tang to an already salty-sweet combo. It’s not a hefty dish by any means, but it will make you smile. $36.

Tiramisu French Toast Fluffy, Nutella-stuffed brioche drizzled in rich Kahlúa liqueur. Need we say more? This coffee-flavored delight is a melt-in-your-mouth standout.

Nix all the discourse about pancakes versus waffles. This is your breakfast victor. $32.

King Crab Benedict

If decadence were a dish, this Benedict would be king. A generous bedding of but ter-poached crab and egg already make this a savory treat, but the caviar and Champagne hollandaise take this dish to delicious new heights. $68.

The Ultimate Bloody Mary Presented in an enormous ice goblet with skewers of grilled cheese sandwiches, pickles, bacon-wrapped jalapeños and olives, this mother of all marys is a true test of stami na. Its mix calls for an entire bottle of Belvedere vodka, lemon juice, aged balsam ic, horseradish and other spices before it’s ladled out in glasses. You’ll probably tap out before finishing it, but hey, that’s what brunch is for. $995. –Amber Sampson

LAVO Palazzo, 702-791-1800, taogroup.com. Party Brunch, Saturday, noon-6 p.m.; weekend brunch, Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; dinner, daily, 5-10:30 p.m.

TOCA MADERA

Australian wagyu top cap at Toca Madera (Courtesy/TJ Perez)

(Below) Tosh Berman (left) and Mikey Tanha (Courtesy/Ryan Forbes)

The Ultimate Bloody Mary (Courtesy/ Lavo)

New and old dishes we love at Lavo’s epic

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN RAMOS

WATCH LIST

BY CASE KEEFER

None of the once-seemingly realistic dreams that Raiders fans carried into the rst season under coach Josh McDaniels remain possible at the midway point of the year. Not after Las Vegas lost three straight games as a favorite to fall to 2-7, the second-worst record in the NFL.

The Raiders won’t win the AFC West for the rst time since 2002 or make the playo s for the second consecutive year. Quarterback Derek Carr, with his numbers down, won’t make a dark horse run at the Most Valuable Player award. And star edge rusher Maxx Crosby isn’t winning Defensive Player of the Year, not on a defense that might be the worst in the league.

It’s been another disappointing season for a franchise and fan base all too familiar with them. Only one team in the NFL—the Cleveland Browns—has fewer combined wins than the Raiders over the past 20 seasons.

But that doesn’t mean the second half of the year, starting with a Week 11 game November 20 at Denver, isn’t worth watching at all. There are still areas of intrigue and questions to be answered. Here are four things to follow as the Raiders wind down the season.

WHO STAYS: MCDANIELS, CARR OR NEITHER?

“Both” returning appears to be the unlikeliest answer, by far. When a team falls this short of expectations, it usually moves on from the coach, the quarterback or both.

Financially, it would be easier for Raiders owner Mark Davis to cut ties with Carr. The ninth-year quarterback signed a three-year contract extension in the o season, but it’s not guaranteed until three days after the Super Bowl—giving the Raiders a window to get rid of him with a relatively minimal penalty to the salary cap.

Davis recently nished paying o former coach Jack Del Rio, who was red in 2017, but a settlement with

Jon Gruden, who resigned in the middle of last season, is presumably still on the books. That means if he res McDaniels, Davis will be paying three head coaches next year.

But there will be backlash if the Raiders keep McDaniels, especially among the fan base. And internally, there could be even louder dissent over letting go of Carr, especially from the team’s best player, wide receiver Davante Adams.

Adams requested a trade to Las Vegas this summer from Green Bay largely to reunite with Carr, his college teammate and best friend. With a ve-year, $141 million contract, Adams wields far more power than any other player on the roster.

Four things to follow as the Raiders wind down an extremely underwhelming season

(Left) Josh McDaniels, Derek Carr (AP Photo/ Photo Illustration)

THE SECOND HALF OF JOSH JACOBS’ INCREDIBLE SEASON

The fourth-year running back, a former rst-round pick out of Alabama, will almost surely be playing his nal eight games in silver and black. So far, he has saved his best for last.

With 821 yards on the ground to this point, Jacobs is on pace to nish with the second-most single-season rushing yards in franchise history, behind only Marcus Allen’s MVP season in 1985 when he ran for 1,759. Jacobs could also move as high as fourth in the team’s record book among career rushing leaders.

He has arguably been the team’s most valuable player—though Adams and Crosby are also in the conversation—another knock on McDaniels and new general manager Dave Ziegler. The pair opted not to exercise Jacobs’ fth-year rookie option for $8 million coming into the season, so he will be a free agent this o season.

Jacobs has played his way into an even bigger payday, and with highpriced contracts already doled out to a trio of o ensive weapons in Adams, injured tight end Darren Waller and injured slot receiver Hunter Renfrow, it’s unlikely the Raiders will sign him.

AMIK THE FREAK

If there can be a feel-good story on a team this bad, it’s cornerback Amik Robertson, the only player still contributing from the Raiders’ disastrous 2020 draft class.

The undersized, 5-foot-8 Robertson looked like a long shot to make the roster going into training camp but impressed the new coaching sta with his intensity and playmaking ability. He has become Las Vegas’ third-most reliable cornerback, behind Rock Ya-Sin and the currently injured Nate Hobbs.

Robertson’s physical limitations remain a liability, but he has made up for it by rediscovering the knack for takeaways that made him an exciting prospect coming out of Louisiana Tech. He had a 68-yard fumble recovery for a touchdown in which he weaved in and out of tra c during a Week 4 win against the Broncos. He also punched the ball away from receiver Keke Coutee in the open eld during a Week 10 loss to the Colts, leading to a Raiders fumble recovery.

The latter invigorated Las Vegas, which looked at and was about to go down three scores before the turnover.

Robertson will probably never be a great starting outside cornerback in the NFL, but he has found a role as an energizing fan-favorite rotational player.

ROOKIE REVELATIONS

If there’s any reason for optimism long-term, it’s how well Ziegler appeared to handle his rst draft with the Raiders despite not holding a rst- or second-round pick because of the Adams trade.

