2023-06-29-Las-Vegas-Weekly

PUBLISHER MARK DE POOTER mark.depooter@gmgvegas.com

EDITOR SPENCER PATTERSON spencer.patterson@gmgvegas.com

EDITORIAL

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

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

Deputy Editor SHANNON MILLER (shannon.miller@gmgvegas.com)

Sta Writer GABRIELA RODRIGUEZ (gabriela.rodriguez@gmgvegas.com)

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

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

Contributing Editors RAY BREWER, JUSTIN HAGER, 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 of Digital Media KATIE HORTON

Web Content Specialist CLAYT KEEFER

ADVERTISING & MARKETING

Publisher of Branded Content & Special Publications EMMA WOLFF

Special Publications Editor SIERRA SMART

Senior Advertising Managers MIKE MALL, ADAIR NOWACKI, SUE SRAN

Account Executives MARY CHARISSE DIMAIN, DEREK EIGE, LAUREN JOHNSON, ANNA ZYMANEK

Sales Executive Assistants APRIL MARTINEZ, NANCY RAMOS

Events Director SAMANTHA PETSCH

Events Manager HANNAH ANTER

Events Coordinator ALEXANDRA SUNGA

PRODUCTION & CIRCULATION

Vice President of Manufacturing MARIA BLONDEAUX

Production Director PAUL HUNTSBERRY

Production Manager BLUE UYEDA

Associate Marketing Art Director BROOKE EVERSON

Marketing Graphic Designer CARYL LOU PAAYAS

Production Artist MARISSA MAHERAS

Senior Tra c Coordinator DENISE ARANCIBIA

Tra c Coordinator ALEX HAASE

Distribution Relations Liaison JIDAN SHADOWEN

Fulfillment Operations Coordinator CASANDRA PIERCE

Route Administrator KATHY STRELAU

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CEO, Publisher & Editor BRIAN GREENSPUN

Chief Operating O cer ROBERT CAUTHORN

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IN THIS ISSUE

The Tropicana’s days appear to be numbered. (Steve Marcus/

SUPERGUIDE

Your daily events planner, starring Melody Sweets, Theo Von, Duke Dumont, Secret Garden at Area15 and Fourth of July celebrations.

14

THE WEEKLY Q&A Broadway in the HOOD founder Torrey Russell dishes on the group’s plans for a new theater.

COVER STORY

Getting to know Carrie Underwood, one of Las Vegas’ brightest resident stars.

ON THE COVER

CARRIE UNDERWOOD

courtesy Jeremy Cowart

THE STRIP

Las Vegas’ pro sports dreams are rolling over everything in their path—including one of the Strip’s oldest casino-resorts.

NOISE

New albums and EPs from a variety of local musicians, just in time for your summer playlists.

FOOD & DRINK

Sandwich favorite Karved doubles down with a southwest Valley location.

TOP LAWYERS

Vegas Inc recognizes the best in the legal industry, from civil rights to labor and employment to tax and beyond.

Photo

Sta )

SUPERGUIDE

THURSDAY

29 JUN.

PLAN YOUR WEEK AHEAD

MUSIC PARTY

LAS VEGAS ACES VS. NEW YORK LIBERTY 7 p.m., Michelob Ultra Arena, axs.com.

RAPHAELE COHEN-BACRY: THE ONLY GAME IN TOWN Thru 9/17, times vary, Spring Valley Library, thelibrary district.org.

SPORTS

MOONLIGHT 9 p.m., the Beverly Theater, thebeverly theater.com.

OOKAY With Skunkz, Danco, 10 p.m., We All Scream, seetickets.us.

THE COFFIS BROTHERS 10 p.m., Sand Dollar Lounge, thesanddollarlv.com.

MIKE E WINFIELD 10 p.m., Wiseguys, vegas.wiseguys comedy.com.

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

HEATHER PROTZ: CROWD BURST Thru 7/8, times vary, Window Gallery at Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art, unlv.edu.

ANAMÉ 10 p.m., Commonwealth, seetickets.us.

KEN TOLBERT QUARTET 7 p.m., Maxan Jazz, maxanjazz.com.

DAN BRADY: LUMINOUS FLUX: WHEN LIGHT IS SCENE

At first glance, a Dan Brady painting can look like just a blank canvas. But when you dim the lights and illuminate them from behind, the painted-on textures reveal rich scenes. Luminous Flux opened June 9 to a crowd fascinated and surprised by the monotone paintings, which depend on some interaction with the audience for the imagery to be fully seen. When the viewer flips a switch, shines a flashlight through the canvas or activates some other trigger, the crisp lines of a sparsely furnished room, a heated picnic scene or an atomic explosion come into focus. Thru July 21, Tuesday-Friday, noon-6 p.m. & by appointment, free, Core Contemporary, corecontemporary.com. –Shannon Miller

ARTS

FOOD + DRINK

COMEDY MISC

THEO VON 8 p.m., & 7/2 (& 7/1, 10:30 p.m.), Encore Theater, ticketmaster.com.

JUN.

ADELE 8 p.m., & 7/1, the Colosseum, ticketmaster. com.

DAVID SPADE & NIKKI GLASER

8:30 p.m., & 7/1, Venetian Theatre, ticketmaster.com.

FRENCH MONTANA 10:30 p.m., Drai’s Nightclub, drais group.com.

INDIGIPRIDE 6 p.m., the Center, thecenterlv.org.

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

CARRIE

UNDERWOOD

8 p.m., & 7/1, Resorts World Theatre, axs.com.

POISONING

PIGEONS IN THE PARK 7:30 p.m. (& thru 7/15, times vary), Majestic Repertory Theatre, majestic repertory.com.

JOHN CRIST

7:30 p.m., Reynolds Hall, thesmithcenter. com.

NERVO Noon, Ayu Dayclub, zouk grouplv.com.

KEITH URBAN 8 p.m., & 7/1, Bakkt Theater, ticketmaster. com.

AUTHOR

BETH RAYMER 7 p.m., the Beverly Theater, thewritersblock. org.

DOM DOLLA 10:30 p.m., XS Nightclub, wynnsocial.com.

THE ICEMAN SPECIAL 7 p.m., the Beverly Theater, thebeverly theater.com.

DJ NOIZ With Kennyon Brown, Bina Butta, Rellek Brown, 9 p.m., 24 Oxford, etix.com.

THE MOBY DICKS With Hell Mary, 8 p.m., & 7/1, Count’s Vamp’d, vampdvegas. com.

SECRET GARDEN

Area15’s Secret Garden is, above all things, a two-day dance party, and a strong one at that. Its lineup is stacked: Desert Dwellers, The Crystal Method, Maddy O’Neal, An-Ten-Nae, Balkan Bump, Dimond Saints, Vincent Antone, Treavor Moontribe, JKali, Sloan Wolf, J.Handel and Dana Kay will make appearances, and STS9 will perform headlining sets on both nights. But this is Area15 we’re talking about, so what would be a parking lot rave for most anyone else becomes “an opulent realm filled with multiple stages of lavish soundscapes, mysterious and enticing performers, bewildering art installations, delectable cocktails, festival-style vendors and craft makers” with a mystical forest theme. Revelers are encouraged to dress as fairies, wood sprites, fantasy forest creatures and the like. And for an additional charge, attendees can enjoy a late-night, adults-only visit to Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart, itself a strange, secret realm. June 30-July 1, 8:30 p.m., $40+, A-Lot at Area15, area15.com.

–Geo Carter

SUPERGUIDE

LAS VEGAS ACES VS. CONNECTICUT SUN Noon, Michelob Ultra Arena, axs.com.

ABOVE & BEYOND 10:30 p.m., Hakkasan Nightclub, events. taogroup.com.

USHER 9 p.m., & 7/1, 7/4, Dolby Live, ticketmaster.com.

KASKADE Noon, Ayu Dayclub, zoukgrouplv.com.

VIVA EL MARIACHI CONCERT Ft. Mariachi Sol de Mexico, Los Camperos, Steven Sandoval, 9 p.m., Theater at Virgin, axs.com.

FOAM WONDERLAND

With Nghtmre, Dog Eat Dog, Herobust, Gravedgr, 6 p.m., Craig Ranch Amphitheater, seetickets.us.

ZEDD With Charly Jordan, 10 p.m., Zouk Nightclub, zoukgrouplv.com.

LAS VEGAS LIGHTS VS. TAMPA BAY ROWDIES 7:30 p.m., Cashman Field, lasvegaslightsfc. com.

ILLENIUM With William Black, 10:30 p.m., Omnia Nightclub, events.taogroup. com.

HINS CHEUNG 8 p.m., MGM Grand Garden Arena, axs.com.

LOUIS TOMLINSON 7 p.m., the Chelsea, ticket master.com.

JACK WHITEHALL 8 p.m., Encore Theater, ticketmaster.com.

SAIGON ENTERTAINMENT 30TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

7 p.m., Pearl Concert Theater, ticketmaster.com.

SWITCHFOOT

7:30 p.m., 1st Street Stage at Fremont Street Experience, vegasexperience.com.

ALESSO 11 a.m., Tao Beach Dayclub, events. taogroup.com.

MARSHMELLO 11 a.m., Encore Beach Club, wynnsocial.com.

ROCK AND ROLLER DERBY

With Sundogs, Sunday Mourning, The Hideaway, No Que No, Muertos Heist, 6 p.m., the Dive Bar.

STEVE AOKI 11 a.m., Wet Republic, events. taogroup.com.

THE CHAINSMOKERS 10:30 p.m., XS Nightclub, wynnsocial.com.

THE NEW WAVES 9 p.m., Golden Tiki, thegoldentiki.com.

