2014-12-21 - The Sunday - Las Vegas

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12/15/14 11:33 AM

4 THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

CONTENTS

Every year, about 230 homes are damaged by fires that ignite in Christmas trees, according to the National Fire Protection Association. To keep safe, use a sturdy tree stand, avoid over-decorating, and unplug tree lights before leaving your house.

10 12 26 43

NOTEWORTHY STORIES

ALL ABOUT LED LIGHTS

ON THE COVER Could Westgate’s NFL-handicapping contest become sports betting’s version of WSOP?

This time of year, we see twinkling lights all over.

It’s easy to take for granted that the Christmas tree will sparkle and the remote control will flash. But the technology behind the humble LED has advanced to the point that it could save consumers and municipalities a great deal of money.

MILLION-DOLLAR MIDDLEMEN? Matt Simo and his business partner, Toni Nelson, aren’t the ones putting up the money, but they have a stake in who wins the games. The two created a business out of turning in out-of-staters’ picks for the Westgate Las Vegas Supercontest. They started with 11 customers.

Now they have 454.

WEEKEND GETAWAY

Looking for an escape that’s not too far away and won’t bust your budget?

Boulder City is a short drive from Las Vegas.

MORE LIFE n Religious holiday celebrations aplenty, P30 n Recipe: Latkes, P31 n Pet adoptions, P33 n Calendar of events, P40 n Puzzles, P66

SHOULD YOU FIX ’EM OR FIRE ’EM?

When an employee isn’t working out, the boss has three choices: Get rid of him, tolerate substandard performance, or work with him to improve. Experts share their strategies for helping turn around bad hires, as well as reasons why it might be time to cut ties.

MORE NEWS

17

Congressional wish lists What do Nevada’s elected leaders in Washington want for Christmas?

18

Fight for recognition is ongoing Las Vegas inventor Gilbert Hyatt has fought long and hard to be known as the father of the microprocessor but continues working on new technologies that are “really quite spectacular.”

the More Cops tax 20 Explaining We break down the history, pros and cons of the proposed sales tax increase.

22

Gambling: The neglected addiction Many insurance policies don’t cover the disorder, even though it has been reclassified under the same umbrella as alcoholism.

24

A new beginning for SLS Las Vegas A few months after the resort opened, the face of its rebranding has been replaced.

OPINION/POLITICS

34

WOULD HOCKEY WORK IN LAS VEGAS?

A billionaire is determined to hoist a Stanley Cup in the next eight years, and he wants to do it here.

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Youth commentary Green Valley High senior Jeffrey Horn gives us a glimpse of the social topics discussed at the Sun Youth Forum.

CORRECTION The late David Atwell, a commercial Realtor, was operating under a real estate license in 2011 and 2012. A story in the Dec. 14-20 issue of The Sunday reported otherwise.

12/19/14 3:35 PM

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EDITORIAL EDITOR Delen Goldberg (delen.goldberg@gmgvegas.com) MANAGING EDITOR Dave Mondt (dave.mondt@gmgvegas.com) DIGITAL EDITOR Sarah Burns (sarah.burns@gmgvegas.com) DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR, DIGITAL John Fritz (john.fritz@gmgvegas.com) DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR, NEWS Ellen Wager (ellen.wager@gmgvegas.com) EDITOR, EDITORIAL AND OPINION Matt Hufman (matt.hufman@gmgvegas.com) SENIOR EDITOR, SPORTS Ray Brewer (ray.brewer@gmgvegas.com) SENIOR EDITOR, A&E Don Chareunsy (don.chareunsy@gmgvegas.com) EDITOR AT LARGE John Katsilometes (john.katsilometes@gmgvegas.com) STAFF WRITERS Taylor Bern, Andrea Domanick, Case Keefer, Ed Komenda, Ana Ley, J.D. Morris, Amber Phillips, Kyle Roerink, Cy Ryan, Eli Segall, Conor Shine, Pashtana Usufzy, Jackie Valley, Leslie Ventura, Katie Visconti, Ian Whitaker COPY DESK CHIEF John Taylor COPY EDITORS Brian Deka, Jamie Gentner SPECIAL PUBLICATIONS EDITOR Craig Peterson DIGITAL COORDINATOR Adelaide Chen NIGHT WEB EDITOR Wade McAferty EDITORIAL CARTOONIST Mike Smith LIBRARY SERVICES SPECIALIST Rebecca Clifford-Cruz RESEARCHER Tristan Aird OFFICE COORDINATOR Nadine Guy

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8

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

NEWS

Send your news information to news@thesunday.com

DEC. 14 - DEC. 27

WEEK IN REVIEW WEEK AHEAD NEWS AND NOTES FROM THE

LAS VEGAS VALLEY, AND BEYOND

LIFE

COLD FEET?

Cheyanne Jones, 15, of Las Vegas, prepares to head down the Winter Parq tubing hill in the Linq parking lot. The hill is open 4-10 p.m. Monday through Friday and 2-10 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday. It will close at 8:30 p.m. on Christmas Eve. (STEVE MARCUS/STAFF)

DEC. 16

DEC. 16

DEC. 16

DEC. 17

DEC. 18

HARMON-Y FOR TOWER

SANCHEZ IN AT UNLV

NAZARIAN BENCHED

GOAL!

FIORE FLOUNDERS

The $500 million civil case regarding the flawed Harmon hotel avoided trial after MGM Resorts International and six of seven contractors reached a settlement.

The state Board of Regents approved a four-year, $500,000-a-year contract for new UNLV football coach Tony Sanchez, who won six state titles at Bishop Gorman High School.

Sam Nazarian no longer will have any involvement in the SLS Las Vegas’ day-to-day operations. Regulators granted him just a limited gaming license.

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A proposed $200 million soccer stadium in downtown Las Vegas scored a victory when the city council approved $56.5 million in public financing for the project.

Now the city just needs a team.

In the wake of revelations of IRS troubles, Assemblywoman Michele Fiore was ousted as majority leader and chairwoman of the Assembly Taxation Committee.

$15

MILLION Cost to renovate the Gold Tower at the Golden Nugget. The makeover was completed this month and included new furniture for the tower’s 462 rooms.

12/19/14 3:31 PM

9 THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

NEWS

SPORTS

BUSINESS

LIFE

GAMING

POLITICS

3

LIFE

PUT YOURSELF TO THE TEST Rick Harrison of “Pawn Stars” sure knows his stuff, but do you? See if you can keep up with his expert knowledge on a new app, “Rick Harrison’s Trivia Challenge,” produced by Harrison’s own Las Vegas tech startup, Old Man Interactive.

The speed trivia game, which takes place inside a virtual Gold & Silver Pawn, includes thousands of questions in 15 categories that test players’ knowledge from the scholarly to pop culture.

The free app is available through Facebook, the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store.

Number of CEOs University Medical Center has had this year.

Mason VanHouweling is the most recent.

CASINOS

LIGHT’S OUT SPORTS

BRING ON MAYWEATHER?

Amir Khan, left, throws a punch at Devon Alexander on Dec. 13 during a welterweight fight at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Khan won a unanimous decision. (STEVE MARCUS/STAFF)

DRONE LAUNCH POLITICS

CHANGES IN CUBA President Barack Obama revealed plans to re-establish diplomatic relations with Cuba, a surprise move that angered some Latino advocates in Nevada. Maria Caminero, president of the Las Vegas Cuban Heritage Foundation, criticized the plan, saying increased trade would benefit Cuba’s communist regime instead of its citizens.

The Nevada Institute of Autonomous Systems launched the first test flight of Magpie, a drone by unmanned aerial vehicles company Sensurion. Gov. Brian Sandoval attended the flight in Boulder City. The drone crashed after flying about 10 feet.

There was a shake-up on the Strip after prominent nightclub operator Light Group, whose clubs include Light at Mandalay Bay and 1 OAK at Mirage, was bought for $36 million

by Hakkasan Group, now the Strip’s biggest nongaming dining and hospitality company.

$661 MILLION BUSINESS

PROTESTERS TURNED AWAY

A security officer closes a door on Culinary Union President Ted Pappageorge during a Dec. 11 protest at Station Casinos’ Red Rock Resort. A group of casino workers and local clergy brought black bundles, representing lumps of coal, as a Christmas gift to casino owners. Culinary is trying to unionize workers at Station properties. (STEVE MARCUS/STAFF)

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E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Amount needed to fix Nevada’s decaying road system. Many of the worst conditions exist in rural parts of the state.

12/19/14 3:31 PM

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THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

5-MINUTE EXPERT

Send your news information to news@thesunday.com

HOW

PRODUCING LIGHT AT THE ATOMIC LEVEL

Light q range o sharp, w bulb’s b your pr

Candle

The technology of light-emitting diodes has been around since the 1920s, but only recently has it been able to serve the needs of a wider audience. What commonly have been the little lights inside remote controls and calculators, LEDs now provide economical and long-lasting light energy.

BY ANDREA DOMANICK STAFF WRITER

They light up living rooms, streetlights and Christmas trees.

LEDs, or light-emitting diodes, may not look like much, but the little lights recently earned three scientists the Nobel Prize in physics.

The Japanese scientists invented a blue diode lamp that when coated with phosphorus or combined with red and green LEDs makes it possible to create white LED lamps.

Red and green LEDs have existed for decades, but blue LEDs — with the highest visible frequencies and the only LEDs that can be converted into white light, the best for illuminating the interiors of homes and offices — were elusive until the ’90s.

What makes the scientists’ discovery Nobelworthy? The increased efficiency of white LEDs has meant inexpensive, sustainable lighting, here and abroad.

Although more expensive than incandescent bulbs, LEDs save energy, last longer and are as bright or brighter than traditional electric lighting, saving money both on energy and replacement costs.

In the developing world, the bulbs’ low-power requirement allows them to be operated cheaply by solar power. The Royal Swedish Academy of Science, which awards the Nobel Prize, estimates LED lamps have the potential to increase quality of life for more than 1.5 billion people worldwide who don’t have access to the electricity grid.

Epoxy casing (top dome is a lens)

Wire bond

Reflective cavity

Semiconductor die Post Anvil

HOW THEY WORK Think of LEDs as tiny light bulbs that fit easily into electrical circuits.

The biggest difference from standard incandescent bulbs is LEDs don’t have a central filament that burns out. Instead, light is produced by electrons that move along a semiconductor. It’s a much more efficient process and takes less energy to produce light. That’s why LEDs typically are much cooler to the touch than traditional light bulbs and much safer as a result.

THE BREAKTHROUGH A blue LED was difficult to create because scientists struggled developing a material that would emit a short enough wavelength to produce blue light. Red diodes emit long wavelengths and green diodes medium ones. Mixing the three colors — red, green and blue — produces white light.

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THE ORIGIN OF LEDS The first LED was created in 1927, though the bulbs weren’t used commercially until 1962. That’s when red and infrared LEDs were invented and used to power remote controls and display digital numbers on appliances.

Yellow and green LEDs arrived the following decade, but white LEDs remained elusive until the invention of the blue diode in the 1990s. The blue LED also proved essential for developing LED-powered floor lamps, computer screens and televisions.

LED

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Early LEDs often were used as indicator lamps for electronic devices, replacing small incandescent bulbs. LEDs soon were packaged into numeric readouts in the form of seven-segment displays and commonly were seen in digital clocks. The small red light in remote controls? An LED.

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12/19/14 3:29 PM

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11 THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

HOW THEY COMPARE

WHO USES LEDs LOCALLY?

Light quality from LEDs is measured on a Kelvin color scale. Bulbs can emit a range of light, from a warm, golden glow that’s best for casual room lighting to sharp, white daylight that’s best for reading lamps and kitchens. Check the bulb’s box for a light appearance scale to see where the bulb falls and what your preference for light color might be.

Candle

Sunrise

High noon

Incandescent

Halogen

North light

Daylight flourescent

Most major casino companies, including MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment, use LEDs, from hotel room lighting at MGM Grand to the 2,000 diodes that illuminate the High Roller at the Linq.

The city of Las Vegas installed about 30,000 LEDs on city streetlights over the past two years.

Blue sky

Flourescent

LEDs

HELLO, LUMEN When buying LEDs, pay attention to lumens, not watts. Lumens measure light output, while wattage measures energy used to produce the light. Since LEDs use much less energy to produce the same amount of light as incandescent bulbs, LED wattage will be much smaller. LEDs need less power (wattage) to create equivalent light (lumens).

Standard incandescent 40W 60W 75W 100W

Compact flourescent 10W 14W 20W 26W

LED 5W 10W 15W 19W

Lumens 450 800 1,100 1,600

ARE THEY EXPENSIVE? Not anymore. Recent price drops because of increased competition among manufacturers and greater consumer demand have made LEDs much more cost-effective for utilities and far cheaper for consumers. In 2012, LEDs averaged $30 to $40 each; today they range from $5 to $20, depending on the wattage. NV Energy offers an instant rebate that puts them at $4 to $5. Because they last much longer, LEDs cost 70 to 80 percent less over their lifespan than incandescent bulbs.

Below, the purchase price and yearly cost of an LED bulb are compared with a conventional incandescent bulb and a CFL (compact flourescent), across a range of wattage.

Price per bulb*

Yearly cost, based on 3 hours of use per day

LED

Standard incandescent bulb

Compact flourescent

Average lifespan: 50,000 hours (50 years or longer)

Average lifespan: 1,000 hours (about one year)

Average lifespan: 9,000 hours (about eight years)

$19.97

$20 16

$8.02

8 $6.97 4 0

$13.36

$11.97

12 $5.97 $.67 5W

$1.34 10W

$10.02

$5.34 $2.00 15W

$2.54 $.49 19W

40W

$.49 60W

$2.30

$1.91 75W

$1.24 $1.34

100W

10W

$2.67 $2.74 $3.47 $1.74 $1.87 $2.49 14W

20W

26W

* At Home Depot

HOW YOU CAN SAVE MONEY WITH YOUR NEXT BULB PURCHASE NV Energy runs a Simple Savings program that lowers customers’ costs when they buy qualifying LEDs at participating retailers. The program, one of the only strictly-LED savings programs in the country, was designed to encourage people to buy LED products, which can be slightly more expensive upfront but are more cost-effective in the long run for both customers and utilities. Lighting accounts for about 12 percent of a home’s total electric use, according to NV Energy.

To find a store where Simple Savings discounts apply, visit nvenergy.com/lighting.

Among the types of LED lighting covered by the instant rebates: ■ A-line fixtures for wall sconces and table lamps.

■ Reflectors for recessed, track, spot, flood and can lighting.

■ MR16s, to replace halogen MR16s, for crevice lighting under cabinets and range hoods.

MAKING WHITE LIGHT, FROM RED, GREEN AND BLUE There are two primary ways of producing white light-emitting diodes (WLEDs). One is to use individual LEDs that emit three primary colors — red, green, and blue — and then mix all the colors to form white light. The other is to use a phosphor material to convert monochromatic light from a blue or UV LED to broad-spectrum white light, much in the same way a fluorescent light bulb works.