Third-round choice Dylan Parham has been arguably the team’s best o ensive lineman at right guard and could take over the more important center position long-term. Seventh-round pick Thayer Munford has made great progress at right tackle and looks like a potential longtime starter.

Fourth-round defensive tackle Neil Farrell Jr. has also ashed ability as an interior defensive lineman. And Ziegler even found a handful of undrafted free agents who have contributed, including linebacker Luke Masterson, who made his rst start against the Colts, and cornerback Sam Webb, who played 97% of defensive snaps against the Colts.

A lot has gone wrong for the Raiders, but they aren’t without young talent.

RAIDERS Report

■ Last Week: Colts 25, Raiders 20 Colts interim coach Je Saturday had never coached above the high school level, and quarterback Matt Ryan had been benched two weeks earlier, but both were plenty good enough to add to the Raiders’ misery. Indianapolis was more dominant than the score indicates, considering it gained 7 yards per play to Las Vegas’ 4.8. Ryan looked revitalized against the Raiders’ defense, completing 21 of 28 passes for 222 yards and making a career-long 39-yard run on what turned out to be the game-winning drive. The Raiders had a chance to take the lead in the final minute with the ball at the 16-yard line, but Colts defenders knocked away two straight passes from Carr in the end zone.

■ This Week: Raiders (2-7) at Broncos (3-6) When: Sunday, November 20, 1:05 p.m. Where: Empower Field at Mile High TV & Radio: Fox (Channel 5) & 920 AM/92.3 FM Betting line: Broncos -2.5, over/under 41.5

■ Matchup: The high point of the Raiders’ season came in a 32-23 Week 4 victory against the Broncos, when Josh Jacobs ran for 144 yards and scored two touchdowns. That gave the Raiders a fifth consecutive victory against their AFC West rivals; the Broncos have yet to defeat them since the franchise moved to Las Vegas. Both the Broncos and Raiders were expected to be playo contenders to help make the AFC West one of the toughest divisions in NFL history, but they’ve fallen far short of that bar. Denver has one of the NFL’s best defenses—ranking fifth by Football Outsiders’ DVOA ratings—but its o ense has been nonexistent, with veteran quarterback Russell Wilson struggling to maintain the standard he established during a long tenure with the Seahawks.

■ Raider to Watch: Wide receiver Davante Adams Adams had nine catches for 101 yards in the fi rst meeting against the Broncos but lavished high praise on second-year cornerback Patrick Surtain II afterwards. When Surtain lines up against Adams, it’s must-watch TV; it’s not every week that a game presents that caliber of a one-on-one matchup. Many have called Adams the best receiver in football over the past few years, while Surtain has entered the same conversation at cornerback this season. With Waller and Renfrow on injured reserve, the bulk of the Raiders’ passing game falls on Adams’ shoulders—and it’s a challenge he welcomes.

Case Keefer

Colts quarterback Matt Ryan throws against the Raiders November 13 at Allegiant Stadium. (Associated Press)

A letter from the sponsor

outstanding leadership and demonstrated innovation and creativity in delivering lasting results. These nominees have made measurable impacts in the economic growth in our region and in the technology industry. Congratulations for your outstanding contributions!

We will be hosting this year’s event in person once again at Allegiant Stadium, the most technologically advanced stadium in the nation. We deeply appreciate our invaluable partnership with Vegas INC and your support, without which the Top Tech Awards would not be possible.

2022

TOP TECH JUDGES & ADVISORY COUNCIL

JUDGES

In partnership with Vegas INC, Cox Business is honored to serve as the Presenting Sponsor of the 12th annual Top Tech Awards.

Since 2010, Cox Business has been privileged to recognize technology innovators in the community who have developed institutional solutions to big challenges to ensure their businesses thrive and remain competitive now and into the future. We are thrilled to sponsor this event each year, and to celebrate all whose contributions are e ecting generational shifts in the future of technology.

The past decade has brought extraordinary changes to the way people interact and expect to do business. As the Entertainment Capital of the World, Las Vegas continually creates an environment where people and businesses can be successful in innovation and technology as the community evolves, ensuring that Las Vegas always remains at the forefront of technology.

As nominated by their peers, this year’s nominees each convey

Cox Business partners closely with its local and nationwide business clients to develop technology solutions in an array of verticals and segments. This includes cloud and managed services, networking and network security services, broadband fiber internet, voice customization and video entertainment to support client requirements and business objectives with a strong focus on economic growth, community engagement, diversity and inclusion, and technology service excellence. From smart communities to cyber security, gaming to sporting events, our Southern Nevada landscape has changed, due in part to all nominees and award recipients from this and past events.

Please enjoy learning about each of the 2022 nominees and their outstanding achievements in this publication. Additionally, we pause to thank our panel of judges and their generous support of this year’s event.

Again, our sincerest congratulations to each of the 2022 nominees and award recipients.

Dear Friends:

CHRISTOPHER CRESCITELLI Chair Founder, Dreamland, LLC

MATT PASCO Co-Chair and 2023 Chair Vice President of Technology, Las Vegas Raiders

JASON STUMP Chief Information O cer, Wynn Resorts

KRIS SMITH Director of Information Technology, Goodwill Industries International

HARVIN CHAVEZ Lead Systems Administrator, Vegas Golden Knights

CAM JOHNSON Director of IT Operations, Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV

IAN JONES Director of Information Technology, The PENTA Building Group

CHEKESHA VAN PUTTEN Founder and CEO, Castango

JASWANT S. TONY Founder and CEO, GoMeyra

MICHAEL RAINEY Corporate Regional IT Manager, Beasley Media Group

SONAL CHABLANI

Director, Developer Support Engineering, Unity Technologies

TOP TECH NOMINEES

Brian Alwood

Stimulus Technologies

Leslie Asanga Pills2Me

Cyndi Backstrom

Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV

Josh Bellendir

Marshall Retail Group/ InMotion

Bo Bernhard

UNLV

Leo Bletnitsky

Healthy Technology Solutions

Reno Bovetti ECL Gaming

Zach Bradford CleanSpark

Cameron Call Network Security Associates, Inc.

