Nevada Business Magazine, along with corporate sponsor Nevada State Bank, is honored to recognize and support Nevada businesses for their hard work. Congratulations to all of this year’s finalists.
The Judges
A special thank you to the distinguished panel of judges for their work in identifying this year’s finalists out of hundreds of nominees and for the unenviable task of choosing this year’s winners.
Statewide
- Connie Brennan, Nevada Business Magazine
North
- Ann Silver, Reno-Sparks Chamber of Commerce
- Nancy McCormick, EDAWN
- Philip Cowee, Formerly Northern Nevada Development Authority
- Winnie Dowling, Nevada Small Business Development Center
South
- Lisa Chao, Henderson Chamber of Commerce
- Megan Comfort, Nevada State Bank
- Kenneth Evans, Urban Chamber of Commerce
- Jeff Leake, Quality Corrections & Inspection
- Lauren Stuart, Vegas Chamber
- Sonny Vinuya, Las Vegas Asian Chamber of Commerce
Small but Mighty
Micro Enterprise
North
Coffee N’ Comics
EST. 2019
Alex Farside began Coffee N’ Comics in 2019 as a way to unite the “nerds”. Catering to a diverse set of people with interests ranging from Pokemon to Batman, Alex hopes Coffee N’ Comics will bring back a community aspect to the traditional coffee shop. The shop has four full time, and three part time, employees with plans to expand a physical location. Coffee N’ Comics began right before the COVID pandemic, and their small size was essential to surviving the challenges that came with the last few years. Coffee n’ Comic’s micro-enterprise status has allowed the shop to pivot to quickly make necessary changes in order to remain in business. However, as a pandemic born business, the company is still working to find what “normal” means to them. With a boss willing to jump in where needed, the team is tight-knit and proud of the community they are creating.
House of Bread
EST. 2001
A small franchise of seven locations, House of Bread was founded in Reno by Eric Breeze who ran it with his wife for 17 years. In 2018, the bakery was purchased by Nathalie and Tim Atwell who are working to grow the business into the space next door, add seating, expand the menu and offer baking classes. With five full-time employees and seven part-time employees, House of Bread is small but nimble and each employee contributes something essential. The bakery is unique in the community because it offers a wide-section of wheat gluten and preservative-free pastries. In addition, no bread goes to waste and anything that isn’t sold is donated to Catholic Charities, amounting to tens of thousands of loaves donated. “I used to come here as a kid when I went to Reno High,” said Nathalie. “Now I’m bringing my kids along to experience what a great bakery we have here in Reno.”
Mercedes de la Garza Architect Studio
EST. 2003
Mercedes de la Garza, an accomplished architect, founded a studio in 2003 to provide a unique experience for clients needing design work. The firm has two full time, and one part-time, employee who work closely with their clients to provide personalized service with a high level of attention to detail. “Our size allows us to work intimately with our clients and the project team all the way through the process,” Mercedes explained. She also has a passion for historic preservation and serves as a resource for those types of community projects. “We wanted to contribute to the community’s historic preservation efforts and the richness history provides to the fabric of our build community,” she explained. Finally, Mercedes has four dogs because, “dogs are the best thing ever.
South
ComForCare Henderson
EST. 2017
ComForCare Henderson emerged from founders Theresa and Alan Hughes’ desire to improve their community. The company provides in-home healthcare for seniors with caregivers who value helping people. ComForCare wishes to remain small but mighty to focus on quality care and personal service. “This is a very personal business and it requires heart, compassion and a desire to help people live their best life possible when they are dependent on the smile and touch of a stranger,” said Alan.
Cosmetology Institute of Las Vegas
EST. 2015
Coming from a community with limited opportunities, Denise Dixon, founder of Cosmetology Institute of Las Vegas (CILV) wants to lift others up. She opened CILV to serve as a resource for beauty entrepreneurs. As a micro-enterprise, CILV has been able to support, educate and introduce marginalized voices to the beauty, health and wellness industries. With such a close-knit company, the relationships built, and knowledge earned, has helped many students achieve success in the field of cosmetology
Nevada Health and Bioscience Corporation
EST. 2020
Nevada Health and Bioscience Corporation (NHBC) is a small company with a large mission – to take care of Nevada, and everyone in it. Under the leadership of president and CEO Maureen Schafer, NHBC has furthered healthcare research and education. Plans for the company include boosting healthcare infrastructure and programming for the UNLV School of Medicine. The company believes that operating small has been key to remaining efficient, transparent and creative.