Photos by Tuningpp.com; Wikimedia and Wikimedia Commons — Piccolo Namek, Afrank99

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12/19/14 3:30 PM

12 THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

MILLION-DOLLAR MIDDLEMEN? “Vegas Matty” Matt Simo started a business just turning in picks for out-of-staters who want to play in Westgate Las Vegas’ NFL handicapping contest. (L.E. BASKOW/STAFF)

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12/19/14 3:33 PM

13

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU Send your news information to news@thesunday.com

THE SUNDAY

COVER STORY

DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

BUSINESS OF PROXY ENTRIES HAS GROWN WITH POPULARITY OF WESTGATE’S $2.1 MILLION NFL HANDICAPPING CONTEST — OR IS IT THE OTHER WAY AROUND?

BY CASE KEEFER | STAFF WRITER

FOOTBALL PHOTOS BY ASSOCIATED PRESS

There’s big money to be made in Westgate’s best-of-85 contest.

att Simo examined the sports book slip with the rigor of a neurologist scrutinizing a CT scan.

He darted his eyes across the five picks on the ticket — so many times that he lost count — matching them with the list he had printed out. For three years, Simo had placed contest picks for David Frohardt-Lane without fault, but the stakes were higher on this Saturday. FrohardtLane stood to win more than $550,000.

“You try not to put too much pressure on yourself,” Simo said. “But if I messed up one of David’s picks ... I could have cost him hundreds of thousands of dollars.”

Simo and business partner Toni Nelson have handled thousands of picks over almost a decade of working as football contest proxies. Together, they’ve played a monumental role in the soaring popularity of Westgate Las Vegas’ Supercontest, which every year decides the unofficial world champion of sports betting.

Simo and Nelson make it possible for a third of the field to compete.

Anyone 21 or older can join the Supercontest; all it takes is a $1,500 entry fee. Sign-ups take place over the summer before the football season begins, and entry fees go toward contest payouts.

This year, 1,403 people are vying for a $2.1 million prize pool.

Contestants must make five selections against the point spread in each of the NFL regular season’s 17 weeks. The person with the best cumulative record at the end of the year wins.

Nevada gaming law requires contestants to turn in their own weekly picks or assign a substitute to act on their behalf. Simo and Nelson are those substitutes; they started a business five years ago offering a proxy service for people outside of Las Vegas.

They now put in weekly selections for hundreds of clients, from the country’s sharpest bettors to football fans with no background in gambling. Simo and Nelson devote six months of service each year to the contest.

“It’s a great feeling to be a part of it all,” Nelson said. “I love going down there and seeing the faces over the years. Every July, they know football season is starting because it’s, ‘Here come Matt and Toni.’ ” The Supercontest has exploded in popularity over the past five years. This season’s 1,403 entrants represent a nearly 400 percent increase from the 328 who signed up in 2009.

Many say the contest’s popularity spiked because of increased exposure from ESPN personalities Bill Simmons and Colin Cowherd, who cover the event. But Simo and Nelson are an even more significant factor.

“The overall proxy option is the No. 1 reason for the growth,” said Jay Kornegay, executive director of the Superbook. “It has been more people finding out they can enter a Las Vegas handicapping contest without living in the state of Nevada.”

Contest proxies are nothing new. Kornegay believes they have been part of the Supercontest since it began in 1989, the brainchild of then-Hilton sports book boss Art Manteris.

Nelson and Simo started turning in picks separately for a few people in 2005 when they worked together at a sports-betting information website. It wasn’t until 2009 that they joined forces

M

IS THIS LEGAL?

Using a proxy to enter picks for a contest such as the Westgate’s Supercontest is perfectly legal under Nevada gaming law.

But paying someone to place actual wagers is a different story. That is considered “messenger betting,” a misdemeanor crime.

Messenger betting is difficult to enforce, however, which is why runners who put in large bets for some of the world’s savviest gamblers remain prevalent in the local sports betting scene.

The messenger-betting statute is in place specifically to prevent cheating among people betting tens of thousands of dollars on games.

In other words, a recreational gambler running to the sports book to make a bet for a friend is not committing a violation.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

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COVER STORY

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2004 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

CAN THIS BE THE SPORTS BOOK’S VERSION OF WSOP?

In Jay Kornegay’s second year as sports book director at the former Hilton, now Westgate Las Vegas, the Supercontest attracted a record number of entries. Kornegay and his staff were astonished at getting 505 bettors to register and pay the $1,500 entry fee. That was 2005.

“We were thrilled,” Kornegay said. “We were like, ‘Wow, this is terrific.’ ” A decade later, despite the economy having taken a toll on the entry field for a few years, Kornegay expects the 2015 Supercontest to be three or four times bigger.

Since 2011, the contest has set a record for participation every year, increasing annually in size by at least 40 percent.

“I think the upside is unlimited with this contest,” Kornegay said. “I believe it can reach the level of the World Series of Poker.

We’re talking about pro football here, so I think the potential could make this contest a household name.”

The $10,000 buy-in World Series of Poker Main Event has included at least 6,000 players in each of the past nine years, so that’s a high bar. But Kornegay is far from the only one who considers the Supercontest capable.

“In the next few years, I wouldn’t doubt seeing the first-place prize being $1 million dollars,” contestant Dustin Rampi said.

Proxy Toni Nelson added, “I think if the Westgate pays more attention and markets it more, it could grow to twice the size in a year easily.”

Kornegay admitted that marketing the Supercontest wasn’t always a priority. But that’s no longer the case. The Westgate and Kornegay’s staff want to see how far they can take the contest.

“There’s no signs of slowing down,” Kornegay said.

and decided to build a company.

They started with 11 customers. This year, they’ve got 454.

Interest in the pair’s services, and the contest as a whole, grew when Simo bought footballcontestproxy. com, and eventually footballcontest.com.

“I felt like I could corner the market,” Simo said. “I have a web-marketing background, so I knew I could build a site that would get indexed well by the search engines and that people could find if I got a good domain name. I also knew customer service was a big issue. People want to be able to trust the person they’re putting $1,500 with in the sports book.”

Half of the first page of results for a Google search of “Supercontest” now direct people to Simo’s site.

That’s what led Dustin Rampi, a real estate investor from Massillon, Ohio, to the company. A longtime gambler and fixture on the Internet’s largest sports betting message boards, Rampi had contemplated joining the Supercontest for three years. He researched ways to get his picks in every week.

“I knew you had to be careful with hiring guys for a proxy service,” Rampi said. “But everything that I found doing research had great comments about Matt’s service.

And I’m very happy with the service I’ve received so far.

He runs it right.”

Under the alias Alcatraz Holdings, Rampi got off to a 26-4 start during the first six weeks of this year’s Supercontest to hold the lead. He since has cooled off, but with two weeks remaining, sits in 14th place. The top 30 earn prize money, with first place awarded $736,575 this year.

Simo and Nelson are heavily invested in their clients’ success. In addition to a flat fee of $300, they charge 2 percent of all winnings.

Rampi considers it a bargain with all the work they put in.

Each year between July and the early-September deadline to enter the contest, Simo or Nelson meet every client they sign at the Superbook. All contestants must appear once in Las Vegas before the start of the season to register for the contest.

Once football season begins, Simo emails contest lines to his customers every Wednesday, seconds after they’re released. He then picks up two reserved reams of contest cards from the Superbook.

His wife, Jessika Simo, fills out contestants’ names and

identification numbers before passing the cards to Nelson, who marks the circles based on clients’ picks.

Nelson and Matt Simo alternate putting in the hundreds of cards at the Superbook on Thursday afternoons for clients who select the weekly game that night, and before the final deadline Saturday mornings. They review every ticket before leaving.

“It’s the consistency of double- and triple-checking to make sure we don’t make a mistake,” Nelson said. “It’s not hard; it’s filling out parlay cards. It just takes time, but we’re willing to put it in. That’s what we’re getting paid to do.”

Unique obstacles always present themselves. Last month, Westgate lost power the afternoon before a Thursday Night Football game. Simo loitered for hours hoping the system would reboot in time for kickoff — to no avail. Power was restored in the middle of the first half.

Another headache came this season when the Minnesota Vikings deactivated Adrian Peterson after he was charged with recklessly injuring one of his children. The cards already were filled out, and Simo had to switch picks for almost everyone who took the Vikings, who were playing the New England Patriots.

Not all impediments are football-related, either. Simo groaned remembering the time last year he got caught in traffic because of a bike race.

“You just never know what’s going to happen on any week,” he said. “I get the lightest sleep every Friday night because I’m worried I’m going to oversleep.”

Last season was a banner year for the proxy service.

Frohardt-Lane, a veteran bettor and algorithmic trader from Chicago and a regular client of Simo and Nelson’s, won the Supercontest for $557,850. He passed the leader during the final week of the season.

Not only was he Nelson and Simo’s first-ever champion, the proxies also represented two of the contest’s next five finishers. In total, they had six contestants who finished in the money after never having had more than one during the previous four years.

Simo and Nelson are optimistic about the chances of celebrating similar success this season. The most exciting and rewarding part of their business, they said, is cheering on clients.

“I live for this,” Simo said. “This is why I’m in Vegas and why I’m going to be here as long as the contest is going — as long as they still use proxies.”

ONLINE GAMBLING IS NO THREAT TO BUSINESS, FOR NOW Matt Simo can envision a scenario that would render his proxy services obsolete.

“If they were to legalize sports gambling everywhere, they’d allow people to submit their picks online,” said Simo, whose company submits weekly NFL picks for Supercontest players worldwide.

But Simo isn’t fretting over the possibility. Legalization in other states remains at least several years away, at

the earliest.

If and when that would happen, Simo would be one of few Las Vegas residents who’d lose business. Most locals in the sports-betting industry would be unaffected by widespread legalization.

Contrary to popular belief, bookmakers aren’t concerned about their bottom lines in the event the rest of the country gets regulated sports betting. They maintain that, regardless of

where else sports betting is available, Las Vegas will remain the sports betting capital of the world. Gamblers may place bets elsewhere, but that will only increase their longing to visit the center of the action.

Think of poker, they say. It’s widely available throughout the United States, yet players still pack local card rooms while visiting Las Vegas, particularly during the World Series of Poker.

Matt Simo has a roster of 454 clients who depend on him and partner Toni Nelson to accurately enter five picks a week into the Westgate Las Vegas’ Supercontest. (L.E. BASKOW/STAFF)

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15 THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

2004-2014

2014 PAYOUT

SUPERCONTEST BY THE NUMBERS HAVE VIED FOR MORE THAN ...

6,396 CONTESTANTS

$3.8 MILLION

IN FIRSTPLACE PRIZE MONEY

$736,575 1,403 ENTRANTS

FOLLOW THE MONEY

TOP PAYOUT

$800

Per Year

$1,500 ENTRY FEE

$700 $600 $500

$736,575

$557,850

$400 $447,000 $300

$394,560

$200

1989

$310,200

$303,000 $249,600 $205,200

$100

$210,000

SuperContest is born

$207,000 $196,800

0 2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

BEST SINGLE-SEASON RECORD: 58-22-5 (2011) POPULARITY CONTEST YEAR-BY-YEAR SNAPSHOT OF HOW SUPERCONTEST PARTICIPATION HAS GROWN = number of participants in hundreds 2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

411

505

416

342

350

328

345

517

745

1,034

1,403

SUPERWINNER Steve Fezzik won the Supercontest twice (2009 and 2010) for a total of $403,800.

2004 PAYOUT

$394,560

THE RULES ARE SIMPLE: Contestants must make five selections against the spread for each of the NFL’s 17 weeks of the regular season. The person with the best cumulative record wins at the end of the year.

(Split 3 ways) 411 ENTRANTS

85 GAMES 12-15_Feature_Sports_Contests_20141221.indd 15

12/19/14 3:34 PM

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What’s under the tree in Washington?

BY AMBER PHILLIPS | STAFF WRITER

WASHINGTON — What’s on your Christmas list? ¶ For Nevada’s members of Congress, it’s fair to say their wish lists extend beyond the new Taylor Swift album or an iPhone 6. ¶ It has been a rough year in Washington, especially for Democrats who in November lost power in the Senate. In Nevada, Rep. Steven Horsford lost his seat, and Sen. Harry Reid lost his majority leader title. ¶ Here’s a look at what Nevada lawmakers might be wishing for this holiday season as they head into a new congressional session in January.

DEMOCRATIC SEN. HARRY REID

THAT GOV. BRIAN SANDOVAL STAYS IN THE GOVERNOR’S MANSION Reid, the Senate’s soon-to-be minority leader, is up for re-election for a sixth term in 2016.

Political forecasters show Reid has an edge on any Republican challenger — except Nevada’s popular Republican governor.

Reid, however, seems to relish the challenge Sandoval would present, or at least is playing it cool.

“Brian Sandoval and I have a good relationship,” Reid told Politico. “If he wants to run, it’s a free country, let him run.”

REPUBLICAN SEN. DEAN HELLER

A SPOT ON THE SENATE FINANCE COMMITTEE

After losing a bid this fall to chair the Senate Republicans’ campaign arm, Heller said there’s a consolation prize he’d lobby his colleagues for: a spot on the powerful Senate Finance Committee, which deals with taxes and revenue. The former stockbroker currently sits on the Senate’s banking panel, which deals with monetary policy.

A week before Christmas, he got his wish. “I want to stand up, and everyone say, ‘That’s the guy we’re going to listen to,’ ” Heller said.

REP. STEVEN HORSFORD, D, CD-4

TO FIND OUT WHAT WENT WRONG — AND HOW TO FIX IT Horsford has accepted that North Las Vegas Democrats didn’t come out to vote for him Nov. 4.

As he prepared to step down, he made plans for a listening tour through the district to find out why middle-class voters failed to come to the polls. What he hears could determine whether he makes a run for his former seat in 2016.

“What the election results show me or tell me, is first and foremost, it was not a Republican wave,” Horsford said.

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REP. DINA TITUS, D, CD-1

FUNDING FOR AMERICA’S HIGHWAYS The Las Vegas Democrat will take over in January as chairwoman of the I-11 caucus, a group of Arizona and Nevada lawmakers trying to win funding for an interstate connecting Phoenix and Las Vegas and beyond.

For the project to happen, Congress must fundamentally change the way it funds American highways — the kind of major overhaul Washington can’t seem to agree to these days.

“We’ve got to do it,” Titus said. “I think even Republicans know we’ve got to do that.”

REP. MARK AMODEI, R, CD-2

MAYBE JUST A STOCKING STUFFER The Northern Nevada Republican seems to already have gotten his Christmas wish: Opening up some federal land in Nevada to recreation and commercial development in exchange for closing other land for wilderness protection. Eight Nevada lands bills passed Congress this month, the first major lands package since 2009 to be approved.

“If we actually end up getting this package through,“ Amodei said in early December as the deal was being negotiated, “it would be like, knock me over with a feather.”

REP. JOE HECK, R, CD-3

TO PASS A REAL BUDGET Two weeks before Christmas, Congress barely scraped up enough votes to pass a one-year, $1.1 trillion budget for the government. Negotiations happened behind closed doors, and lawmakers had just days to review the 1,600page document.

Next year, Heck hopes to see Congress debate and vote on a budget for each federal agency “so we’re not governing by crisis,” he said.

REP.-ELECT CRESENT HARDY, R, CD-4

TO MAKE WAVES

Nevada’s newest member of Congress will come to Washington at the bottom of the seniority totem pole.