TYGA 10:30 p.m., EBC at Night, wynnsocial.com.

CHRISTOPH 10 p.m., Discopussy, seetickets.us.

3 JUL..

SWEETS’ SPOT SEASON FINALE

If you haven’t been taking regularly prescribed doses of the sugary, sultry, slightly hallucinatory web series Sweets’ Spot, there’s still time to catch up before Vegas singer and burlesque star Melody Sweets brings the show Downtown for a final episode release party at the Bev. (Is anybody calling the Beverly Theater the Bev? Let’s get that going.) We can’t wait to make friends with our fave characters from the show, Doctor Donut and Frida Hole, but you’ll be equally excited to catch live burlesque performances, sample treats inspired by the dessert creations on the show, and a first-look at the finale. 7 p.m., $25, the Beverly Theater, sweetsspottv.com. –Brock Radke

BRAD GARRETT

With Mike Merryfield, John Caponera, 8 p.m., Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club, bradgarrett comedy.com.

DJ PAULY D 10:30 p.m., Jewel Nightclub, events.taogroup. com.

2 JUL.

DIPLO 11 a.m., Encore Beach Club, wynnsocial.com.

TOO SHORT Noon, Daylight Beach Club, daylightvegas.com.

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

LEXI PIFER & THE HOT TRASH EXPRESS 10 p.m., Sand Dollar Lounge, thesanddollarlv.com.

MUSTARD 11 a.m., Tao Beach Dayclub, events.taogroup.com.

BOB MOSES 11 a.m., Marquee Dayclub, events. taogroup.com.

TWO FRIENDS 10:30 p.m., XS Nightclub, wynnsocial.com.

ANTHONY ATTALLA 11:30 p.m., Club Ego, clubegolv.com.

JASON CHENY

With Nicole Aimee, Chris Clarke, Michael Yo, 7 & 9:30 p.m., Comedy Cellar, comedycellar. com.

ADAM HUNTER 8 p.m., thru 7/6, L.A. Comedy Club, bestvegas comedy.com.

SUPERGUIDE

MODERN DESERT MARKINGS: AN HOMAGE TO LAS VEGAS AREA LAND ART

SUMMERLIN COUNCIL PATRIOTIC PARADE

9 a.m., Summerlin, summerlin patriotic parade.com

HENDERSON FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION

Ft. Little Texas, 6 p.m., Heritage Park, cityofhenderson.com

LAS VEGAS LIGHTS VS. NEW MEXICO UNITED

6 p.m., Cashman Field, lasvegaslights fc.com

THEE MESS AROUNDS

10 p.m., Sand Dollar Lounge, thesanddollarlv. com

Nevada’s sprawling desert has been the muse of many land artists over the years. Michael Heizer’s “City,” a work of environmental art 50 years in the making, left viewers awestruck when he debuted the urban complex in 2022. Stretching about 1.5 miles long and a half of a mile wide, it’s one of the largest pieces of contemporary art ever made. And as with every other piece of Land Art exposed to the elements, it will eventually fade. To ensure these ephemeral pieces live on, curators Katie Ho man and Hikmet Sidney Loe chose 10 U.S. artists to participate in Modern Desert Markings at UNLV’s Barrick Museum, an exhibit that challenged them to create new works inspired by land artists such as Heizer and the late Walter De Maria and Jean Tinguely. Together, contemporary artists including Jen Urso, Mark Brest van Kempen and Paula Jacoby-Garrett take less biome-destructive approaches as they pay homage to historic structures of the past. Thru July 8, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., free, UNLV’s Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art, unlv.edu.

–Amber Sampson

LAS VEGAS ACES VS. DALLAS WINGS 7 p.m., Michelob Ultra Arena, axs.com

DJ DIESEL 10:30 p.m., EBC at Night, wynnsocial. com

LYTE BRYTE BAND

With Justin Centeno, 6 p.m., the Lawn at Downtown Summerlin, summerlin.com

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

JOI JAZZ ORCHESTRA 7:30 p.m., Notoriety, notorietylive. com

(Courtesy/The Summerlin Council)

BUILDING A LEGACY

(Christopher DeVargas/Sta )

BY SHANNON MILLER

Torrey Russell is building a legacy for the community. The founder of the local nonpro t Broadway in the HOOD says fundraising for a “premier professional entertainment and event venue in Las Vegas” is in the works.

The facility has been needed for quite some time, Russell says. Since its founding in 2010, Broadway in the HOOD (an acronym for “Helping Others Open Doors”) has never had a permanent space for its programming, which includes summer camps for hundreds of youth and productions that have taken place on various stages across the Valley, from the West Las Vegas Library to the Smith Center.

“Just a few years back, we rehearsed in a dog park in the middle of summer,” Russell says.

Although the organization has remained committed to honing its craft and performing, relying on borrowed space adds an element of unpredictability when trying to make these productions happen, he adds.

In April, Tony-winning actor and the nonpro t’s director of global outreach Ben Vereen announced a $25 million fundraising campaign to construct the Legacy Theatre—a 1,000-seat venue and event hall complete with dance and recording studios, a restaurant and an African American Entertainment Museum.

“[It’s] going to be a building where schools can take eld trips, where students can come in and do an improv class,” Russell says. “We all deserve to have access.”

The Weekly sat down with Russell to learn further details on Legacy Theatre and its potential place in the community.

THE WEEKLY Q&A

Why is now the time for Broadway in the HOOD to take on a project of this scale? Since day one of Broadway in the HOOD, people have said you need your own building, you need your own space … To be able to have a large, wonderful complex that’s large enough for our summer camp— right now with roughly 100 young people—we’ll be able to do a summer camp with 200 young people from the community.

Broadway in the HOOD [was] the rst African American organization—and only one, to my knowledge—to produce and present full shows and full seasons at the Smith Center. So now, it’s time for us to have our own. And this will be the rst time in the history of Nevada that African Americans have owned and operated an arts education facility.

What can we expect from the African American Entertainment Museum? There’s so many entertainers that have come through Las Vegas—people of color, who, obviously, back in the day, had to come through the back door even as their names were on the billboards, and hotels and casinos were making so much money. They were considered less than a human being, at that time.

I grew up in the South. For me, knowing my history and understanding how far we’ve come is a great way of honoring those people, [hence] the Legacy Theatre’s name. The museum itself will house and rotate the histories of people of color in entertainment … They really paved the way for Bruno Mars to be on the Strip, Usher to be on the Strip, and other entertainers of color to be [there] headlining.

How do you see the Legacy Theatre serving the community? The arts in schools are being cut, and our youth deserve to let their creativity shine. We’re raising this money … to be able to create this building that will be able to be a fully operating community theater, full- edged restaurant … as well as a place where our young people and families who may not have, will have the opportunity to come have food.

We’re looking at feeding the homeless and doing maybe a food pantry. … I didn’t graduate high school, [and] I did, at times, have to go to the Salvation Army to eat, because I have lived homeless on the streets. So, for me … those things are the most important.

When did you know you wanted to create opportunities in theater and the arts for those who are underserved?

When I was growing up, the company where I worked had Prince at that theater. … I’ll never forget walking on the campus of [Virginia Commonwealth University]. … I had two tickets in my hand. I said, I want to nd a young person that looks like they’re having the hardest day. I walked up to this young lady, and I said … “If you had an opportunity to go to a show and I could give you tickets, would you take them?” She was like, “Absolutely, I’d love to go, but what do you want? And I said, “Nothing. I just want to know that you have an opportunity to go to the theater and enjoy a show free of charge after having such a hard day.”

That’s been my goal—to create opportunities for people who may never have them, [like] that college student who has always wanted the opportunity to go to a concert.

To learn more about the Legacy Theatre and Broadway in the HOOD, visit thelegacytheatre lasvegas.com.

Broadway in the HOOD’s Torrey Russell dishes on the nonprofi t’s biggest project yet

This will be the first time in the history of Nevada that African Americans have owned and operated an arts education facility.”

CARRIE COUNTRY

(Courtesy/Jeff Johnson)

BY BROCK RADKE

A fancy private reception took place two weeks ago to welcome Carrie Underwood back to Las Vegas. Executives from Resorts World and AEG Presents, other invite-only VIPs and a handful of media guests showed up at the Crockfords Hotel lobby to toast the country music megastar, who arrived in a red Rolls Royce.

That sort of thing doesn’t happen every time a resident headliner comes back to the Strip to perform. The continuation of Underwood’s Reflection show at Resorts World Theatre—it resumed on June 21 and returns to the stage for two more summer performances this week before breaking until September—marks a special occasion, since she hasn’t performed in Las Vegas since December. The 40-yearold Oklahoma native and Nashville resident has been busy since then, with her 43-city Denim & Rhinestones Tour supporting studio album No. 9, released last summer—a hectic jaunt running from October 2022 through March 2023.

She deserved that pink Champagne toast based solely on the past nine months, but also, Underwood is a crucial piece of Resorts World’s and Las Vegas’ overall modern entertainment history. Reflection, after all, is the show that opened the 5,000-seat theater on December 1, 2021, after Celine Dion

had to postpone her scheduled dates due to health problems.

When the Strip’s newest jewel was fighting the good fight to open during pandemic circumstances, Underwood stepped up.

“Carrie is an unstoppable force in the music industry, and her residency here in Vegas is a celebration of her impressive career,” says Drew Strozza, Resorts World’s vice president of entertainment. “It’s been amazing to have her be such a huge part of opening our Resorts World Theatre. June will be an incredibly special month as we celebrate our 2-year anniversary and welcome her back for this residency run.”

