2024-07-25-Las-Vegas-Weekly

ROCKIN’ REDHEAD POOL PARTY

ENTERTAINMENT

SATURDAY, JULY 27

PUBLISHER

MARK DE POOTER mark.depooter@gmgvegas.com

EDITOR

SHANNON MILLER

shannon.miller@gmgvegas.com

EDITORIAL

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

Managing Editor BROCK RADKE (brock.radke@gmgvegas.com)

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

SATURDAY, AUGUST 3

SATURDAY, AUGUST 17

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

Contributing Writers GRACE DA ROCHA,HILLARY DAVIS, HAAJRAH GILANI, MIKE GRIMALA, KATIE ANN MCCARVER, AYDEN RUNNELS, RHIANNON SAEGERT, JACK WILLIAMS

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

O ce Coordinator NADINE GUY

CREATIVE

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This week at UnCommons

Tues 7/30

Daily Wed 7/31

Happy Hour @ AMARI

3:00 PM – 5:30 PM

Evening Drinks @ Todo Bien 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Wed 7/31

Wine Tasting Wednesday @ Wineaux 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM

Trivia Night @ General Admission 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

14

WEEKLY Q&A

New Philharmonic music consultant Leonard Slatkin reconnects with Las Vegas.

18 COVER STORY

As Nevada officials set their eyes on federal land for affordable housing, experts advise using land within the city’s boundaries more efficiently. 30

MUSIC

8

SUPERGUIDE

Bagelmania Backroom launches with laughs and latkes, Citizen Cope stops at Brooklyn Bowl and more happening this week.

Checking out eight recent releases from Vegas’ homegrown music scene. 34 NIGHTS

The newly renovated Downtown alt-club Oddfellows gets a little weirder, in a good way.

38 FOOD & DRINK La

Mexican Cocina brings a taste of innovation to Centennial Hills.

Six members of the Las Vegas Aces are on their way to compete in the Paris Olympics.

Casa de Juliette

Photo illustration by Ian Racoma

La Casa de Juliette by Wade Vandervort

SUPERGUIDE

THURSDAY JUL 25

GABRIEL & DRESDEN

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

MOON, MARS, AND BEYOND

Thru 8/4, times vary, Sahara West Library, the librarydistrict.org.

JANE

AUSTEN’S EMMA Thru 8/11, days & times vary, Majestic Repertory Theatre, majestic repertory.com.

THE RIGHTEOUS BROTHERS

6:30 p.m., South Point Showroom, ticketmaster.com.

LANDON BARKER

7:30 p.m., B-Side at House of Blues, ticketmaster.com.

SWAG ERA

7 p.m., Swan Dive, swandivelv.com.

KELLY CLINTON

7 p.m., Composers Room, thecomposers room.com.

GRAHAM BARHAM

8 p.m., Stoney’s North Forty, stoneysnorthforty. com.

CRANKDAT

9 p.m., & 7/26, Substance, seetickets.us

RL GRIME

10:30 p.m., Zouk Nightclub, zoukgrouplv.com.

SOFTEST HARD

With Lvcid, Gokuce, 10 p.m., We All Scream, seetickets.us.

THE BAGELMANIA BACKROOM

Las Vegas comedy couple Noah Gardenswartz and Ester Steinberg are both headlining standups who tour the country, and now they have a new gig to host and curate together when they’re not on the road. One of the Valley’s most celebrated Jewish delicatessens, Siegel’s Bagelmania will launch the Bagelmania Backroom this week, a new monthly night of laughs featuring Jimmy McMurrin, Mary Upchurch and Michael Yo—a frequent headliner at the Rio’s Comedy Cellar—for the debut edition. Around 50 seats will be available, along with a full bar and a limited menu of tasty bites. You know your comedy scene is thriving when you can pair it with bagels. 7 p.m., $20, Siegel’s Bagelmania, eventbrite.com.

–Brock Radke

(Courtesy)

FRIDAY JUL 26

CAREY 8 p.m., & 7/27, 7/31, Dolby Live, ticketmaster.com.

DINNER AT DIAGON: A POTTER THEMED EXPERIENCE

7 p.m., Front Yard at Ellis Island, opentable.com.

CHRISTOPHER TITUS

7:30 p.m., & 7/27, Wiseguys Town Square, wiseguys comedy.com

MORRISSEY

7 p.m., & 7/27, House of Blues, concerts. livenation.com

ROD STEWART

7:30 p.m., & 7/27, 7/31, the Colosseum, ticketmaster.com

FALLUJAH

With Persefone, Vulvodynia, Dawn Of Ouroboros, Into Fruition, 7 p.m., Backstage Bar & Billiards, seetickets.us

KALEB AUSTIN

10 p.m., Stoney’s Rockin’ Country, tixr.com

TYRANTS BY NIGHT

With Mynas, Antitrust, 8 p.m., Sinwave, dice.fm

LIVE THE FANTASY

With Chris Ivan, The Giavana, Genesis Mariana, Atom, 8 p.m., the Space, thespacelv.com

MONSTER JAM Thru 7/28, times vary, Thomas & Mack Center, unlvtickets.com

FILM: SHOWGIRLS

7 p.m. (& 7/27, 9 p.m.), Beverly Theater, thebeverlytheater. com

GIMME GIMME DISCO 9:30 p.m., Brooklyn Bowl, ticketmaster. com

TIËSTO 10:30 p.m., LIV Nightclub, livnightclub.com

MARTEN HORGER

With Isaac Civil, Alex Parra, Bobls & Morna, 10 p.m., Discopussy, seetickets.us

DABABY 10:30 p.m., Drai’s Nightclub, draisgroup.com

MALADJUSTED & CLOSE TO MODERN

CHRISTMAS IN JULY

Chef Aaron Lee of Winnie & Ethel’s is teaming up with his former boss and mentor, Esther’s Kitchen chef James Trees, to kick o a monthly supper club series. This month’s theme, Christmas in July, promises a Feast of the Seven Fishes with Lee and Trees preparing a three-course meal of seafood-forward Italian dishes and a delectable desert o ering. Wine pairings are available for an additional $60, or go with the non-alcoholic mocktail pairings for $50. And the theme doesn’t stop at the food—the diner is teaming up with Mojave Bloom Nursery to craft an enchanting “holiday in the summer” atmosphere. Christmas came early this year! 7 p.m., $125, Winnie & Ethel’s, eventbrite.com. –Shannon Miller

7 p.m., Swan Dive, swandivelv.com

PATTY ASCHER

THE CHAINSMOKERS

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

7 & 8:30 p.m., & 7/27, Vic’s, vicslasvegas.com

TIP 10:30 p.m., Hakkasan Nightclub, taogroup.com

MARIAH

(Courtesy/Denise Truscello)

SUPERGUIDE

SATURDAY JUL 27

AVENTURA

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

IDINA MENZEL

7:30 p.m., Reynolds Hall, the smithcenter.com

DON FELDER

8 p.m., Westgate International Theater, ticketmaster. com

MENUDO

With Peja, Trey Makai, David Lee, Ari Mediratta, 2 p.m., Fremont Country Club, seetickets.us

FRANCIA

With Radical West, Makeda, King Fun, 8 p.m., the Space, the spacelv.com

FEMMES OF ROCK

6 & 8:30 p.m., Myron’s, thesmith center.com

GREEN JELLY

With The Convalescence, Fart Bubble, Decaying Tigers, 7 p.m., Sinwave, dice.fm

ANJELAH JOHNSON-REYES

8 p.m., Venetian Theatre, ticket master.com

HIDEAWAY POOL

SUMMER BASH

10 a.m., Topgolf, topgolf.com

FISHER

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

NAI PALM

ALAN WALKER

11:30 a.m., LIV Beach, livnight club.com

ILLENIUM

Noon, Ayu Dayclub, zoukgrouplv. com

MARSHMELLO

Noon, Encore Beach Club, wynnsocial.com

LOUIS THE CHILD

10:30 p.m., Zouk Nightclub, zouk grouplv.com

TREY SONGZ

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

RÜFÜS DU SOL

With Maxi Meraki, 10 p.m., XS Nightclub, wynnsocial. com

ZEDD 10:30 p.m., Omnia Nightclub, taogroup.com

AUSTIN MILLZ 10:30 p.m., Encore Beach Club, wynnsocial.com

Naomi “Nai Palm” Saalfield is an Australian-born singer, songwriter and guitarist best known for her work within the indie jazz quartet Hiatus Kaiyote. Debuting in 2011, the band’s psychedelic lounge sound with soulful vocals and jazz compositions gained recognition from musical giants like Erykah Badu and Questlove. Later, the three-time Grammy nominated band’s music was sampled by Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Anderson .Paak and more. And while the group is undoubtedly significant as a whole, Nai Palm’s voice has the ability to stand on its own, oozing with neo-soul influences that fit within her fluctuating tones. Thanks to We The Beat and Swan Dive, we’ll get to experience this transcendent performance in person. 7 p.m., $30+, Swan Dive, swandivelv. com. –Gabriela Rodriguez

GARY OWEN 8 p.m., Pearl Concert Theater, ticketmaster.com.

VEGAS KNIGHT HAWKS VS. ARIZONA RATTLERS

7 p.m., Lee’s Family Forum, axs.com

SUNDAY JUL 28 MONDAY JUL 29

LIL JON

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

DOMBRESKY

11:30 a.m., LIV Beach, livnightclub. com

GRYFFIN

With Deux Twins, 11 a.m., Encore Beach Club, wynn social.com

TWO FRIENDS

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

JIMMI ELLIS

7 p.m., Composers Room, thecomposers room.com

HAUNTED BRUNCH SHOW

Everybody knows about Gospel Brunch at the House of Blues at Mandalay Bay. Now it’s time for a di erent, spookier experience—the new Haunted Brunch Show combines tasty eats and drinks with a full-on, immersive variety show featuring iconic characters from favorite horror movies. HOB borrows standup Hailey Brooks from Jimmy Kimmel’s Comedy Club to serve as host, and horrifyingly fun specialty cocktails like the Witches Brew or the Green Goblin round out the experience. Only in Vegas can you enjoy a few jump-scares while digging into some biscuits and gravy. 10 a.m., $59-$74, House of Blues, ticketmaster.com. –Brock Radke

THE PALMS 7 p.m., Beverly Theater, thebeverlytheater. com.