But the Mesquite native has a chance to work on legislation that matters to Nevada. He’ll sit on two key committees: natural resources and transportation.

Hardy said one of his top priorities is to return federal land to Nevada.

“I want to prove I can be the best representative I can be,” he said.

12/19/14 3:27 PM

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Gilbert Hyatt, a local engineer who invented a microprocessor for computers, stands by some of the electronic devices that use his patented technologies.

(CHRISTOPHER DEVARGAS/STAFF FILE)

Inventor’s fight for recognition ongoing but not all-consuming

BY ED KOMENDA STAFF WRITER

Unless you worked in the most secretive corners of the computer industry in the late 1960s, the name Gilbert Hyatt probably won’t mean much to you.

But Hyatt wants you to know his name as inventor of the microprocessor, the backbone of the technologies that all but rule our lives today: cellphones, cameras and computers.

The 76-year-old New York native has spent the past 25 years in Las Vegas, quietly inventing technologies and applying for patents from a private research lab in

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his home near Red Rock Canyon.

He has spent almost as much time fighting for the recognition he believes he deserves for his work on the microprocessor. Engineers and lawyers have argued his wasn’t the world’s first. nnn

Born in Queens in 1938, Hyatt always had an eye for engineering. His parents were Russian emigrants, and his father worked as a civil engineer.

As a child, Hyatt admired the Wright brothers and dreamed of one day inventing a world-changing device.

He read Mark Twain and Zane Grey adventure stories and wanted to move west and live his own adventure.

When he was 16, his parents moved the family to Southern California, where Hyatt enrolled at Long Beach Polytechnic High School. After graduating, he attended a local community college for two years before transferring to the University of California, Berkeley, where he received his undergraduate degree in electrical engineering.

Hyatt immediately jumped into the workforce, joining Boeing as a full-time engineer developing missile systems for the military.

12/18/14 4:36 PM

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“The technologies for the next 15 or 20 years are really quite spectacular.

But I’m not free to discuss them.”

— Gilbert Hyatt

Not long after, he won a fellowship to attend graduate school at the University of Southern California, where he earned a master’s degree in computer engineering. While taking classes, he worked part-time for the Howard Hughes Aircraft Company.

In 1968, Hyatt quit a high-paying engineering job at Teledyne Technologies, a California industrial sciences shop, to focus on building microchips.

He converted the spare bedroom of his Los Angeles house into a research laboratory under the name Micro Computer, Inc. That’s where he figured out how to build a microcomputer on a silicon chip a tenth of an inch wide.

“I hoped it would take over the field as a lowcost product,” Hyatt said.

Little did he know, his invention would lead to ongoing court battles decades later. nnn

Shortly after figuring out the science behind the

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processor, Hyatt signed contracts with Intel and Texas Instruments to build a working version of his invention.

A patent attorney filed paperwork for Hyatt’s microcomputer in December 1970. Robert Noyce, one of Intel’s founders, reportedly invested in Micro Computer, Inc. But by January 1971, Intel had developed its own microprocessor, the Intel 4004. Hyatt’s microcomputer had landed in the patent office a year earlier but Ted Hoff, then a graduate student at Stanford University working for Intel, became widely known as the father of the microprocessor.

Credit also went to Gary Boone, a Texas Instruments engineer, who also had been developing single-chip designs.

Ross Bassett, a technology historian and professor at North Carolina State University, said the microprocessor would have been developed with or without Hyatt.

There’s nothing novel about having the first patent, Bassett said, because it means nothing if you don’t have money to develop a real product.

“Truth be told,” Bassett said, “if it had just been Gilbert Hyatt, the idea would have just been sitting there. It took Intel making it a part of our lives.”

As Hyatt watched major companies rake in huge profits for a technology he felt he invented, he kept busy as an aerospace consultant through the ’70s and ’80s. The Cold War was in full swing, and Hyatt made fistfuls of money developing patents — until the Soviet Union collapsed and his consulting business slowed.

Meantime, Hyatt’s fight with the patent office steadily brewed. In 1990, patent officials finally agreed that Hyatt had proven he was the first person to patent the microprocessor. The news made Hyatt millions of dollars and sent a shockwave through the computer industry.

Today at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, you can find a tome marked with Hyatt’s name and patent number 4,942,516. The number gives Hyatt credit for the “single chip integrated circuit computer architecture” he invented in 1968.

“I felt that the industry had taken my technology and, not only hadn’t rewarded me, but hadn’t given me recognition until my patents started to issue,” Hyatt said.

After winning recognition for the patent, Hyatt moved to Las Vegas on the advice of billionaire casino magnate Sheldon Adelson, who had recruited Hyatt to develop virtual re-

ality technology for theater shows.

Then, in 1996, the patent office overturned parts of its decision on Hyatt’s patent. The courts didn’t like the way Hyatt’s patent described his single-chip design, but they allowed him to keep it. The patent now is expired.

Today, Hyatt’s patents remain stamped on the bottom of Sony’s Playstation game consoles and many digital cameras.

Even after the patent office sided with Hyatt, the inventor found himself wrapped in a separate court battle with California tax officials, who tried to collect on Hyatt’s multimillion-dollar earnings, despite Hyatt having moved to Nevada, where there is no income tax. Hyatt eventually sued California for invasion of privacy and won a $388 million settlement, a case that’s pending following claims the court made a mistake in its judgment.

“I don’t get angry,” Hyatt said. “I just continue with my work. America could have benefited a lot more from the technologies I wasn’t able to develop if I had been rewarded instead of suppressed.”

Today, Hyatt spends all his time in Las Vegas. Long divorced, he enjoys seeing his three children and three grandchildren when they visit from California or Texas.

When he’s not poring over notes at home, he hikes at Red Rock with colleagues, talking through ideas and jotting down notes on a pad of paper he keeps tucked in his back pocket.

Hyatt is tight-lipped about everything he works on now, afraid someone will steal his ideas. He curls the pages of his notebook to conceal ideas from anyone who might sneak a peek.

“The technologies for the next 15 or 20 years are really quite spectacular,” Hyatt said. “But I’m not free to discuss them.”

Early news stories about Hyatt’s obscure career point out his quirky, private habits, such as keeping his curtains drawn and spending much of his time alone. The inventor attributes his reason for laying low to “corporate espionage.”

In total, Hyatt has patented more than 60 inventions.

Going forward, he plans to focus on using his money for philanthropic purposes.

But don’t bother asking him which causes he plans to support.

“I prefer not to get into that at this time,” Hyatt said.

12/18/14 4:36 PM

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Explaining the More Cops tax

BY ANA LEY STAFF WRITER

HISTORY OF DEVELOPMENTS

Over the past year, a proposal to raise Clark County’s sales tax rate to pay for more Metro Police officers has taken on so many incarnations, it’s easy to get lost following its political path. ¶ The most recent version of the More Cops tax, pitched by Sheriff Doug Gillespie, called for raising the county’s 8.1 percent sales tax by a total of .15 percentage point in two phases. It failed to get commissioners’ approval in January, and efforts to revive it have waned. ¶ But the More Cops debate isn’t over. ¶ Sheriff-elect Joe Lombardo, who takes office next month, is expected to try to persuade commissioners to give him more funding to add officers after his term begins. As Lombardo comes up with his own strategy for More Cops, here’s a look at how the proposal has evolved and why it hasn’t come to fruition.

— Conor Shine contributed to this story.

The Metro Police budget is $511 million this year.

(STEVE MARCUS/

n November 2004: Clark County voters narrowly approve a half-cent sales tax increase to hire Metro officers The measure was scheduled to be applied in two phases. The first .25 percentagepoint increase went into effect in 2005.

The second was scheduled to become effective in 2009, but decision-makers opted to delay it because of the recession. n AUGUST 2013: After the Nevada Legislature approved a bill allowing the Clark County Commission to raise the sales tax to 8.25 percent from 8.1 percent, the proposal goes before the Clark County Commission for a vote.

Metro contends it has lost more than GILLESPIE 400 officers since 2010 because of budget cuts, and crime has risen 9 percent. Proponents say the tax increase would allow the department to hire 150 to 200 officers. But commissioners put off the vote, citing questions about how the money will be spent and questioning why Gillespie isn’t using a reserve fund of $136 million to fill the jobs. Commissioners also say they want to get feedback from taxpayers as to whether they’d support the measure.

STAFF)

n SEPTEMBER 2013: A compromise

WHAT THE TAX HIKE COULD COST

The average Clark County consumer spends $15,000 a year on retail purchases, according to 2007 statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau (the most recent data available). That means that in one year, the tax hike would cost a county resident about $22.50.

ARGUMENTS FOR AND AGAINST THE TAX What supporters say: n More funding would allow Metro to restore some of the hundreds of officer positions cut during the recession due to a shrinking budget. n More police officers are needed on the streets because crime rates are rising. n Voters approved the tax increase in 2004, and the Legislature authorized it in 2013.

20_News_MoreCops_20141221.indd 20

What opponents say: n With water rates, gas taxes and other expenses increasing, residents on tight budgets can’t afford the extra sales tax hit. n The sales tax hike is regressive and disproportionately affects the poor. n Metro needs to make sure it is spending its existing $511 million budget efficiently before asking for more money.

proposal emerges from Commissioner Susan Brager that would raise the sales tax only by .075 percent, half of the original proposal. Brager argued the .15 inBRAGER crease would be too much for taxpayers to bear. Later, Commissioner Chris Giunchigliani accuses Gillespie of cherry-picking department data to back his pitch for More Cops.

She says the sheriff hadn’t disclosed that Metro’s ranks were down only 18 officers since 2008, significantly fewer than the 426 positions lost since 2010, according to the sheriff’s math. n OCTOBER 2013: The commission

turns down both Brager and Gillespie’s proposals. The commission is dead-

locked, with two commissioners (Steve Sisolak and Giunchigliani) strongly opposing any tax increase, three (Tom Collins, Larry Brown and Lawrence Weekly) supporting Gillespie’s plan and two (Brager and Mary Beth Scow) preferring the compromise. Under state law, a five-vote majority is needed to pass the proposal because it involves a tax increase. n OCTOBER 2013:

Commissioner Collins, who has supported raising the sales tax by the full .15 of a cent, comes up with a new plan.

He pitches a hike of a COLLINS tenth of a cent, to be instituted in April 2014 to allow revenues to start accruing, with the rest put in place by July 2014, when the new fiscal year begins. n NOVEMBER 2013: Collins tables his

proposal, opting to let Gillespie work on a report laying out statistics to support his argument that more funding is needed. n DECEMBER 2013: With the help of an economist, Gillespie comes up with a complex compromise that proposes linking sales tax increases to the depletion of a $136 million reserve account as more officers are hired. He suggested that as money from the fund was spent, tax hikes would be instituted in two phases in 2014 and 2015. New tax revenue would be used to hire 101 officers over two years, while the reserve would be spent to fill vacant jobs. Earlier versions of the proposal didn’t come with conditions for hiring officers or using reserves. n JANUARY 2014: The sheriff’s plan is rejected. Commissioners haven’t budged enough for a plan to win the five votes needed. n NOVEMBER 2014: Lombardo is

elected to replace Gillespie as sheriff in 2015. More Cops proponents say they are hopeful that he’ll do what LOMBARDO his predecessor couldn’t — successfully sell the tax to the commission.

12/18/14 3:40 PM

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Gambling: The neglected addiction Many insurance policies don’t cover the disorder despite reclassification

BY J.D. MORRIS STAFF WRITER

Despite growing consensus that gambling addiction can be as devastating as alcoholism or drug dependency, problem gamblers can face an unfair fight against the disease.

So argues UNLV professor Stacey Tovino, who researched ways gambling addicts are disadvantaged by health and disability laws, which allow some insurance providers not to cover problem gamblers seeking treatment. Tovino argues that people diagnosed with gambling disorder — the clinical name for gambling addiction — should be treated the same as those suffering problems with drinking or drugs.

“If you see someone with severe gambling disorder, that’s all they focus on,” she said. “That’s as serious a drug addic tion as alcoholism.”

Until last year, the American Psychiatric Association listed gambling disorder as an “impulse control disorder” in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The condition was grouped with kleptomania and pyromania.

In a 2013 update, the association reclassified gambling disorder as a “nonsubstance-related disorder,” under the same umbrella as alcoholism, in a section on addictive diseases. It was a significant shift, and it reflected a growing consensus in medical research.

“Addiction is a disorder of the brain reward system, and it doesn’t matter whether the system is repeatedly activated by gambling or alcohol or another substance,” Tovino said, quoting Dr. Charles O’Brien, who chaired the work group on substance-related disorders for the 2013 update.

But health and disability laws still have a lot of catching up to do.

The Affordable Care Act was intended in part to bolster insurance coverage for mental health problems. It requires certain health plans to provide “essential health benefits,” including services for mental health and substance use disorders. But not all of those plans have to cover gambling disorder treatment.

Tovino found that Nevada’s require ments for the basic benefits some insurance plans must cover excludes impulse control disorders, including gambling disorder, because the rules were set before the new diagnostic manual was published.

22_News_ProblemGaming_20141221.indd 22

New medical guidelines consider gambling addiction to be under the same umbrella of disorders that includes alcoholism.

(STAFF FILE)

NEED HELP? For help or information about problem gambling, call the 24 Hour Problem Gamblers HelpLine at 1-800-522-4700 or visit the Nevada Council on Problem Gambling at nevadacouncil.org.

That means some Nevada residents have health insurance coverage for gambling disorder only if their insurers voluntarily choose to provide it.

The National Council on Problem Gambling identified similar issues with the law, saying states could sidestep the spirit of the benefits requirement.

“This process … appears to allow new plans to avoid coverage for gambling disorder, not because of the legitimacy (of ) the condition or because the law intended to exclude gambling disorder, but simply because the practical implementation relies on previously existing plans,” the council wrote.

Gambling addicts who try to get disability insurance coverage based on their disorder also face legal roadblocks. Although help for gambling disorder is not excluded in disability law, Tovino found multiple court cases in which people tried and failed to get such coverage.

Nevadans aren’t universally barred from getting health insurance coverage for gambling disorder under the ACA, but it’s unclear how many Nevada plans offer it.

Jake Sunderland, a spokesman for the Nevada Division of Insurance, said there are two plans on the individual and smallgroup markets that specifically exclude problem gambling. The rest are unclear.

“For a majority of the carriers out there, it’s really up to the patient to work with their physician and their insurance carrier to identify what’s medically necessary and what will be covered,” Sunderland said.

That has proven to be a difficult process for some. Carol O’Hare, executive director of the Nevada Council on Problem Gambling, said her organization has heard from treatment providers that getting an insurance company to cover services is the exception rather than the rule.

“Getting insurance coverage for problem gambling has been historically difficult and at times not cost-effective,” O’Hare said. “It’s so rare that the insurance will cover it, it’s almost a waste of time.”

O’Hare said insurance companies’ re luctance to cover gambling addiction may stem from a lack of understanding about the disorder, since it doesn’t have the same amount of research amassed over

decades that substance abuse has had.

Nevada allocates some public money to fund gambling addiction services, so residents are able to get treatment at an affordable price or for free.

But widespread insurance coverage of gambling addiction still would help.