Underwood’s first residency show already marked a massive achievement, and replacing Dion as the first artist to take the stage certainly heightened the experience, Underwood tells the Weekly

“I think it changed my mindset a bit. We already had everything in place, as far as what the production would look like, the setlist, the lighting,” she says. “But for me and how I felt about things, it was like, OK, [Dion] was going to be there, and she’s done this before, and there was no doubt that she would have whipped everything into shape, so to speak. It seemed perfect for me, so there was definitely a bit of a shift, because you just want to do a good job.”

By all accounts, Reflection has exceeded expectations, selling out its initial run and all 18 of last year’s shows, while helping— alongside productions from Katy Perry and Luke Bryan—to establishing Resorts World Theatre as the Strip’s newest residency room. It’s also a showcase for Underwood’s biggest hits, including “Before He Cheats,” “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” “Blown Away” and “Cowboy Casanova,” and its scale is as big as it gets.

“It felt pretty comfortable from the start, because it’s a hard thing to get into a groove when you’re out on tour

[going from] place to place and everything is always changing,” she says. “It’s nice to be in one place, and it’s just that feeling that it’s Vegas and you want to bring a show because people expect to see a show. It was really exciting to create something like that.”

Underwood says she loves being able to make use of more elaborate staging and set pieces than what her tours can accommodate, and the show-closing water sequence that accompanies 2014 crossover smash “Something in the Water”—a track with spiritual themes that shows off Underwood’s incredible vocal range—is one of the most talked-about moments in any current Strip residency.

One of Underwood’s Vegas residency peers is also a country collaborator from her past. Keith Urban, who recorded the hit “The Fighter” with Underwood for his 2016 album Ripcord, is on his second Strip go-round. After launching a residency at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace in 2019, Urban slid over to Bakkt Theater at Planet Hollywood for a new production this year. He knows what it takes to make these grand endeavors work, and it starts with talent.

“Her voice is extraordinary,” Urban tells the Weekly. “When we wrote ‘The Fighter,’ I could only hear her singing it with me, and she slayed it.”

June 30 & July 1, 8 p.m., $50$768. Resorts World Theatre, axs.com.

With Bryan, Miranda Lambert and Garth Brooks joining Underwood and Urban, country residencies might be at their Vegas peak. And the genre “is reaching an all-time high all around the world right now,” Urban says, “and the magic of Vegas is, we’re playing to that global audience every night.”

But unlike pop or rock residents, Vegas’ country artists are often required to elevate their offerings further, to satisfy country music fans’ expectations—especially by performing during the National Finals Rodeo in December—while also appealing to the mainstream audience that makes up the typical Vegas visitor demographic.

Through performances and across genres, Resorts World resident Carrie Underwood cements her musical legacy

We want them to forget about what else is going on and just be submerged in the music. You want to be you but also meet the bar that Vegas has set.”

CARRIE UNDERWOOD: REFLECTION

(Courtesy/Jeff Johnson)

Underwood says she definitely wanted to create a performance that went beyond her concert tours, but she didn’t get caught up in those other kinds of expectations. She hasn’t seen other Strip country residency shows, chalking that up to being “a bit of a fuddy-duddy who just goes to bed after my shows.” She’s hoping to catch some stuff this year.

“I’ve never really thought about doing things versus what other artists are doing. I always want to be me … but we want people to be visually stimulated and still love what they’re hearing,” she says. “We want them to forget about what else is going on in their universe for a while and just be submerged in the music. So you want to be you but also meet the bar that Vegas has set.”

Underwood set the bar for her own stage presence early on, famously wowing viewers and industry execs on her way to victory on Season 4 of American Idol at age 22 in 2005. And she has earned new fans and further impressed existing ones by covering her favorite rock ’n’ roll songs in concert, specifically “Welcome to the Jungle” by Guns N’ Roses. (She famously performed with Axl Rose at Stagecoach last year and again during this year’s tour stop in LA, and she’s set to open for GNR on August 26 at Nashville’s Geodis Park.)

The genre-bouncing continues with this month’s launch of Carrie’s Country, the SiriusXM channel curated and presented by Underwood, available

24/7 to subscribers across North America on the radio and the SXM app. She’s highlighting many of her musical friends among personal favorites and longtime influences, everyone from Dolly Parton and Brad Paisley to AC/DC and the Rolling Stones.

“I grew up listening to everything equally, from stuff my parents wanted to listen to and stuff my older sisters wanted to listen to, and country permeated all of it,” Underwood says. “That’s why I gravitated toward [country] and wanted to be a part of it, but there’s been so much rock music, and I think it gets into my music here and there.”

She says working on the channel has reignited her own music fandom, forcing her to sit down, listen and decide what she wants this different representation of Carrie Underwood to sound like. “It’s been a lot of fun, and I am trying not to look at things too much or get too calculated. I just want to do a good job and have fun with whatever I’m doing.”

She appears to be having fun on the Vegas stage, too. She’ll be back at Resorts World Theatre in the fall and during rodeo week in the winter. Next year’s plans have yet to be determined.

“I’m taking it one run at a time, but I hope I’m there for a while,” Underwood says. “I just really enjoy my time there, and I’m honored to be a part of the entertainment scene, because that’s what Vegas is all about.”

NEWS IN THE

STUFF YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT

POLITICS

State GOP officials testify

MCDONALD, DEGRAFFENREID REPORTEDLY IMPLICATE LAXALT

Nevada Republican Party Chairman Michael McDonald and state GOP official Jim DeGraffenreid each testified before a federal grand jury about a coordinated attempt to overturn the 2020 presidential election in favor of Donald Trump, according to CNN.

CNN reported that special counsel Jack Smith gave limited immunity to the officials for their testimony about a fake elector scheme, in which loyalists to Trump in six battleground states on December 14, 2020 hosted phony ceremonies to certify the states’ electoral votes in favor of Trump.

President Joe Biden defeated Trump in Nevada by about 30,000 votes.

The testimony, according to CNN, signals that investigators are moving toward determining charges for those who attempted to reverse the election results.

The testimony included details of how former Nevada Attorney General Adam Laxalt and Jesse Binnall, a lawyer who worked for the Trump campaign in Nevada, were part of the scheme, according to CNN.

McDonald and DeGraffenreid previously invoked Fifth Amendment rights when questioned by a U.S. House committee investigating the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol by Trump extremists. –Ray Brewer

Scorching start to the season

Las Vegas Aces guard Kelsey Plum (right) fights for the ball with Indiana Fever forward Aliyah Boston during a 101-88 Aces’ win on June 24. Plum scored 26 points, and Las Vegas beat Indiana again two nights later to start its season with a WNBA-best 13-1 record. (Steve Marcus/Staff)

POKER

Honoring a legend

The World Series of Poker will hold a public memorial for Doyle Brunson, one of the most decorated poker players in the history of the game. Brunson died May 14 at age 89. The celebration of his life is set July 2 at noon in the Jubilee Theater at Horseshoe. It will include reflections from poker notables Jack Binion, Lyle Berman, Dewey Tomko, Billy Baxter, Eric Drache, Phil Hellmuth and Daniel Negreanu. Doors will open at 11:30 a.m., with seating on a first-come basis. –Ray Brewer

Danny Webster wrote the player profiles in last week’s Vegas Golden Knights commemorative issue and should have been credited. The Weekly regrets the omission.

“

Secret. This is secret information. Look, look at this. This was done by the military and given to me.”

-Former President Donald Trump, in a recording of a 2021 conversation recently obtained by news organizations, the audio of which was made public June 27

ENVIRONMENT

Showtime for local

Maxwell Lewis takes a phone call at Resorts World during an NBA Draft watch party. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers in the second round after a two-year stint at Pepperdine, leading the team in scoring and rebounds last season. Lewis played a year of junior varsity at Mojave High School, a year of varsity at Somerset-Losee, then transferred to AZ Compass Prep in Chandler, Arizona. He was the second local product drafted by an NBA team this year, following Julian Strawther, a Liberty High graduate who was picked 29th by the Indiana Pacers. (Wade Vandervort/Staff)

DRI gets $1.2 million for cloud seeding

Advocates and scientists in Southern Nevada are celebrating the passage of a bill authorizing funding for cloud seeding projects across the state.

In June, Gov. Joe Lombardo signed Senate Bill 99 into law, making a $1.2 million appropriation to Desert Research Institute for cloud seeding projects for two years. The law goes into effect July 1.

Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique used by several states that involves shooting dust or “tiny ice nuclei” into existing clouds to increase their likelihood—and amount—of precipitation. Desert Research Institute has conducted several cloud-seeding projects in the Spring Mountains, including last fall at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.

The Red Rock Canyon project, which was funded by Save Red Rock Canyon, provided “measurable success,” according to that nonprofit and sources at Desert Research Institute.

“The efforts of Save Red Rock raised awareness of the science of cloud seeding and funded a cloud-seeding generator, resulting in more than 6,500 acre-feet of water added back into the aquifers of the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area,” reads a statement from Desert Research Institute program director Frank McDonough.

Scientists expect cloud seeding projects to continue helping alleviate the effects of drought in the state.

–Shannon Miller

BY THE NUMBERS

$416M

Amount Nevada will get in federal funding to bolster access to broadband internet in rural and underserved areas of the state, as part of a bipartisan infrastructure law signed by President Joe Biden. Republican Rep. Mark Amodei was the only member of Nevada’s congressional delegation to vote against the law.

LIGHTS!CAMERA!ACTION?

Las Vegas filmmakers weigh in on how to keep the industry growing

BY SHANNON MILLER

When a proposal to inject $190 million per year into Nevada’s lm incentives program circulated in the Legislature, eyes turned to Las Vegas—and rolled in exasperation. The bill would also have expanded the state’s lm tax credit program, provided for a pair of Vegasbased studio projects to help boost workforce development and larger productions, and bolstered Nevada’s lm industry.