All in the Family
Family Owned
North
Champion Chervolet
EST. 1988
With three generations in the auto business, Champion Chevrolet is family run and family operated. With a life-long love of cars, Jack Stanko, Sr. spent his early career working for dealerships in his hometown of Youngstown, OH and later Albuquerque, NM. In 1988, Jack purchased an existing dealership in Reno. He then renamed the dealership Champion Chevrolet. Today Jack, Sr. is joined by three generations of family. His wife, Betty, son Jack, Jr. and grandson Jack, III are all essential to the family business. Spanning 33 years of serving northern Nevadans, the Stanko family has impacted the community in positive ways. They’re involved with several nonprofits and focus on helping student achievement. With 135 employees, they are also a large employer in the area and strive to care for their team and their team’s families as part of the Champion family.
Denton Cabinet
EST. 1973
Founded in the early 70s by Don F. Denton, Denton Cabinet is a Nevada-born and bred company that crafts cabinetry for residential and commercial spaces. The company is run today by Don F.’s grandson, Don M. Denton who proudly works alongside his father Jeff, sister Sarah and nephew Mateo. “My grandfather Denton had grown up in the cabinet business and used his skills as a craftsman and his business acumen to forge a business upon his arrival in Carson City,” said Don. “It is very special to me to be able to carry on my grandfather’s legacy.” He added that there are several perks to having a family-run business. “It’s nice to be surrounded by people you can trust and who care deeply about the company,” he said. “While we do have several family members working for the company, we also consider the people on our team family, some of whom have been with us for over 20 years.”
Qualcon Constractors, Inc.
EST. 1982
Originally called Carlson Construction, John Ithurburu worked for Bill Carlson for 27 years before Carlson retired. Together with Gerald Jensen, John purchased the business in 2005 and eventually renamed it Qualcon Contractors. In 2018, Gerald retired and Pierre Ithurburu, John’s son, purchased Gerald’s stake. Today the firm is owned by both John and Pierre who each have a 50 percent interest in the business. Pierre started working full time at the company when John and Gerald purchased it in 2005, after graduating from the University of Nevada, Reno. Today, he serves as president with his dad working as secretary and treasurer. Those close family ties extend further than just John and Pierre, multiple crew members at the firm are related to each other and some have been with Qualcon for over 30 years. “Family is important to us,” explained Pierre. “We pride ourselves on our quality and reputation.
South
Emerald Island Casino
EST. 2001
A little over 20 years ago brothers Tim and Mike Brooks bought a property in downtown Henderson. Two years later, in 2003, they reopened the property as Emerald Island Casino. With a strong emphasis on prioritizing and treating their customers like family, this family owned business includes two generations working together. “This is more than our family business, this is a legacy,” said Tim. By choosing to remain accessible to guests, even as an owner, Tim Brooks has turned Emerald Island from a simple casino to a social community for the region.
Maverick Helicopters
EST. 1995
Husband and wife team, Greg and Brenda Rocha, created Maverick Helicopters as a tourism company that provides VIP-level experiences. The company started in Las Vegas with one helicopter and today Maverick is the top aviation tourism company in the United States. The company has over 45 helicopters and locations in three states. Remaining family owned has allowed the Rocha’s vision for the company to remain clear. With three generations now involved in the business, family values are at the core of everything Maverick does.
Nevada Brew Works
EST. 2018
Jason and Lauren Taylor combined their passion for craft beer and family to build their business, Nevada Brew Works. Lauren’s father Ken Hallyburton (right), a long-time brewer, soon came on board. Ken was then followed by even more family and the business took off. The Taylors have two daughters, Ariana and Kyra. Ariana serves as the namesake for the company’s flagship beer, the Ariana RyePA, and the Ariana Rye Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides medical equipment to children with disabilities.