O’Hare said about 60 percent of the pub lic funding typically is allocated for treatment. If more insurers covered treatment, more of that money could be used to improve other services, such as training new counselors.

“At the end of the day, if there aren’t more resources somehow to fund the services, the services will not grow,” O’Hare said. “We are not even scratching the surface of being able to really provide the availability of treatment we should provide.”

Patients at the Problem Gambling Center in Las Vegas, for example, can get their treatments covered for free.

But the center’s Dr. Robert Hunter said getting insurance companies on board would be beneficial because it would encourage more people to seek treatment.

That’s what happened when insurance companies were compelled to pay for alcoholics’ treatment, Hunter said.

“That was when people really started coming forward and getting help,” Hunter said. “I think the same thing would happen.”

12/18/14 3:39 PM

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Terry Fancher speaks Aug. 22 during a news conference at SLS Las Vegas. Fancher is the new top executive of the hotel, replacing Sam Nazarian, rear, who has stepped away from day-to-day operations in the wake of revelations about his recent cocaine use. (MIKAYLA WHITMORE/STAFF FILE)

A few months after opening, SLS has a new beginning

H

istorically in Las Vegas, December is the city’s slow period.

That’s no longer the case, as VegasVille continues to bubble over with activity as the year draws to a close. n Some overarching thoughts about SLS Las Vegas chief Sam Nazarian stepping away from his day-to-day duties at the troubled hotel: Nazarian’s struggles with Nevada’s Gaming Control Board prove once more that obtaining a full gaming license in this state is a privilege, not a right. The standards to be met are remarkably high. The board is not going to take a shine to an applicant who admits cocaine use during a spring break trip just four months before reopening a $415 million resort or who delivers $3 million to a felon with convictions for money laundering and drug possession.

Nazarian was awarded a limited, oneyear gaming license but remains barred from involvement in casino operations.

Nazarian was the creative force who recruited the team to design and build SLS. Many of the effects, such as the photo gallery of personal favorite Terry O’Neill, show his imprint. But as a changeover in hierarchy was an-

24_News_Kats_20141221.indd 24

nounced, we were remindthe property where Siegel ed of the exact ownership made his first purchase in schematic at the resort.

Las Vegas, the former Vista Nazarian’s company, SBE Arms Apartments on the Entertainment, owns just northwest corner of Sierra 10 percent of the hotel, yet Vista Drive and Swenson he had been installed as Street. the man at the top.

In addition to 27 Siegel No longer, and we Suites low-budget apartJOHN might well have seen the ment complexes, Siegel KATSILOMETES end of Nazarian’s run as a continues to own Rumor, Strip resort operator. The Artisan, the Resort at property’s majority owner, Mount Charleston and the Stockbridge Capital, has appointed old Crown Plaza property on Paradise Executive Managing Director Terry Road, where development has halted.

Fancher as the hotel’s top official. SLS Much of his focus has turned to Reno, President Scott Kreeger reports directly where this year he bought the Virginia to Fancher.

Hotel, El Cortez and 248 On The River.

The hotel opened when growth on Siegel is converting those properties the north end of the Strip needed to be to mix-used buildings with apartments celebrated, and maybe Kreeger can steer on the top floors and retail and office this craft in the right direction. The end spaces at the bottom. Reno is sufferof 2014 was to be a new beginning at ing a dearth of affordable housing as SLS, and it will be — though for reasons Tesla Motors moves toward opening its entirely unforeseen. $5 billion battery gigafactory in 2018.

Siegel will be in a prime position as n Stephen Siegel has run full circle thousands of new residents move into in his decade of building a Las Vegas the region. real estate empire. The Siegel Group just bought Sierra Vista Square Apartn Celebrating a new 10-year contract ments, paying $4.65 million at auction. to remain in Las Vegas, the Wrangler The 175-unit complex is a block east of National Finals Rodeo this month re-

corded its highest attendance ever at the Thomas & Mack Center.

In a curiously related event, less than a week later, the Cosmopolitan named a new president.

The link? Bill McBeath.

As chairman of Las Vegas Events’ board of trustees, McBeath helped keep the rodeo from galloping off to Osceola County, Fla. This month, he was named president of the Cosmopolitan, supplanting John Unwin, who is leaving the post at the end of the year.

McBeath served as president and chief operating officer of CityCenter when it opened in 2009. He is a dynamic personality, is experienced in Strip hotel management, is well-connected and was a good face and fit for previous resorts gigs at Treasure Island, Mirage and Bellagio.

Unwin successfully directed the slick, hip and distinctive Cosmopolitan. Its restaurants are among the best in the city, and its entertainment is top notch.

But the resort has never turned an annual profit. The new owners, an affiliate of Blackstone Real Estate Partners, are going to want to make money.

They’ve saddled up with a longtime Strip honcho to make it happen.

12/18/14 3:38 PM

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26

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

LIFE

Send your news information to news@thesunday.com

WEEKEND GETAWAY BOULDER CITY

Places to explore within driving distance

Small-town charm and holiday cheer

BY DON CHAREUNSY STAFF WRITER

Boulder City is a mere 11 miles southeast of Henderson, but it might as well be another planet compared with the Strip.

In fact, Boulder City’s motto is “a world away for a day.”

As such, it’s a great destination for a weekend getaway or day trip if you’re pressed for time.

My weekend in Boulder City started with a 20-minute Papillon helicopter tour of Hoover Dam. I am deathly afraid of heights, but the pilot put my friend and me at ease with his friendly demeanor and sense of humor. The views were breathtaking, and the ride aboard the brand new $3.5 million helicopter was seamless. Papillon turns 50 next year.

Add to my future to-do list: a return visit for the muchlonger Grand Canyon helicopter tour.

I checked into the Hoover Dam Lodge, formerly the Hacienda and currently under heavy construction, and grabbed a casual lunch at the hotel’s 24-hour cafe.

It was really striking to realize how inflated Strip prices are when you travel off the Strip.

Dinner later that day was at the steakhouse, and postdinner drinks in the lobby bar. A Jack and soda, Amaretto sour and chardonnay cost $14.50 — less than the price of one cocktail at most Strip lounges.

My renovated 17th-floor room was lodge style and had a view of Lake Mead. I’m excited to see the renovations set to be completed in the new year.

If you love the holidays — I really love the holidays — the first Saturday in December was the perfect time to be in Boulder City, as it hosted the annual Santa’s Electrical Night Parade downtown and the Parade of Lights at nearby Lake Mead’s Boulder Beach. The downtown parade is a favorite for hundreds of families, with lighted floats, bands, Christmas carols and candy canes galore. You could feel the warmth and pride; the sense of community was inspiring.

Definitely put both parades on your calendar for next year, although downtown Boulder City and Lake Mead are worth a visit any time of year.

There are a plethora of outdoor activities in Boulder City year-round: golf courses, Hoover Dam, the Nevada Southern Railway and Museum, helicopter tours (Papillon and Stars and Stripes Air Tours), Bootleg Canyon Mountain Bike Park, the River Mountains Loop

26_Life_WeekendGetaway_BoulderCity_20141221 2.indd 26

A truck made to look like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer turns the corner during Santa’s Electrical Night Parade in Boulder City. (PHOTOS BY DON CHAREUNSY/STAFF)

Santa and Mrs. Claus, as well as their elves, greet children aboard the Santa Train, which runs the first three weekends of December at Boulder City’s State Railroad Museum.

Trail, Bootleg Canyon Flightlines, Black Canyon River Adventures, airplane tours, kayak and canoe tours, cruises and the Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

A favorite among both locals and tourists is mingling with bighorn sheep at Hemenway Park. Dozens of the sheep visit regularly, coming down from nearby mountains to water and graze. The animals are more common in summer but remain a regular sight in winter.

If wildlife isn’t your cup of tea, check out the city’s numerous antique shops. Or one of the three dozen pieces of public art that line Nevada Way and Arizona Street, the city’s two main thoroughfares.

A week after my first visit, I returned to Boulder City for breakfast at Boulder Dam Hotel and a ride on the Santa Train. Sunday is the busiest day for the restaurant, and breakfast — eggs, bacon, sausage, hash browns, toast, water, coffee and iced tea for $13, tax included — was a great, high-calorie way to start the day surrounded by locals. The cozy lobby included a Christmas tree, fireplace and comfortable living-room seating.

The family-friendly Santa Train, which runs the

first three weeks in December every year, is a steal at $5 per person. The small Nevada Southern Railway train carries Santa and Mrs. Claus, who talk to visitors and pose for pictures.

According to Kate Hemingway, one of two full-time employees at the State Railroad Museum, the Santa Train attracts 10,000 visitors annually.

The museum, run almost exclusively by volunteers, is open February through December — it closes in January for maintenance — and includes model trains and a working 1875 Eureka and Palisade Steam Locomotive (its sister locomotives are on display at the Smithsonian Institute and a California museum). For $250, you can play train engineer for an hour and run a diesel-electric locomotive on the historic Boulder Branch Line.

Even having spent two recent weekends there, I plan to return to Boulder City — after all, it’s the same commute as from Henderson to Summerlin — to discover its breakfast cafes, downtown brew pub, museums and outdoor activities. What a great way to explore a world away for a day.

12/18/14 3:51 PM

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30

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

LIFE

Send your news information to news@thesunday.com

HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS APLENTY

BY EVA CHIDESTER | SPECIAL TO THE SUNDAY

No holiday season is more apparent in Las Vegas than the one that boasts Santa as the headliner. ¶ The trappings of Christmas are all around us — the strings of lights blinking on houses and businesses; the overladen trees that dwarf our living room furniture; the garland and mistletoe; the inflatable reindeer and elves; the “real” Santas that miraculously appear at malls. ¶ But in fact, December is filled with many cultural and religious observations and celebrations, a reflection of the diversity that is Las Vegas. Among them: ADVENT

HANUKKAH

From Nov. 30 to Dec. 24, Christians prepare for Christmas by observing Advent, derived from the Latin word meanNOV. 30 ing “coming.”

- DEC. 24 Its iconic image is a flat evergreen wreath that represents continuous life.

Nestled in it are four candles — the colors may vary whether the household is Catholic or Protestant — that believers light, one at a time in a weekly progression, often while saying a penitential prayer. Three of the candles symbolize prayer, penance and good works during Advent; the fourth represents joy. Some wreaths have a fifth, white candle to mark the arrival of Christmas Eve.

The eight-day Hanukkah celebration, which started Dec. 16, commemorates the victory of a small band of DEC. 16 Jews over Syrian - DEC. 24 enemies. The Jewish army reclaimed its Holy Temple, and in celebration and gratitude, sought to light a menorah, a type of candelabra. While they found only enough oil for 24 hours of burning, the candles remained lit for eight days, enough time for more oil to be prepared.

Modern observers light one candle each night for the eight days of Hanukkah to honor the miracle.

“There are so many violent acts in the world, we light the menorah to remind ourselves each act of kindness we commit brings more light and positive energy into the world,” explained Rivky Bronchtain, a teacher at Desert Torah Academy, a local Jewish day school.

Fried foods are a holiday tradition because of the importance of oil, and many families exchange gifts.

Several menorah lightings are being conducted throughout the valley.

KWANZAA Kwanzaa is celebrated Dec. 26 to Jan. 1 by the black community to honor members’ African roots. Maulana DEC. 26 Karenga, an Af- JAN. 1 ricana studies professor, created the holiday in 1966 after the Watts riots in Los Angeles, to unify people.

Each night of the celebration, a child lights a candle on the Kinara, a candle holder, and one of Kwanzaa’s Nguzo Saba, or seven principles, is discussed. They are unity, self-determination, responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith.

Although each family tells different stories and celebrates in its own way, Kwanzaa often ends with a feast known as Karamu.

30-31_Religions_Recipe_Latkes_20141221 2.indd 30

THE FEAST OF OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe is celebrated Dec. 12, mostly among the Hispanic faithful. It celebrates the DEC. 12 day in 1531 the Virgin Mary appeared to St. Juan Diego, an Indian man.

According to popular belief, Mary told Juan she would listen to his people and heal their sorrows.

When Juan proved to the bishop he had seen Mary, a basilica was built in the spot of her appearance. It now is the most visited Catholic site in the world.

WINTER SOLSTICE The Winter Solstice, also known as Yule, is celebrated Dec. 21 by pagan groups to honor the birth of the sun DEC. 21 and its life-giving qualities. Followers celebrate the shortest day of the year and the promise of spring with circle ceremonies, candle lighting and prayers.

CHRISTMAS Among Christians, Christmas is celebrated Dec. 25 as the day Jesus was born. But there also are several DEC. 25 secular ideas that come to a head on the same day.

Saint Nicholas, whom the idea of Santa Claus is based on, was a fourth-century bishop in Turkey who was known for being generous to the poor and became associated with gift giving.

The notion of Santa Claus was further cemented into American culture after Clement Moore wrote “A Visit from St. Nicholas” in 1823. His story describes the saint flying from home to home on a reindeer-drawn sleigh and leaving gifts in the stockings of children. The story later was renamed “The Night Before Christmas.”

Christmas trees historically have been evergreen trees, symbols of life during the depths of winter.

Queen Victoria and her husband, Prince Albert, are credited for promoting the custom of Christmas trees and gift giving, having decorated Windsor Castle with extravagant trees and gifts hanging from branches for children’s enjoyment.

RAMADAN Sometimes in December — but not this year — falls the holiest of Islamic holy days, Ramadan. It celebrates the lunar month during which the Quran, the final revelation of God’s word to the prophet Muhammad and the central religious text of Islam, was revealed.

Ramadan is marked by a month of fasting during daylight hours, with small meals eaten at night. It is a period of worship, charity, contemplation and fellowship with family and friends to strengthen community.

Ramadan won’t occur in December again until the 2030s.

12/18/14 4:27 PM

31

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INGREDIENTS

LIFE

DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

(makes 20 latkes)

2 1/2 lb shredded fresh potatoes

3/4 lb jumbo yellow onion, diced

1 pinch ground black pepper

3 oz allpurpose flour

2 whole eggs

1/2 tsp kosher salt

2 tsp fresh parsley, washed and chopped finely

THE SUNDAY

2 1/2 fl oz canola oil

POTATO PANCAKES (AKA LATKES) RECIPE PROVIDED BY EXECUTIVE CHEF PETER SHERLOCK, STATION CASINOS

These, along with other traditional Jewish food items for Hanukkah, are available at all Station Casinos Feast Buffets and Fiesta Casinos Festival Buffets until Dec. 24.

FOR SERVING

DIRECTIONS

1

Combine the shredded potatoes, onions, eggs, salt, pepper and parsley in a bowl and mix well.

Sour cream

Applesauce

6

Spread the potato mixture to form a 2-inchdiameter cake.

2

Slowly add the flour.

Mix well.

7

Let cook until golden brown.

3

Pre-heat a griddle to medium heat.

4

Coat the griddle evenly with oil.

5

Scoop 2 oz of the potato mixture on to the griddle surface.

8

Turn over and cook until golden brown.

Serve hot with sour cream and applesauce.

Chef recommends frying these over baking.

Frying the latkes will caramelize the natural sugar and starches in the potato pancakes to develop an extra layer of flavor.