Bipartisan opponents said the bill would amount to a handout for studio companies and multimillion-dollar facilities in Las Vegas, and would bene t only Southern Nevada. Ultimately, the legislation never made it out of committee.

So without those investments, local lmmakers will continue working with what they have—a teeming market, albeit one o ering limited options at times.

“I think the vibe in the lmmaking world here is that, unless you’re in reality [TV] or that [low-budget] horror lm niche and working all the time, people aren’t relying on paying their bills by being a lmmaker here,” says Chris Ramirez, lmmaker and owner of Lola Pictures.

Ramirez has produced several movies in Las Vegas, including 2016’s Frank & Lola starring Michael Shannon and Imogen Poots, and 2020’s Viena and the Fantomes starring Dakota Fanning and Jeremy Allen White. Having labored in the Valley for decades, he says he and other lmmakers work hard out of passion for their craft, and also out of necessity.

“I always had to make my own work. And I feel like that’s the Vegas entrepreneur in me,” he says. “I think there are … [the] committed lmmakers who are going to make whatever they’re making, and they’re not really trying to pay the bills with it. [That’s] still the lmmaker’s dream.”

While Nevada hosts very few large-scale and studio productions compared to other states, lmmaker Shahab Zargari says locals still nd ways to build their careers. Also a communications (Shutterstock/Photo

specialist with UNLV Fine Arts, he has seen students who graduate from film school go on to find work in the state in select niches such as events and commercials.

“A lot of the film graduates, especially when they first get out on their feet, are working camera three at whatever convention at the Venetian,” Zargari says. “That kind of stuff is fine and good. They’re editing conference footage, or they’re doing weddings and that kind of thing, which is cool. But I’m almost positive that’s not why they went to film school.”

Zargari is the co-owner of Think Speak Films, which produced his 2013 directorial debut and four of his other films. But his pathway to filmmaking actually began in marketing, often for Las Vegas Strip properties.

“We are in direct competition with billion-dollar casinos that can spend all kinds of marketing money so the tourists can go see Celine Dion or Blue Man Group. … All of their messaging is diluting ours [and] local musicians, local theater,” he says. “I feel like it makes us hungrier to get those eyeballs. … Las Vegas residents are always on this kick to prove that we’re just like any other city. We have our talented people.”

More homegrown film projects could create more and more diversity in opportunities for a hungry workforce, Zargari adds.

Ramirez says many filmmakers, especially those working on independent projects, are looking to take advantage of Nevada’s incentives and are well-suited to provide some of those jobs under the current program. “We used almost 90% locals at some height in our first movie,” he says.

To qualify for Nevada’s tax incentive program, a production must spend at least 60% of its overall budget in-state. Incentives can rack up to 15% to 25% of production costs and are capped at $6 million in transferable tax credits per production. By way of comparison, New Mexico has an incentive rate up to 35% with a cap at $5 million per production, set to increase to $15 million over the next

few years after the state passed a law increasing it.

Because of a relative lack of investment, Nevada hasn’t gone much further than dipping its toes in the pool of filmmaking potential.

Ramirez lobbied during the 2013 Legislature for lawmakers’ first attempt to fund the program to $20 million per year. The 2013 bill passed but was largely gutted nine months after the law went into effect. A special session in 2014 ultimately allocated to Tesla $70 million of the $80 million that was originally intended for the film incentive program over four years.

“Back then, we had a chance to catch up. … Then, when they gave all the money to Tesla … that really took the wind out of our sails,” he says.

Representatives from the Nevada Film Office (NFO) say a lack of filmmaking incentives and infrastructure does at times mean larger productions can’t find what they need in the state and must go elsewhere.

“Some examples would be CSI: Vegas, The Cleaning Lady or Poker Face, which just came out with Natasha Lyonne,” says Danette Tull, NFO’s production and communications manager. “They don’t film the whole season here or the whole movie here, because we lack infrastructure. And we also lack a competitive incentive program,.”

The NFO, which helps filmmakers who want to work in the state and administers the incentive program, currently operates with a $10 million annual budget for transferable tax credits. In 2022, the program issued more than $7.3 million in credits to seven projects. Those productions, and others that didn’t use the incentive program, brought jobs and economic activity of more than $42 million to Nevada last year, according to an NFO report.

While Nevada has experienced success with the program, it’s modest compared to that of New Mexico, which spent $60 million on film incentives in 2022, according to the Albuquerque Journal

“I think one of the most current

projects to illustrate that point was Army of the Dead, a [2021] Netflix film that took place in Las Vegas. We weren’t able to host that production here because of the lack of soundstages and also the lack of incentives,” Tull says. “So they ended up basically [laser-scanning] Las Vegas Boulevard and rebuilding our Strip in a soundstage in New Mexico. … Those kinds of things, personally and professionally, sting a little bit.”

On the other hand, Frank & Lola filmed in Las Vegas and used the state’s incentive program. After a run at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival, it was picked up for distribution by Universal Pictures. “It’s one of our only Sundance [Film Festival] movies that’s from Vegas [and] was very homegrown.”

During Ramirez’s time working on bigger productions, he has observed some issues with local workforce training and hiring. “What I ran up against with the producers is, it’s all about the bottom line.”

And it can become “prohibitively

expensive” without qualified local crew, which is lacking in Nevada, he says. Those productions typically end up having to bring people in from out of state and pay for their accommodations.

“Even if there’s a tax incentive, which helps, you still really need to build up a crew base,” Ramirez says. “It’s a chicken and egg [situation]. … It never happens without a good tax incentive program.”

Tull says permanent studio space could also help build up that base. “It would bring more production here. It would establish a workforce development piece. There would be more work to go around, which would in turn encourage more studio infrastructure coming and more productions coming,” she says.

For Zargari, greater investments in the film industry would help build on the potential that already exists here. “I think [it] … would not only be beneficial for all the local filmmakers, it would help cement the Las Vegas film community as the professionals that they are.”

It’s flair, sparkle and pure, refined talent—he’s the one and only Liberace. The legendary showman, beloved worldwide and especially so in Las Vegas, lived a uniquely memorable life. From humble upbringings to superstardom, Liberace was a oncein-a-lifetime talent. Through the end of the year, the Nevada State Museum, in cooperation with the Liberace Foundation for the Performing and Creative Arts, is celebrating his life with an exhibit showcasing his costumes, pianos, photos, personal relics and more. Liberace: Real and Beyond takes guests on a tour through his life, including his first foray into fame, his influence during the Big Band era, the easy-listening style of the ’60s and ’70s, the decadent ’80s, and his trademark campy stage persona.

Tracing his remarkable career, Liberace: Real and Beyond is a glimpse into his life, legacy and legend. It features rarely seen costumes and lesser-known facts about his life, including his religious devotion, ability to break down racial barriers in a segregated America, and mentoring young talent. Here’s what you can expect as you make your way through the exhibit:

SECTION 1 1930S & 1940 s

BECOMING LIBERACE

Liberace’s childhood, early training and influences.

SECTION 2

1950 s

A STAR IS BORN

A retrospective in the movies he starred in, his early costumes, and the introduction of the candelabra on stage.

The exhibit runs from now to Dec. 31 at the Nevada State Museum, Las Vegas.

SECTION 3

1960 s & 1970 s

JOIE DE VIVRE

Exploring Liberace’s other passions, this section highlights his love for cooking, entertaining and his religious devotion as a Roman Catholic.

ABOUT LIBERACE

Born Wladziu Valentino Liberace to poor Polish-Italian immigrants in Wisconsin, his prodigy became clear from an early age. At 14 years old, he performed as a solo pianist with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and was regarded for his technique and ability to perform complicated pieces. His talent was nurtured by his musical parents, especially his father, who played the French horn. As Liberace’s talent grew, the accepted path for him was classical recitals and higher education. Instead, he chose to become a showman. He played everything from weddings, to cabarets, to strip clubs, and became a star in the ’50s after a string of successful records and appearances in television and film. His stage presence became increasingly campy and flamboyant, including fur, feathers, rhinestones and sequins—all while playing an array of classical and modern music with a candelabra famously placed on his piano. His career spanned more than 40 years before his death in the late ’80s.

SECTION 4 1980 s

GARDEN OF EARTHLY PLEASURES

An in-depth look at the costumes and decadent stage appearances of the ’80s. Here you’ll find the rhinestone piano, cherub candelabra, and much more.

SECTION 5 1930 s -1980 s

REVELATIONS AND INFLUENCE

Dissecting Liberace’s ability to cross racial and social barriers, scholars of classical music examining his technique, and his ongoing influence in pop culture.

THE STRIP

TRADING OUT THE TROP

Las Vegas’ continued pro sports expansion carries an additional cost

It’s almost impossible not to be excited about professional sports in Las Vegas right now.

For many longtime locals, seeing the Vegas Golden Knights parade down the Strip and celebrate their Stanley Cup victory felt like more than a championship victory.

have been able to imagine the scene we witnessed on June 17.

THE INCIDENTAL TOURIST

BY BROCK RADKE

Long-suffering fans in other major cities have had to wait for decades to experience such a thrill, but being a sports fan without a hometown team to cheer for is a different kind of hardship. Some of us old-timers flashed back to the UNLV basketball national championship of 1990, perhaps inspired by VGK goalie Adin Hill wearing Larry Johnson’s No. 4 Runnin’ Rebs jersey onstage during the victory rally. We would never

And the events that transpired in the surrounding days are just as unbelievable, yet they make perfect sense for the Vegas of today. On June 15, less than 48 hours after the Knights claimed the Cup at T-Mobile Arena, Gov. Joe Lombardo signed into law a $380 million public financing package for the Oakland Athletics’ proposed $1.5 billion, 30,000-seat stadium, on the current site of the Tropicana hotel and casino. Construction could begin next year. Once the A’s receive approval from the league, the team plans to follow in the Raiders’ footsteps and move to Las Vegas, bringing Major League Baseball to Southern Nevada in 2028.