Hamza Cengiz

Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas

Rob Chen

HCA Healthcare

Harvey Chiles

Caesars Entertainment

JJ Christian Intellatek

James Conway HCA Healthcare

Sam Cornelius Code Central

Weili Dai MeetKai Inc.

Mike Del Prado Executive Option

Joe DiGiorgio Nice Guys Technology

Kri Edholm KRICO Productions

Aron Ezra Plan A Technologies

Michael Feil Director of Information Technology/IT Director

Jamey Felsing Cure 4 the Kids Foundation

Joseph Fernandez BradyIFS

Peter Floyd Marquis Aurbach

Ursela Garvin

STEMbotics Learning Center

Adam Goldstein Coin Cloud

David Guillen Perfecto Consulting

Saurabh Gupta Credit One Bank

Paul Hlatky Renovate

Robert Holladay Envision Networks

James Hsu Wondour

Michael Kanet iTernal Networks

Sargon Kannya RTC Technology

David Knight Terbine

Moses Kusasira Social Media Gateways, Inc.

ADVISORY COUNCIL

DEBBIE BANKO

Chief Information and Marketing Officer, Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV

CEO, Link Technologies

RACHEL PAPKA

Chief Health Informatics Officer, Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging

SNEHAL BHAKTA

CTE Administrator, Clark County School District/NCWIT Las Vegas Affiliate

Joshua Leavitt

IONnovate, Tech Alley

Bob Leek

Clark County

Chad Lewis Nevada National Security Site

Elliott Lightman Ecotton

Jean Claude Luakabuanga BRBCK LLC

Jose Marin

FirstMed Health and Wellness Center

Dr. Dee Dee Meevasin Dee for Dentist

Alicia Mejia Worldwide Love Story

Eric Mendelsohn Code Central

Kyle Merritt Vegas Golden Knights

Anand Nandakumar Halo

Brooke Neubauer The Just One Project

Melissa Perrin-Smith Advanced Technologies Academy

Kamal Punjabi E2E Tech Solutions

Maner Puyawan Marker Trax

Rachelle Rabago

IGT

Vito Rocco

UNLV

Alyssa Rodriguez City of Henderson

Mark Ruber

MTSolutions Group

Rukku Rupanagudi OPTX

Vik Shrestha SB22

Jason Soto Vū Studios

Robert Speciale Clark County School District

Dennis Sponer HSARx

Sandeep Sreeramagiri NuVasive

Krupa Srinivas

Owned Outcomes Inc.

Ramesh Srinivasan Agilysys

Mark Stutzman Area15

Lori Temple University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Austin Tinsman ClickIt Social Inc

Paolo Tiramani Boxabl

Roman Troyano Krome I.T./Biock Labz

Justin Veilleux FEA Consulting Engineers

Jonathan Washburn Advantage IT Services

WONDA RINER

TOP TECH OF THE YEAR

LORI TEMPLE, PHD

Lori Temple began working for UNLV 38 years ago and has served as the Vice Provost for the O ce of Information Technology since 1998. During that time, she has demonstrated the highest level of guidance and leadership for her students, colleagues and peers.

In her role, Temple is responsible for the university’s help desks, network, computer facilities, data center operations, enterprise applications, information security and learning management systems. She has helped facilitate incredible technological growth of the university over the past 24 years. During that time, the campus has constructed or significantly repurposed more than 75 buildings— each requiring technology infrastructure to support the educational, research, creative, social and clinical activities planned for each building. Some of these projects include a new library that included 5,000 computer drops and 600 computers for student access, and a simulation center to support nursing education.

Temple has led several management systems transitions, participated in staging a presidential debate during the 2016 election and presided over UNLV during the pandemic, which included the implementation of several systems to keep the university online during that time. Throughout her decades of leadership, Temple has continually adapted and innovates to meet the unique needs of the university and its students.

With an incredible dedication to UNLV, Temple empowers students and faculty to thrive. She finds unique solutions to any problem, big or small, and regularly contributes to the university’s overall strategy for organization and technical resources. She’s a true servant leader who dedicates herself to the community outside of her role at UNLV as well. Temple shares her guidance and expertise with CCSD through IT career information sessions, and she currently serves as Board Secretary to Sim Las Vegas.

Retiring in early 2023, Temple looks forward to spending time with her spouse, and continuing to build and create together.

(Wade Vandervort/Sta )

Vice Provost for Information Technology, UNLV

COX INNOVATION

AWARD PAOLO

TIRAMANI

On a mission to make homeown ership more accessible to everyone, Paolo Tiramani developed and patented technology that deliv ers shippable homes globally. The Boxabl Casita has been innovatively designed to ship anywhere in the world and unpack in only one hour. Built to the highest standard and quality, these homes are made to last for generations.

With his founding partners, Galiano Tiramani and Kyle Denman, Tiramani has created a product that could change the housing market and construction industry. All Boxabl homes are built in the company’s North Las Vegas factory. They are made of steel, concrete and EPS foam. They’re rated for hurricane speed winds, engineered with fire resistance in mind, are snow load rated and are exception ally energy efficient. The materials used make these homes highly durable, and the engineering and manufacturing make them extreme ly affordable.

Tiramani’s innovative vision for the future and incredible atten tion detail created a product that revolutionizes the home building process. With more than 47 patents on its technology, Boxabl cuts building time and costs significant ly. Further, Boxabl homes are built to be modular—they can stack and connect to create a home of nearly any size and style. The Boxabl building system comes with lim itless possibilities for consumers. And though still in development, new sizes and room modules are on the horizon.

CEO and Founder, Boxabl

(Wade Vandervort/Staff)

Justin Veilleux is a unique talent. One of the youngest principals at FEA Consulting Engineers, Veilleux is an incredibly adept technological engineer who strives for more advanced solutions, a more collaborative working environment and the highest quality product on the market. He has a clear vision and the ability to execute complex master plans to ensure the best client experience possible.