TIP

If you’re ner st ho ing a din t ge some and want to work done, advance prep the latkes you can fry ce cooled, and then on to be freeze them ter. la ed reheat

30-31_Religions_Recipe_Latkes_20141221 2.indd 31

12/18/14 4:28 PM

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8/28/14 11:36 AM

As nonprofit organizations, the Animal Foundation and Nevada SPCA rely on community involvement.

Their websites provide information about how you can help support animal care in our community.

33 THE SUNDAY

LIFE

DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

LOOKING FOR A NEW BEST FRIEND?

The Animal Foundation and the Nevada Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals are shelters dedicated to finding homes for dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, turtles and even roosters. Each week, we feature a selection of animals available for adoption.

Tracy (A816130)

Salty (A815163)

Max

O’Ryan

Age: 3-year-old female Breed: Pit bull terrier mix Description: Tracy is smart, friendly and likes children and new people.

She knows how to sit and shake, and is good on a leash and in a car. She is highly trainable.

Adoption fee: $105

Age: 7-year-old spayed female Breed: Chihuahua mix Description: Salty can be a little timid, but earn her trust and she’ll quickly warm up to you. She walks well on a leash.

Adoption fee: $155

Age: 12-year-old neutered male Breed: Rottweiler Description: Max is surprisingly active. He also enjoys cuddling and can shake paws.

Adoption Fee: $20

Age: 5-year-old neutered male Breed: Tuxedo Chihuahua Description: O’Ryan is a tiny, 5-pound lovebug who needs a responsible home. He is house-trained and compatible with dogs and mature children.

Adoption Fee: $40

Friend (A816155)

Tyger (A816093)

Matthew

Shinjin

Age: 10-month-old male Breed: Domestic shorthair Description: Friend enjoys getting attention and is curious about the world around him.

Adoption Fee: $80

Age: 2-year-old neutered male Breed: Domestic medium-hair Description: Tyger loves people, and he comes running for affection. He’s a big fella who is happy to sit with you all day long.

Adoption Fee: $80

Age: 2-year-old neutered male Breed: Flame point Siamese Description: Matthew melts in your arms when you gently scratch his chin. He enjoys building relationships with people and cats.

Adoption Fee: $40

Age: 7-year-old spayed female Breed: Seal point Siamese Description: Shinjin (“true entrusting”) is affectionate and engaging.

She needs an indoor-only home.

Shinjin likes friendly dogs but is less trusting of cats.

Adoption Fee: $20

Cutie Pie (A814486)

Bulma (A815486)

Derek

Aleah

Age: 3-year-old spayed female Breed: Domestic shorthair Description: Cutie Pie takes time to adjust to new environments but once comfortable is friendly with children and other pets.

Adoption Fee: $80

Breed: Female shorthaired rabbit Description: Prefer rabbits to dogs or cats? Bulma is one of many bunnies available for adoption. She enjoys exercise, toys and leafy greens.

Adoption Fee: $25

Age: 5-month-old neutered male Breed: Maltipoo Description: Derek is a wiggly puppy who likes to sneak kisses on you when least expected. Please plan and budget for a lifetime of professional grooming.

Adoption Fee: $150

Age: 4-month-old spayed female Breed: Maine coon mix Description: Aleah’s favorite games include chasing fishing pole-style toys and hunting feet under blankets. Please kitten-proof your home for her safety.

Adoption Fee: $70

ANIMAL FOUNDATION 702-384-3333 x131 | animalfoundation.com/adopt Animals are assigned a color next to their name indicating location: 655 N. Mojave Road, Las Vegas 286 W. Lake Mead Parkway, Henderson

33_LIFE_Pets_20141221.indd 33

NEVADA SPCA 4800 W. Dewey Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89118 702-873-SPCA | www.nevadaspca.org

12/18/14 3:50 PM

34

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

SPORTS

Send your sports information to news@thesunday.com

WOULD HOCKEY WORK IN VEGAS?

WANT YOUR OWN LOCAL TEA M?

Visit lasvegas hockey.com to pledge supp ort for a Las Vegas ho ckey team.

Here’s a look at how hockey has fared in other nontraditional markets

BY RAY BREWER STAFF WRITER

Billionaire Bill Foley is determined to do more than bring a National Hockey League team to Las Vegas. Within eight years of launching the franchise — possibly the first professional team to set up shop here after a decade of near-misses — he envisions hoisting the Stanley Cup. “I don’t care what it takes,” Foley told ESPN.com.

That’s good, because making hockey work in the desert of Southern Nevada just might take 70-year-old Foley pouring his net worth into building the franchise.

More times than not, franchises in nontraditional hockey markets fail to attract a significant fan base.

Take Atlanta, for example.

In 1980, the Atlanta Flames left for Calgary, Alberta, after averaging fewer than 10,000 fans per game in their final season. Nearly 20 years later, hockey returned to Atlanta with the expansion Thrashers, whose owners say they lost $130 million in the team’s last six years before it was sold to Winnipeg in 2011.

Foley, who owns a Florida insurance and mortgage company, believes Las Vegas could be different.

And the NHL is listening.

He was given the green light two weeks ago by the league’s Board

34-35_Sports_Hockey_20141221.indd 34

of Governors to conduct a season ticket drive in the valley in early 2015 to gauge locals’ interest in supporting a team. The Las Vegas franchise would play in the $375 million, 20,000-seat arena being built behind New York-New York

by MGM Resorts International and AEG, scheduled to open in April 2016.

Foley would have to pay an estimated $450 million expansion fee, which is significant, even for someone of his resources.

The league gave Foley and his group the OK to investigate whether hockey would work in Las Vegas.

No franchise has been approved.

The Maloof family of Las Vegas, former owners of the Sacramento Kings and the Palms, are Foley’s partners. They’ve reportedly been coordinating for more than a year. Foley also has hockey legend Wayne Gretzky as an adviser.

“Nevada and Las Vegas in particular are no longer what they were 50 years ago or 40 years ago: a gambling city, kind of a way station in the desert,” Foley told the Canadian Press. “A number of software companies, development companies have located in Las Vegas. ...

Those companies and those people who work for those companies, that’s our target. Those are the people that we want to have come to these games.”

ARIZONA COYOTES $225M NET WORTH

$-4.6M OPERATING INCOME

$52.63 AVG. TICKET PRICE

Franchise launch: 1972 as Winnipeg Jets, moved to the Phoenix area in 1996 Attendance for 2013-14 season: 13,775 per game, ranked 30th In 2009, owners filed for bankruptcy and claimed hundreds of millions of dollars in losses.

During the 2011-12 season, the city of Glendale, the Phoenix suburb where the Coyotes play, paid $25 million to run the team for the year during an ownership change.

In October, a Philadelphia hedge-fund manager bought 51 percent of the team.

SAN JOSE SHARKS $425M

NET WORTH

$5.6M

OPERATING INCOME

$79.69

TAM

Franchise launch: 1991 Attendance for 2013-14 season: 17,133 per game, ranked 17th The Sharks have a loyal fan base and easily are one of the best success stories in the history of NHL expansion. They have strong corporate partners from San Jose’s thriving tech industry. Still, in 2012, owners said they lost $15 million despite selling out every game.

NET WORT

OPERAT INCOM

$43

AVG. TICKE PRICE

AVG. TICKET PRICE

12/18/14 3:11 PM

N M?

sto for a key

35

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

THE SUNDAY

Send your sports information to news@thesunday.com

WRANGLERS HOPE TO RETURN NEXT SEASON Las Vegas already has a professional hockey team — at least on paper.

The Wranglers voluntarily suspended operations in May after the team’s lease with the Orleans Arena expired, but officials are optimistic the team will return in a new venue next season.

“There are continuing discussions with someone,” Wranglers’ President Billy Johnson said. “We have to make sure whatever the deal, our tickets remain reasonable.”

The team was going to play this season in a makeshift rink at the Plaza downtown, but that deal fell through and put the franchise on life support. The ECHL gave the Wranglers one year to secure a new home. Johnson would not say whom he is in talks with. This season would have started in mid-October.

It’s easy to assume the Wranglers and an NHL team couldn’t co-exist. Why

TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING $230M NET WORTH

$-11.9M OPERATING INCOME

$43

Franchise launch: 1992 Attendance for 2013-14 season: 18,465 per game, ranked 11th Tampa Bay, unlike fellow Sun Belt teams Florida and Carolina, isn’t in jeopardy of leaving. The team has a loyal fan base, won the 2004 Stanley Cup, traditionally has strong players and has a dedicated owner in Jeff Vinik. Tampa Bay would be a model Foley and company should try to mirror.

AVG. TICKET PRICE

34-35_Sports_Hockey_20141221.indd 35

would a desert city, or any city, need two hockey teams?

Johnson disagrees.

First, NHL is a different brand of hockey with a different price point. Wranglers season tickets cost about $550 for 36 games; a single NHL game averages $70.

Plus, an NHL team would need developmental clubs. One up the road on Tropicana Avenue would be a perfect fit.

“McDonald’s doesn’t suffer because there is one on every corner,” Johnson said.

Johnson is rooting for a potential NHL team. He said he’d be among the first to buy season tickets.

“Everyone is asking hockey fans if it will work,” Johnson said. “That is like asking Springsteen fans if they liked his last album. My advice would be: Go to supermarkets, drug stores, and ask those people what they think.”

CAROLINA HURRICANES $220M NET WORTH

$-14M OPERATING INCOME

$60.98

AVG. TICKET PRICE

Franchise launch: 2006 Attendance for 2013-14 season: 15,483 per game, ranked 23rd Owner Peter Karmanos Jr. is trying to sell the franchise for at least $400 million, and some speculated this summer it would be heading to Las Vegas. But Foley’s plans are for an expansion team, not a relocation. Two years ago, Karmanos said his team lost $22 million per season. Despite winning the Stanley Cup in 2006, Carolina struggles to fill its arena.

That’s basketball country, after all.

NET WORTH

$1.7M

OPERATING INCOME

$57.83

DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

WHY VEGAS IS A GOOD FIT FOR THE NHL When a Floyd Mayweather Jr. prize fight or a UFC card fills the MGM Grand Garden Arena, the excitement on the Strip rivals that of other professional sports cities on game night.

Vendors sell shirts on bridges connecting casinos, bars and restaurants fill with patrons, and table game limits increase.

Las Vegas buzzes for sports.

Imagine that happening multiple times a month during hockey season.

A consistent sports presence is the one entertainment option noticeably missing from the Strip. But the city has mastered hosting sporting events about once a quarter, giving it the experience

NASHVILLE PREDATORS $250M

SPORTS

Franchise launch: 1998 Attendance for 2013-14 season: 16,600, ranked 20th Nashville has given its hockey team more than $100 million since the mid-to-late 1990s. In 2012, owners said they put $60 million of their own money into operations to cover losses. But attendance gradually is improving, and the Predators are hosting the 2016 NHL all-star festivities.

to graduate to hosting 40-plus NHL games annually.

It may finally be Las Vegas’ time. Southern Nevada has a taxpayer-free venue in MGM/ AEG’s new arena and a population of more than 2 million, which rivals other cities with professional sports franchises.

And, of course, there’s the Strip.

Residents and tourists both can fill the arena.

Local companies also can do their share, by comping tickets to high rollers and giving them away as corporate relations.

Once a home team starts winning, locals would do the rest. History shows Las Vegans love winning teams and would flock to see one in contention.

FLORIDA PANTHERS $190M NET WORTH

$-15.6M OPERATING INCOME

Franchise launch: 1993 Attendance for 2013-14 season: 14,177 per game, ranked 29th Despite tickets being sold for as little as $7, Florida consistently has one of the league’s worst attendance figures. Last January, owners said they lose $20 million to $30 million annually and hoped to collect $70 million in public funds from an entertainment tax.

$40 AVG. TICKET PRICE

AVG. TICKET PRICE

Sources: Forbes, ESPN

12/18/14 3:11 PM

36

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

GAMING

Send your gaming information to gamingguide@thesunday.com

CASINO PROMOTIONS PLAZA New member slot tournament Date: Fridays Information: Four sessions available; top winner at each wins $250.

PALMS $15,000 Just Because giveaway Date: December Information: Random players win free play.

Play for prizes Date: Through Dec. 26 Information: Redeem points for up to $190 in cash per day. Players keep their points. $40,000 ‘Tis the Season of Cash drawings Date: Through Dec. 26 Information: Earn drawing tickets from slot play. Earn 2x entries Sundays and Tuesdays; earn 5x entries 8 p.m. to midnight Fridays and Saturdays. Drawings at 7 p.m. Fridays.

Ten winners selected with maximum prize of $3,000 in cash.

Date: Dec. 25 Information: Get 2x points on video poker, and earn $6 for getting 1,000 points. Get 5x points on slots and video reel machines 25 cents and higher, and earn $15 for getting 1,000 points. Get 10x points on penny reel machines, and earn $30 for 1,000 points.

Real Gaming giveaway Date: December Information: Real Gaming members who play 10 hours of live poker in the South Point poker room will receive a $20 credit to their Real Gaming account. Players who spend 40 hours in the poker room throughout the month will receive an added $20 bonus.

JERRY’S NUGGET Up to 5x points Date: Fridays and Saturdays Time: 4 a.m.-11:59 p.m.

Information: Rewards members who swipe their cards at a kiosk get 3x to 5x points on slot and video poker games.

GOLDEN GATE First Drawing of 2015 Date: Jan. 1 Time: 3 a.m.

Information: Earn drawing tickets beginning 2 a.m. Dec. 30 on slots and table games. One ticket will be earned for every 100 points on slots and $100 buy-in on table games. Ten winners will be paid in cash and will evenly split the $2,015 prize pool.

STATION CASINOS

D LAS VEGAS

50-plus senior Wednesdays Date: Ongoing Time: 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Locations: All Station properties, Fiesta Henderson and Fiesta Rancho Information: Free $3,000 slot tournament for rewards members age 50 and older; $5,000 Spin and Win Silver Ticket promotion; bowling specials; and half-off dining, bingo and bowling when paying with points.

Corvette giveaway Date: Jan. 24 Information: Receive an entry for every 100 points earned at slots or video poker, every $100 blackjack wager or every $300 daily keno play.

Remaining drawing is Dec. 31, with five winners advancing to a grandprize drawing Jan. 24. Top prize is a 2014 custom Corvette Stingray.

Up for Whatever Date: Throughout football season Information: Bud Light representatives will visit Station Casinos sports books and ask people, “If I give you this Bud Light, are you up for whatever?” Those who say yes have the chance to win iPads, televisions, gift cards and football tickets.

SOUTH POINT Seniors 50+ weekly slot tournament Date: Thursdays Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Information: Open to Club Card members age 50 and older. First entry is free with a swipe at a club kiosk; collect a second entry by earning 250 points and a third entry by earning 500 points. Top prize is $1,500; total prize pool is $5,200.

Point multipliers

36-37_Gaming_20141221.indd 36

Snowflake code Date: Dec. 25-31 Information: Earn five base points to play; game available at kiosks. Win cash, free slot play and more.

New Year’s Day cash drawings Date: Jan. 1 Time: 6:15 p.m.

Information: Earn 10 free entries daily for a chance to win up to $10,000.

Earn additional entries through game play; earn 5x entries on Wednesdays.