7 DEADLY SINS

7 p.m., the Space, thespacelv.com

JUSTIN CARDER TRIO 9 p.m., Easy’s Cocktail Lounge, easysvegas.com

STEPHANIE CALVERT & CHRIS MARION 6 p.m., Composers Room, the composersroom. com

JIMMY SHUBERT

With Johnny Pizzi, thru 8/4, 8 p.m., LA Comedy Club, bestvegascomedy. com

DJ E-ROCK 10:30 p.m., Jewel Nightclub, taogroup.com

DO IT ALL

SUPERGUIDE

TUESDAY JUL 30

CITIZEN COPE

How to explain the longevity of Citizen Cope, aka Memphis-born singer and songwriter Clarence Greenwood?

First o , anyone who got their ears on his 2002 eponymous debut—it was CDs back then, in case you were wondering— couldn’t resist becoming a lockdown fan. His soulful but genre-hopping sound is nothing if not timeless, e ortlessly incorporating old-school hints of blues and soul into a more contemporary rock, hip-hop and pop spectrum. His songs have been a constant grab for movie and TV show soundtracks, and Cope has soldiered on through the years as an independent artist, going deeper with his writing on 2021’s The Pull of Niagara Falls and last year’s The Victory March. Somehow your first listen will feel familiar, no matter if it’s new music or your first exploration of Citizen Cope. 6:30 p.m., $47-$69, Brooklyn Bowl, ticketmaster.com. –Brock Radke

MRS. DOUBTFIRE: THE NEW MUSICAL COMEDY

7:30 p.m., & 7/31, Reynolds Hall, thesmithcenter. com

LAS VEGAS AVIATORS VS. ALBUQUERQUE ISOTOPES Thru 8/4, 7 p.m., Las Vegas Ballpark, ticketmaster.com

DJ Q

With FX Logik, 10 p.m., Discopussy, posh.vip

MIKEY FRANCIS 10:30 p.m., Omnia Nightclub, taogroup.com

THE GET DOWN BY HYBRIDS CREW 8 p.m., the Wall at Area15, area15. com

VALLEYHEART & MARBLE With Sani Bronco, Elevated Undergrounds, 8 p.m., the Gri n, dice.fm

FRANKIE MORENO

6:30 p.m., & 8/1, South Point Showroom, ticketmaster. com

MAU P

10 p.m., Encore Beach Club, wynnsocial.com

CLASSMATIC 10:30 p.m., Marquee Nightclub, taogroup.com

A HARMONIOUS FUTURE

BY BROCK RADKE

It was apparent the Las Vegas Philharmonic would be moving in a new direction after longtime music director and conductor Donato Cabrera stepped down, wrapping up a terrific tenure at the artistic institution earlier this year. Turns out the Phil is really shaking things up, looking at the future with fresh eyes heading into its 26th season this fall.

Prior to the unveiling of an eclectic 2024-2025 season at the Smith Center last month (check it out and get tickets now at lvphil.org), the Philharmonic announced Leonard Slatkin will serve as music consultant.

ate of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, Slatkin has served in music director positions for some 45 years and “I don’t want to do that anymore,” he tells the Weekly. He’d worked with current orchestra executive director Alice Sauro in the past, and when she contacted him, they discovered a new opportunity—which Slatkin is excited about and happy to explain.

Why did this position in Las Vegas make sense to you?

Las Vegas is one of the most interesting places culturally in the country. When [Sauro] approached me about having a relationship with the orchestra of some kind … I thought it interesting enough to consider some new ideas as it searches New Philharmonic music consultant Leonard Slatkin

An acclaimed conductor and author, Music Director Laureate of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and Conductor Laure-

for a new artistic head. I’m not so sure orchestras in today’s world need what we call a music director. What does one do? They audition new members, try to shape some sort of personality, they reach into the community and get involved in fundraising and all these things. These days, orchestras are a little more controlled over their own future. The logical next step perhaps could be to follow the European model and have a principal conductor. So I guess my job is to try to explore what it is the Las Vegas Philharmonic can mean for its community. We have the opportunity to do something different, to establish the framework for what the orchestra wants to be, where it wants to go, and find the appropriate leaders that fit the model—not the other way around.

So you’ll be helping to guide that direction, but you’ll be conducting as well, beginning November 9 with Gershwin’s “An American in Paris,” and the “Mysterious Mountain” Symphony of Hovhaness.

I’ll conduct this season and the season after, I’ll be in close touch with the board and administration, we’ll be coming in with some really new and fresh ideas, and I think it will go well for the people who live in Las Vegas. Maybe if I do it right, we can put some things up that could be attractive for people [visiting Las Vegas]. We want to reach out to a broader contingency of people than before.

You mentioned the culture, and you’ve visited frequently since you were very young, with your parents being from

California. Are there other resources or cultural aspects here to which you’d like to connect?

If you go to Penn & Teller and get there 45 minutes before the show, there’s Penn, playing bass with his pianist, and it’s really interesting music. And Teller, in his autobiography, mentions his favorite composer is the British composer William Walton. If that’s your favorite, you know something about music. Reaching into the existing entertainment community and finding people who have the background and some interest in the goings-on of what the orchestra might be could be very valuable. They could be spokespersons, in a way. We have Terry Fator in a show coming up this season. There are many other areas to explore.

The new season starts October 5 with The Beatles 60th Anniversary Concert and finishes next summer with that show with Fator. It’s quite diverse along the way.

People are going to find, I think, in each program, just a few things that are not familiar but are intriguing and balanced. This orchestra is really good and the public needs to respect what they are doing, trying so hard to make Las Vegas part of an expanded view of the cultural landscape. I love Vegas, it’s a close association for me, a little full-circle since I’ve been involved since I was 6 or 7 years old, and I’m delighted to have this association some 75 years later.

Leonard Slatkin

(Courtesy/ Cindy McTee)

BY GEOFF CARTER

The battle for Red Rock Canyon is lost. The national conservation area is still there, still breathtaking, still red—but it’s increasingly hemmed in by encroaching urban sprawl.

It’s tempting to pin the blame on developer Jim Rhodes—who, owing to a protracted legal battle and some unforced errors by the Clark County Commission, now has the go-ahead to build 3,500 homes on the site of a former gypsum mine near Blue Diamond, which is just under nine miles away from Red Rock’s visitor center. But the melancholy truth is that we lost Red Rock several years ago, when nearby Bonnie Springs Ranch—seven miles down the road—was leveled to make way for a luxury gated housing development.

No, that’s not right. We lost Red Rock in the early 2000s, when the I-215 Beltway was paved just six miles away from the scenic loop. No, no, wait—we lost Red Rock in the late 1990s, when the runaway growth of the Las Vegas Valley crept so close to Red Rock that a beltway connector became not only desirable, but necessary.

In any case, that spectacular natural beauty is now just another address on State Route 159. Standing among those ancient sandstone peaks and ravines by day, you can hear the tra c whizzing between Summerlin and Blue Diamond Road. At night, the canyon’s once-spectacular blanket of stars is diminished by the pervasive glare of streetlights re ecting o city pavement.

Red Rock Canyon is a good metaphor for Valley sprawl, but it’s far from the only one. The increased strain on our water supply has largely spelled the end of residential lawns and decorative grass. More asphalt and concrete covering the desert oor means intemperately hotter summers and worsening ash oods. Longtime residents used to brag that they could drive the length of the Valley in 20 minutes; today, it takes an hour or more due to increased tra c and the sheer size of our city grid.

work, driving 30 miles each way on an I-15 jam-packed with locals and tourists, to a hospitality job that barely covers the essentials.

Sarcasm aside, the answer isn’t out there in untouched desert. It’s within our existing city footprint. It’s in our empty lots, in our foundering strip malls and shopping centers, and especially in our too-large parking lots.

According to a study by 501(c)(3) advocacy group Parking Reform Network, some 33% of Downtown Las Vegas is o -street surface parking. Again: Nearly one-third of our city core is asphalt parking lots. We need to take a critical and pragmatic view of the Vegas we’ve made so far, tear down its wasteful parts and rebuild them with multilevel housing, walkable streets and transportation options that get us out of our cars.

“We must have an e ective urban growth boundary. We cannot just simply keep increasing, sprawling more and more into the vulnerable ecosystem of the Mojave Desert, and keep increasing the footprint of the city,” says Ste en Lehmann, professor and former executive director of UNLV’s School of Architecture, and an internationally recognized authority on the kind sustainable urban development Vegas needs. “How big do you want Las Vegas to be? Now you have 20 miles east and west and 30 miles north and south, from North Las Vegas down to Henderson. From one end to the other, you have a huge, huge footprint, and a lot of greenhouse gas emissions come with that. How much bigger do you want to grow?

CITY

Las Vegas has become unwieldy, broiling, borderline impassable. New residents continue to pour in, further straining resources and exacerbating a housing shortfall that, according to recent gures from the Washington D.C.based nonpro t National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC), has risen upward of 78,000 a ordable rental units.

And the state-level plan to solve these problems seems to be to make the city even bigger: On March 18 of this year, Governor Joe Lombardo sent a letter to President Biden formally requesting the re-allocation of Nevada’s federally controlled land for private development. “The lack of attainable workforce housing is taking a toll on Nevadans’ quality of life, hurting our ability to expand our workforce,” he wrote. “[We] need to access the land that is within [our] borders.”

So—let’s do it, right? Keep building south toward Jean and the state line; keep building north toward, I guess, Reno. Acres of single-family homes, strip malls and the occasional park or school for variety. And the workforce living in those homes can commute to

“I’ve been discussing this with the planning people at Clark County, and they say, ‘No, we have a growth boundary.’ But it’s not e ective. The growth boundary is a joke; it’s ridiculous. It’s so large, and so far, away, that we can keep growing, the way we’re doing right now, for another 100 years ... And when you drive around, you nd a lot of inner-city parcels sitting there empty, and you wonder, why has nobody built on it? … Why don’t we rst densify and build on all those empty, vacant lots inside the city?”

If this metro is to survive its growing pains, our piecemeal town must become a more realistic, more compact city. We’ll do that not just by accessing the land within our borders, but by using the land that’s already within our built footprint. The key is urban in ll.

A satellite view of Las Vegas (Google Earth/Photo Illustration)

FIRST, ABOUT THAT HOUSING SHORTAGE

“Affordable housing” may not be what you think it is. For a Valley rental property to qualify as “affordable” within someone’s individual means, it needs to cost no more than roughly 30% of your take-home pay, says Aaron Sheets, CEO of HopeLink of Southern Nevada, a resource center dedicated to lifting Valley families out of poverty.

“An average two-bedroom is well over $2,000 a month now. That means you may have to gross over $6,000 [monthly]. We don’t have a lot of those jobs in this town,” he says. “The [National Low Income] Housing Coalition did a study showing what you need to afford a studio, a one, a two, a three or a four-bedroom … and to get a four-bedroom rental for a family, you need to make $98,000 [annually]. Then they show the jobs that we have available, up to a senior engineer position at a

casino: $80,000 a year. They’re not matching up. That’s a big, systemic problem.”