FEA Consulting Engineers is a full-service, multi-discipline engineering firm that specializes in hospitality and gaming. The firm’s services include mechanical, electrical, plumbing, low voltage, security/surveillance, audio visual, lighting and firm protection systems design and implementation, and project engineering, management and marketing. In 2018 and 2019, FEA was listed as one of the Top 10 Hotel Engineering Firms in the BD+C Giants 400, and has worked with myriad major resorts on the Strip. These clients include Resorts World Las Vegas, Circa Las Vegas, Durango Station, Las Vegas Convention Center and many more.

In 2021, Veilleux led the technology and engineering for the firm’s largest project of the year, Resorts World Las Vegas. This project included 10 million square feet of campus-wide distribution cable plant, integrated resort systems such as player tracking, guest room experience and environmental elements, Wi-Fi and public safety and more. During the same year, Veilleux also began two other high-profile projects: Las Vegas Formula One and Durango Station, both of which include extensive and unique technological buildouts. Veilleux and his team have become known for their ability to seamlessly integrate technology for any new hospitality development.

HOTEL/GAMING INDUSTRY RACHELLE RABAGO

Vice President of Technology, IGT

Rachelle Rabago is a visionary global gaming leader whose contributions drive profitability, advance innovation and propel the gaming industry. She manages a robust team of software engineers, researchers and other technology professionals across several di erent states and countries. Her team is responsible for research and development, engineering, delivery and global services for IGT’s global gaming system products.

Staying ahead of trends and anticipating consumer needs, Rabago and her team implemented new technology for cashless gaming systems, allowing guests of six Las Vegas casinos to have the option of using their mobile devices to transfer money to and from a slot machine from external funding sources, such as e-wallets, banks and credit cards. The Resort Wallet and IGTPay solutions, developed by Rabago and her team, are presenting revolutionary options for customers, as gaming has traditionally been cash-based.

Rabago’s business acumen is fortified by hard work and a can-do attitude. She has quickly ascended the ranks at IGT while delivering positive outcomes and a high level of adaptability—even when faced with challenges. While her skill set is vast, her ability to concisely distill key information, particularly when discussing highly technical topics, is one of her most valuable assets. She is also a skilled collaborator who is willing to try new things and empower her team.

EDUCATION HAMZA CENGIZ

Director of Information Technology & Cyber Security, Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas

Hamza Cengiz is described as a visionary, dependable and authentic leader who has made significant strides in a short amount of time while directing the information technology and cyber security department at Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas.

A robust and future-forward IT program is important at CASLV, which is a STEM-focused charter school for grades K-12 that prioritizes college preparation. There are seven campuses in the Valley, and the award-winning institution serves almost 4,000 students in Southern Nevada.

Cengiz has an eye for identifying growth and improvement opportunities, and he works to secure increased profitability for all seven CASLV campuses. Not only do his IT initiatives improve operations on the administrative side, but he also works to ensure that all CASLV students have access to the latest technology and reliable technical resources for their success now—and in the future.

Upon starting his role with CASLV, Cengiz evaluated the hardware and software infrastructure, and created an improvement plan to enhance quality and streamline operations. During this process, he identified $90,000 in duplicate software subscriptions, which was immediately remedied, with the dollars saved redirected to student resources. He also upgraded many of the existing campus devices, saving about $200,000. During this time, he helped open Cadence, CASLV’s seventh campus, a significant and meaningful undertaking. Cengiz’s vision and skill set has led to improvement of CASLV’s IT department and, most importantly, the student experience.

(Wade Vandervort/Sta )

GOVERNMENT CHAD LEWIS

NONPROFIT

BROOKE NEUBAUER

Cyber

Security Manager/Information Systems Security Manager, Nevada National Security Site

At the Nevada National Security Site, Chad Lewis is responsible for securing some of the nation’s most classified information. The NNSS and its related facilities help ensure the security of the United States and its allies by supporting the stewardship of the country’s nuclear deterrent, providing nuclear and radiological emergency response capabilities, contributing to key nonproliferation and arms control initiatives and much more. Lewis, a Marine Corps veteran, thrives in this highstakes environment.

In 2021, Lewis was responsible for the security authorization for twelve separate systems leveraging the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program, including the implementation, security testing, monitoring and obtaining of federal security authorization for each cloud system for the NNSS. He also led the response to remote workforce transitions and managed the complicated task of addressing classified information during a time of remote working—including implementing security controls and encryption that met or exceeded federal requirements. Lewis’ leadership has contributed to increasing the scope of NNSS work by nearly $800 million in infrastructure development. He has also helped improve communication and participation between the di erent NNSS departments, and is expected to create a need for 50% more support sta at NNSS’ Southern Nevada locations in the near future. With passion, integrity and a seemingly endless well of motivation, Lewis continues to lead his team through any challenge.

Founder, The Just One Project

The Just One Project was founded in 2014 with the mission to build a stronger, healthier, more connected community through volunteerism, and increase access to food and services. Today, The Just One Project reaches 20,000-30,000 people each month and distributes 600,000 pounds of groceries monthly. It is an agency partner of Three Square Food Bank and works across the Valley to alleviate food insecurity and provide grocery assistance. At the head of this program is Brooke Neubauer, founder of The Just One Project.

Neubauer understands the important role technology plays in advancing the e cacy and reach of nonprofit work. The implementation of Salesforce has strengthened how The Just One Project is able to serve clients by tracking information, services provided, and schedule appointments. It has also created a unique mapping tool to coordinate the most e cient and fastest delivery routes to best serve those in need.

Further, Neubauer and her team use real-time stats on the number of clients served at each Pop Up & Give Mobile Market, which has allowed them to optimize and serve many more clients than before. When first tracking, the data showed that they were serving 200 people every 10 minutes. They have since more than tripled that number, reporting as many as 645 people served every 10 minutes. The technology implemented has exponentially increased the good the Just One Project can provide to the community.