That leaves only the NBA as a Vegas holdout. On the same Thursday, at the 43rd annual Las Vegas Perspective presented by the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance at the M Resort, Oak View Group CEO

Tim Leiweke updated the community on his company’s project, which has gotten a bit bigger. The developer that recently opened Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle (home of the NHL’s Kraken) is in the process of acquiring additional land south of the Strip at Las Vegas Boulevard and Blue Diamond Road and is now planning a 66-acre, $10 billion project including a 20,000-seat arena intended to lure an NBA expansion team in 2026, along with a new casino resort at the heart of a gaming and entertainment district.

Take a moment and catch your breath.

Sure, there are many bridges to cross for baseball and basketball to join the party, but you don’t have to think back very far to remember how quickly the NHL, WNBA and NFL went from a wouldn’t that be cool idea to selling tickets and packing arenas … and winning championships. Major league pro sports are batting a thousand so far in Las Vegas, a massive success even before the Aces took the title last year and the Knights claimed the Cup this month. The Raiders have been a hot ticket since the dynamic Allegiant Stadium was permitted to put fans in its seats.

With legislative support behind the A’s stadium proposal—and this is a good place to note that Oak View is not seeking public funding for its project—what could possibly stop the Vegas pro sports train from rolling right along? Apparently nothing. Should we even consider what we might be losing by adding all these teams, games and venues? Absolutely, always.

The Knights, Aces and Raiders have without question added new dimension to the general Las Vegas experience. They attract tourists and locals to the Strip corridor. They perform in big arenas or stadiums

that offer additional value to the community. And they’ve all impacted the culture of Las Vegas in their own significant ways.

The A’s will be a different situation. We’ve never demolished a casino in order to build a stadium; traditionally an implosion is followed by a new hotel tower rising in its place. T-Mobile Arena was sandwiched between two casinos; Allegiant Stadium was built across the Interstate so it could be just close enough. Though the demise of the Trop has been a long time coming, this development is an all-too-literal manifestation of sports taking over

the Strip, forever changing what Vegas looks and feels like.

The Tropicana opened 66 years ago, in April 1957. Incredibly, the hotel executive who bought the land and began construction on the Trop came from the Fontainebleau Miami Beach, another historic hotel operation finally planning to open its Las Vegas Strip resort this December. The Trop is pure Vegas history, all island themes and mob skims, showgirls and film appearances (Diamonds Are Forever, The Godfather and more). Once it’s gone, the only early-era resorts remaining on the Strip will be the Sahara, Circus Cir-

cus and the Flamingo, and once the A’s stadium arrives, the area around Tropicana Avenue and Las Vegas Boulevard will be a year-round cluster of sports venues unlike anywhere else in the world.

There’s nothing wrong with being excited about this future. It took a really long time to get to this point, much longer than the fast, fun and frenetic six years needed to win that Cup. But this point, right now, seems like a good time to drop a pin and remember what Vegas feels like, and what it used to feel like, because more change is certainly and always coming.

A rendering of the Oakland A’s proposed Las Vegas stadium (AP Photo)

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

NOISE

LOCAL SPIN

New releases from Mercy Music, Juno Rucker, Hunter’s Briefcase and more

BY AMBER SAMPSON

HUNTER’S BRIEFCASE

Ghost on the Highway EP

Hunter’s Briefcase has been sharing tracks from its latest EP to live audiences for some time. But the studio versions tell another story entirely. The psych-rock trio—Jake Mendoza on guitar and vocals, Nicolas Mendoza on drums and Carter Woodson on bass—share a distinct chemistry that feels both un appable and impenetrable. These musicians, with their fondness for fuzzed out ri s and funk- ecked guitar picking, coexist in a universe of their own making, shining as an absolute unit on each tune. “Ghost on the Highway” illustrates the band’s nuanced song structures and theatricality, the hazy track slowly building into a frenzied jam of crashing cymbals and reverb. Ear-splitting guitar solos, as on the epic close of “Fiive,” inject identity into the songs, as does Jake Mendoza’s wailing, fragile falsetto.

instagram.com/huntersbriefcase

(Left) Juno Rucker (Courtesy)

MERCY MUSIC

What You Stand to Lose

Mercy Music’s Brendan Scholz had teased that the band’s fourth studio album would be its cleanest yet, but What You Stand to Lose outshines anything we envisioned. The pop-punk trio stands at the top of its game on this 11-track LP, released on Double Helix Records and recorded at the Blasting Room, the Fort Collins, Colorado, studio/home of the Descendents’ Bill Stevenson, who produced the album. The chord progressions pop, the solos ring and the drumming packs enough punch to raise a roof. It’s, dare we say, optimistic, but fans know that’s always been the bait of this lyrically rueful band.

Scholz pledged this could also be Mercy Music’s darkest record yet. There’s no arguing that point, either. “I’m in the darkest place/With all the love in my heart/Still falling on my face/You’ve given up on me/I don’t blame you/It’s your life,” Scholz sings on “Found Out I’m Useless.” The frontman exudes striking candor throughout, bringing listeners in close to examine his wounds. “I want people to know they’re not alone in whatever they’re struggling with,” Scholz said in a press release. “I hope they find comfort in the record the same way I do in the records I love.” linktr.ee/ mercymusic

NEON

It’s Almost Summer

Fans of Beyoncé’s Grammy-winning Renaissance album should love this disco house-inspired epic. Neo-soul singer Neon hits her stride on this ’70s-inflected dance record, assigning sensuality, confidence and simmering sex appeal where they thrive best.

It’s Almost Summer magnifies Neon’s strengths as a singer and former MC with a groovy landscape of beats as the backdrop. From the wobbling synths on “Velvet” to the pulsing electronica of “Drifting,” Neon knows her listeners, and they’re ready to boogie. linktr.ee/neon1

JUNO RUCKER

Some Things Are Better Left Unsaid

Singer-songwriter Juno Rucker makes a strong entrance with this self-produced project, dedicated to his late grandmother. Rucker, who chose to record the album in several households rather than a studio, scratches at the recesses of his mind on these confessional tracks, exploring dark, unspoken thoughts (“I’m on the roof when nobody’s home/I think I know where this is going/I want to jump/ But the show must go on,” he sings on “Rucker!”) and what it is to find meaning in it all. Some Things is a patchwork of genres, with Rucker bearing down on his Lauryn Hill, Dominic Fike and Frank Ocean influences to create a beguiling fusion of lush guitar notes and soul-stirring hip-hop and R&B. lnkfi.re/somethings arebetterleftunsaid

SECOS

Loveseat EP

Loveseat, recorded by Secos at Downtown’s National Southwestern Recording, picks up where the indie desert dwellers— now a four-piece following guitarist Enrique Orozco’s exit—last left off. The follow-up to Secos’ 2022 self-titled album serves as a showpiece for frontman David Candelas’ operatic voice, fitting for an EP rife with messy romances and a flair for drama. The vocalist plays the part of the jilted lover as he laments on the tonally gripping “Cold War.” On “Encounters,” a standout for its bright, cruising melodies, he’s content to “Have another drink tonight/It’s OK, I won’t bite.” linktr.ee/ secosband

CROSSING OVER

Dom Dolla infuses hip-hop and house into his tracks and live sets

BY BROCK RADKE

Nelly Furtado is back on the scene, and the Canadian pop singer known for experimenting with different genres has chosen a bigtime dance record as her first single in five years. “Eat Your Man” arrived on June 2, a club thumper produced by surging Australian DJ and Wynn Nightlife resident artist Dom Dolla.

The two musicians connected when they both headlined Australia’s Beyond the Valley Festival last year, and while it’s no surprise Furtado was interested in pursuing new dance sounds for her upcoming comeback album, the partnership was like a dream for 31-year-old DJ and producer Dolla.

“I was ready to help with her new music, and then she turned around and said, ‘I would love to jump on one of your house records.’ It was a pretty surreal moment for me,” he tells the Weekly

“She’s such an iconic influence on pop music and culture in the last 20 years. But a lot of different artists are taking an interest now in house and techno culture, obviously, which has been one of the major influences on the pop genre, so it’s nice to see things turn the other way and go full circle.”

Dolla’s breakout was 2018’s “Take It,” which notched more than 200 million streams and received platinum certification. His affection for house and hip-hop has always driven his sound and sensibilities, and the convergence of those genres in pop music today is undeniable.

His other recent output includes the single “Rhyme Dust,” a collaboration with MK that nods to ’90s hip-hop, with a sample from Q-Tip. “Some people say MK is one of the founding fathers of modern-day house music, so I just wanted to make sure the collaboration and the sample was done justice, and it’s been exciting to watch the record blow up,” Dolla says. “I feel like house music in the internet age means music is becoming more global. There used to be cultural segregation, depending on which radio stations or DJs would play it, but these days with TikTok and Instagram, everyone has access to music from all over the world.”

And Dolla has certainly expanded his global audience in Las Vegas, where he’s been performing more frequently than ever before in 2023, including another massive EDC set and around a dozen shows at Wynn.