The Overcomer
Minority or Woman Owned
North
9 Beans and a Burrito
EST. 1993
What began as an intramural softball team at Arizona State University has grown into a small chain of restaurants and a charitable foundation. The restaurant, 9 Beans and a Burrito, was started by Juan Nunez in 1993. He named the business after his college softball team. The team, in turn, came up with the name to represent the players themselves, the majority of whom are Hispanic, of average size and height. One exception was their 350 pound, 6’4” teammate. So, the team became known as the “Beans” and their extra-sized teammate became the “Burrito”. With ten players on the field at a time during play the name “9 Beans and a Burrito” was born. Today the name applies to a restaurant in Elko and a second location in Twin Falls, ID. The team has remained tight knit and also formed a foundation to add an aspect of community service to their camaraderie.
Full Tilt Logistics
EST. 2014
Tiffany Novich founded Full Tilt Logistics with her husband Nicolas in 2014. Today, Tiffany serves as CEO and president for the logistics firm which got its name from the Novich’s going all-in and “full-tilt” on their new venture. COVID posed significant challenges for the business when Full Tilt lost about 80 percent of their clientele due to pandemic-related challenges. However, they are bouncing back and looking to expand and add warehousing to their list of services. Tiffany credits the Full Tilt team for jumping in and helping them get back on track. “It’s scary starting your own company,” she said. “It’s been a success because of our people. We have always put the highest values into our team. If your people are happy then your customers are happy and your business is happy.” Full Tilt is working to add to the team and provide leadership opportunities, as new services come on board.
Julie’s Sign Shoppe
EST. 1999
Julie Wilson was introduced to the art of sign-making, hand lettering and murals at a young age by her father who worked as a communications and art director for various businesses, including TV stations and advertising companies. “I was raised in a very art-influenced home,” Julie explained. “We were never wealthy but, as a family, we learned the meaning and value of good old hard work.” After trying her hand at a variety of careers, Julie came back to sign creation. Supported by her husband and working out of her garage for a time, Julie reached out to a former coworker, Christine Harkness and, together, the two have taken Julie’s Sign Shoppe to a new level. “Our entire team is extremely passionate about what we do, and how we do it,” explained Julie. “We have always taken great pride in the concepts and designs we install throughout Nevada and the dreams they hold for so many of our neighbors.
South
Campbell Defense Academy
EST. 2015
Campbell Defense Academy was founded on the belief that, “no one should ever have to feel scared to be alone, or nervous about a simple walk at night.” An advocate for firearms and self-defense, owner and CEO, Allison Campbell wanted to use her expertise to help her community. Campbell Defense offers a variety of courses which provide students with effective defense techniques, firearms safety and the confidence that comes with knowledge. It is Allison’s goal to teach men, women and children the importance of these life-saving skills.
Innova Technologies, Inc.
EST. 2003
An engineer by trade, Carlos Banchik wanted to find a better way to run projects. Carlos and his wife, Adriana founded Innova Technologies as a solution. Starting a new business has its challenges but the Hispanic-owned business soldiered on and was eventually selected to do construction engineering for large projects like CityCenter and the Cosmopolitan Las Vegas. Carlos attributes their success to word-of-mouth marketing. The company has only continued to grow, expanding to international markets.
Massage Envy
EST. 2005
Inspired by a spirit of entrepreneurship and the desire to have more time with her kids, Massage Envy founder and owner Marissa Hawkins left corporate America to start her own business. A woman and minority business owner, Marissa has a deep desire to help others. Since starting Massage Envy, Marissa has learned many lessons along the way, but the lesson of prioritizing people has served her well. “It is our duty to give ourselves wholeheartedly to share in our passion as well as make our community a better place to live,” she said.
The Newbie
New Business
North
AeroSafe Global
EST. 2020 (in Nevada)
What began as a company providing thermal material to customers requiring reliability for temperature sensitive products became a solution for COVID-related problems in the midst of the pandemic. AeroSafe Global is focused on the application of patented innovations around therapies requiring cold chain packaging, handling and logistics. The company has been in Nevada since March of 2020. Through those innovations, the organization has become vital in the distribution of the COVID vaccine because they provide a way to transport it. In addition to providing much needed solutions in the face of a pandemic, AeroSafe is committed to providing sustainable packaging solutions utilizing eco-friendly thermal packaging and promoting a reuse program. Currently working to expand its Nevada team, AeroSafe is investing in both equipment and people in the region.