(Wade Vandervort/Sta )

(Christopher DeVargas/Sta )

HEALTHCARE INDUSTRY

JOSE MARIN

Director of Information Technology, FirstMed Health and Wellness Center

FirstMed Health and Wellness is a leading nonprofit medical and mental health clinic that has opened three locations in under a decade, but until Jose Marin joined the team, it was operating on an outdated system. Marin completely redesigned the IT department and began transitioning to a more efficient system that streamlined operations and improved the patient experience.

Marin is a passionate, committed leader who is for ward thinking and analytics driven. The data challenges when managing, filing and protecting medical infor mation can be substantial, but Marin’s commitment to creative solutions has revitalized FirstMed’s system. In 2021, Marin developed digital templates for providers to streamline patient progress reporting, which significant ly reduced reporting time and has led to improvements in the quality of care.

In digitizing the health records and reporting, FirstMed has also been able to better observe and identify treat ment barriers, population health trends, quality mea sures, diagnoses and more. Additionally, Marin imple mented Healow CHECK-IN, a digital system that allows patients to schedule and check in to their appointments with no contact, along with an online pay feature that gives patients the ability to make a copay online, on the phone or via text.

CONGRATULATIONS

JUSTIN VEILLEUX 2022 Top Tech Awards Community Exemplary Winner

We knew you were smart. Now it’s official!

Justin Veilleux – PE, Principal FEA Consulting Engineers

(Christopher DeVargas/Staff)

STARTUP COMPANY MANER PUYAWAN

Chief Technology O cer, Marker Trax

Maner Puyawan is industrious and laser-focused on innovation and excellence—vitals traits in the tech industry, especially at a startup. Puyawan is a veteran IT professional with two decades of experience in planning, designing and building payment systems. In April 2021, he was brought on to the Marker Trax team, where he inherited a system that he was tasked to entirely rebuild, optimize and polish for a July launch date.

Puyawan leapt in. Developed and patented by Gary Ellis, Marker Trax is the first product of its kind that offers regulatory-compliant casino marker technology that makes issuing advances e cient, provides casinos tools to manage their credit underwriting and repayments, and allows players to be scored and given access to markers within minutes. This complex, patented technology integrates with casino operating systems for a truly turnkey solution. Though faced with challenges in the build-out, Puyawan demonstrated quick thinking, decisiveness and exceptional problem solving while working through the program, and Marker Trax’s system was completed within two months for an on-time launch.

Today, Marker Trax boasts robust partnerships, including Konami, IGT, Aristocrat Gaming, Light & Wonder and more, with substantial growth projected for 2023, too. Puyawan continues to demonstrate unparalleled professional experience, along with sincerity and integrity in his endeavors.

PRIVATE SMB (SMALL AND MEDIUM BUSINESS)

KAMAL PUNJABI

CEO, E2E Technology Solutions

Kamal Punjabi founded E2E Technology Solutions more than two decades ago, and while his client base has grown significantly over the years, E2E still maintains many of its day-one clients—a credit to the reliability and trust that Punjabi has fostered within his company, and to its high-quality product. With the goal of keeping clients protected from cyber threats and providing peace of mind, Punjabi reliably delivers and communicates with clients every step of the way.

Punjabi helps local businesses operate, run and secure their web operations. He communicates with clients clearly, using nontechnical language, even when explaining high-level fixes and issues. He listens closely to best assess a client’s needs, and recommends creative solutions directly tailored to them.

E2E provides many kinds of client services, including custom software design, software cloud hosting, cloud file services, cloud email solutions, on-premise servers, firewalls, networking infrastructure and phone technologies. The company services many local businesses, including several nonprofit organizations that commend the quality of service, expertise in the area, and the true partnership with E2E.

Punjabi demonstrates a passion for community involvement, and donates his time and services to several nonprofits, including some of his clients—the Andre Agassi Foundation, HopeLink of Southern Nevada and Communities in Schools Nevada. He also donates IT equipment and services to the Blind Center of Nevada.

(Wade Vandervort/Sta )

(Christopher DeVargas/Sta )

Congrats to our Top Tech Awards 2022 Nominee

Saurabh Gupta Chief Architect and Development Officer

Credit One Bank is one of the fastest-growing credit card issuers in the U.S.—and technology is at the forefront of our business and expansion.

We’re proud to celebrate both our Top Tech Awards nominee as well as the advancements of the IT and tech community in fabulous Las Vegas.

Visit CreditOneCareers.com today to view all the IT positions we have available at our Las Vegas headquarters and see how Credit One Bank can give you more for your tech career.

PRIVATE LARGE BUSINESS SAURABH GUPTA

Chief Architect and Development O cer, Credit One Bank

Saurabh Gupta spearheads the entire IT department at Credit One Bank, including engineering, maintenance, security, infrastructure and daily operations. He has implemented many key initiatives and functions, including the Hybrid-Poly Cloud strategy, API & Microservices strategy, and accelerated Open-Source adoption within the bank to ensure the systems are open, reliable and cost-saving. These initiatives help improve customer satisfaction and attract and retain new customers.

Credit One is a leader in the credit card industry and prides itself in being technology and data driven. With so many technical needs, including state-of-the-art security, Gupta has become known for his ability to adapt quickly, deconstruct complex problems and produce meaningful solutions.

Recently, Gupta’s team launched Project Bed Rock, a microservices platform built internally to assist millions of customers across the country and dramatically scale the customer interactions Credit One receives. This initiative, in partnership with several others, is evolving the service philosophy to be customer-oriented, rather than account-oriented, to ensure a superior customer experience. Gupta also led the AI and data platforms transformation program to modernize how the bank uses data and AI to mitigate risk and increase profitability.

Gupta is a highly e ectual leader, who navigates ambiguous and complicated situations, creating a shared vision, and challenging the way things have previously been done.

PUBLIC COMPANY ZACH BRADFORD

CEO, CleanSpark Inc.

Zach Bradford is one of the founders of CleanSpark Inc., a sustainable Bitcoin miner, and served as the president and CFO prior to becoming the CEO in 2019. Sourcing and investing in low-carbon energy sources like wind, solar, nuclear and hydropower, CleanSpark aims to develop sustainable infrastructure for Bitcoin and the people around the world who depend on it.