“Vegas is really the place to hone your DJ skills, and it takes me back to when I first started in clubs in Australia when I was 18 and hadn’t released any music yet,” he says. “I wasn’t a producer or a songwriter, and it was just about how to entertain a crowd, a juggling act. I’ve had this conversation with other DJs who are regularly playing [Vegas], and it’s such a unique place to perform. I love the challenge.”

(Courtesy/Donslens)

Kevin Hart and his entertainment company Hartbeat are taking over Resorts World Las Vegas once again with Hartbeat Weekend for four days of comedy, music, exclusive parties and more. Not only will Hart be performing the grand finale of the Reality Check Tour, but there’s a full roster of other heavy-hitting, headlining events. Described as a celebration of comedy and culture, Hartbeat Weekend will run from July 6-9 at locations across the property.

Throughout the weekend, Jalisco Underground will host afterhours parties featuring intimate comedy performances. Expect the unexpected: World-class comedians and a nonstop weekend party means anyone could show up for a one-of-a-kind performance.

Kicking off the celebration is Kevin Hart ’s birthday party at Zouk Nightclub , featuring a special performance by Ludacris . Be ready to party into the early morning.

Starting a full day of festivities, Friday opens with a Rock The Bells Pool Party at Ayu Dayclub . TI will be headlining, plus special performances and surprise appearances.

Moving into the evening, Kevin Hart ’s Reality Check Tour takes over Resorts World Theatre for the second-to-last show of the tour. The record-breaking tour has continually sold-out theaters across the country and will wrap here in Las Vegas.

And at night, it’s time to party with J. Cole performing at Zouk Nightclub .

KASKADE

JACK HARLOW

KEVIN HART

ADVERTORIAL PRESENTED BY RESORTS WORLD

SURPRISE APPEARANCES

LUDACRIS J.COLE

Saturday begins with the inaugural celebrity poker tournament at AllēLounge at 66. This two-day, high-stakes tournament features 50 competitors you may recognize from sports, comedy, music and more, going head-to-head at no limit hold ’em. It’s a $100,000 buy-in and a $5 million pot. Longtime rivals Kevin Hart and poker player Antonio Esfandiari will team up for ongoing commentary, challenges and more. If poker isn’t your style, check out Kaskade at Ayu instead.

After Day One of the tournament, Kevin Hart will close out the Reality Check Tour at Resorts World Theatre . Following the show, Jack Harlow will be at Zouk into the wee hours.

Sunday wraps up the weekend with Party Next Door ’s Pool Party at Ayu and the second day of the celebrity poker tournament. Expect fun in the sun, and a very rich winner by the end.

Goodies at Karved (Wade Vandervort/Staff)

SANDWICH SATISFACTION

Karved keeps the good stuff coming with a second location

BY BROCK RADKE

If you can imagine a sandwich baton, know that it has been passed.

Karved, one of the Valley’s top spots for baguettes loaded with flavorful roasted meats and other toppings, recently expanded beyond its 6-year-old Maryland Parkway store with a second eatery at the Gramercy in the southwest Valley. The new spot is owned and operated by the daughter and son-in-law of Karved’s originators, maintaining the family-business style and friendly atmosphere.

($15-$19) served with two sides, rice and pita bread, or bowls ($12-$18). And dedicated followers are just as passionate about their favorite side dishes as they are with the proteins, choosing from standout options like roasted veggies, rotisserie potatoes, elote-style corn, mac and cheese or “dirty” mashed potatoes.

KARVED

“My parents opened Karved in 2017, it’s all based on my mom’s recipes and my dad still goes in every day for the most part,” says Megan Sparks of her parents’ first-ever restaurant. “They were looking for us to help out, and we had a discussion as a family and decided to open a Karved of our own. We’ve been working with our parents to make sure everything stays consistent. They have a lot of pride in it, as do we.”

9275 W. Russell Road, 702-527-6285, karvedlv.com.

Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

“A lot of people like to mix the plates and do [vegetables] instead of rice, or seasonal sides like Brussels sprouts,” Sparks says. “It’s clean food, too. We’re not putting a lot of oil or butter in the rice. Everything is fresh, and we want to accommodate people who don’t eat meat so our processes stay vegan-friendly.”

St. Provisions continues adding to the Arts District’s deliciousness

 When Patrick Munster took over the kitchen at Main St. Provisions last fall, local diners anticipated that the chef who has spent time at Eiffel Tower Restaurant at Paris, SW Steakhouse at Wynn and One Steakhouse at Virgin would move the menu in a bold new direction. They were right. The Arts District favorite feels a bit more like a special-occasion steakhouse, if you want it to, with standout cuts like filet mignon ($46), a New York strip ($48), and a shareable double-cut ribeye ($64) served with two side dishes.

They should. In a city where chain sandwich shops dominate the lunchtime landscaped, Karved feels and tastes handcrafted, including top-selling dishes like slow-roasted porchetta ($14) with lemon caper sauce and arugula; Black Angus beef tri-tip ($14) with garlic sauce and onion marmalade; and the rotisserie chicken pita sandwich ($14) with tomatoes, pickled red onion, hummus, arugula and creamy herb dressing.

For those looking beyond the sandwich, Karved gourmet meats also are available as customizable plates

The Gramercy restaurant, which opened in early June, maintains the original menu, but new additions are in the works, mainly some fresh breakfast options. Expect to see a steak, egg and cheese sandwich landing soon, designed to satisfy the surrounding office and small-business workers in the immediate area.

The accessibility of Karved feels like a natural fit with the complex’s other dining options, DW Bistro, Pinches Tacos and Anima by Edo.

“The neighbors we have here are awesome, and everyone’s been so welcoming,” Sparks says. “We’ve already visited their restaurants multiple times, and I think we’re becoming sort of a close-knit, Gramercy food group. There’s a lot happening in a couple miles, and we’re excited to grow with the neighborhood.”

But it’s not all about the meat and the cooking methods. Most importantly, Main St. Provisions remains a true Downtown dining destination under Munster, a meetup with magnetism for multiple visits during the week. Your crew might want to start by passing around the Crispy Things ($21), a collection of beautifully fried shrimp, calamari, zucchini and pepperoncini with “angry tomato” sauce for dipping. If you want a solo starter, the Wedge salad ($16) is an ideal version with lovely chunks of bacon and Danish blue cheese, and the kitchen will chop it up for you if you do decide to share.

Skip the steak on one of your visits, so you can fully engage with the menu’s versatility. Expertly cooked duck breast ($36) with toasted farro and a swath of blackberry barbecue sauce is a must-eat, and roasted halibut ($34) is delicate and delicious, decorated with zucchini, tomato and a perfect sauce of sweety drop peppers and butter. Speaking of perfection, side dishes of maitake mushrooms with blue cheese and Bordelaise ($15) and rich butter-whipped potatoes ($14) will go with any entree, red meat or otherwise. Isn’t it nice when one of your favorite restaurants keeps getting better? –Brock

Radke

HUNGER NEVER SLEEPS

ALEXANDER THE GREAT

With his profi le raised, Alexander Volkanovski looks to get back to his winning ways at UFC 290

BY CASE KEEFER

In the middle of the biggest and toughest ght of his life, Alexander Volkanovski wouldn’t shut up.

The longtime UFC featherweight champion moved up a weight class to challenge lightweight belt-holder Islam Makhachev in February, even though hardly anyone gave him much of a chance. Volkanovski sat as high as a 4-to-1 underdog, with most expecting the bigger Makhachev’s wrestling style to overpower him.

It didn’t turn out that way, and even in the few instances when Makhachev did grab a hold and control Volkanovski, the latter kept talking to the former.

“I’d be like, ‘Oh, you’re not that strong,’ and when he’s there like, ‘Oh, you’re just hanging on,’ ” Volkanovski explained in his post- ght news conference. “I’m not being disrespectful. He’s still in a good position, and it’s up to me to get out of there, but I’m going to [try to] get in his head.”

Volkanovski arguably put on the show of his career in front of a home-country crowd in Perth, Australia, even though the judges ultimately sided with Makhachev via unanimous decision (48-47, 48-47, 49-46). Many disagreed with the decision, and the aftermath has spurred an unlikely phenomenon to occur in the UFC: Volkanovski’s star is shining brighter than ever despite him coming o a loss.

For the rst time, the 34-year-old will headline what is traditionally the UFC’s biggest event of the year—the pay-perview at the end of International Fight Week in Las Vegas. Volkanovski has twice defended his featherweight belt in the co-main event of the annual early July pay-per-view, but he gets prime billing at UFC 290 on July 8 at T-Mobile Arena in a title uni cation bout against Yair Rodriguez.

Rodriguez, a 30-year-old who hails from Mexico, emerged as interim featherweight champion while Volkanovski went up to lightweight.

“I’m not a sel sh guy,” Volkanovski said. “I’m not trying to hold things up [at featherweight], and now we’ve got a guy that deserves a shot. That’s clear. That’s what I wanted.”

Volkanovski only felt the need to clarify that because he has also made his ultimate goal clear: to beat Makhachev in a rematch and become the 10th two-division champion in UFC history. Neither Volkanovski nor Makhachev ended up getting what they wanted out of their initial showdown.

Volkanovski was determined to prove everyone wrong and escape with a victory before falling painfully, if not controversially, short. Makhachev, meanwhile, asked for the bout because he wanted to prove he was the top pound-for-pound ghter in the world.

But despite Makhachev’s victory,Volkanovski retained the No. 1 pound-for-pound standing in the UFC’s o cial rankings. Jon Jones has since returned to the octagon to win

his second title, at heavyweight, to take over the No. 1 pound-for-pound spot, followed by Volkanovski at No. 2 and Makhachev at No. 3.