Ferino Distillery
EST. 2018
In 2010, Joe Cannella took a trip to Sicily to retrace his family roots. While there he discovered, and fell in love with, a cinnamon liqueur from southern Italy known as “rosolio di cannella” leading to the creation of his very own liqueur, Cannella Cinnamon Cordial. When he returned home to Nevada, Joe realized the area would be an ideal location for a distillery and he started the process to bring his line of Italian-inspired spirits stateside. Since forming in 2018, Joe and the company have remained adaptable, to their benefit. For example, after formally launching in February 2020, just prior to pandemic shutdowns, the company began making hand sanitizers. Now, Joe and Ferino are focused on forming strategic partnerships as they expand into coffee liqueur and non-alcoholic elixirs. The company has also partnered with the Holland Project to support local art and artists.
United Pain Urgent Care
EST. 2021
Dr. Ali Nairizi is passionate about helping people in pain. He formed the United Pain Urgent Care last year to help improve the quality of care for patients suffering. Recognizing that many non-life-threatening urgent care needs are treated with opioids, Dr. Nairizi sought a way to provide non-opioid interventional treatments at the time of injury. As such, United became the first and only pain urgent care center in the country to treat pain management in this way. Dr. Nairizi hopes he can expand the model throughout Nevada, and eventually throughout the country. The healthcare company currently has 10 full time employees and four part-time employees and is working on increasing staff to meet the growing demand. Dr. Nairizi is committed to finding innovative solutions to solve one of Nevada’s biggest healthcare problems and helping people avoid opioid addiction.
South
Area15
EST. 2018
Dreaming big led to a collaboration between the Fisher Brothers and Beneville Studios develop a venue with entertainment, retail and art – Area15. The company has been able to uniquely combine elements from retail and theme parks to provide a new kind of experience for guests. Immersive exhibits and contemporary tenants have become a hit among locals and tourists. Thanks to its experiences and a well-timed opening, Area15 quickly became a mainstay in southern Nevada.
MDX Labs
EST. 2020
Founded in response to the COVID pandemic, MDX Labs has seen success and growth in a short time. Dan Briggs, Dalton Saunders, Tony Paoli and Alberto Gonzalez founded the lab with the hopes it would be able to fill a void that existed in Nevada laboratories. The company’s motto, “if you can’t find the path, make one,” is fitting as they have done just that. While MDX’s journey hasn’t been obstacle free, company leadership feels incredibly fortunate to have found success in helping their community and are excited for what the future holds.
ProAm Sports Medicine
EST. 2018
ProAm Sports Medicine was created to provide expedited injury treatment for athletes and improve overall outcomes. Founded by James Murphy and Dr. Nick Sadeghi, the medical practice has become a go-to for professional sports promotions, such as the UFC and Premier Boxing Champions. The company provides treatment from a customer service perspective and offers all-encompassing services for the best client experience possible. In a short time, the company has positioned itself as a staple in the community.
Battle Born
Mature Business
North
Barnard Vogler and Company
EST. 1969
Richard “Dick” Barnard wasn’t new to the accounting industry when he opened Barnard Vogler and Company in 1969. He had previously worked with a large accounting firm in northern California before moving to Reno to raise his family in the 60s. Shortly thereafter he was given the opportunity to purchase a local accountant’s business and Barnard Vogler and Company was formed. Leslie Daane and Mike Davis became shareholders for the company in 1998 creating a succession pathway. After retiring as a CPA in 2017, Dick handed the reigns to Leslie who now serves as managing director. She is supported in those efforts by Mike and director Teela McCullar. Leslie’s focus is to bring her team along with her as they work to better serve the community. The team is growing and Leslie has put a focus on embracing new technologies, education and skills.
Peterbilt Truck Parts and Equipment
EST. 1939
Originally forming in 1939, Peterbilt Truck Parts and Equipment came to Sparks in 1943. The organization creates and sells purpose-built vehicles for the trucking industry. In 2007, the local franchise dealership was purchased by John Phillips. John had previously acquired Silver State International, a truck and bus dealership in 1987. Together, the companies have created a one-stop-shop of sorts for trucking needs. With a long history, Peterbilt has a rich legacy in northern Nevada and John works to carry on that legacy through community giving and exceptional service. He credits the success of the business to the support of the people around him, from his employees to the community itself. John has also made adaptability part of the company culture so the business, and the employees it supports, are able to face whatever challenges come their way
United Construction Company
EST. 1978
In the late 70s, two local businessmen, Michael Dermody and Tony Taormina, came together with the vision to create a development partnership that focused on quality and long-term customer service. Both had years of experience under their belts and connections to the construction industry. Their vision became a reality with the formation of United Construction Company. Michael and Tony laid a foundation for United that consists of quality workmanship, fair pricing and on-time performance. The organization is run today by Michael Whittaker, president and Michael Russell, CEO. Leadership at United has worked to remain consistent to their roots by performing over 70 percent of their projects as a design-build or design-assist contractor. Over the years, the team at United Construction has designed and built over 60 million square feet of commercial real estate space.