CleanSpark began as an energy technology company before progressing to Bitcoin mining under Bradford’s leadership in 2021. Described as a monumental year for the company, Bradford led the company through a full rebrand, multiple acquisitions and a facility expansion. Today, CleanSpark is one of the leading North American Bitcoin miners by production, and one that operates responsibly for the environment.

Bradford’s leadership approach is patient and transparent, and he allows his curiosity to fuel his innovation. It was during an energy consultation for a Bitcoin facility that Bradford initially realized CleanSpark’s energy technology can lessen the environmental impact of Bitcoin and end the stigma of cryptocurrency’s high-energy use. In less than a year, CleanSpark’s bitcoin mining hashrate has tripled, and it now accounts for almost 1.5% of the global hashrate, all with signifi cantly lower energy costs.

(Christopher DeVargas/Sta )

(Wade Vandervort/Sta )

LAS VEGAS-BASED HAMSA BRAND SPICES UP THE WORLD OF GOURMET FOODS

BY BROCK RADKE VEGAS INC STAFF

Though its vibrant dining scene has earned a reputation as one of this country’s best, Las Vegas hasn’t traditionally been recognized as a place where unique flavors are born, where popular products and brands are created for national or global consumption.

Joanna Bensimon and Michael Vakneen are attempting to change that with Hamsa Brand, a local company launched two years ago behind the first-ever squeezable harissa-based hot sauce and marinade.

Harissa is a chili pepper paste ubiq uitous across Mediterranean and North African tables, an especially popular condiment in countries such as Tuni sia, Algeria, Morocco and Israel. The Las Vegas couple focus on it as their initial product in order to share their Moroccan heritage and make the flavor more accessible to U.S. consumers.

“We’re both first-generation Americans, and we really wanted to share something from our history, culture and roots,” Vakneen says. “It was Joanna’s idea. She was having falafel one night and said, ‘I would love to dip this into a sauce that lends itself to this flavor profile.’ She took the harissa from the metallic tube it usually comes in and mixed it with ketchup, and that was the first light-bulb moment.”

Vakneen got his start in the food industry more than 10 years ago, when he opened Pop Up Pizza at the Plaza Downtown. He and Bensimon drew heavily on that restaurant experience when they took their homemade test recipes and began processing big batches in 55-gallon drums at a North Las Vegas commissary.

“Mike is the culinary guy and was the one behind the scenes making the product. I was the one with the vision,” Bensimon says. “It was important to make it very easy and versatile, especially for the millennial market, because they’re the ones driving the hot sauce market and looking for exotic flavor profiles.”

Research group Fortune Business Insights reports the global hot sauce market is expected to grow from $2.89 billion in 2022 to $4.72 billion by 2029, rebounding from a nearly 5% decline during the pandemic.

Hamsa’s harissa sauce is capitalizing on the growth trend by being more than a spicy addition to dishes.

“If you look at what’s trending now, Indian spices are blowing up, but ha-

rissa is there as well,” Bensimon says. “A lot of people are becoming familiar with harissa but don’t know how to use it, because it comes as paste in a jar, and not in a sauce-like consistency. You need to dilute it.”

Bensimon’s creation is neatly packaged in a squeezable bottle, reminiscent of the classic ketchup that inspired it, with a bright Hamsa label adorning the deep red sauce. It requires no dilution or preparation, so it’s ready to eat right out of the bottle on burgers, sandwiches, pizza, pasta, steaks and a multitude of other non-Mediterranean foods.

Although Hamsa had some pandemic-related growing pains while scaling up production, Vakneen says, his restaurant experience and local

connections helped the company turn those speed bumps into efficiencies.

The sauce is now available at Las Vegas restaurants including Forte Tapas, Echo & Rig Steakhouse and PublicUs, along with trendy LA-area markets like Erewhon.

“Erewhon Markets has seven locations, and it’s … tough to get into,” Vakneen says. “To have the first Las Ve gas-based product there, and for that to be the first grocery store [for Hamsa], that’s a milestone moment for us. Just months before, we went from making stuff in the house to the commissary kitchen, and now [it’s in] one of the premier grocery stores in the country.”

Las Vegas chefs and restaurateurs were some of the earliest supporters of Hamsa Brand, and many use it or are planning to use it soon on their menu during pop-up events. Chef James Trees has used it on a merguez sausage pizza at Esther’s Kitchen, and Sonia El-Nawal puts it in the shakshuka at her new Bodega Bagel restaurant in Henderson. James Beard Award nominee Gina Marinelli will experiment with the specialty ingredient during a Hamsa takeover at her Summerlin restaurant La Strega in December, marrying Sicilian and North African flavors, Vakneen says.

The company continues to expand beyond Las Vegas, too, developing partnerships including one with a cheesemaker in Vermont that was once owned by President Calvin Coolidge and was chosen as one of Oprah’s Favor ite Things. “We’ve been testing out a harissa cheddar that’s so delicious and so beautiful when you cut it, it looks like marble,” Bensimon says.

Hamsa will expand its product line in the new year with other sauces and different food products, possibly including an acclaimed olive oil imported from Morocco.

“Now that we can sustain the demand, we’ll be out there doing more, trying new things in different ways and doing some fun collaborations while preserving our heritage,” Bensimon says.

Joanna Bensimon and Michael Vakneen, owners of Hamsa Brand (Wade Vandervort/Staff)

I love candles. That was my first home decor element when I moved out of my mother’s home. I remember I put some candles in the kitchen of my first apartment. That just made me feel like an adult.”

Q+A: ALISHA ALEXANDER

CANDLE SHOP OWNER HELPS TURN LIGHTS ON AT THE

$400 MILLION UN C OMMONS

DEVELOPMENT

BY VEGAS INC STAFF

At Alisha Alexan der’s boutique shop at the UnCommons de velopment in Las Vegas, customers can not only buy candles, but also make them.