Volkanovski and Makhachev both want to ght one another again, and UFC President Dana White isn’t opposed to the idea. While White chose to prioritize Volkanovski vs. Rodriguez for UFC 290, he has gone so far as to say, “We’ll do the rematch.”

“When you make a super ght, could you possibly have had a better f*cking result than we did on that

UFC 290 MAIN CARD

FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE UNIFICATION BOUT

Alexander Volkanovski (Australia) vs. Yair Rodriguez (Mexico)

FLYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP BOUT

Brandon Moreno (Mexico) vs. Alexandre Pantoja (Brazil)

MIDDLEWEIGHT BOUT

Robert Whittaker (New Zealand/Australia) vs. Dricus du Plessis (South Africa)

LIGHTWEIGHT BOUT

Jalin Turner (U.S.) vs. Dan Hooker (New Zealand)

MIDDLEWEIGHT BOUT

Bo Nickal (U.S.) vs. Tresean Gore (U.S.)

When: July 8; early preliminaries 3 p.m. (UFC Fight Pass); preliminary card 5 p.m. (ABC/ ESPN); main card 7 p.m. (ESPN+, $80) Where: T-Mobile Arena

Tickets: $150-$5,000 at axs.com

ght,” White said of Makhachev vs. Volkanovski during a recent news conference. “When the entire world is arguing over who won, that’s a superght, and it delivers.”

The risk now for Volkanovski is letting his pursuit of Makhachev interfere with the task at hand. Rodriguez, who stopped perennial contenders Brian Ortega and Josh Emmett back-to-back, is not someone to be taken lightly.

Volkanovski is as high as a 5-to-1 favorite, but he has been accused of being distracted. He’s laughed o those suggestions, insisting he’s capable of giving Rodriguez his full attention while still keeping his goal of winning the lightweight belt in mind.

“You gotta move forward,” Volkanovski said in an interview on the Impaulsive podcast with YouTube personality-turned-boxer Logan Paul. “Obviously it sucks, but I’ll get the rematch. I’ll win, and then we’ll make a bigger ght, a bigger ending to that story later on.”

He might not have gotten the initial victory over Makhachev, but Volkanovski came away from the ght with the acclaim some felt he long deserved. He won his rst 11 ghts in the octagon, downing virtually every active featherweight great during a run that saw him rst become champion in December 2019.

He won every match in a trilogy with longtime former champion Max Holloway, though the rst two were razor-thin decisions that some thought should have gone the other way. The controversial results against a fan-favorite like Holloway might have contributed to the fanbase not fully embracing Volkanovski as a champion from the outset.

It’s ironic that it was a loss in a similar situation against Makhachev that elevated him to the highest peak of his career so far. And if Volkanovski handles Rodriguez at UFC 290, he’ll likely get another opportunity at the prize he so desperately seeks.

“Obviously people are proud of how that went, but I expected to go out there and win and dominate,” Volkanovski said of the Makhachev ght. “I’m still proud of myself, still proved a lot of people wrong, but I didn’t get my hand raised. I’m going to be hard on myself.”

(Left) Volkanovski, (below) Yair Rodriguiez (AP Photo/Photo Illustration)

The west rim is heart-pounding, soul-searching, bucketlist-checking adrenaline rushes you’ve never felt or seen before, including one of the largest glass cantilever bridges in the world that will have you stepping 4,000 feet out over the Grand Canyon floor. Skywalk is just one of the ways you can jolt your senses and ignite your spirit at Grand Canyon West.

Plan your adventure today.

A LETTER FROM OUR EDITOR TOP LAWYERS 2023

Lawyers play many crucial roles in our justice system. They defend, advocate and advise individuals and businesses, representing members of our community when intercession is needed. The aim of this, our annual Top Lawyers list, is to provide a resource so that when you need representation, you have somewhere to turn to get started.

In preparation for this publication, thousands of lawyers in Clark County received a survey and were asked to nominate local legal professionals who they believed deserve the commendation of Top Lawyer. Each lawyer on this list was recommended by their peers in the industry and checked by our team against the Nevada State Bar to ensure that they are in good standing.

As honorees of a peer-nominated award, the individuals on the 2023 Top Lawyers list have been vouched for by the people who know best what they do—people with rsthand knowledge of their work ethic and tireless dedication to the law.

We also recognize and appreciate the professionals who took time out of their busy schedules to nominate and honor their colleagues. It’s an honor to receive their help in presenting this extensive resource to the public. When justice is in question, it is so important to have a trusted ally. We hope that this list will be a useful guide to those seeking an advocate for fairness and equity.

Sierra Smart Special Publications Editor

CIVIL RIGHTS

John

CONSUMER PROTECTION

Josh Tomsheck Hofland & Tomsheck 702-895-6760 lvnvlawfirm.com

P.

Jason Sadow Sadow Law Firm 775-257-1430 sadowlawfirm.com

Chad D. Olsen Lewis Roca 702-949-8200 lewisroca.com

TOP LAWYERS 2023

GAMING

IMMIGRATION

The Abrams Law Firm 702-222-4021 theabramslawfirm.com

Shawn Golstein Goldstein Flaxman 702-919-1919

FAMILY goldsteinflaxman.com

Josef Karacsonyi The Dickerson Karacsonyi Law Group 702-388-8600 thedklawgroup.com

Racheal H. Mastel Kainen Law Group 702-823-4900 kainenlawgroup.com

Stephanie McDonald Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada 702-386-1070 lacsn.org

McFarling Law Group 702-766-6671 mcfarlinglaw.com

Amber Robinson Robinson Law Group 702-527-2625 familylawyerlas vegas.com

Beth Rosenblum Mushkin & Rosenblum 702-474-2400 mushkinrosenblum. com

Marshal Willick The Willick Law

Group 702-438-4100 willicklawgroup.com

Gregory Giordano McDonald Carano, LLP 702-873-4100 mcdonaldcarano.com

Dennis Gutwald McDonald Carano, LLP 702-873-4100 mcdonaldcarano.com

Glenn Light Lewis Roca 702-949-8200 lewisroca.com

Margo Chernysheva MC Law Group 702-258-1093 immigrationlawnv. com

Gabrielle Jones Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada 702-386-1070 lacsn.org

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

Michael McCue Lewis Roca 702-949-8200 lewisroca.com

Karl Rutledge lewisroca.com

Karl Rutledge Lewis Roca 702-949-8200 lewisroca.com

Malani Dale Kotchka-Alanes Lewis Roca 702-949-8200 lewisroca.com

INSURANCE

John R. Bailey Bailey Kennedy, LLP 702-562-8821 baileykennedy.com

Chad D. Olsen Lewis Roca 702-949-8200 lewisroca.com

Brianna Smith Pisanelli Bice 702-214-2100 pisanellibice.com

Lindsey Williams Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, LLP 702-382-2101 bhfs.com

702-949-8200 bhfs.com

Meng Zhong Lewis Roca 702-949-8200 lewisroca.com

SEAN CLAGGETT Congratulations

FOR BEING NAMED TOP LAWYER!

FROM ALL OF US HERE AT CLAGGETT & SYKES, YOU ARE A GAME CHANGER. YOUR DEEP PASSION FOR OUR LAS VEGAS AND RENO COMMUNITIES, AND DEDICATION TO ADVOCATING FOR OUR CLIENTS IS AN INSPIRATION ACROSS THE INDUSTRY AND WE COULDN'T BE MORE PROUD!

Congratulating 15 Lawyers on Vegas Inc’s

NOBLE

“Top Lawyers” list

“prestigious list of the most prominent and impressive lawyers”

DAN AQUINO JOHN FORTIN KRISTEN GALLAGHER ANDREW GABRIEL GREG GIORDANO EmploymentCivil Rights Real EstateEmployment Gaming

“most well-regarded legal professionals in the Valley”

DENNIS GUTWALD PAT LUNDVALL ROBERT McPEAK CHRIS MOLINA CODY

Gaming Business Litigation Environmental Real EstateTrust & Estates

“best in our community as recommended by peers”

“these are the lawyers that lawyers hire”

RYAN WORKS

TOP LAWYERS 2023

LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT

Daniel Aquino McDonald Carano, LLP 702-873-4100 mcdonaldcarano.com

Howard Cole Lewis Roca 702-949-8200 lewisroca.com

Kristen Gallagher McDonald Carano, LLP 702-873-4100 mcdonaldcarano.com

Jennifer K. Hostetler Lewis Roca 702-949-8200 lewisroca.com

Adam Levine Law O ce of Daniel Marks 702-386-0536 lawo ceofdanielmarks. com

Swen Prior Snell & Wilmer 702-784-5200 swlaw.com

PERSONAL INJURY

John E. Bragonje Lewis Roca 702-949-8200 lewisroca.com

Christopher Carson Sagebrush Lawyers sagebrushlawyers.com

Brett Carter Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen 702-505-8115 nvlegaljustice.com