WILDFIRE 50-plus senior Mondays Date: Ongoing Locations: Wildfire Sunset, Wildfire Boulder, Wildfire Rancho, Wildfire Casino & Lanes and Barley’s Information: Earn drawing tickets to win free slot play; 6x point multipliers; dining and bowling specials

RIVIERA Weekly slot tournament Date: Saturdays Time: 1-5 p.m.

Information: First entry is free, with additional entries per 500 points earned that day. First place is $1,000 in slot play. Top 20 players win slot play prizes, which must be used within 24 hours. Winners must pick up prizes between 6 and 11:59 p.m. the day of the tournament.

$2,500 50+ Slot Tournament Date: Dec. 22 Time: Noon-4 p.m.

Information: Play in one free threeminute slot session on a first-come, first-served basis. Top 25 scores will share $2,500 in free slot play.

Holiday multipliers Date: Dec. 25-31 Information: Earn 6x multiplier on video poker and 12x on all reels.

Champagne giveaway Date: Dec. 30 Information: Earn 250 slot points or $10 rated average bet for two hours to redeem one bottle of Ballatore Champagne.

WESTGATE Rockin’ 777 slot tournament Date: Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays Time: 4-8 p.m.

Information: Free to loyalty club members. Top five winners get $100 in free slot play.

ALIANTE $42,000 pro day parlay football contest Date: Through Dec. 28 Information: Play weekly at any casino kiosk. Top 10 winners per week share $2,500 in free slot play.

Santa’s Leftovers $25,000 drawing Date: Through Dec. 27 Information: First place wins $10,000 in free slot play. Drawing will be 7:15 p.m. Dec. 27 in front of ETA Lounge. Earn entries through play.

Players can also win up to 10x drawing entries Tuesdays in December.

Twelve Days of Magical Elves Date: Through Dec. 24 Information: Play 12 days to win cash, credits, free slot play and more.

Unlock all 12 doors and receive a bonus gift Dec. 25 worth up to $10,000 cash. First door free, earn 100 slot points for other doors.

Fleece blanket giveaway Date: Through Dec. 31 Information: Earn 600 video poker points, 300 reel points or $10 rated average bet for two hours on table games to receive an Aliante fleece blanket.

December multipliers Date: Wednesdays through Dec. 24 Information: Earn 5x multiplier on video poker and 10x on all reels.

50+ Monday Swipe and Win Date: Mondays in December Information: Earn 50 slot points and spin the wheel at any kiosk to win up to $500 in free slot play.

DOWNTOWN GRAND Free Play Mania Dates: Dec. 21-27 Information: Earn 1,000 slot points for $5 in free slot play. Free slot play valid for 48 hours from the time of issuance. Maximum $50 in free slot play may be earned per member per day.

BOYD GAMING Pick the pros Date: Weekly contest Information: Players have a chance at a guaranteed first-place prize of $10,000 each week. Loyalty card required.

12 Days of Giving Date: Through Dec. 24 Information: Earn 200 base points and receive a stuffed animal.

MAIN STREET STATION $20,000 Light It Up cash giveaway Date: Through Dec. 23 Time: 7 and 9 p.m.

Information: Win your share of $2,000 per night.

ORLEANS Ho Ho Ho cash drawings Date: Saturdays in December Time: 3-7 p.m.

Information: Fifteen names will be drawn every hour for $200.

Holiday hot seat Date: Sundays in December Time: 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

12/18/14 12:42 PM

t

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Send your gaming information to gamingguide@thesunday.com

Information: Random machine players will be selected every 15 minutes to receive $100 cash.

Point multipliers Date: Dec. 25 and Jan. 1 Information: Penny reel players will receive 15x points from midnight until 11:59 p.m. Dec. 25. Receive 15x points on all penny reels from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. New Year’s Day.

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37

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

CALIFORNIA $20,000 Light It Up cash giveaway Date: Through Dec. 23 Time: 6 and 8 p.m.

Information: Win up to $2,000 per night.

$12,000 Football Square Fandemonium Date: Monday nights Information: Qualifying blackjack and craps players can earn squares for a chance to win up to $600 in cash and promotional chips.

chances to swipe the prize machine, with a maximum of three swipes daily. Earn five points for a chance to win $50; 40 points for a chance at $100; and 300 points for a chance at $2,500

Mesmerizing Memory Match drawing Date: Dec. 26 and 27 Information: By choosing a board piece and guessing the matching tile, 10 contestants can win $2,500 in cash and free slot play.

ARIZONA CHARLIE’S

Nifty 50+ Slot Tournament Date: Wednesdays in December Time: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Information: First prize winner will take home $1,000 cash.

RAMPART CASINO Pirate’s Treasure progressive drawings Date: Last Wednesday of the month Time: 6:15 and 8:15 p.m.

Information: Ten winners at each drawing. Progressive jackpot increases every month it doesn’t hit.

GOLD COAST Twelve Days of Christmas plush toy giveaway Date: Through Dec. 24 Information: Receive a plush toy for every 200 points earned. Maximum of two per guest per day. Maximum of eight plush toys per promotion.

Holiday point multipliers Date: Dec. 25 and Jan. 1 Information: Earn 15x points on penny reels.

What’s in Your Holiday Glass cash grab Date: Dec. 27 Information: Earn 100 base points to participate.

Ho Ho Holiday cash drawings Date: Fridays Time: 3-7 p.m.

Information: Slot players earn one entry for every 50 base points. Table players earn one entry for one hour of rated play. Fifteen winners per hour; each gets $200 cash or $220 slot dollars.

SILVER SEVENS Halftime drawings Date: Last Monday of every month Information: Earn entries through slot play. Prizes include official team jerseys, free slot play and more. $5,000 weekly professional football challenge Date: Through Dec. 22 Information: Guests have a chance to win prizes such as $500 in cash, $250 in cash or two free buffets.

36-37_Gaming_20141221.indd 37

SUNCOAST Point multipliers Date: December Information: All Wednesdays in December, receive mystery multipliers up to 50x points; from Dec. 25 through Dec. 31, earn 15x points on penny games, 11x points on slots and 7x points on video poker.

New Year’s week point challenge Date: Dec. 29-Jan. 2 Information: For every 2,500 base points earned, guests can pick a card and receive between $15 and $250 in free slot play. On Jan. 2, receive a $100 cash bonus for every 5,000 total base points earned, up to $500 cash.

WILLIAM HILL RACE & SPORTS BOOK 1st & $10,000 Date: Saturdays and Sundays through December Information: Win a share of more than $25,000 in free bets during the football season.

Pro Pick’em football contest Date: Through December Information: Pick the winning teams to collect your share of $13,000 each week of the football season.

GOLDEN NUGGET Point multiplier Mondays Date: During football season Information: Earn 10x points on video reel machines and 5x points on video poker.

20/20 College Bowl Challenge Date: Through Dec. 29 Information: Pick 20 college bowl games against the spread for your chance at $30,000 cash. Go 20 for 20 and receive a $100,000 perfectscore bonus.

EL CORTEZ Gift card giveaway Date: December Information: Players who win a $200 or more jackpot on a slot machine, a $200 or more jackpot on a video poker 5-cent or lower denomination machine, a $300 or more jackpot on a video poker 10-cent or higher denomination machine, or a $200 or more jackpot on live keno receive their choice of free gift card from El Cortez, Wal-Mart, Walgreens, Shell, Chevron, Smith’s or Zappos.com.

M RESORT Touchdown football drawing Date: Through Dec. 28 Information: Hit any four-of-a-kind combination with a minimum bet of 25 cents on bar-top video poker machines during select football games at 32° Draft Bar, M Bar or the main casino bar to be entered into a drawing for a Super Bowl getaway.

TUSCANY 10x reels and video reels 7x video poker Date: Mondays and Fridays Information: Rewards members receive 10x points on slot and video reel games and 7x points on video poker games.

TREASURE ISLAND $40,000 free slot play fortune Date: Through Dec. 27 Information: $10,000 in free slot play will be awarded monthly. Earn one ticket for every 50 points of play. Ten winners each month.

THE SUNDAY

GAMING

DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

a free gift, including SLS sweatshirts, blankets, organizers and wine. $2,000 slot tournament Date: Tuesdays in December Information: To participate, earn 100 points while playing slots. Top three players win $1,000, $750 or $250 in free play, and everyone is guaranteed $5 in free play.

STRATOSPHERE Wrap up holiday cash Date: Through Dec. 31 Information: Every 10,000 base points you earn deliver $50 cash.

SILVERTON Twelve Lucky Elves swipe and win Date: Sunday through Thursday in December Information: Guests who earn 300 points in one day can win up to $12,000 in cash, free slot play and more. Guests who earn 1,000 points in one day can win up to $24,000 in cash, free slot play starting at $20 and more.

100 players win $100 or gifts and more Date: Dec. 21 Information: Silverton Rewards Club members will receive one free swipe with their loyalty card at the kiosk, and 100 players will win $100 in free slot play or a mystery prize.

10x points Date: Fridays or Saturdays in December Information: Earn 10x points on video reels or slots. Players must swipe their card at the redemption kiosks to be eligible.

Table games drawings Date: Wednesdays in December Time: 8 and 9 p.m.

Information: Each drawing will have 10 winners. Top prize is $1,000 cash or chips. Earn entries by getting qualifying hands at table games.

Earn 2x entries from 3 to 8 p.m.

Wednesdays

CLUB FORTUNE SLS

BINION’S

$50,000 Pick Your Present drawings Date: Fridays in December Time: 7 p.m.

Information: Earn one entry ticket for every 50 slot points or $15 rated average bet on table games for an hour. Top prize is $10,000 cash.

Mother Lode swipe and win Date: Ongoing Information: Club members can win up to $2,500 daily. Earn points for

Gift giveaways Date: Wednesdays in December Information: Earn 250 slot points for

Top of the Hill slot tournament Date: Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays Time: 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Information: Cash prizes.

HOOTERS 5x points Date: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays Information: Club members receive 5x points on selected slot machines.

12/18/14 12:42 PM

38

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

YOUTH COMMENTARY

Send your political information to news@thesunday.com

Marijuana, assisted suicide spark lively debate Nearly 1,000 Clark County high school juniors and seniors recently attended the 58th annual Las Vegas Sun Youth Forum at the Las Vegas Convention Center. They gathered in groups and discussed a host of issues affecting the community, Nevada, the nation and the world. Each group selected a representative to write about the experience. Here is one of them.

O

ne of the topics that generated a high level of engagement and controversy at the 2014 Sun Youth Forum was the legalization of marijuana. Initially, students were reluctant about the drug’s legalization, JEFFREY claiming it could cause an increase in drivHORN ing under the influence and overall drug Senior, Green Valley High consumption.

But as the discussion progressed, we concluded that legalization is unlikely to increase drug users.

For example, The Washington Post reported that since the legalization of marijuana in Colorado, traffic fatalities have been at an all-time low. The Journal of Adolescent Health found that legalization has not increased teenage drug use, and research shows the number of estimated drug users has not increased significantly in states where marijuana was legalized.

Thus, because it is nearly impossible to prevent usage, 5549_SPatSunday_2_FIN.pdf 2 marijuana 3/5/14 7:51 AM policies must focus

on the safest possible regulation of it.

Currently, marijuana production and distribution largely is controlled by Mexican drug cartels that facilitate violence and smuggling at the border. By shifting the production and distribution of marijuana to legal industries in the United States, cartels’ finances would be greatly damaged.

Our group agreed that legalizing marijuana would allow U.S. interests to make significant profits from the sale and regulation of marijuana.

The criminalization of marijuana also results in drug users committing crimes to fund their addiction. Students in our group emphasized it is important to consider who is being criminalized for the possession of marijuana. According to The Washington Post, people of color are disproportionately affected by marijuana arrests. While marijuana use is almost equal among Caucasians and people of color, minorities are arrested nearly four times as often for possession.

The second topic our group found engaging was the ethics of assisted suicide.

Many students in our group argued that suicide is irreversible and life is too valuable to end. However, we agreed that for people who receive terminal diagnoses from their doctors and are told that their health will deteriorate to a point in which they may not be able to communicate, remember their family and friends, or speak, walk or move, assisted suicide should be an option. Assisted suicide allows those who are terminally ill to be remembered in a healthy state instead of an ailing one and allows them to maintain some element of control. They also can pass peacefully in their homes while their health is manageable, rather than suffer an excruciating death months later.

The youth forum embodies the diversity that makes this country politically sound and teaches students to productively engage in political issues that will define the future of our nation.

Paid for by the Nevada Departments of Public Safety and Transportation

38_editorial_20141221.indd 38

12/18/14 12:41 PM

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40

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

LIFE

Send your feedback to events@thesunday.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21

Continental Tire Las Vegas Classic: The college basketball tournament returns to Las Vegas, featuring Texas Tech, Boise State, Houston, LoyolaChicago, Abilene Christian, South Carolina State, Southern Utah and Arkansas-Pine Bluff. Game schedules will be available online closer to event date. Noon, $50-$110, Orleans Arena, 4500 W. Tropicana Ave., orleansarena. com.

Magical Forest: Stroll past hundreds of trees lit with millions of LED lights and whimsical displays while listening to holiday music. The forest is Opportunity Village’s largest annual fundraiser, and all proceeds pay for programs and services to support the 3,000 clients and families served annually. All day, $9-$20, Opportunity Village, 6300 W. Oakey Blvd., opportunityvillage.org. *Also: Daily through Jan. 4.

Glittering Lights: The drive-thru show features hundreds of light displays with millions of lights glittering along the 2.5-mile course at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. 5:30-9 p.m., $20, Las Vegas Motor Speedway, 7000 Las Vegas Blvd. North, glitteringlightslasvegas.com. *Also: 5:30-9 p.m. through Thursday, 5:30-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

One Is Silver, the Other Is Gold: The Lost City Museum presents this exhibit celebrating 25 years of Nevada folk-life apprenticeships. It features 22 visual artists who received grant support as master or apprentice artists in various folk traditions. 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. daily, $5 for adults, free for children and members, 721 S. Moapa Valley Blvd., 702-397-2193. *Also: Through Jan. 30.

Rocky Mountain Gun Show: The last day of the gun show welcomes hunters and outdoor adventurers to one of the world’s largest displays of machinery, ammunition and apparel.

9 a.m.-4 p.m., $15, South Point, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd. South, rockymountaingunshow.com.

Santa in the Shipwreck: Children 12 and under can take a photograph with Santa and share their holiday wishes.

10 a.m.-4 p.m., $18 for adults, $12 for children 5-12, free for children 4 and under, Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, 3950 Las Vegas Blvd.

South, mandalaybay.com.

Holiday Hoops College Basketball Classic: The fourth day of the Holiday Hoops Basketball tournament includes Division I and Division II men’s and women’s college basketball teams, including Northwest Nazarene University, University of Southern Indiana, Western Washington University, West Texas A&M University, Tarleton State University, Drury University, California State University and more. 11 a.m., $20, South Point, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd. South, southpointarena.com.

40-41_Events_20141221.indd 40

9 a.m.-5 p.m., free, Marjorie Barrick Museum, UNLV, 4505 S. Maryland Parkway, 702-895-3381. *Also: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, noon-5 p.m. Saturdays through Feb. 28.