Her shop, Speakeasy Candle Co., in August was one of the first stores to open at the $400 million mixeduse development, which is going up near the 215 Beltway and Durango Drive.

The shop sells upscale scented candles, but also has a secret area in the back where Alexander will teach classes on how to make customized candles (hence the name, Speak easy).

The shop specializes in making “cocktail-themed” candles, such as an Old Fashioned candle or a gin-and-tonic candle. It was the first business to open at UnCommons.

Vegas Inc visited with Alexander, a Georgia transplant who moved to Las Vegas a few years ago with her physician husband, to learn more about her business and the un der-construction development.

Are candles in right now?

Oh my gosh, yes. Candles aren’t necessary but are definitely in fashion. Chandlery is nothing more than the art and science of making candles. Back in the day, the village chandler was in charge of keep

ing the town or palace lit, but also making sure it doesn’t burn down. I tell that to the people who take my classes.

Candles, they still provide ambi ence; that’s the decor side. Candles still have a foothold in any interior design vignette. Then, you have the wellness side of candles—aroma therapy, self-care, just taking that time to pause and lean into scents that make you feel calm, excited, cozy, sensual or relaxed. That’s the beauty of what we do. We can help people get there.

Where are you from and how did you end up in Las Vegas?

I’m from Atlanta. We’ve been here for about six years. My husband’s job brought us out here. He’s a pain management physician. He went to medical school with a guy who owns a clinic out here. He was recruited for like a year. We were like “Vegas, I don’t know,” but we loved it once we got here.

How did the idea for the candle shop come about?

This is a new baby. My back ground is in product development and fashion design. I tried a few attempts in that lane after I came to Vegas, but, honestly, it was all market-based, pop-up based, and COVID-19 shut all that down. Speak easy Candle is one of those COVID business babies for me. It was kind of challenging to pivot, which is

something that you’re always kind of doing in entrepreneurship.

I love candles. That was my first home decor element when I moved out of my mother’s home. I remem ber I put some candles in the kitch en of my first apartment. That just made me feel like an adult. Candles have been a part of my journey for a long time. I never put the lens on it that I could be a candle business owner until COVID.

UnCommons is such an interesting development. When it’s finished, there will be apartments, office space and a number of different businesses. Why did you decide to open there?

The people with UnCommons were the first ones to give me the opportunity to fully speak on my idea and the brand. A lot of other places that I sent documents to, they didn’t respond, or we’d talk on the phone, but it wouldn’t go any further. When I talked to the lead ers at UnCommons, they wanted to know about my idea and my plans and why I thought it might be a good fit.

UnCommons is curating that experiential aspect with just enough local influence and newness. It didn’t feel like they were copying and pasting. It felt like they were in tentional about elevated experienc es and showcasing unique brands.

So you sell candles, of course,

but also make gift baskets and offer classes, which are good for groups like bachelorette parties. How has business been for you so far?

People are curious about UnCom mons—especially, I think, people who live within maybe 10 minutes of it. They’ve seen it going up.

People will come in and men tion they’ve seen cars come in and people walking around. Even though we only have three businesses open now, there’s been strong foot traffic. That’s telling.

Especially on the weekends, we get a ton of foot traffic. In terms of people-gathering and connecting, there are similar vibes, I think, with UnCommons and Summerlin or a Town Square, but I really think Un Commons sits in a lane of its own.

Do you offer products online?

Right now, you have to come into the store. On the day after Thanks giving, we’ll launch the website availability for gifting.

How many people can you get into the speakeasy area for candle-making classes?

We can get 32 people in there. We have classes Friday through Sun day, four classes per weekend. Our schedule is on our website.

For supplies and everything we of fer, I always try local suppliers first. I think small business is the heart of commerce, no matter where you are.

NEVADA STATE BANK

63 YEARS AND STILL GROWING

Nevada State Bank was founded more than 60 years ago with a vision of economic growth for the state and the desire to help Nevadans pursue their dreams. In 1960, the population of Nevada was an estimated 285,000 individuals. Now, it boasts more than 3.1 million, and with this growth comes new industries, an advanced job market, industrious entrepreneurs and diverse individuals from all walks of life. Entrepreneurial spirit has driven the growth of the state, and Nevada State Bank has grown alongside it. Here’s a look at how one small, local bank expanded to 46 branches across Nevada with more than $7.7 billion in assets.

BEGINNING: 1959-1979

Founded on December 9, 1959, Charles L. Horsey and 11 other businessmen raised $750,000 to open the doors of the bank’s headquarters January 8, 1960, on Fourth and Carson Streets in Downtown Las Vegas. The bank’s assets were valued at $7 million in the early ’60s and grew to more than $105 million by 1976 under the leadership of Harley Harmon. The ’70s ushered in an era of significant growth for Las Vegas’ economy and Nevada State Bank, which opened several new branches throughout the city. By 1979, it had 225 employees working across four branches and the Downtown headquarters.

THE 1980 s

THE 1990 s

The ’90s were a time of unprecedented growth.

From 1995 to 2000, the assets grew from $400 million to $2 billion, partially fueled by casino industry expansion that led to a real estate boom in Las Vegas. In 1999, Nevada State Bank merged with the Reno-based Pioneer Citizens Bank, dramatically increasing its presence in Northern Nevada. The bank further expanded by opening supermarket branches in Reno, Sparks, Carson City, Elko, Gardnerville, Pahrump, Eureka, Fernley, Tonopah, Lovelock and Wells. It also acquired Sun State Bank, adding three new branches in Southern Nevada.

The country was hit by a national recession in the early ’80s, a period marked by high unemployment, higher inflation and historically high interest rates. Even still, Nevada State Bank opened two more branches and continued to invest in the community. Technical advances ushered in a new era of banking. In 1984, Nevada State Bank installed eight ATMs, allowing clients to withdraw money for the first time outside of “bankers’ hours.” That same year, Zions Bancorporation purchased the bank, allowing it to operate as a subsidiary and maintain its name, employees and agency. In 1989, Nevada State Bank opened the first bank in a supermarket in the state. This inaugural in-store branch was inside the Smith’s on Maryland Parkway and Sahara Avenue. Five more supermarket branches followed.