South
Goetti Air Conditioning and Plumbing
EST. 1939
Goettl was started by immigrant brothers Adam and Gust Goettl. The brother’s commitment to, “do things the right way, not the easy way” led the company to become the number one manufacturer of HVAC residential units by the 1980s. In 2013, Ken Goodrich, acquired the company and moved it to Nevada from Arizona. Ken has prioritized customer service and growth opportunities for employees allowing the 83-year-old company to weather turbulent times and stay relevant.
The Meadows School
EST. 1984
The motto of the Meadows School is “In Pursuit of Excellence” and, for nearly 40 years, the school has followed that pursuit. Meadows School was formed by parents seeking to build a stronger primary school foundation for their children. A nonsectarian and nonprofit independent college preparatory school, Meadows provides excellence in education. Under the leadership of Jeremy Gregersen, the school has only added academic achievements and has had a graduate acceptance rate of 100 percent to four-year colleges and universities since 1991.
The Plaza Hotel & Casino
EST. 1971
Built on the former site of the Union Pacific Railroad Depot, the Plaza Hotel & Casino has been a fixture of downtown Las Vegas for over 50 years. Originally named Union Plaza, the hotel casino was founded by prominent Las Vegas figures, Sam Boyd, Jackie Gaughn, J. Kell Houssels and developer Frank Scott. Combining their focus of supporting employees with strong leadership throughout the years has been key to its success and longevity. Run today by CEO Jonathan Jossel, Plaza has been able to change with the times while still embracing its history.
Others First
Philanthropy and Giving
North
NOW Health Group, Inc.
EST. 1968
Founded by Ellwood Richard in the late 60s, NOW Health Group, Inc. moved to Nevada in 2003 and currently employs around 275 people. When Ellwood first started out, health foods was a fringe industry and those involved in it were considered “hippies” or “granola-heads”. Ellwood recognized the benefit to making health foods accessible, high-quality and affordable. He began NOW Foods to achieve those goals and it became one of the natural product industry’s most recognizable brands. Current CEO Jim Emme runs NOW Foods and is committed to giving back. Tony Sanghera, senior director, and Mardie Crawshaw, human resources manager, both assist in directing that giving. The company has established partnerships with multiple charities and employees are empowered to support those charities knowing that NOW will match contributions.
Quick Space
EST. 2008
Impacted by the recession, Quick Space was floundering when Scott Offerdahl purchased the company in 2009. He realigned the company’s vision and helped it rebuild into a northern Nevada leader in portable storage and temporary office space. Leadership at Quick Space today has prioritized community giving and active participation in local organizations. Rob Heaton serves as general manager for the organization and recognizes that one of the most important aspects of Quick Space is their connection to the community in northern Nevada. He and his team are dedicated to strengthening their industry and community. To that end, Quick Space donates thousands annually in sponsorships, in-kind donations and time to northern Nevada nonprofits including Dozer and Dirt, Empty Bowls, the Northern Nevada Children’s Cancer Foundation and the Reno Rodeo Foundation, among others.
Newtron
EST. 1973
Newton B. Thomas founded Newtron in Baton Rouge, LA as an industrial instrumentation contractor. The company expanded over the next few decades in both services and locations, eventually opening an office in Sparks to serve northern Nevada in 2018. In Nevada, Lee LaRussa serves as vice president and general manager of Newtron and oversees the company’s mission to give back to those in need. A charitable trust, the Newton B. Thomas Support Foundation, has been established for the company. Leadership and employees believe in the creed, “LiveIt”. Inspired by the Marine Corps motto “Semper Fidelis” or “Always Faithful” the creed encourages employees to live by Newton’s core values supporting each other and the communities they work in. To further showcase his commitment to those values, Newton plans on leaving the company to charity upon his passing.