There are lots of places for children to have their picture taken with Santa Claus this holiday season. (MONA SHIELD PAYNE/FILE)

“The Nutcracker”: Featuring a live orchestra and larger-than-life landscapes, Nevada Ballet Theatre’s “The Nutcracker” transforms the theater into a wonderland of moonlit snow and waltzing flowers. 1 p.m., $49-$179, Smith Center for the Performing Arts, 361 Symphony Park Avenue, 702-7492000, thesmithcenter.com.

Photos with Santa Claus: Bring the kids to Santa’s house in Town Square Park to have their picture taken with Santa Claus. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. with break 2:30-3 p.m., free, Town Square, 6605 Las Vegas Blvd. South, mytownsquarelasvegas.com. *Also: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Santa breaks for milk and cookies from 1-2 p.m. and 5:15-6 p.m.

Monday through Saturday.

Santa at Titanic the Artifact Exhibition: With more than 300 artifacts on display, children can relive the magic of the “Ship of Dreams” and share their wish list with St. Nicholas on one of the most memorable settings from Titanic. Images will be available for purchase. 1-3 p.m., $29-$32, Luxor, 3900 Las Vegas Blvd.

South, luxor.com.

Downtown Summerlin Rock Rink: The rink will be open through midJanuary and is great for a date night or a day out with the family. Ticket includes skate rental. Santa is available for photos. 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Downtown Summerlin, 1980 Festival Plaza Drive, downtownsummerlin.com. *Also: 4-9 p.m. through Wednesday.

Give With Me Winter Wonderland: Enjoy holiday attractions, including a snow hill, 50-foot Christmas tree,

Christmas lights, holiday snacks, shopping, Santa and more. 3-10 p.m., free, the Lot at the Western, 899 Fremont St., givewithme.com.

Opportunity Village JFSA menorah-lighting ceremony: Take part in the annual Jewish Family Service Agency menorah-lighting ceremony at Opportunity Village. Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman will flip the switch, followed by a ceremony featuring Boyz II Men and Human Nature. 5:30 p.m., free, Opportunity Village, 6300 W. Oakey Blvd., jewishlasvegas.com.

Hollywood’s Holiday Pajama Party: Kids age 3 to 9 can wear pajamas and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies while reading the classic story “The Polar Express.” Afterward, they can watch the movie while making a holiday ornament. Parent or guardian participation and registration required.

6-7:30 p.m., $5, Hollywood Recreation Center, 1650 S. Hollywood Blvd, 702-455-0566.

“The Forgotten Carols”: Created when writer Michael McLean asked the question, “What if I met the innkeeper who turned away Joseph and Mary?” the story follows the forgotten characters of the Nativity, including the innkeeper, the shepherd and others. 7:30 p.m., $13.50-$32, Cashman Center, 850 Las Vegas Blvd.

North, 1-866-832-8211.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23 House of Paper Birds: The Cosmopolitan brings artist-in-residence JK Russ to the Strip. Her collage installation turns the foundation of contemporary biological classification on its head. 6-11 p.m., free, P3Studio at Cosmopolitan, 3708 Las Vegas Blvd.

South, cosmopolitanlasvegas.com. *Also: Wednesdays through Saturdays until Jan. 4.

The Sunday Buzz: Learn how to dance the Argentine Tango and enjoy a late-night dancing party. Class is 7:15-8:15 p.m., open dancing until 11 p.m. $15, Gold Coast, Arizona and Nevada ballrooms, 4000 W. Flamingo Road, 520-907-2050, tangowithjudy. com. *Also: 8:30 p.m.-midnight Tuesday, Broadway Hall, 3375 S. Decatur Blvd.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 22 Reflecting & Projecting: 20 Years of Design Excellence: This exhibit celebrates the architecture produced in Nevada over the past 20 years.

Downtown dodgeball: Play a fun elimination game. The game is active, so wear comfortable shoes and clothing. Costumes welcome. 7-11 p.m., free, Gold Spike, 217 Las Vegas Blvd.

North, dtlvdb.com.

Vintage Vegas Jazz: Enjoy a night of dancing and jazz with the DRS Trio.

7-10 p.m., $4 for nonmembers, $5 for dinner, German American Social Club of Nevada, 1110 E. Lake Mead Blvd., 702-649-8503.

Meter2Miles: Help bring home friends, family and neighbors serving active duty by signing up for a 10-minute rowing session. For every 20 meters rowed, one airline mile will be donated to LBEH.org. Participating veterans and active duty count for double miles. All fitness levels are welcome. Times vary, free, Orangetheory Fitness Village Square at The Lakes, 9326 W. Sahara Ave., Suite 4, and Orangetheory Fitness in Henderson, 10271 S. Eastern Ave., lbeh.org, orangetheoryfitness.com.

12/18/14 12:36 PM

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41 THE SUNDAY

LIFE

DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

*Also: Through Jan. 15.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 24 Raft the Colorado with Santa: Families can join Black Canyon River Adventures for a 12-mile, 4 1/2-hour rafting journey along the Colorado River. Santa Claus and his helpers will pilot the rafts on this smooth-water river adventure, which includes a boxed lunch, bottled water, cookies, hot chocolate, Christmas music and more. 9:30 a.m., $92 for adults, $87 for children 13-15, $58 for children 5-12, children under 5 are free, Hacienda Hotel, Highway 93, Boulder City, BlackCanyonAdventures.com.

Claus & Paws pet photos: Bring your dogs and cats to Santa’s house for a photo with Santa and treats.

10 a.m.-9 p.m., free, Town Square, 6605 Las Vegas Blvd. South.

Light It Up: Celebrate Hanukkah with Jewish Emerging Leaders (JewEL) and the Young Adult Jewish Community. Open bar from 9-10 p.m., $25, GhostBar at Palms, 4321 W. Flamingo Road, jewishlasvegas.com.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26

Christmas tree recycling: An easy way to get rid of your Christmas tree.

Remove lights, wire, tinsel, ornaments and nails. Flocked trees cannot be recycled. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., multiple locations including Springs Preserve, 333 S. Valley View Blvd., springspreserve.org *Also: Through Jan. 15.

Sinatra Sensation: Enjoy the sounds of vintage Vegas, performed by celebrity tribute artist Peter Pavone. 7 p.m., free, two-drink minimum, the Parlour at El Cortez, 600 Fremont St., elcortezhotelcasino.com.

Scottish country dancing: Scottish country dancing celebrates the ballroom styles of Scotland. Wear comfortable clothes and soft shoes.

6:30-8:45 p.m., $4-$5, Charleston Heights Arts Center, 800 S. Brush St., 702-229-6383

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 27 Monthly gardening tips: Learn what you can do in your garden to start the new year right. 1-2 p.m. $2 members, $3 nonmembers. Springs Preserve, 333 S. Valley View Blvd., springspreserve.org.

seph e vity, pherd 32, s Blvd.

Oil recycling: Bring your used cooking oil and grease to the Springs Preserve for safe recycling. Pour used oil back in its original container, seal it, then bring it to the special collection receptacle in the south ticketing parking area. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., free, Springs Preserve, 333 S. Valley View Blvd., springspreserve.org.

fun active,

ANSWERS TO PUZZLES ON PAGE 66 KEN KEN

UNLV men’s basketball vs.

Southern Utah: 7 p.m., $10-$110, Thomas & Mack Center at UNLV, 4505 S. Maryland Parkway, unlvtickets.com.

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CELEBRITY CIPHER “I WAS FEELING REAL GOOD AND REAL MANLY. UNTIL A REAL COWBOY WALKED

BY AND TOLD ME I HAD MY HAT ON BACKWARDS.” — MICHAEL BIEHN

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12/18/14 12:37 PM

PALMS ESTATE A SHOWING FROM THE CRIGHTON TEAM PHOTOG: TEK LE

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12/18/14 2:41 PM

43 THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

When it comes to bad workers, should you fix them or fire them?

BY ED KOCH | SPECIAL TO VEGAS INC

The administrative assistant spent about as much time hanging around the water cooler complaining about her job and the workplace as she did half-heartedly completing her assigned duties. ¶ “I wish they’d fire me so I can sit home and collect unemployment,” time and again she told co-workers, many of whom were fed up with her not pulling her weight. ¶ It took less than two weeks for the company’s new human resources director, Mary Beth Hartleb, to FIX OR FIRE, CONTINUED ON PAGE 53

82%

Percentage of Americans who want to spend less this Christmas, according to a Bankrate.com report.

43,53_VICover_20141221.indd 43

$596

Amount the average American plans to spend on holiday gifts this year, according to the National Retail Federation.

11.2% Unemployment rate in Atlantic City, nearly double the national rate of 5.8 percent.

2.73M

Number of jobs added to the U.S. economy over the past 12 months.

November was the 50th consecutive month of positive job growth, the best stretch since 1939.

12/18/14 3:10 PM

44 THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

CONTENTS PUBLISHER Donn Jersey (donn.jersey@gmgvegas.com)

EDITORIAL

NOTEWORTHY STORIES

47 48 56 Q+A WITH CAROL THOMPSON

The vice president and general manager of Santa Fe Station talks about how her experience in the military translates in the hospitality industry, the most rewarding aspect of her job and the pride she takes in Station Casinos’ commitment to veterans.

THE NOTES Giving, P46

MEET: TOYS 4 SMILES

Rex Doty isn’t Santa Claus, and the volunteers who put in time for his nonprofit organization aren’t elves, but they may as well be to the children who benefit from the work they put in crafting toys from donated hardwood.

TALKING POINTS What will it take to repair education? P49

DATA AND PUBLIC INFORMATION A listing of local bankruptcies, bid opportunities, brokered transactions, business licenses and building permits.

MORE VEGAS INC BUSINESS NEWS Calendar: Happenings and events, P55 The List: Banks and nonprofit foundations, P60-61

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Application to Mail at Periodicals Postage Prices is Pending at Henderson, NV and at additional mailing offices.

VISITOR VOLUME, FUEL PRICES AND AIRFARE NOT ADDING UP Oil prices continue their historic slide, and tourists keep coming to Las Vegas by the millions per month.

Last week, in fact, the valley set a record when it surpassed 40 million visitors for the first time — and that was with two weeks left in 2014.

You might think that’s due in part to lower fuel prices leading to cheaper airfares. You’d be wrong.

Airline ticket prices haven’t dropped this year. In fact, they’re up a bit — even as carriers are ex-

44_VITOC_20141221.indd 44

pected to report record profits.

New York Sen. Charles Schumer called for the Justice Department to look into the situation. “It is curious and confounding that ticket prices are sky high and defying economic gravity,” he said.

Airline representatives say they need to reinvest fuel savings in jet upgrades. So maybe it’s the savings at the pump that all those travelers are putting toward their Las Vegas getaways.

POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: Vegas Inc Greenspun Media Group 2360 Corporate Circle, Third Floor Henderson, NV 89074 702.990.2545 For inquiries, write to: Vegas Inc 2360 Corporate Circle, Third Floor Henderson, NV 89074 For back copies: Doris Hollifield at 702.990.8993 or e-mail at doris.hollifield@gmgvegas.com For subscriptions: Call 800.254.2610, or visit vegasinc.com. For annual subscriptions, $50.

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12/18/14 3:07 PM

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46 THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

GIVING Send your business-related information to news@vegasinc.com

Junior Achievement of Southern Nevada recently hosted its fourth annual Suite Holidays Tour and Tasting Experience. The resort tour raised more than $70,000 that will be used to teach financial literacy to Clark County students.

Dress for Success Southern Nevada elected 2015 officers for its board of directors: Shelli Ryan, chair (Ad Hoc Communication Resources); Bart Patterson, vice chair (Nevada State College); Olivia Fierro, secretary (Fox 5 News); Araxie Grant, treasurer (Las Vegas Sands Corp.); and Monica Moore, assistant treasurer (Epiphany Business Service). The nonprofit also welcomed two new board members: Brenda Bradbury, director of human resources at MGM Grand, and Brooke Thomas, director of the Nevada Boise Complex for Merrill Lynch.

We R Community, the Public Education Foundation’s service-learning initiative, began its seventh year.

The program teaches high school students about community service, philanthropy and volunteerism. Each We R Community class receives $5,000. Participating schools include Basic, Boulder City, Chaparral, Cheyenne, Cimmaron-Memorial, Clark, Desert Oasis, Desert Pines, Green Valley, Las Vegas, Mojave, Northwest Career & Technical Academy, Rancho, Sierra Vista, Valley and Western high schools.

Bank of America’s LGBT advocacy and awareness organization, Ally, joined with United Way of Southern Nevada to provide dental care to local children in need. Ten volunteers and community partners created 4,000 dental kits for distribution.

Keenan Sanders, staff process engineer at Tronox, and Connie Hall, safety manager at Tronox, taught Cashman Middle School students about engineering and opportunities in the field. The effort was part of the school’s “Careers in Engineering Day.” The Clark County School District and USA Sevens Rugby partnered in an Adopt-A-Country program designed to teach sportsmanship, teamwork, exercise and healthy living. Schools and their partner countries are: Kay Carl Elementary/ Portugal, Jack Dailey Elementary/ France, Dean Peterson Elementary/ Wales, Elise Wolff Elementary/ Fiji, H.P. Fitzgerald Elementary/ Scotland, Robert O. Gibson Middle School/England, Keith C. & Karen W. Hayes Elementary/South Africa, Jesse Scott Elementary/Japan, Jerome Mack Middle School/Uruguay, Justice Myron E. Leavitt Middle School/Argentina, Zel & Mary Lowman Elementary School/Kenya, Mario C. & Joanne Monaco Middle School/Canada, Paradise Professional Development School/Australia, Lewis E. Rowe Elementary/

46_VIGiving_20141221.indd 46

benefitting Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation. Sixteen Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants adopted a family supported by the foundation to provide needed items.

AAA Nevada honored Ben Kole, a 12-year veteran firefighter with the Las Vegas Fire Department as the 2014 professional Rescuer of the Year. Kole revived a newborn girl who was not breathing after an emergency delivery in her family’s apartment. AAA Nevada donated $10,000 to the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter.

Findlay Toyota donated $10,000 to After-School All-Stars Las Vegas. Staff and students from the nonprofit joined Findlay Toyota representatives, including general manager and After-School All-Stars board member Rich Abajian, at the Henderson dealership to celebrate the donation.

USA and C.P. Squires Elementary/ Samoa.

Champions for Nevada, hosted by the Financial Guidance Center, honored people and groups who provided housing resources to the community. This year’s honorees were Sen. Harry Reid, Gov. Brian Sandoval, Rep. Dina Titus, Rep. Steven Horsford, Nevada Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto and Wells Fargo.

Capriotti’s donated proceeds from opening day at its Downtown Summerlin location to the Las Vegas Rescue Mission.

Two hundred volunteers from 110 Southern Nevada McDonald’s restaurants visited Three Square Food Bank to assemble ready-to-eat meals for the Kids Cafe program, fill boxes for the Senior Share program and stock the mobile pantry.

Shelli Ryan, CEO of global technology consultancy Ad Hoc Communication Resources, was appointed chair of Stride Center, a nonprofit that encourages economic self-sufficiency for people and communities in the San Francisco Bay Area.

The Mario Batali Foundation opened a Books for Kids library that serves 82 children year-round at Acelero Learning Reach Out Center, 1522 Pinto Lane, Las Vegas. It is the ninth Books for Kids library the foundation has funded and the first in Nevada.