ADVERTORIAL PRESENTED BY NEVADA STATE BANK

THE 2010 s

Online banking was booming, and ATMs were being replaced with mobile services and banking apps. Nevada State Bank followed suit. In 2013, the bank launched the Small Business Survey report, an annual survey of business owners, executives and entrepreneurs that is now a benchmark report for local chambers and economic development organizations.

THE 2020 s

THE 2000 s

In the new millennium, Nevada State Bank was serving 20 communities throughout the state, and in 2001, it opened the Small Business Administration lending department to o er businesses lending services that were catered to their unique needs. In 2008, the market crashed right as Dallas Haun took over as Nevada State Bank president. The bank proved resilient during the crash, and with a healthy balance sheet and experienced team, it assisted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) resolve the complex banking issues in Nevada. Nevada State Bank acquired the insured deposits of Silver State Bank, and in 2009, it acquired Great Basin Bank as well. As banking trends changed, Nevada State Bank sold its grocery store branches and redirected its focus to providing comprehensive banking services at its freestanding locations.

The year 2020 was kicked o with the global pandemic that challenged even the heartiest of institutions. Nevada State Bank, as a division of Zions Bancorporation, worked with thousands of businesses on the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and secured loans totaling more than $805 million. In 2022, the bank announced the acquisition of the Northern Nevada interests of City National Bank, including three branch locations. The transaction, completed in July, saw NSB add more than $100 million in new loans, $400 million in new deposits, and 4,000 new clients—bringing its total assets to more than $7.7 billion.

Nevada State Bank is here to help your business succeed. Our dedicated team of experienced relationship managers provides personalized banking services relevant to your needs – helping to ensure that you reach your business goals. No matter the size of your business, we offer the resources to help you discover new pathways to your success.

To learn more, call us at 866.728.0461 or visit nsbank.com/biz. A division of Zions Bancorporation, N.A. Member FDIC

COLLEGE PREP ACT PREP PROGRAM

The Library District has partnered with Excel Academy to provide a FREE series of four classes to prepare students for the ACT. Classes are offered at the West Las Vegas Library and the East Las Vegas Library.

VegasInc Notes

Blackmon Home Loans named Quinn Gallagher manager of the firm. He had been mortgage loan officer at the company. Gallagher provides advice to applicants about which loan pro grams best fit their financial needs. He is also responsible for managing the business, taking home loan ap plications and putting together offer packages.

Gary Scott and Chris Cosenza announced the formation of Ridge line Hospitality Group, a company focused on helping investors with hotel, casino and hospitality acquisi tions, project development and asset management.

West Las Vegas Library

951 W. Lake Mead Blvd.

Thursdays from 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. January 5, 12, 19 & 26

East Las Vegas Library

2851 E. Bonanza Rd.

Saturdays from 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. January 7, 14, 21 & 28

Sripadha Inc., a Las Vegas, NV based IT solutions firm. Multiple openings for JOB ID:10496 (Software Developer) and JOB ID 10480 (Software Developer). These positions require education and experience as mentioned on the website. Travel/relocation may be required. Details at https://www.sripadha.com/.

Send resume to legal@sripadha.com including the JOB ID. Equal Opportunity Employer.

HELP WANTED

Office Managers

Henderson, NV

Office Managers (Multiple openings) Best Logistic Solutions LLC. Henderson NV, Full-time. Manage operations, staff, logistics, schedules, vendor relations, customer service. Bachelors Management or related field or foreign equivalent.

Resume to alex@best-ls.com

Nigro Construction promoted Cory Frank to vice presi dent of business de velopment and proj ect management. He brings more than a decade of industry experience touching on all areas of the business, including field operations, permitting and preconstruction, and federal contracting.

One Nevada Credit Union announced the promotion of Cindy Vela to vice president of digital services and development. She will lead the digital service teams in developing and implementing digital strategies.

The City of Hen derson announced Jim McIntosh as its newest assis tant city manager and chief financial officer. He joined the city in 2016 and most recently served as director of finance and chief financial officer. His experience includes working in local government finance rules, financial report preparation, budget develop ment, debt management and labor negotiations.

Colliers added Adam Malan, Deana Marcello, Areeba Moten and Monica Vanyo to its brokerage services platform in Las Vegas. The Malan | Marcello Investment Team transitions to Colliers from Logic Commercial Real Estate. Malan and Marcello bring over 31 years of combined experience and upwards of $2 billion in career transaction volume through investment sales, strategic leasing and development solutions. Malan joins Colliers as vice chair with Mar cello as executive vice president.

Cure 4 The Kids Foundation has promoted Dr. Aimee Foord to director of the Bleeding and Clotting Disorders Clinic, which pro vides treatment and emphasizes indi vidual prevention services to reduce or eliminate complications. Patients receive care from a team of provid ers skilled in treating hemophilia, von Willebrand disease, sickle cell dis ease and other bleeding disorders.

City National Bank hired Nancy Borroel as a relationship manager for its Twain branch locat ed at 6085 West Twain Avenue. She has nearly 10 years of experience in the financial and business industry and will be responsible for develop ing and managing new and existing client relationships.

Newmark is pleased to announce that Mike Tabeek has been appointed to market leader of the Las Vegas office to work alongside local brokerage opera tions and oversee growth initiatives. He also continues his role as senior managing director, where he specializes in the sales and leasing of office and industrial buildings.

Marketing and community rela tions agency JB Public Relations is celebrating eight years in Southern Nevada. Owner Jennifer Bradley’s clients include Vegas PBS, Steel man Partners, Roseman University of Health Sciences, Echo & Rig, Boca Park Fashion Village, Mead Law Group and more. She also serves on the board for Southern Neva da Sports Hall of Fame, American Cancer Society, Las Vegas Fashion Council, Better Business Bureau and Henderson Community Foundation.

McIntosh

Frank

Gallagher

Vela

Foord

Borroel

Tabeek

Bradley