It’s a safe bet that a good number of people reading these words fall short of the one-third income window. According to that NLIHC study, only 20% of Nevada’s renter households fall below the 30%-of-income threshold. And while it’s easy to assume that things are the same all over the U.S., the NLIHC further observes that only 16 out of 50 states require an hourly wage above $30 to afford a two-bedroom rental. Nevada is one, as is California, Arizona and Oregon. But Utah, New Mexico, Texas and more than two dozen other states need only a $20-$30 hourly wage for that same apartment. (I count only six states under $20.)

“The pressures on budget, the increase in rents, the increases in basic needs, goods, food and utilities … everything has gone up,” Sheets says. “Incomes have not kept pace, especially when you talk about our seniors and our fixed-income folks; they’re the ones that we think are particularly at risk. We’re trying to devise programming that can pay that gap—the difference between [how much] the rent has gone up and their income hasn’t gone up— until we have a better solution, or until maybe some affordable hous-

ing actually gets built.”

A quick side note: Our Valley’s rising population, insufficient housing inventory and idiosyncratic, hospitality-dominated job market aren’t the only factors driving rental prices so far ahead of wages and inflation. Private equity firms are gobbling up Valley residential properties at a brisk rate. For example, Dallas-based firm Invitation Homes bought up 264 Clark County rental properties only last summer. In a market dominated by a steadily dwindling number of landlords, renters can only lose ground.

The good news is that there are good people working on the problem. Organizations like HopeLink and the nonprofit Nevada Housing Coalition are fighting to bridge the divide between housing stability and instability. The NHC is working the problem through advocacy, educating and collaborating with community stakeholders, and making policy recommendations at the state level. And the NHC’s executive director, Maurice Page, says that while Las Vegas’ housing situation is bad, it’s far from hopeless.

“We’re a long way off, but we have made some headway—most notably with the Home Means Nevada Initiative, where the monies from [2021’s American Rescue Plan Act]

came into the state, which was about $500 million. That money went towards the development of about 3,000 affordable housing units over the last couple of years,” Page says. “We have also been able to create Assembly Bill 310, the Nevada Supportive Housing Development Fund, which is a one-time fund of $32.2 million which will go towards new [housing] developments and providing supportive services and wraparound services to individuals severely burdened by the housing crisis.”

Given all this, it’s perfectly natural for Nevada to petition the federal government for more land to build on. It’s a rational expectation, at least on paper: More land means we can build more housing, and more housing means lower prices. For the moment, we’ll put aside our concerns about another, Valley-filling building spree—including, but not limited to, gridlock, pollution, our dwindling water supply and our virtually nonexistent mass rapid transit network. Instead, we’ll circle back to the question we started with: Why wait for a federal horse-trade when there are dead strip malls, defunct motels and ocean-size parking lots ready for residential re-use?

“What I’m finding is that it’s not as easy as ‘there’s an old hotel over there, why can’t we repurpose it?’,” Sheets says. “Most of those places are owned by private citizens, not by a jurisdiction or something that

A vehicle heads eastbound on State Route 160 near the intersection of State Route 159 with the CertainTeed gypsum plant is in the background in 2021. A new housing development is slated for the area. (Steve Marcus/Staff)

could greenlight a project like that. Sometimes they’re out of state, and they’re leaving it empty for a reason. Or the property isn’t zoned for it. Or the neighbors might not want it, you know, the NIMBY ["not in my backyard"] thing. Our best and the brightest are working on it, but it is quite a process. The good thing is that people aren’t in denial that there’s a problem now, so they’re trying.”

“Typically, [rezoning is] fairly easy, provided that the uses that are going in are compatible,” says Marco Velotta, chief sustainability officer for the City of Las Vegas and a project planning manager helping to implement the city’s 2050 master plan (which is online at tinyurl. com/2unj8tk4, if you’re curious.)

“You’re not putting in a rendering plant where a convenience store used to be, right? That would not be compatible. The Planning Commission and City Council would probably say no to that. But if you’re talking about ground floor retail plus residential above it, then, yeah, that would be something that would be fairly easy to do.”

“It comes down to three things: land, labor and lumber,” Page says.

Meaning: Getting that federal land is important, but so is increasing the labor force that will build that housing, and sourcing the materials needed for construction, which are going up in price. “You have to look at zoning, you have to look at development spaces, and where those opportunities will lay going forward.

“And we have to look at our infrastructure, as well,” Page adds. “Transportation, education, health care, things of that nature. It’s not just a matter of us just building up houses, but it’s also about the infrastructure all the way around.”

And if that infrastructure already exists because you’re building within an existing city footprint, hey, bonus. The good thing about Vegas’ infrastructure is that it, too, can be expanded and re-imagined. The road work that’s consumed Vegas’ city core for several years may be disruptive and infuriating, but it’s resulting in new underground utilities, bus and bike lanes, wider sidewalks … the exact stuff you need to have in place when a developer decides to build within a revitalized neighborhood, or on a maintenance yard formerly used for refueling freight trains.

A REAL-LIFE URBAN INFILL SUCCESS STORY

Several years back, a family declared their intentions to relocate to Las Vegas from the Bay Area. They didn’t have housing to move into, so Clark County government officials, Southern Nevada private enterprise and other local stakeholders vaulted into action—finding them a prime piece of infill land near the resort corridor, securing speedy financing for them through local taxes, incentivizing contractors to build quickly, and using federal monies to improve the infrastructure surrounding the site, a process that continues to this day.

And just like that, the Raiders moved in, bringing a bunch of their Oakland friends. They seem happy enough, though considering what we paid, it’d be nice if they won more often.

Fortunately, there are even better examples of urban infill within the City of Las Vegas. “There are projects that are coming in the Arts District, in Symphony Park and in Fremont East, where really underutilized land [now] has a higher and better use,” says Velotta.

Symphony Park is a prime example, he says. As recently as the late 1990s, the neighborhood was a 61acre brownfield contaminated with petroleum, solvents and assorted metals. Today, it’s home to the Smith Center, the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, World Market Center and a steadily growing number of upscale apartments and townhomes. Soon, a standalone

Construction of the Showboat Park Apartments along Fremont Street, between Oakey Boulevard and Atlantic Street, in 2020.

(Steve Marcus/Staff)

art museum will join the mix.

“Symphony Park could be a phenomenal sort of live-work-play neighborhood in an urban core that Las Vegas really doesn’t have,” said Patrick Brennan of Aspen Heights Partners, the developer who built Symphony Park’s Parc Haven apartments, in a 2022 interview with the Weekly. “We’re such a suburban community at this point. But to have a truly walkable neighborhood and an urban core five minutes from the Strip, but outside of the Strip, would be a wonderful thing.”

More housing is springing up in the city core even now. The land once occupied by the Showboat Hotel and Casino on Boulder Highway is now home to a 344-unit apartment complex, Showboat Park. Southern Land Company, the developer of Symphony Park’s Auric apartments, is currently building a 337-unit midrise on a long-vacant Arts District plot. Midrise housing with groundfloor retail is appearing in Chinatown, in Paradise, around UNLV— and even in predominately suburban Summerlin and Henderson.

“There’s a lot of opportunity sites throughout the community,” Velotta says, noting that a whopping 3,000 sites within the City of Las Vegas have been identified for redevelopment over the next 30 years. And circling back to the statistic I dropped a while back, it’s not at all surprising

when he suggests that many of those sites used to have cars parked on them. Considering that we’re on the verge of having electric cars sophisticated enough to park themselves with mathematical precision after dropping us at the front door of Costco, it’s probable that even more parking lots will become obsolete in the next three decades.

“Parking lots themselves are a tremendous waste of space,” Velotta says. “And you know, because we’re such a ‘young city’ that grew up in the auto age and didn’t really have a traditional streetcar system or railbased transit system … there’s more than enough asphalt to go around.”

THE FUTURE IS COMPACT

UNLV’s Lehmann doesn’t often use the word “density” in describing walkable cities. He prefers the word “compactness,” and now, so do I. “Density is a much-charged topic. If you say the D word, everybody jumps up and says, ‘No! I’m against it,’” Lehmann says, chuckling. “‘Com-

pactness’ sounds more reasonable to people.”

He’s had ample opportunity to think about it. Lehmann has written 24 books about sustainable urbanization. His latest, Designing for the Desert—subtitled Stories of Co-existence, Building and Living in an Extreme Climate—will come out in six months or so, and Lehmann seems moderately amazed at what he’s discovered in the writing of it.

“There is a real knowledge gap,” he says. “Even architects don’t know much about how to design for the desert, and we are here in the middle of the Mojave. … [Designing for the Desert] is picking up on all

those things that we have known for millennia—not centuries, but millennia. People have always lived at the edge of the desert, even in the desert; the Bedouins did so, and they were very resourceful, very resilient, and they knew how to survive with very little water in extreme heat. We lost that; we forgot that.”

Lehmann’s ideas for the Las Vegas Valley cover a lot of ground— perhaps not as much ground as our metro’s gargantuan footprint, but enough that I need to summarize, rather than unpack them. He stresses the need for continuous shade on our streets to mollify the heat island effect that’s making our

summer days even more dangerous. He quotes the late architect Antoine Predock, who designed the now-shuttered Las Vegas Central Library and children's museum: “If you want to build in the desert, you need three things: shade, shade and shade.”

In Lehmann’s view, paving over the Valley’s permeable soil and favoring shade-poor, water-guzzling palms over thicker native greenery is a recipe for disaster. He also suggests that we try going up one story. Maybe even a few stories, if we’re feeling it.

becoming too expensive to build, too complicated”), employ modular construction techniques that allow for speed and versatility while reducing waste (and coincidentally, modular parts fabricated off-site helps solve the “lumber” portion of Maurice Page’s three-part equation), create many, many more shaded walkable spaces (“Medical research shows that walking is extremely good for your brain”), and take full advantage of our Valley’s relentless sun (see sidebar, page 24).

Implementing these changes, he says, can “occupy us for five to 10 years. And then we do a pulse check. Are we going the right way? Are we becoming more sustainable?”

“We should not build one-story buildings; it’s just a total waste of land,” he says. “And I’m not talking about building 30-story towers; that’s nonsense, that’s not sustainable. But if we increase from one story to two stories, or to three—you know, that’s not outrageously high. If you go to LA, it’s very common. Los Angeles has made space in its building code for densification of the granny flat in their backyard, or building housing on top of garages, parking structures and so on.”

Lehmann also suggests we streamline our building codes (“This huge, inflated bureaucracy … it’s just

Renderings of the upcoming Arts District residential and business development by Southern Land Company.