Sean Claggett Claggett & Sykes 702-957-1675 claggettlaw.com

Christopher Connell Connell Law 702-266-6355 connelllaw.com

Kyle Cottner The Cottner Firm 702-530-7777 cottnerfirm.com

Dawn Davis Snell & Wilmer 702-784-5200 swlaw.com

Robert Eglet Eglet Adams 702-450-5400 egletlaw.com

Neal K. Hyman Law O ces of Neal Hyman 702-477-0042 nealhyman.com

Chris Kircher Semenza Kircher Rickard 702-835-6803 skrlawyers.com

Martin Little Howard & Howard 702-667-4829 howardandhoward.com

Jason Maier Maier Gutierrez 702-629-7900 mgalaw.com

David Menocal Menocal Law Group 702-508-9222 davidmenocal.com

Farhan Naqvi Naqvi Injury Law 702-728-4848 naqvilaw.com

Mike H. T. Nguyen Nguyen & Associates, LLC 702-999-8888 thenguyenlaw.com

Nick Pomponio Pomponio Injury Law 702-888-3887 pomponiolaw.com

Paul Shpirt Dimopoulos Law Firm 702-935-9455 stevedimopoulos.com

Robert Sidell Sidell Injury Law 702-384-3847 robertsidell.com

Mike Valiente Valiente Mott 702-623-2323 valientemott.com

Austin Wood Richard Harris Law 702-444-4444 richardharrislaw.com

Brian L. Blaylock

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TOP LAWYERS 2023

PUBLIC INTEREST

Garrett D. Gordon Lewis Roca 702-949-8200 lewisroca.com

Patricia Palm Clark County Public Defender's O ce 702-455-4685 clarkcountynv.gov

David Stoft Clark County Water Reclamation District 702-668-8888 cleanwaterteam.com

Michael Wendlberger Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada 702-386-1070 lacsn.org

REAL PROPERTY

Andrew F. Dixon Lewis Roca 702-949-8200 lewisroca.com

Andrew Gabriel McDonald Carano, LLP 702-873-4100 mcdonaldcarano.com

Rebecca Miltenberger Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, LLP 702-382-2101 bhfs.com

Christopher Molina McDonald Carano, LLP 702-873-4100 mcdonaldcarano.com

Mandy Shavinsky Snell & Wilmer 702-784-5200 swlaw.com

SECURITIES

Brian Blaylock Snell & Wilmer 702-784-5200 swlaw.com

Ellen Schulhofer Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, LLP 702-382-2101 bhfs.com

TAX

Scott MacTaggart Lewis Roca 702-949-8200 lewisroca.com

Scott Swain McDonald Carano, LLP 702-873-4100 mcdonaldcarano.com

Scott Swain McDonald Carano, LLP 702-873-4100 mcdonaldcarano.com

Cody Noble McDonald Carano, LLP 702-873-4100 mcdonaldcarano.com

LUXURY LIVING TAKING OFF WITH RENTERS AND SHIFTING MARKET

BY KATIE ANN MCCARVER VEGAS INC STAFF

Ariva Luxury Residences is all about lifestyle.

Residents at the new, nine-building apartment complex in Las Vegas just have to walk over to its three clubhouses if they want to exercise in an open-air fitness center or yoga room, play foosball inside or relax in a grassy area filled with cozy seating and a fire pit.

Or, if residents prefer to stay closer to home, they can hang out at the outdoor lounge of their own building—maybe have a meal at one of the tables or watch a game on the big-screen TV.

“It is impossible to wake up in a bad mood,” said Anasthasia Purifoy, an Ariva resident and senior property manager at Cushman & Wakefield, which manages and operates the property.

Ariva, which is still under partial construction with anticipated completion by the end of August, recently held its grand opening. Rent averages $1,800 to $3,900 a month, though penthouse residents pay closer to $4,000 or $5,000, said Heidi Westerhoff, senior director of asset services at Cushman & Wakefield.

The property’s more than 100 residents value the amenities that Ariva has to offer.

They’re not alone.

People seem increasingly likely to sacrifice square footage for better amenities and luxury finishes, said Zar Zanganeh, managing partner in Nevada for the Agency, a global real estate brokerage. Zanganeh sells high-end properties and represents developers in new construction projects.

“So, the size of the units, whether it’s luxury condominiums for sale, homes for sale or apartments—the unit sizes people are willing to sacrifice ... for getting more amenities,” Zanganeh said.

Bowling alleys, game rooms, valet trash and luxury, in-unit appliances are just some of the amenities that justify higher rent for a smaller apartment, he said.

Las Vegas wants luxury properties like Ariva, Westerhoff emphasized, and comfortable apartments are an appealing option for people who are waiting to buy or build homes until the economy regains some stability, she said.

High-end real estate isn’t slowing down, Zanganeh agreed, pointing to the popularity of homes priced upwards of $5 million or even $10 million.

“I don’t see it going backwards,” he said of Las Vegas’ home market, noting that rent prices will likely remain steady, despite going up about 30% in the past five years. “We definitely don’t have any anticipation of that, regardless of what happens with our economy; regardless of a recession or not.”

Thousands of apartment units have been added in Las Vegas since last year, Westerhoff said, and mixed-use communities are only getting “bigger and better,” as Las Vegas’ population and infrastructure grows to support them and the lifestyle that properties like Ariva seek to create.

According to Zanganeh, however, the majority of clientele for luxury real estate are probably out-of-state buyers.

Las Vegas’ population is growing, and Zanganeh said the city has been an especially attrac-

tive destination for transplants from California. The result is a huge demand that “we’re not able to keep up with,” he said.

When people visit and see the vast, undeveloped desert surrounding it, Zanganeh said, their impression might be that it has abundant opportunity for growth.

“They don’t realize that Nevada, of all 50 states, has the least amount of privately owned land, the most amount of federal land and—after all—we’re in this little valley that is 96%-plus built out,” he said. “And there’s very little room for us to grow.”

As a result, Zanganeh predicts the working class will be unable to find local, affordable housing “in the very near future.” The only housing in their price range will be older properties in less desirable areas, condominiums for purchase or—if they want a nice, newer home—moving to nearby cities like Pahrump or Coyote Springs and commuting to work.

There are few model homes in local housing tracts in the $300,000 to $400,000 price range, he said. Most are closer to $600,000 or $700,000 and, before long, the Valley will price out.

“It already has,” Zanganeh said. “If you walk around and look at any of the new development and housing tracts ... there’s [none] in the price point of your average employees on the Las Vegas Strip, or the average Las Vegas income.”

Ariva Luxury Residences (Christopher DeVargas/Staff)

VEGAS INC NOTES

Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen added attorney Roger Drake to its legal team. His expertise lies in the specialized field of Social Security Disability law.

Touro University Nevada announced the retirement of Shelley Berkley, senior vice president of the Touro University system. In addition, Touro’s College of Health and Human Services on June 19 celebrated the graduation of more than 100 health care professionals from physical therapy, occupational therapy, and nursing during a spring commencement ceremony.

The ALSIM ALSR20 Flight Training Device at All In Aviation, a flight school and full-service aviation company,

earned an Advanced Aviation Training Device qualification from the Federal Aviation Administration. With FAA certification, use of the simulator now qualifies toward earning a private pilot license and instrument rating.

The Plaza celebrated the upcoming grand opening of its Main Street Reimagination projects with four new venues: Carousel Bar, Pinkbox Doughnuts, the rooftop patio at Oscar’s steakhouse, and Brian Christopher Slots, a smokefree and social media-friendly gaming space.

Assistance League of Las Vegas, an all-member volunteer nonprofit that transforms the lives of children and adults

through community programs, has a new president and board of directors for 2023-24. Gina Geldbach-Hall, a retired Clark County Fire Department firefighter, is the new president. Other members of the board of directors include: Sylvie Courtemarsh, president-elect; Tina Shinn, vice president-administration; Sandy Mullally, vice president-membership; Deon Poort, vice president philanthropic; Ann Zappa, vice president-resource development; Sue Trock, recording secretary; Tammy Vaaler, treasurer; Tay Fried, finance; Kathryn Cummings, marketing; Christine Santiago, strategic planning; Erin Bendavid, Assisteens coordinator; Betsy Angelcor, Desert Sage representative; Diana Anderson, parliamentarian.

JOB LISTING

Management Consultant sought by Sushi Hiro. HS Diploma/ GED +2 years of experience as Management Consultant, or any managerial position required. Worksite: Las Vegas, NV.

Send resume: Sushi Hiro Inc; 9460 S Eastern Ave. #130, Las Vegas, NV 89123; Attn: Oshima.

JOB LISTING

Senior Software Engineer for gaming and technology services company. Position duties are designing, developing, testing & implementing enterprise software applications in J2EE & Java for online and mobile remote gaming & lottery systems for scalable web-centric application platforms & frameworks using JBoss, Jetty, Tomcat and SOAP & REST protocols including performing requirements analysis; reviewing designs for new functionality; formulating detailed functional & product specifications; performing requirements functional decomposition, unit & integration testing; supporting technology upgrades through PostgreSQL & Oracle migrations; performing SQL database tuning; and providing technical documentation & system implementation support using Jenkins and Maven. Position requirements are a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or related field and 5 years’ experience in the job duties as stated. The position is with IGT headquartered in Las Vegas, NV but allows the individual to live anywhere in the U.S. and work from a home office.

Send resume to IGT by email to Eduardo.Saavedra@IGT.com. Please indicate SEYK in response.

HELP WANTED

PRODUCT MANAGER–sought by Ahern Engineering, LLC in Henderson, NV.

Duties include: New product line technical engineering project management and execution; current product enhancements, cost reduction efforts, and product problem resolutions; direct management of technical teams, establishment of specifications and performance metrics of product line; participating in customer and supplier meetings; directing management and leadership of technical resources to accomplish on-time and on-budget projects; and supervising Electrical Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Mechanical Drafters, and Commercial and Industrial Designers. Requires a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Design Engineering, or related field, or foreign equivalent, plus 60 months of experience as a Product Manager or related position. Must have 4 years of experience with manufacturing of aerial work platforms from a mechanical and manufacturing perspective; and 4 years of experience managing technical and mechanical product development and supportive teams. Email resumes to Sam.Guron@ ahern-engineering.com or mail to Ahern Engineering, LLC, Attn. Sam Guron, 8350 Eastgate Road, Henderson, Nevada 89015.

Roger Drake, Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen

Gina Geldbach-Hall

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