South
EV&A Architects
EST. 2006
Founder and CEO, Edward Vance, FAIA, created EV&A Architects in 2006 after leaving a larger firm. Edward’s positive reputation in the community led EV&A Architects to become an instant success. In addition to creating beautifully designed projects, the firm operates by the motto of, “Do Well and Do Good.” EV&A Architects gives back through design advocacy, education and community donations. Working by the principal of helping others excel, EV&A is committed to making a positive difference in the local community.
Homie
EST. 2015
After losing an investment property in the housing crash of 2008, Homie co-founder, Mike Peregrina launched the company to change the way real estate is bought and sold. Homie seeks to make homeownership more accessible, transparent and affordable. “We’ve got your back” is the company’s motto. Homie is concentrating its efforts on helping those most impacted by recent downturns, while working to close the racial homeownership gap and provide potential homebuyers with the information and tools they need to buy.
Sightline Payments
EST. 2008
Contributing positively to the communities they reside in is a core value of Sightline Payments’ leadership team. Formed in 2008 to help provide new and innovative payment solutions to the gaming industry, Sightline was founded by Omer Sattar and Tom Sears. Over the years, as the company has grown, so has its philanthropic presence in southern Nevada. Sightline has supported many local charities and made donations to higher education, public health, responsible gaming and initiatives to increase diversity in the gaming industry.
Hearts Wide Open
Nonprofit
North
Arts for All Nevada
EST. 1986
With a mission to provide quality art opportunities by facilitating access to arts at the community level, Arts for All Nevada hopes to unify the world through the arts to engage, create and grow communities together. The organization was founded by Mary Ellen Horan in 1986 as a member of the international network of Very Special Arts (VSA), an affiliate of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Jacqueline Clay serves as executive director and is excited about the programs the nonprofit offers, particularly those that reach individuals who are disabled, disadvantaged, at-risk or underserved by the arts. “People of all ages, skill levels, backgrounds and experience can find their place at Arts for All Nevada. Our classes and programs focus on a variety of different art movements and media,” Jacqueline explained. “We envision a world unified by the arts.
National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges
EST. 1937
Established nationally in the late-30s, the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges (NCJFCJ) mission is to, “provide all judges, courts and related agencies involved with juvenile, family and domestic violence cases with the knowledge and skills to improve the lives of the families and children who seek justice.” The organization came to Nevada in 1975 after receiving a grant from the Max C. Fleischmann Foundation and an invitation from the University of Nevada, Reno. Today, the NCJFCJ has 91 judicial and associate members in Nevada and is led by CEO Joey Orduña Hastings. The nonprofit has impacted communities all over the country and produces over 12,000 trainings each year. In 2020 alone, the NCJFCJ fulfilled over 840 requests for technical assistances and trained over 9,673 judges.
Northern Nevada Children’s Cancer Foundation
EST. 2009
Northern Nevada Children’s Cancer Foundation (NNCCF) was born from two foundations working side-by-side to care for families battling cancer. The Angel Kiss Foundation, founded in 2000 and the Keaton Raphael Memorial joined forces in 2009. Each foundation began in memory of a five-year-old boy who passed way from cancer and together they expand the reach and services of both. The mission of the NNCCF is to, “enhance the quality of life for children with cancer and their families by providing financial assistance and compassionate support programs while advocating for increased research funds and raising public awareness.” A local organization with no regional or national office, the foundation is dedicated to the northern Nevada community and the families battling childhood cancer.
South
Discovery Children’s Museum
EST. 1984
Discovery Children’s Museum mission is to, “support the local community and economy by investing in its future – its children.” For over 30 years Discovery has created a welcoming, educational and engaging environment for children. The nonprofit is run today by CEO Melissa Kaiser and now serves as an educational partner with the Clark County School District among others. With the aim to give access to STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) experiences to as many as possible, the organization is a valuable community resource.
Heaven Can Wait Animal Society
EST. 2000
Heaven Can Wait Animal Society’s (HCW) mission is to eliminate the unnecessary killing of animals in Las Vegas shelters. By focusing on alternatives to euthanasia, HCW has supported the community by providing low-cost targeted spay/neuter surgeries, vaccinations, educational programs and adoption opportunities. The nonprofit has provided over 160,000 spay and neuter services and dropped the local euthanasia rate from 30,000 to 1,800 annually. HCW is on its way to achieving their goals and helping animals live a safe and healthy life.