(Courtesy/ Southern Land Company, KTGY)

In the spirit of Lehmann’s “compactness,” I’d like to substitute “sanity” for “sustainability” in imagining the future of this Valley. Imagine the sanity gained by moving a third of Vegas’ commuters onto light rail or bus rapid transit, clearing those cars off our roads. Imagine the sanity and peace of mind in knowing that everyone in the Valley who needs a place to live can have one, and enough money left over from paying rent and bills to support local businesses. Imagine shopping, dining or having fun underneath a canopy of drought-resistant Mesquite, Palo Verde or Desert Willow trees that shave degrees off our insane summertime temperatures.

That sanity is something we can take for ourselves, but not if we build it so far away from us that it may as well not exist at all. Our young city is in a unique position right now: Relative to other, older metros around the U.S., we have ample room in our city core to build, and lots of untouched nature around us. We have it in our power to make the best of both.

“They call this urbanized stretch from LA all the way down to San Diego ‘the 100-mile city,’ because there used to be a landscape break between them, but that’s gone. It’s all built up,” Lehmann says. “I don’t think we want that. I think we really could really do the much better solution—find our own way, learn from other cities, avoid their mistakes and create a next-generation model. The desert city of the future.”

LENDING LAS VEGAS’ SURFACE AREA TO MORE SOLAR POWER

 For 300 days of the year, the sun is shining down on the Mojave Desert. Our climate here in Southern Nevada makes us the ideal place to harness the sun’s power through solar energy projects. And while developers have seized that opportunity with big solar plants out in the desert (we counted at least 20 operating in Southern Nevada, with many more on the way), there’s still room for residential and commercial solar power in our urban environment.

If you need a shining example, look no further than the Springs Preserve’s covered parking lot. The shade structure consists of 2,200 solar panels, which provide 700,000 kilowatt hours annually–enough to power about 50 homes for a year, according to Bronson Mack, spokesman for the Las Vegas Valley Water District.

“Solar does require some amount of land to be able to accommodate. But the other thing we have within our urban environment here that has a large footprint are our parking lots,” Mack says. “And parking lots are primarily asphalt, which means they are absorbing heat during the day and then radiating heat during the overnight hours.”

The urban heat island effect is when cities experience higher temperatures than their surrounding areas due to having more heat-absorbing surfaces and less vegetation. And with Las Vegas being the second-fastest warming city in the country, solutions for this phenomenon will be needed if we want our city to remain habitable.

“We help to reduce the effect by combining the large footprint for

Solar panels provide covered parking at the Springs Preserve. (Courtesy/Keith Mizuno, Springs Preserve)

IN THE NEWS

Neon Museum moving

The Neon Museum announced it will be relocating to the Las Vegas Arts District and expanding “with the intention to nearly triple the size of its current location.”

According to a news release, the museum is looking at two sites, with one on the ninth and 10th floors of a proposed parking garage.

(Steve Marcus/Staff)

“I will do everything in my power to unite the Democratic Party, and unite our nation, to defeat Donald Trump and his extreme Project 2025 agenda. We have 107 days until Election Day. Together, we will fight. And together, we will win.”

–partial statement from Vice President Kamala Harris on the day Biden announced his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race

Hard Rock donating Mirage artifacts to Neon Museum

The Mirage may have closed for good, but pieces of it will live on at the Neon Museum, Hard Rock International announced.

As the storied property transforms into the Hard Rock Hotel, the company is partnering with general contractor The PENTA Building Group and its nonprofit arm The PENTA CARES Foundation to preserve artifacts.

“This iconic property that transformed the Las Vegas Strip can be remembered forever and we appreciate [the Neon Museum] preserving one of our city’s greatest treasures,” said Joe Lupo, president of the Mirage.

The Neon Museum will receive the 17-foot-tall sculpture depicting Siegfried & Roy, circa 1993. The museum also will receive the Mirage’s 30-foot-tall hotel arch sign and a 27-foot-long neon sign that sat in the volcano lagoon.

Neon Museum officials first met with Hard Rock leadership in July 2023 to discuss preservation of the artifacts.

“Future generations will be able to learn about ‘the oasis in the desert’ and how it changed hospitality design in Las Vegas and the world,” said Aaron Berger, executive director of the Neon Museum. –Staff

CCSD board candidates draw cheers at RNC

When a video played a soundbite calling members of the conservative activist group Moms for Liberty domestic terrorists, several audience members in the Bradley Symphony Theater broke out into scattered cheers.

The cheers weren’t from detractors of the over 130,000-member organization— they came from members gathered at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

“Radical Marxists are trying to steal our children’s future—we will not let them do that,” Moms for Liberty co-founder Tiffany Justice said. “So we are going to fight like hell with a smile on our faces, because our children are watching us and it is a privilege to fight for this country.”

Moms for Liberty is a quickly growing conservative group composed mostly of mothers that is receiving heavy criticism from detractors for

what they see as the extreme views the group espouses.

The group, which started in Florida during the COVID-19 pandemic, has been a major supporter of mass book bans and anti-LGBTQ advocacy.

For supporters, teaching about LGBTQ topics and allowing students to choose their pronouns are part of a largescale “grooming” being pushed by opponents.

Las Vegas could be the next landing for the “joyful warriors”—two of the candidates for the Clark County School District School Board in the November runoff are registered members of Clark County’s chapter. The school board has seven total seats.

Lorena Biasotti, vice chair of the Clark County chapter and a school board candidate, said the divisiveness of Moms for Liberty’s presence and the larger parental rights conversation

was unwarranted.

“Concern for kids is a common ground—it’s a nonpartisan issue,” said Biasotti, who attended the Republican convention.

Biasotti credits Moms for Liberty for providing both structure for her as she organizes the movement here and a bigger platform. That momentum slowed in June, as she gained just shy of 20% of the vote in the District E school board race, less than 2% behind the front-runner. The race will go to a runoff in November.

In CCSD District B, her fellow Moms for Liberty member Lydia Dominguez took a five-point lead over the runner-up in the primary. A third organization member, Tim Underwood, is also running a competitive race for the Nevada State Board of Education.

–Ayden Runnels

The Westgate and Wiseguys Comedy have announced the launch of Las Vegas’ third Wiseguys location at the Westgate Cabaret Theater. “We’re excited to join the Westgate family and bring stand-up comedy to such an outstanding, historic Las Vegas icon,” said Keith Stubbs, the creator of Wiseguys.

Showtimes will be Fridays and Saturdays at 9 p.m. starting September 20. Greg Hahn will headline opening weekend. Other upcoming headliners include Dwayne Perkins, Seth Tippetts, Ryan Erwin and Heath Harrison. Tickets are on sale now at westgatelasvegas.com –Staff

SPORTS A’s tell Las Vegas officials club plans to leave $30M in public money on the table

Oakland Athletics executive Sandy Dean told the Las Vegas Stadium Authority on July 18 that the club does not expect to spend the entire $380 million in public money allocated to build a new stadium in Las Vegas.

Dean said the A’s plan to spend $350 million of those funds, leaving $30 million on the table. He also told the authority that the club plans to finance $300 million of the stadium cost, but no lenders have been secured.

“We’ve had strong interest from a number of companies that want to participate in that portion of the project,” Dean said.

The other $800 million needed to build the $1.5 billion stadium would come from private equity.

A 30-year non-relocation agreement also was on the agenda. A’s officials have asked for up to seven games over two years that otherwise would be played in Las Vegas to possibly be played internationally or at special U.S. sites such as the Field of Dreams in Iowa. No more than four of those games in a year would be played outside Las Vegas.

The A’s hope to open the 33,000-seat ballpark for the 2028 season.

This is the A’s final season in Oakland. The team agreed to play the following three seasons, with an option for a fourth, in a Triple-A stadium in West Sacramento, California. The A’s will share that facility with the River Cats, the San Francisco Giants’ Triple-A club. –Associated Press

Eight new releases from Vegas’ homegrown music scene BY

GABRIELA RODRIGUEZ

LOCAL SPIN

POST NC Box Combo, No Slaw, Extra Sauce

Nut-core. We’ll let you figure out your own definition for that one, but musically, it’s what Post NC self identifies its sound as. It’s an unpredictable cocktail that encompasses improv, jazz, math rock and lo-fi. The quartet consists of Leo Berenguel on keys, Daniel Duran on drums, guitarist Samuel Ramierez, and an unidentified fourth member referred to as “HIM,” who serves as a frog impersonator during their live performances. Call it whatever you guys want—just give us more.

PEACEFUL RETREAT

“Voyager 1”

Post-rock outfit Peaceful Retreat blasts off its latest single “Voyager 1,” and it’s the ultimate introspection music. Imagine locking into a loop of thought, zoning out but delving deep. This track breeds the same contemplative state thanks to its lengthy instrumental moments, rhythmic distortions and sound layering. The music video, shot and edited by local filmmaker Shahab Zargari, is set in 1977 and sepia-toned, yet it ventures beyond our earthly bounds. As the long-haired band members jam on, their tone reflects the song’s cosmic essence.

SANI BRONCO

Sani Bronco

Just back from its East Coast summer tour, bedroom-born indie rock project Sani Bronco dropped a self-titled debut that’s pure, unfiltered spirit. No forced themes here—just an eclectic mix of tracks that are meant to be a listening journey, visualized by founder David Medina’s illustrations on the cover. The band’s self-coined “west coast adobe rock” concept is straightforward, yet fully realized. The lyrics are chantable, the hooks irresistible and the surprises enthralling.

THOUSAND WAYZ 2 DIE

Sin City

Las Vegas hardcore just doesn’t quit. On Thousand Wayz 2 Die’s July EP Sin City, the band reps its city by going louder and faster. Featuring local groups Wristmeetrazor, Khasm and Anguish Cry, the seven-track project is abrasive (just as hardcore punk should be) and speeds through with an evil villainy, delivering an intensity that reflects the gritty spirit of its hometown.

LOCAL SPIN

CHEIFDVB AND WAVE

MMLZ, B.ROSE AND MORE

You Deserve

Better 2

Released in June, You Deserve Better 2 is a local collaboration featuring 10 tracks of head-nodding beats and steady flows, reminiscent of ‘90s boom rap with its vintage-style drum hits and funky swings. ChiefDVB and Wave MMLZ anchor the project, while vocal additions from B.Rose on “Lavender Heightz” and Jerico Levi on “Angelz In Anaheim’’ go beyond. Richie Rizo’s cover art complements this North Vegas homage. This is independent hip-hop at its finest, so listen up.

SECOS

“Rendido a tus Pies”

TWIN CITIES

Shuteye

Here’s one for the real Southwest emos. Dropped in July, Twin Cities’ Shuteye EP feels like autumn and begs to be enjoyed on a late-night drive to nowhere. The instrumentation is seasoned. Guitars sound both melodic and progressive, percussion shimmers with precise chaos and the bass lines are grounding. Frontman Macario Gutierrez’s voice underscores woeful and bright moments in each song, especially on our repeat favorite, “Patience.”

Local rock en español takes a hopeless romantic turn on Secos’ single from May, “Rendido a tus Pies.” The alt-rock band’s song plays as a confessional to the universal feeling of unrequited love. It’s brought to life in an accompanying music video. As a young couple walks about a carnival, a young man unknowingly turns into a clown during the romantic pursuit while the band follows along in their own garish payaso costumes. Love makes us all fools, and this is the perfect soundtrack to clown to.

SAKURA

from Hell

Five minutes is all raw punk band Sakura needed to tell us what they’re about on its latest release. Demo from Hell is tagged as “evil duende rock” on its Bandcamp page. Considering that “duende” means “gnome” … yeah, that makes sense. The three tracks are heavy on d-beat influences and frantically display the band’s crust punk roots while developing their own complexities in songwriting. It’s fast, it’s fun and it shakes something alive within us.

LOCAL SPIN

Demo

ODDFELLOWS 150 Las Vegas Blvd. North #190, oddfellowslv.com Tuesday-Sunday, 8 p.m.-3 a.m.

(Courtesy/Stacy Tavares)

NIGHTLIFE

BY GABRIELA RODRIGUEZ

Since 2015, Oddfellows has offered a singular alternative nightlife experience at the base of the Ogden in Downtown Las Vegas, yet always felt like it was on the verge of becoming something more.

This April, it nally underwent that long-anticipated metamorphosis, transforming into a space that truly lives up to its self-proclaimed reputation as a “dance club for people who don’t like dance clubs.”

In a city where authenticity within the nightlife scene is a rare commodity, Oddfellows stands out. It’s a spot where you’ll likely nd an investment banker and a kink vampiress sharing the same dance oor, singing along to Rick Astley’s “Never Gonna Give You Up.” This isn’t just a bar—it’s an institution for the o eat. Smoky incense, sticky skin from dancing, nudging one’s way through tight corridors and crowds—it’s a sensory overload that’s both overwhelming and comforting once you’ve familiarized yourself with the lay of the land.

(Courtesy/Stacy Tavares)

Norman. And of course, there’s a divination nook for psychic readings.

The new programming shows the venue’s testament to staying relevant while honoring its roots. And with two separate dance spaces, there’s ample room to move, ow and experiment.

“Everything is very tribal here. … We’re just trying to innovate and nd the white space,” says Andrew Snow, Oddfellows’ director of marketing and events.

Today, there’s truly something for everyone. Fridays feature Club Classics, where guests can dance to hits from the ‘80s, ‘90s and ‘00s in the main room, with ‘70s and ‘80s in the back lounge. Saturdays bring a surge of new wave, indie sleaze and post-punk, maintaining the club’s eclectic and nostalgic charm.

Oddfellows has always been about its people, its atmosphere and its willingness to embrace the unconventional. According to owner Harvey Graham, much of the club’s success should be attributed to general manager and partner Tim Kam. Its culture had been developed through a humorous online personality, a solid sta , diverse themed nights and a rm stance on inclusion.

The renovations have only amplied these qualities, adding a fresh, occult-inspired aesthetic. Changes include a TV drone room designed by Joey Moon featuring a vintage box television shrine. With the help of interior designer Hayley Hunter, the front and back lounges were given a gothic revamp, adding a wooden front bartop hand-crafted by bartender and master carpenter James

Wednesdays are for Twirl, a weekly queer event celebrating inclusivity. Sundays introduced Nite Kids, a dynamic house music monthly. And the last Thursday of every month is dedicated to Odd Rave, a night for experimental electronic. Emo nights, Sonidero’s Latin parties and more will also be sprinkled into the mix.

“We were just synthesizing feedback and talking to folks in the community, younger folks, DJs, and the regulars to see if there are any gaps,” Snow says. “It’s a slight tweaking of existing programming because we don’t want to reinvent the wheel.”

A good nightlife spot evaluates what works in its space, and here, mostly everything does. Is this a dive? Is this a club? Is this someone’s second home? Oddfellows has proven to be all of that and then some, depending on the person and the day. We’re not here to tell you what it should mean to you. We’d rather encourage you to nd out for yourself.

(Photographs Courtesy)

The All-New SAHARA

BAZAAR MEAT

A groundbreaking culinary experience, Bazaar Meat by José Andrés is the James Beard awardwinning chef’s wild and wonderful celebration of the carnivorous.

BALLA

ITALIAN SOUL

From James Beard Award recipient Chef Shawn McClain, Balla offers aperitivos, handmade pastas, plus fresh seasonal vegetables, salads, and fireroasted meats and fish.

CHICKIE’S

& PETE’S CRABHOUSE AND SPORTS BAR

Join the fun at ESPN’s #1 Sports Bar in North America. Enjoy 20 beers on tap, gameday bites including the famous Crabfries®, and a variety of premium spirits.

THE NOODLE DEN

Explore the flavors of Northern China. Indulge in hand-pulled noodles, savory dumplings, and classic Chinese dishes expertly crafted by master chefs in our open-view kitchen.

Wade Vandervort

Las Vegas Weekly

A Culinary

The all-new SAHARA Las Vegas is a boutique oasis featuring awardwinning restaurants by internationally acclaimed chefs, including José Andrés and Shawn McClain. Add warm and impeccable service, chic lounges, elegant décor, and a stunning new casino for a Vegas stay that’s truly exceptional.

Enjoy FREE Valet and Self-Parking saharalasvegas.com

(Wade Vandervort/Staff)

LA CASA DE JULIETTE MEXICAN COCINA

Opening July 31. 7585 Norman Rockwell Lane, 702-665-4949, lacasadejuliette. com. Daily, 5-10 p.m.

FOOD + DRINK

REIMAGINED COMFORTS

Centennial Hills gets a taste of innovation with La Casa de Juliette Mexican Cocina

BY GABRIELA RODRIGUEZ

What comes to mind when you think of a Mexican eatery? Is it free chips and salsa hitting the table as you peruse a bible-sized menu? Or a cool, salt-rimmed margarita glass meeting your lips? Maybe you envision papel picados hung up and adorned with multicolored strings of lights?

These are all common notions, but the owners of the beloved Sand Dollar Lounge are set on changing that standard with their newest venture, La Casa De Juliette Mexican Cocina. The restaurant is located in Centennial Hills, miles away from their centralized stomping grounds, and for good reason.

“We get inquiries all the time about different areas, whether it be Henderson, Summerlin or the Southwest … none of them felt like a place that really needed the added culture,” says co-owner Nathan Grates. “We saw that [the northwest area] needed love and thought that this was an underserved market when it came to great food and great hospitality.”

Executive chef Eduardo “Lalo” Saavedra,

a seasoned kitchen pro with two decades of experience at Charlie Palmer Steak, and culinary development group Honest Hospitality hopped on board to fully craft the team’s vision. Named after co-owner Anthony Jamison’s grandmother Julie Castillo, the new restaurant evokes a sense of familial warmth and tradition with elevated twists.

Visually, the interior design sets you in a Tulum-inspired space with basket lighting fixtures, dark wood details, terracotta-hued walls and hanging greenery galore.

“The bar is made to be like a shrine with gold and copper leaf all over,” Grates adds. “It’s kind of our place of worship—we love drinks and feel that it sets the energy for the rest of the room.”

While we’re talking drinks, co-owner Chase Gordon, who spearheaded the cocktail program at both Sand Dollar locations, has reimagined a number of classic regional Mexican concoctions for La Casa De Juliette. “We found a lot of really great agave spirits outside the realm of tequila and mezcal that we’re going to be introducing to people up here, things like raicilla,” Gordon says. Natural ingredients are the cornerstone of the cocktail offerings, with a large juicer ensuring all fruit extractions remain fresh throughout service.

The food menu is no less impressive. In the same fashion as Jamison’s grandma, the enchiladas are prepared in tray pans rather than individually rolled, each layer meticulously built with house-made sauces and different proteins and cheeses.

“Chef Lalo brings the details that are missed when you’re raised in America. He’s bringing the real Mexican ingredients,” says Jamison. “None of us have ever heard of some of the things Lalo pulled out of his bag of tricks.”

Set to open on July 31, La Casa De Juliette aims to shift the way people look at culinary options in the northwest corner of the Valley. “The menu is condensed to all winners—every dish, down to the rice and the beans has a lot of love and character,” says Grates.

FRESH FISH! WYNN CHANGES LAKESIDE INTO FIOLA MARE

Since the very first day we were able to enter the bold, bronze tower on the northern side of the Strip, Wynn Las Vegas has been serving seafood in a very different and delicious way. If you were lucky enough to dine at the original Bartolotta Ristorante di Mare, a celebration of coastal Italian cooking, you definitely remember that meal. And the restaurant opposite SW Steakhouse on the resort’s Lake of Dreams, Lakeside—opened in 2010—has always been an overlooked gem, trafficking in gigantic live lobster, rare Hawaiian fish and much more.

Now it’s time for a sea change. Lakeside closed this month and will get a visit from the restaurant renovation fairies (who are planning to maximize the views of the lake) as it becomes Fiola Mare, the Mediterranean seafood concept from Washington, D.C., headed by James Beard and Michelin-awarded chef Fabio Trabocchi.

When it opens in early 2025, guests will be able to order carefully sourced seafood from a cart offering multiple “daily catch” offerings alongside craft cocktails and a global wine program. For a little extra taste, the D.C. restaurant offers a special “Sunday catch” menu featuring wild hamachi crudo done Amalfi-style, spaghetti alle vongole and Canary Islands branzino with salsa verde.

“Since moving to the U.S. in 2000 from Le Marche, Italy, I’ve dreamt of having a restaurant in Las Vegas,” Trabocchi said in a statement. “I couldn’t be prouder than to partner with an iconic destination as Wynn Las Vegas, who is the perfect complement to our hospitality group.” –Brock Radke

(Wade Vandervort/Staff)

(Courtesy/ Felipe Cuevas)

U.S. ACES

A'ja Wilson (9) drives past Japan's Himawari Akaho (88) during a the gold medal game at the Summer Olympics in Saitama, Japan, on August 8, 2021. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)

Six Las Vegas Aces are off to Paris to compete in the Olympics

BY JACK WILLIAMS

Las Vegas Aces superstar A’ja Wilson developed a mild case of “senioritis,” in her words, over the last month of the WNBA season.