Nevada Donor Network
EST. 1987
Nevada Donor Network aims to provide hope, strength and life to transplant recipients. The organization provides donor research services, educates the medical and local community and supports families of donors. One organ donor can save up to eight lives and Nevada Donor Network has helped 61 percent of the state register as organ donors. In addition, the Nevada Donor Network Foundation (NDNF) has created a capital campaign called “End the Wait” to raise $35 million in funds to expand transplantation services in the state.
Spirit of Nevada
Business of the Year
North
Doughboys Donuts
EST. 2009
Doughboys Donuts is an institution in northern Nevada. “We love the community spirit, the people and the beauty of Nevada,” said Jay Kenny who founded the bakery in 2009. The donut shop is as well known for their delicious pastries as for their community pride. Jay was inspired to start Doughboys from his father’s shop in southern California. Called the Donut Stop and founded in 1980, Jay took what he learned from his parents and applied it to his northern Nevada facility. “I think we have been successful because we built a business model that gives back every day into the community and puts a smile on people’s faces,” said Jay. “Always support those who support you.” With 30 full-time employees and 40 part-time employees, Doughboys is looking for ways to increase giving. “We will expand on new ways to give back to the community and change the world, one donut at a time,” said Jay
KPS3
EST. 1991
Previously serving as the director of marketing for Saint Mary’s Health Network in Reno, Stephanie Kruse saw a void in the community she loved. She founded KPS3 to fill that void and provide marketing services to some of the most recognizable companies in northern Nevada. Today the firm handles everything from digital marketing to crisis management and employs 53 professionals. In 2015, Rob Gaedtke, formerly the vice president of creative and tech for the company, took the reins from Stephanie. He now serves as president and CEO for the firm. Both Stephanie and Rob believe that the firm’s success is directly tied to the northern Nevada community, and they are proud of their local ties. The company works with over 25 local nonprofits and 15 local public institutions. In addition, half of the firm’s clients are from in-state organizations and revenue from national clients translates into local investment for KPS3.
Paragon Gaming
EST. 2000
Founded by Diana Bennett and Scott Menke in 2000, Paragon Gaming is a resort developer and the organization behind Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Lake Tahoe. The company is run today by Diana Bennett who oversees 245 full time employees and 65-part time employees. The gaming company has faced a multitude of challenges from the COVID pandemic to the Caldor Fire in Lake Tahoe. Even so, Diana and Paragon rallied with the help of the community. Supported by a love for the industry, Paragon strives to create memorable experiences for their customers. And Diana is excited to see the team recognized for their hard work. Paragon and its affiliates also provide casino management of the OYO Hotel and Casino Las Vegas, lead landmark projects throughout North America and are one of the United State’s top destination resort developers.
South
Egg Works
EST. 1989
A breakfast staple serving southern Nevada for almost 20 years, Egg Works was started by owner Brad Burdsall. His love for the local community is evident through the support Egg Works offers to various local nonprofits and the over 400 jobs the restaurant has brought to the Valley. Over the years, the company has expanded to seven locations throughout Las Vegas and Brad believes its success has come from its great employees, great food and strong values.
The Howard Hughes Corporation
EST. 1972
Established to hold the assets of famed magnate, Howard Hughes, the Howard Hughes Corporation, originally named Summa Corporation, has a long history of philanthropy in southern Nevada. Focusing on education, cultural arts and the environment, the company developed Summerlin. “I am especially proud of The Howard Hughes Corporation’s imprint on southern Nevada through Summerlin that set the standard for quality master-planned community development locally and nationally,” said President Kevin Orrock.
Vegas Golden Knights
EST. 2016
In 2015, Vegas Golden Knights (VGK) founder and CEO, Bill Foley applied for an NHL bid. A year later it was approved by a unanimous vote and Las Vegas history was made. Since their inception, the Knights have received overwhelming support from the community which has led to partnerships beyond the ice. The Vegas Golden Knights Foundation was created in 2017 to further embrace this partnership and support local nonprofits. VGK is about more than just winning games and they work each day to be a beacon for the community.
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