The USA women’s basketball team revealed its Olympic roster on June 24, with Wilson included and immediately regarded as the leading force in the Americans’ quest to bring home the gold medal from Paris. She’s been counting down the days until the start of the competition ever since, even with 10 WNBA regular-season contests and an All-Star Game in between.

“I just want to rest and go to Paris, but we can’t,” Wilson lamented shortly after the Olympic announcement.

The time has now arrived, with Wilson and her USA teammates set to begin their Olympic schedule on July 29 against Japan. Group-stage games against Belgium (August 1) and Germany (August 4) follow before the top eight teams move into a single-elimination bracket to crown a champion.

Wilson won’t be alone in representing the local back-to-back WNBA champions as part of the 5-on-5 women’s basketball tournament. All members of the Aces’ “big four” are on the USA roster with Chelsea Gray, Kelsey Plum and Jackie Young playing next to Wilson.

Aces reserve Megan Gustafson, meanwhile, is on Spain’s 5-on-5 team, while recent free-agent acquisition Tiffany Hayes will play for Azerbajian’s 3-on-3 squad. It’s the first time any Azerbaijani basketball team has ever competed in the Olympics.

With four Team USA players and six overall competitors, the Aces have more Olympians than any other team in the WNBA.

Wilson and Gray will play for Team USA for a second straight Olympiad,

while Plum and Young join the 5-on-5 team for the first time.

Outside of the Aces, Team USA has a loaded roster that includes New York Liberty standouts Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart and Phoenix Mercury mainstays Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner.

Betting odds imply Team USA has about a 98% chance to win the competition, with future odds as high as -5000 (risking $5,000 to win $100).

The women’s team has won the last seven gold medals dating back to 1996.

The only time it has not medaled at the Olympics was in 1980, when the United States boycotted the games in Moscow due to the Soviet Union’s invasion of Afghanistan.

“My masterpiece for Paris would have to be winning gold alongside my teammates,” Wilson told NBC Sports.

“We want to continue to live that legacy we’ve been doing for years and continue to lay down that foundation for the next teams to come.”

Wilson dominated in the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, starting all six games and averaging 16.5 points and 7.3 rebounds.

And she hasn’t shown any signs of complacency in the WNBA this season where she’s well on the way to winning a third career Most Valuable Player award. Wilson currently leads the WNBA in points (27), rebounds (12) and blocks (2.8) per game.

She could have an even bigger impact in the international games.

“I’m not gonna lose sight of how much of a blessing it is to be an Olympian,” Wilson said. “Just to say that I’m twotime (Olympian) that’s truly a blessing and I’m just grateful for the moment.”

Gray was named to the Team USA roster before even playing a game this season. The point guard missed the first 12 games of the season with a left leg

MY MASTERPIECE FOR PARIS WOULD HAVE TO BE WINNING GOLD ALONGSIDE MY TEAMMATES.”

- A’ja Wilson

injury sustained during last year’s WNBA Finals.

Since returning, she’s averaged 7.3 points and 4.7 assists. But her impact goes beyond statistics, as the Aces have elevated their game with her at the helm by going 10-2 with her on the court as opposed to 6-6 while she was out.

“I love being a part of greatness and wearing ‘USA’ across my chest,” Gray told USA Basketball. “I don’t take it lightly. I know a lot of people wish they were in my shoes and had the opportunity.”

Both Plum and Young played for USA’s 3-on-3 team during the last Olympics. The 3-on-3 team also ultimately prevailed, and now the pair can become the first players to ever win gold medals in both 3-on-3 and 5-on-5 basketball.

Plum paced the 3-on-3 team with a tournament-best 6.2 points per game and .705 one-point shooting percentage.

Making the 5-on-5 roster scratches off one of Plum’s biggest goals as she remembers missing out in Tokyo.

“I was sitting at home watching the All-Stars lose to Team USA last time,” Plum said. “I very vividly remember that moment.”

Young has seen her game take off in her sixth WNBA season, averaging 18.5 points and 5.6 assists per game. She threw down a career-high 34 points against the Mercury on June 13.

With Team USA’s 3-on-3 team, she averaged two points and 2.6 rebounds per game. Aces coach Becky Hammon said she would be making a brief trip over to Paris to watch her players compete in a handful of games. While she won’t be on the bench— Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve is the 5-on-5 team’s coach—Hammon left the Aces’ Olympians with some parting encouragement.

“Becky was telling us to enjoy these experiences because they don’t happen often,” Wilson said.

A LETTER FROM THE NEVADA CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION

The Nevada Contractors Association is dedicated in working to ensure that the voices of our contractors are heard, and the future of our industry is protected. We are committed to providing uni ed industry leadership and superior advocacy on initiatives that re ect our industry and are bene cial to the nearly 500 general contractors, subcontractors, suppliers and a liated rms that we represent. Together, there is nothing we can’t achieve.

The Contractor of the Year Awards are the industry’s highest and most coveted honors, showcasing general contractors, subcontractors and professionals, as well as the year’s most impressive and prestigious projects. The recipients have demonstrated the very best when it comes to building Southern Nevada and improving our quality of life. We’re proud to honor and celebrate those achievements of the construction industry’s nest.

Ann Barnett CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

2024 CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR

GENERAL CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR

LAS VEGAS PAVING CORPORATION

An original member of the Nevada Contractors Association, Las Vegas Paving Corporation has been constructing Southern Nevada’s roadways since 1958. With a workforce more than 1,000 employees strong, Las Vegas Paving boasts a robust portfolio of projects including mass grading for residential communities, aggregate crushing and material supply, and structural concrete construction.

The key to the corporation’s success is more than quality service—it’s the commitment to safety for employees and the public alike. By striving to exceed regulatory compliance requirements, Las Vegas Paving protects people, decreases the likelihood of unnecessary delays and increases cost e ectiveness. Recently, Las Vegas Paving received the Nevada Regional Common Ground Alliance with

the National Utility Contractors Association of Las Vegas’ Silver Shovel Award for achieving zero at-fault utility damages. Las Vegas Paving showcased its technical skills in 2023 while constructing the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix circuit. The timeline for the track build was tight with precise speci cations, but Las Vegas Paving achieved its goal while receiving commendation from the F1 team.

SUBCONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR

HIRSCHI MASONRY

Twenty- ve years ago, Hirschi Masonry began with just 20 employees focusing solely on residential projects. Today, under the umbrella of Hirschi Companies, it also serves large commercial spaces and o ers rock retaining masonry, veneer and site wall services.

Hirschi Masonry has situated itself at the forefront of the industry by investing in innovative technology and techniques that enhance productivity and safety. One such technology is hydraulic sca olding, an improvement to sca olding infrastructure that increases stability and control while working on multistory buildings.

Hirschi has found success in bene cial partnerships with the Mason Contractors Association of America and the Nevada Contractors Association. In collaboration with the NCA, Hirschi contributes to di erent community initiatives. Its charitable work focuses on education, workforce development and creating opportunities for success. In 2024, Hirschi worked with Level Builders to promote counseling at a local middle school, North Las Vegas Mayor Pamela Goynes-Brown for Las Vegas’ annual Black haircare drive, Goodie Two Shoes as a sponsor for a distribution event, and the Hope for Prisoners Vocational Village by establishing an accredited masonry school to provide opportunities to prison residents.

SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR

MILWAUKEE

TOOL

Milwaukee Tool’s commitment to innovation sets it apart from other suppliers. Asserting an outside-in strategy, Milwaukee Tool has logged more than 585,000 hours on jobsites in the past ten years. Its approach fosters a culture in which team members receive feedback and learn from clients, allowing the company to understand product challenges and implement the best solutions for consumers.

One hundred years ago, Milwaukee Tool invented the rst lightweight, one-handed drill and revolutionized assembly line productivity. It continues to lead the way in innovation by generating creative plans and products with its in-house, computing-aided design abilities and rapid prototyping shops. In 2005, Milwaukee was the rst company to use lithium-ion cells in power tools, forever changing the trajectory of cordless power tool use. Milwaukee Tool is heavily involved with the NCA, contributing expertise, promoting best practices and participating in the Construction Leadership Council and the Safety Committee. It is proud of its involvement with the NCA ambassador program, and supports events like the annual NCA golf tournament, monthly mixers and the clay shoot.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICE FIRM OF THE YEAR

GRAND CANYON DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS

Grand Canyon Development Partners employs a wide range of professionals to create a streamlined process for clients, with services that include real estate development, project management, lender services, LEED certi cation studies, engineering and architecture. This expanse of knowledge allows GCDP to meet project needs, no matter how simple or sophisticated.

O ering a wide range of professional services lends itself to a diverse portfolio of projects. In the past year, GCDP has been a part of several notable endeavors, including helping to complete the Beverly Theater in Downtown Las Vegas, breaking ground for the rst hotel in Symphony Park and participating in the topping o ceremony for the BLVD project.

In addition to exemplary management and services, GCDP prides itself on giving back to the community. The organization’s Developing Dreams program provides pro-bono work for local nonpro ts. GCDP donated free development services for the Healing Center at St. Jude’s Ranch For Children in 2022 and for CORE Academy’s campus for assisting inner-city children. It also participates in donation drives and events for The Shade Tree, Communities in Schools, Ronald McDonald House Charities and others.

SAFEST GENERAL CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR

CORE

CORE’s safety motto is “Zero Incidents, Zero Accidents.” Working under the belief that no aspect of the construction process is more important than safety, CORE’s safety procedures cascade down from the national level to trade partners and individual employees.

While CORE does business across the country, CORE Nevada consistently has the best safety record, boasting 12 years without a recordable lost time incident. CORE is proud of two recent projects—Red Rock Elementary School and the City of Las Vegas Downtown Civic Building and Plaza project—on which neither CORE nor any trade partner had a single lost time incident.

This safety record is made possible by regular reviews and training. At CORE, everyone takes ownership of safety. All personnel are responsible for at least one inspection a day via the Predictive Solutions mobile app. At the start of every work shift, trade partners are required to complete a Daily Activity Hazard Analysis that encourages collaboration in overlapping work areas and safe practices are incentivized with prizes.

SAFEST SUBCONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR

HELIX ELECTRIC

Helix Electric employs more than 500 electricians in Nevada. Guided by the founding principles of integrity, quality, safety and collaboration, Helix sets clear expectations for the caliber of work and the wellbeing of its employees. Working in Las Vegas necessitates speci c safety measures to mitigate heat risks. At Core Apartments, a current jobsite of Helix Electric, employees are provided with plenty of cold drinking water and neck gators to keep cool and hydrated. They have access to cool-down areas for breaks and in case of heat emergencies. Work hours are also adjusted to accommodate seasonal weather conditions.

Superintendents conduct weekly and monthly safety audits where they are encouraged to invite di erent employees to accompany them. Doing so creates opportunities to further discuss safety, ask and answer questions, and better understand the hazards of job sites.

Helix facilitates continued learning and training through educational programs. Helix University o ers multiple classes every month to train employees at all levels. The company also hosts four Safety Saturday classes every year. These classes include safety training in the categories of fall protection, con ned space, electrical, aerial lift, forklift, trenching and excavation, rst aid, CPR, AED and leadership.

BUILDING PROJECT OF THE YEAR (UNDER $15 MILLION)

PARKWAY WEST OFFICE PARK

THE KORTE COMPANY

The Korte Company, partnered with SHEQ Properties, converted a vacant lot near Downtown Summerlin into a commercial space featuring two o ce buildings, a central courtyard and a spacious parking lot. This 3.53acre site was designed to optimize space while maintaining the overall aesthetic and functionality. Sustainable practices were prioritized throughout the project. Landscaping was selected thoughtfully, with trees placed strategically to provide optimal shade and an irrigation system designed to promote responsible water usage. The two o ce buildings were built with energy e ciency in mind, using cool roo ng materials that re ect sunlight and reduce heat inside the structures. Further, recessed windows with overhangs add to the character of the building while compounding the capabilities of tinted, insulated glass panes that help reduce internal energy consumption and meet International Energy Conservation Code requirements. Communication and coordination were carefully executed to minimize disturbances to surrounding areas. This project aimed to contribute to the local economy by attracting business to the area and contributing to job opportunities.

BUILDING PROJECT OF THE YEAR

($15-$30 MILLION)

CITY OF HENDERSON FORENSIC LABORATORY

MCCARTHY BUILDING COMPANIES

A state-of-the-art facility requires state-of-the-art construction. The new City of Henderson Forensic Laboratory features three distinct labs – a latent print lab, a toxicology lab and a controlled substance lab. Each one is out tted with highly specialized equipment to meet the needs of each modality and maintain a safe working environment for all.

McCarthy Building Companies, with the City of Henderson and architect Leo A. Daly, worked for 18 months to design a space that would meet the city’s needs and budget. Once speci cations were agreed upon, McCarthy hosted a virtual reality tour of the project, allowing sta to get a feel for the facility and provide feedback before breaking ground.

During the building process, McCarthy exhibited exibility and creativity to maintain project integrity while adapting to unexpected and changing circumstances. The team had to balance the safety of construction workers and safety of end-users in a work environment that will be subject to hazardous materials even after construction. Safety features of the lab include specialty ventilation systems, continuous air sampling, metal casework and deionized water.

BUILDING PROJECT OF THE YEAR (OVER $30 MILLION)

FORMULA 1

HEINEKEN SILVER LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX PIT BUILDING

THE PENTA BUILDING GROUP

It took a lot of hard work and determination to bring Formula 1 to Las Vegas in 2023. The PENTA Building Group was contracted to construct the Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix Pit Building, a complex job involving stringent guidelines, tight deadlines and multiple modi cations throughout the process.

To meet these high standards, PENTA took a proactive approach in acquiring materials that would meet the demands of the client. After conferring with the project’s electrical engineer, PENTA went to straight to manufacturers and created a plan in which all requirements could be met and materials acquired in time.

The nal 292,266 square foot building is a multifunctional space that serves the race teams and fans alike. The rst oor houses garages for the crews of participating teams and the second and third oors boast entertainment and hospitality spaces with views of the track. As one of PENTA’s most complicated and prestigious projects to date, the construction process provided work for approximately 4,000 Las Vegans.

HOLCIM - SWR , Inc Building for Progress and Planet

Aggregate Industries - SWR, Inc entered the valley in 2003 with the acquisition of Southern Nevada Paving and Frehner Construction Company. In 2006 Holcim Ltd welcomed Aggregate Industries into its worldwide family of building products. While the name may have changed, the dedication to quality products and services has remained the same!

Capitalizing on our internal aggregate and asphalt resources, our construction division is here to provide you with all of your grading and paving needs. From mass grading to finish grade and asphalt surface, Holcim has been a part of multiple projects in and around the Las Vegas Valley

Contact us today for all of your Aggregate, Asphalt, Paving and Grading Services:

4675 W Teco Ave, Ste 140

Las Vegas, NV 89118

NV Lic # 0010639A

www.holcim.us

Phone 702-649-6250

CIVIL PROJECT OF THE YEAR

ICE AGE FOSSILS STATE PARK

TAYLOR INTERNATIONAL

At the entrance of Nevada’s newest state park stands the Monumental Mammoth. Created with the help of a local Girl Scout troop, the Protectors of Tule Springs and professional artists Luis Varelo-Rico and Dana Albany, the mammoth welcomes visitors to the Ice Age Fossil State Park.

Taylor International partnered with the Nevada State Parks to develop the park and erect the life-sized statue. This project included constructing a picnic pavilion and seven shade structures, developing manicured trails and constructing an over ow parking lot. Because aspects of the project were spread across the 315-acre park, Taylor International implemented extended safety measures, including bringing an additional superintendent to the job site and adding breaks for workers to rest in the shade and rehydrate.

The Ice Age Fossils State Park was the rst project for Nevada State Parks that had to comply with the Build America, Buy America requirements of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This act requires iron, steel and other construction products to be mined, milled, and manufactured in America. This meant that Taylor International had to nd complying manufacturers that could provide enough materials to meet the project’s needs.

Taylor International met these requirements without any negative nancial or time impact.

MEMBER OF THE YEAR

HEIDI RITCHEY

TRINITY LAND SURVEYING

Heidi Ritchey, business development and bids coordinator at Trinity Land Surveying, is an active participant with several committees and programs of the Nevada Contractors Association. Ritchey currently serves on the Construction, Career, Outreach, Recruitment Committee where she works with high school students, participates in education panels and evaluates scholarship applications. She also serves on the Diverse Contractors Council connecting DBE, SBE and WBE companies with NCA members, and on the Ambassador Committee to recruit new NCA members and foster relationships in the industry.

Ritchey, known for her positive attitude, proactive approach and dedication, is an asset for new members and the association at large. She has represented the NCA and Trinity Land Surveying at the Construction Career Day Event for the past three years, sharing construction opportunities with Las Vegas students.

Using her social media prowess, Ritchey shares photos and information about NCA events to reach potential members. She brings a personal touch to her outreach and cultivates connections with welcoming energy and enthusiasm.

MEMBER COMPANY OF THE YEAR

THE PENTA BUILDING GROUP

The PENTA Building Group has been a strong supporter of the Nevada Contractors Association since it became a member in 2001. In addition to encouraging others to join the association, many PENTA executives serve in leadership positions in the NCA. PENTA’s Vice President of Construction Tony Cornell serves on the NCA Board of Directors and is an active member of the NCA Permit and Inspections Committee and the Labor Relations Committee; Senior Preconstruction Manager Anthony Noll and Project Superintendent Patrick Dennis are members of the Construction Leadership Council; and Senior Vice President of Preconstruction Glen Maxwell is on the Diverse Contractors Council Steering Committee.

In the past year, PENTA has received several local recognitions including Awards of Merit from the Engineering News-Record, the Associated General Contractors of America’s AGC in the Community Award for its collaborative SuperBuild project with FOX5 Vegas and Habitat for Humanity and was ranked one of Nevada’s Top Workplaces 2024 by the Las Vegas Business Press.

This year marked the 17th annual Safety Kick-O event in Las Vegas featuring the latest safety equipment and technologies and honoring individuals and companies who demonstrated commitment to safety. The company’s nonpro t corporation the PENTA CARES Foundation supports local nonpro ts. In 2023, PENTA donated 7,500 volunteer hours and $1.5 million to more than 90 organizations.

DIVERSE SUPPLIER/PROFESSIONAL SERVICE FIRM OF THE YEAR

REGION 9 SAFETY COMPLIANCE

Region 9 Safety Compliance accommodates businesses of all sizes, working to meet the needs of each client while enhancing safety performance and employee wellbeing. Region 9 Safety services include the creation of safety programs, expert safety consultations, site-speci c safety plans and OSHA representation and guidance. It also o ers CPR, and con ned space and heat illness awareness trainings.

Region 9 Safety Compliance has partnered with local companies including The PENTA Building Group, Anning-Johnson Company, Boyd Martin Construction, Martin-Harris Construction, Taylor International, Kittrell Jensen Contractors and CORE. Many notable projects, including Allegiant Stadium, Forumula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix and Symphony Park, have bene ted from its safety services.

As a consulting and safety rm, Region 9 works with diverse businesses. These partnerships strengthen the company’s core values of integrity, quality work, and meeting the needs of the community by providing perspective and experience. Region 9 also builds connections in the community through philanthropic endeavors like fundraising, toy drives and giveaways.

Brasserie B by Bobby Flay

DIVERSE SUBCONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR

COMMERCIAL ROOFERS INC.

As Commercial Roofers Inc. celebrates its 28th anniversary in 2024, it also celebrates its rst year with Women’s Business Enterprise and Minority Business Enterprise certi cations. Of more than 250 CRI employees, 70% are minorities, 10% are women and 8% are veterans. “Commercial Roofers is delighted to now assist our partners and clients in achieving project diversity goals. When an owner or business contracts with a WBE or MBE certi ed partner, they prove their commitment to diversity and equity in construction, in business, and ultimately in the Las Vegas community,” said Janet Howard, President and CEO of Commercial Roofers Inc.

Communication with manufacturers, suppliers and clients is key to business success. Whether working through supply chain challenges or developing solutions for innovative industry projects, CRI maintains transparency and builds trust with all partners.

Team members at CRI are encouraged to involve themselves with professional organizations to foster community growth. They also support charitable organizations including Convoy of Hope, Rebuilding Together Southern Nevada, American Cancer Society, Las Vegas Rescue Mission, City Impact Center, St. Baldrick’s Foundation and Opportunity Village.

J.A. TIBERTI SPIRIT AWARD RICHARD

“DICK”

DIELEMAN

OWNER OF DIELCO CRANE SERVICE

Richard Dieleman has been helping build Las Vegas since 1963, when he began working at his father’s crane company, Jake’s Crane and Rigging. In 1984, Dieleman relocated to California where he held several positions to gain experience and develop contacts in the crane business, as well as with re neries and steel companies. This built a broad foundation for his future career.

Dieleman founded Dielco Crane Service in 1988 and moved back to Nevada with Newmont Gold Mine as its rst client. Industry partners J.A. Tiberti, Gil Grove, Schu Steel and others bolstered Dielco as it grew its presence in Nevada. The company started working with more clients and secured its rst big job on the Strip with the construction of Grand Slam Canyon, now the Adventuredome at Circus Circus.

Dieleman’s legacy will be felt in Southern Nevada for years to come, as locals and visitors enjoy iconic structures including the Ei el Tower at Paris Las Vegas Hotel and Casino, the Smith Center, T-Mobile Arena and Allegiant Stadium. Recently, Dieleman built a cabin near Cedar City, Utah to enjoy with his family and friends.

LUXURY HOME MARKET NOT JUST FOR BUYERS ANYMORE

BY KATIE ANN MCCARVER VEGAS INC STAFF

Another luxury housing development is underway in Las Vegas— although this one comes with some different terms.

Unlike most of the increasing number of high-end homes in the area, this 50-unit community in Southern Highlands— developed by Seneca, a division of local builder Christopher Homes—is not offering houses for sale but attached duplexes for lease.

“With Seneca and the residents of Seneca, it’s really a lifestyle choice,” said co-founder and president Michael Stuhmer. “All of our residents could afford to purchase a home if they chose to, but they love the way we program the community, the design, the fact that they’re new homes, and there’s really not much out there within Las Vegas that can provide similar offerings.”

The new gated community in Southern Highlands is Seneca’s first official project, Stuhmer said, and resembles a lot of the other luxury residences Christopher Homes has developed— except that, in this case, it’s all for rent.

At Seneca, he said, it’s all about layering hospitality onto long-term renting. That means professional management, concierge services, maintenance and more.

“We’re really focused on just making it really convenient for all the residents,” Stuhmer said.

“They don’t have to sign up for utilities—everything’s kind of included in their monthly rental bill. Sign a lease and move in, and we’re there to make their move-in experience and their experience living there as good as possible.”

The developer also places an emphasis on health and wellness, he said, and Seneca is one of the first in the nation to achieve WELL certification, which is through the International WELL Building Institute’s WELL for Residential Program, per a news release.

He pointed to an outdoor area with a pool, jacuzzi and sauna as an example.

“We spend upwards of 90% of our time indoors, right?” Stuhmer said. “So, it’s really important to us, as builders, to incorporate healthy functionality into the homes.”

Other amenities at the property, which he said is about two months away from completion, include solar panels and EV charging stations, a community garden and dog park and, in some cases, unobstructed views of the Las Vegas Strip and the mountains beyond.

There’s been a nationwide surge of single-family homes for rent, particularly in the affordability category, he said. With Christopher Homes’ experience in the luxury for-sale market, Stuhmer said his team felt knowledgeable enough about the luxury buyer and confident that would trans-

late well to the rental market.

“And all of our expectations have been exceeded,” he said. “And so, we’ve been leasing it up at a much faster pace than we originally projected.”

According to the Seneca website, the homes in Southern Highlands are fully furnished, and appear to start from as low as just over $5,000 in rent. They range from three to four bedrooms and three to four baths.

“Renting such beautiful properties offers flexibility and immediate access to a wide range of amenities,” said Merri Perry, president of Las Vegas Realtors.

People are relocating to Las Vegas from places like California, whether to escape high taxes or prices, Perry said, and it’s driving the Southern Nevada market to higher prices than ever.

“It’s only getting better,” she said.

Every builder in town is seeing a large chunk of their demand coming from out of state, Stuhmer said.

“When you have a city that is experiencing a lot of growth, renting a home versus committing to purchasing a home can allow someone to test out the neighborhood and just to see exactly where they want to live,” he said. “With where interest rates are and affordability, it’s much cheaper to lease the homes that we’ve built, even though they’re larger and they have nicer finishes, it’s still cheaper to lease those homes than purchase.”

Seneca plans to kick off another project in Henderson soon, and eventually expand outside of Las Vegas, he said.

“Bringing to the table a professionally managed community where you take out the headache of homeownership, but you can live in a really nice home, is what we’re solving for,” he said. “And so it really just comes down to the lifestyle, and it’s very convenience-forward for it, and we’ve spent a ton of time thinking about why people choose to rent homes and what do they value the most?”

Great room in a home at Seneca in Southern Highlands. (Courtesy)

If

BY VEGAS INC STAFF

Planning and development firm G.C. Garcia helps clients with every aspect of redeveloping, acquiring or building a new location. That could mean evaluating a site, coordinating with government agencies or just about anything else.

“We assist developers, business owners and residents with due diligence, zoning entitlements, building permit processing/expediting, regulated business licenses and expert witness testimony,” said Melissa Eure, president and director of planning for the agency, who has been part of the company almost since its inception.

She answered questions from Vegas Inc about the future of urban planning in Southern Nevada, the difference between the real estate market here and other major cities, and the importance of so-called equity planning.

With the growth of the valley, what stands out to you the most?

The Las Vegas Valley was never contemplated to be what it is today. What stands out to me is that we have, rather successfully, constantly grown with each change and reinvention of what the Las Vegas Valley is. It seems like almost every decade

Q+A: MELISSA EURE

Urban planners in Southern Nevada have beaten the odds and seem able to continue to do so regardless of the hurdles we face

there’s something new either reinventing the Strip, Fremont Street, Water Street, the Arts District, the Medical District, Apex and now West Henderson, the Stadium District, and the Eldorado Valley. And while it may not happen immediately, we are always successful to varying degrees in achieving that change and seeing growth with it. I don’t know how many other communities can truly claim the same thing.

What do you see for the future in urban planning and development in Southern Nevada?

As a newer city, and a city that is constantly reinventing itself, I think there is plenty on the horizon, but the constants are planning around land availability, water usage and heat island effect. But regardless of those factors, we will continue to see growth, and if we can’t grow horizontally, we will see more buildings start to grow higher vertically, as that will be the only direction to go.

Also, there has been revitalization and redevelopment particularly on the Strip and the Downtown areas for all the major cities. I think we will start to see more redevelopment of other areas of town that are older as the cities look for ways to revitalize those areas and better utilize the land.

Finally, we will continue to see the impact of sports entertainment and how it changes the development pattern around those arenas and facilities.

How does this market differ from other major cities?

No. 1 is that this is a city that no one ever dreamed 50 years ago would still be here, let alone be this big. Our market is different in the fact that a large percentage of our land is owned by the Bureau of Land Management, and isn’t available for development. [The Bureau of Land Management] owns more land in Nevada than any other state in the country. Then add that some of the land that is available can’t be developed due to constraints from the ground. We have a number of areas where there are fissures, or you are on the hillside, making development costly. There’s also the caliche that our ground is well known for, which isn’t unusual in Arizona, but isn’t as common in many other states.

I think the other is that while we are working hard to diversify our economy and have been very successful in the past few years, it has brought other issues to light. We have brought in new companies and industries, but providing them with a stable workforce, and a place to house that

workforce, has been a major issue.

Can you explain equity planning for equality?

When urban planning was a young field, think 1950s and 1960s, zoning regulations were often a tool used for segregation. It also pooled resources in certain areas while leaving other areas devoid of the same resources, or with limited access to them—think public transportation, parks, schools and employment centers.

The idea behind equitable planning for equality is that you are giving equal access to amenities and services regardless of the neighborhood to promote better quality of life for all residents. An example is the need for affordable housing. If you put affordable housing on the outskirts of the city, then they won’t have as much access to things like public transportation, grocery stores and other services and amenities. You have given them a place to live but may have made it difficult or impossible for them to get to work or have access to parks for children or other services. It’s less likely people will stay there because of those issues.

The ability to have not just equal housing but equity of resources is what will allow those living there, and the community as a whole to be lifted.

you put affordable housing on the outskirts of the city, then they won’t have as much access to things like public transportation, grocery stores and other services and amenities.”

VEGAS INC NOTES

Highlights of the best in business

Nevada Women’s Philanthropy members elected to grant $500,000 to HELP of Southern Nevada to renovate its second-floor office space, which will allow for significant expansion of services and increased efficiency for up to 43 adult housing case managers at its social services building, 1640 E. Flamingo Road. A $50,000 NWP Founders gift was awarded to Opportunity Village

The Penta Cares Foundation, the charitable arm of the general contractor Penta Building Group, raised $165,000 for three Southern Nevada nonprofits during its 20th annual Charity Golf Classic. The foundation donated $55,000 each to the Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation, the Women’s Development Center and the Nevada Military Support Alliance

Project 150, a nonprofit dedicated to assisting homeless, displaced and disadvantaged high school students,

appointed Lorraine Kalayanaprapruit and Mike Heiman to its board of directors. Kalayanaprapruit is senior manager of sustainability and community for the Venetian and co-chair of the Nevada Resort Association Environmental Group. Heiman is senior vice president of facilities at Fontainebleau Las Vegas

Three Square Food Bank received $2,600 in donations from One Nevada Credit Union’s annual Spring Shred Day event. The shredding service is free to the public, but donations were accepted benefiting Three Square. Las Vegas residents donated 532 pounds of food and $1,300 in cash. One Nevada matched the donations for a $2,600 contribution to the Food Bank.

The Nevada Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation granted Hope for Prisoners $1 million to invest into a comprehensive vocational

training center at Southern Desert Correctional Center. The center, also known as Vocational Village, is part of an effort to change Southern Nevada reentry by providing an atmosphere for education, rehabilitation and workforce development for inmates who are scheduled for release.

Bailey Kennedy hired Jarod Penniman to the firm as an associate. He practices in the areas of civil litigation, commercial litigation, appellate advocacy, and ethics and professional responsibility law.

The Henderson Fire Department graduated its largest-ever class of 33 new firefighters from its academy. The class endured 20 weeks of training that covered education in hazardous chemicals, emergency medical procedures, firefighting skills and more. Graduates will move into full-time positions throughout the department’s 13 fire stations.

Position duties are Enovia design, development & implementation of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions including collaborating with business during requirements gathering, analysis and implementation of business solutions for Enovia PLM; preparing functional specification & design specification; designing and developing Java Server Pages (JSPs) & Java servlets to facilitate Enovia web-based interfaces; completing SAP Integrations; and developing software integrations between Enovia and existing database systems using Java servlets and Web methods. Position requires a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electronics Engineering or related field and 5 years’ experience in the job duties as stated. The position is with IGT out of Las Vegas, NV, but allows the individual to live anywhere in the U.S. and allows for the option to work from a home office. The position requires 25% travel that includes various unanticipated locations throughout the U.S. Send resume to IGT by email to Nicole Harden at Nicole.Harden@IGT.com. Reference SDPLM in response.