At the conclusion of the Life is Beautiful festival, Three Square Food Bank received 1,542 pounds of donated food, the equivalent of 1,280 meals. In addition, a portion of proceeds from ticket sales was donated to Three Square.

The Grant a Gift Autism Foundation’s fifth annual Fashion for Autism Gala raised $246,553. Three local

professionals were honored: Scott Kavanaugh of First Foundation Bank, Autism Community Partner Award; Dr. Mario J. Gaspar de Alba of Childrens Healthcare Clinic, Autism Community Care Award; and Carrie Carter Henderson of BESTAgency and Las Vegas Fashion Council, Autism Advocate Award.

Town Square donated to Nevada Ballet Theatre 10 percent of sales of a limited-edition gift card.

Spread the Word Nevada brought books and literacy services to Robert Lunt Elementary School, the first of the 30 schools funded through the Engelstad Family Foundation’s $1.8 million “Every Child Reads” grant.

Control Power Concepts, a power engineering and technical field services company, and Miko Sushi raised almost $7,000 for Laura Dearing Elementary School and Green Our Planet at the second annual Miko Sushi Golf Tournament.

Tronox contributed $500 to help fund the annual Haunted Mines Party at Gordon McCaw Elementary School.

Michael I. Kling, founder of Kling Law Offices, completed his sixth LoToJa race, a one-day, 200-plus mile bike race from Logan, Utah, to Jackson, Wyo. Kling raised $14,531, a LoToJa Hometown Hero donation record. Overall, the Hometown Heroes raised $180,000 for cancer research.

Staff at Chenin Orthodontics paid $1 a pound for children’s Halloween candy, then sent the candy to troops overseas with cooperation from the Nellis Air Force Base Airman and Family Readiness Center and Operation Gratitude.

Dunkin’ Donuts Las Vegas hosted its second “Adopt-A-Family” drive

Four formerly homeless Las Vegas families received used cars as part of the National Auto Body Council’s Recycled Rides program. The families were selected by Family Promise of Las Vegas, which partners with the National Auto Body Council.

The Juice Standard, 4555 S. Fort Apache Road, Las Vegas, donated all of its November proceeds to the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health.

Employees of Houldsworth, Russo & Company joined Rebuilding Together Southern Nevada volunteers to paint the exterior of a home and spread 20 tons of stone for desert landscaping.

Jim Bridger Middle School, Kenny C. Guinn Middle School and Mario C. and JoAnne Monaco Middle School each received a $20,000 Verizon Innovative Learning Grant from the Verizon Foundation to advance science, technology, engineering and math curriculum.

Station Casinos and the Royal Purple Las Vegas Bowl partnered with the Military Warriors Support Foundation to give away a home.

Caesars Entertainment staff and clients volunteered to beautify Doris Reed Elementary School.

Caesars Foundation donated $200,000 to the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health’s HealthyBrains initiative. The initiative, set to debut in 2015, will provide people with important facts and tips essential to maintaining brain health.

More than 40 volunteers from Bank of America visited Veterans Village in downtown Las Vegas to paint, power-wash and clean the grounds.

Veterans Village serves more than 1,000 military veterans each year in need of transitional or permanent housing, food and/or medical and mental health services.

United Nissan representatives and Forman Automotive Group owner Don Forman donated $5,000 to Three Square Food Bank from a test-drive fundraiser.

12/18/14 12:36 PM

47

THE INTERVIEW

THE SUNDAY

Send your business-related information to news@vegasinc.com

DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

Q&A WITH CAROL THOMPSON

Be a go-getter, but be a ‘go-giver’ as well Carol Thompson has climbed the ranks at Station Casinos. The Air Force veteran started as an administrative assistant at Boulder Station, but steadily climbed the ladder over 14 years, and for the past two years has served as vice president and general manager of Santa Fe Station. She talked to VEGAS INC about how military service prepared her for the hospitality industry and the importance of giving back to the community.

What has your experience in the Air Force taught you about being successful in your current field?

I learned the importance of taking pride in every aspect of my business and instilling the same level of pride in my team. The military taught me attention to detail, which is vital in the hospitality and gaming industry.

I learned that respect must be earned and a leader must demonstrate a high level of integrity.

I also learned the importance of having a compassionate heart capable of caring for those we lead.

What characteristics from your Air Force experience do you instill in your employees?

Be respectful of our guests and one another.

Be a good communicator — with an emphasis on listening to the needs of our guests and team members.

Be flexible and adapt to change quickly.

You have gone from an administrative assistant to general manager of Santa Fe Station. What has your career path been like?

It has been a fabulous adventure encompassing both professional and personal growth.

What is the most challenging part of your job?

The market is extremely competitive. A full understanding of the competition and strategically growing market share is vital. It requires flexibility and a willingness to take calculated risks.

Equally important is managing the guest’s experience. How we make our guests feel will determine where they choose to spend their time and money. Building relationships has always been the foundation of our success.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The time I spend on the floor is the most rewarding. Walking both the front and back-ofhouse areas and talking with our team members and guests is always insightful.

As an operator, understanding how the business feels can’t be measured on a report or spreadsheet.

Firsthand observations of all aspects of the guest experience are vital to our continued success.

What do you do after work?

I spend my time with my family and close friends. Family dinner every Sunday and time with grandchildren is my favorite part of the week.

47_VIQA_20141221.indd 47

Carol Thompson, vice president and general manager of Santa Fe Station, is an Air Force veteran.

(L.E. BASKOW/STAFF)

What are you reading right now?

“The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz.

Blackberry, iPhone or Android?

IPhone, of course!

Describe your management style.

I have learned to incorporate a flexible management style and adjust based on our goals and objectives. Demonstrating a consultative management style is my preference; however, there are times when incorporating a more autocratic style is necessary to get the job done. I’m open to feedback from my team and understand the importance of establishing trust.

Where do you see yourself and your company in 10 years?

I see our company continuing to thrive and developing new and exciting offerings to our loyal guests and the Las Vegas community.

I’d like to think in 10 years I’ll be semi-retired and spending time with my family.

Whom do you admire and why?

I admire leaders who inspire and motivate others to succeed and support them as they realize their full potential. I’ve had many talented mentors along my career path who selflessly gave of their time and talent to support me in my professional

growth. It’s important to “pay it forward.”

What is your dream job, outside of your current field?

I’d like to work in a role that allows me to give back to the community and make a difference on a humanitarian level. Being a “go-giver” is just as important as being a “go-getter.”

What is your biggest pet peeve?

Not being on time! I don’t have much tolerance for tardiness and personally prefer to be early.

What is something people might not know about you?

While serving in the Air Force, I was promoted “below the zone” (editor’s note: an accelerated promotion) and received an incentive flight in an EF-111 fighter jet out of Mountain Home Air Force Base. It was an honor and a privilege that I will never forget.

Anything else you want to tell us?

There are many veterans working as part of our Station Casinos family. We also employ many family members of both retired and active-duty military personnel. Our company is committed to acknowledging our military community as demonstrated by our Military Mondays. I’m proud to be a part of our commitment to our veterans.

12/18/14 12:35 PM

48

GET TO KNOW A LOCAL BUSINESS

THE SUNDAY

Send your business-related information to news@vegasinc.com

DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

BY THE NUMBERS

$15 MILLION

Cost of recently completed renovations to the Golden Nugget’s Gold Tower, in which 462 rooms were upgraded.

27.8

Percentage of Las Vegas homeowners — the highest in the nation — who owe more on mortgages than their houses are worth.

$866

Average asking rent for an apartment in Southern Nevada, according to Colliers International.

2,000

Approximate number of houses sold through the Greater Las Vegas Association of Realtors’ listing service in November, down 12.8 percent from October and 7.7 percent from November 2013.

$3,500

Maximum monthly rent at Gramercy, formerly ManhattanWest. The luxury apartments are set to open Jan. 15. The lowest available rent is $950.

5,396

Number of new homes sold

by Southern Nevada builders this year through November, down 20 percent from the same period last year, according to Home Builders Research.

12,667

Number of warehousing and storage jobs that could be created if Apex Industrial Park is fully developed and leased.

$249,500

Median listing price of single-family homes without offers in November — 23.5 percent higher than what the typical house sold for in October, according to the Greater Las Vegas Association of Realtors.

48-49_VI_MeetColumn_20141221.indd 48

Elmer Griggs assembles wheels and axles on toy cars at the Toys 4 Smiles workshop. The nonprofit organization started as a wood club in 2006 and soon will produce its 200,000th toy, founder Rex Doty said. (STEVE MARCUS/STAFF)

Nonprofit group’s volunteers are like real-life Santa’s elves Describe Toys 4 Smiles.

We take donated scrap wood, make toys and give them to children of all ages in need of a smile.

Who are your customers?

TOYS 4 SMILES Address: 3170 Polaris Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89102 Phone: 702-232-8191 Email: admin@toys4smileslasvegas.org Website: toys4smileslasvegas.org Hours of operation: 8:30 a.m.4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday; 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday Owned/operated by: Rex Doty In business since: 2006

We have numerous clients in the Las Vegas area. We have provided toys to children through contacts at cancer centers, the burn center at University Medical Center, military families, the Clark County School District and others.

What makes your business unique?

people in the community who can help us continue our mission.

What is the hardest part about doing business in Southern Nevada?

Getting people and companies committed to helping us help children.

What is the best part about doing business in Southern Nevada?

Discovering the great groups here that reach out to make this a better community. And meeting young people who are so committed to helping others.

What obstacles has your business overcome?

DOTY

We are a 100 percent volunteer operation. Ninety percent of the toys we make go to children in Southern Nevada.

Developing a system to reach more volunteers and finding a temperature-controlled facility for our nonprofit so we can involve more people.

What is your business philosophy?

What have you learned from the recession?

You can get anything you want in life if you help enough other people get what they want.

Because we get donated scrap hardwood, I have been in contact with many tradespeople and companies over the past 8 1/2 years. It’s sad to see some are gone, but the ones who were in for the long haul survived. Kind of funny, but we have turned out to be a barometer for the economy.

What’s the most important part of your job?

It is very important to our mission that we are visible to

12/18/14 12:33 PM

49

TALKING POINTS Send your business-related information to news@vegasinc.com

READER COMMENTS We want to hear from you. Visit vegasinc.com to post your opinion.

On Eli Segall’s vegasinc.com story “For Las Vegas renters, pricey resort-like options increasing”: In a state where 90 percent of the citizens are bluecollar workers living on minimum wage or slightly higher, I wish him all the best of luck. — rrgarnett At least there are investors willing to try something in Las Vegas. That’s a positive development.

— MarlinPalmer Give it a couple of months, and all the luxury amenities will be destroyed by the residents. They’ll steal or destroy the electronics, the yoga classes will get cancelled and the volleyball pit will become a giant litter box for stray cats.

— DMCVegas

THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

What will it take to repair education?

N

deferred maintenance. o doubt, Clark County School So here’s the bottom line: It doesn’t matDistrict administrators are facter whether the bill for repairs is $3.5 billion ing skepticism over their recent or $7 billion or $700 billion. The district will announcement that $7 billion in never catch up at its current rate. repairs and maintenance is needed for local Therefore, it’s time for Gov. Brian Sandoschools and facilities. val and the Legislature to step up and help.

That’s a staggering figure. To give it some Taxpayers aren’t going to do it on their own, context, consider that the budget for the state as they proved by defeating a bond initiative of Nevada is about $18 billion.

RIC in 2012 and then demolishing the margin tax It’s a head-scratcher, too, considering the ANDERSON ballot measure next year. price tag for repairs and maintenance had been With Republicans now in control of the Leg$3.5 billion. islature thanks to a midterm sweep, Sandoval In a district where the average age of schools has a unique opportunity to do something is 25, versus 40 nationally, taxpayers in the Las meaningful on education this year.

Vegas Valley are bound to ask how so many schools could be Actually, let’s call it something other than “a unique in such bad shape. opportunity.” Indeed, it’s an obligation to the people who But how about we don’t quibble with the number and elected him. instead focus on the problem?

For Nevada to prosper, its businesses need to be able to We have schools that are falling apart. There are stories recruit and retain qualified workers. To do that, a strong of children bringing hats and gloves to school for when the public education system is crucial. Right now, it’s anything heat goes out. but.

As the husband of a teacher who has worked in two buildSchool repair bills are stunningly high, and student ings where aging HVAC systems failed, I can vouch that achievement is embarrassingly low. It’s long past time for some buildings are in bad shape. our state leaders to prop up Southern Nevada schools — Meanwhile, the district has been able to budget less literally and figuratively. than $400 million over the next few years for repairs and

SMITH’S WORLD

Mike Smith is an award-winning editorial cartoonist who also draws for the Las Vegas Sun. His work also is distributed nationally by King Features Syndicate.

See archives of his work at lasvegassun.com/smithsworld.

On Conor Shine’s lasvegassun.com story “Las Vegas’ latest financing plan cuts city’s share of soccer stadium’s cost”: Even as the state reveals a budget shortfall and begins looking for ways to increase taxes, this project would use the new tax revenue it may or may not generate to reward the developer.

— freepress No public money unless an agreement is struck with the NFL to hold the Super Bowl here every three years.

— chuck333

48-49_VI_MeetColumn_20141221.indd 49

12/18/14 12:33 PM

50 THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

YOUR BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS NEWS Send your business-related information to news@vegasinc.com

Chamber OK with some tax hikes; unveils plan point, service expansion is inevitable.”

BY KYLE ROERINK STAFF WRITER

Insiders characterize the Nevada Legislature’s budgeting process as a study in chaos, with lawmakers putting off the work until the last minute and then furiously patching together what looks like a shotgun wedding of tax increases and financial gimmickry.

The Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce wants to change that.

Gov. Brian Sandoval, legislative leaders and the state’s business interests have laid out the state’s top priority for the upcoming session: reforming the state’s outdated tax system to bolster funding for public education and health care, and fill a $160 million budget shortfall. In other words, the goal is to raise taxes without upsetting the business community and the far right.

The chamber, an organization historically opposed to tax hikes, is on board. But it wants to see the Legislature take a more methodical approach to creating a budget.

“We’re frustrated like a lot of people are,” said Cara Clarke, a metro chamber spokeswoman. “We don’t want to see something cobbled together.”

The chamber commissioned the Washington, D.C.-based Tax Foundation to study the state’s system and formulate a plan to reform it. North Carolina, Nebraska, New York, Rhode Island and Indiana hired the organization to do similar work.

The nonprofit foundation includes former congressional Republicans and executives of international corporations on its board of directors. The Koch brothers are among its financiers.

In producing the report for the chamber, it crunched some numbers, compared policies and unveiled a road map the Republican-controlled Legis-

Fans crowd around Victory Lane after a NASCAR race at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The speedway is exempt from the state’s live entertainment tax, which generated nearly $140 million this year. (VEGAS INC STAFF FILE)

lature can use as a framework in Carson City.

“This allows us to have a meaningful tax conversation in December — not May 15,” Clarke said.

The chamber released some of the foundation’s work this month. A more complete report — filled with revenue projections — will soon be in the hands of legislative leaders and other business interests.

Here are a few of the foundation’s suggestions: SALES TAX The foundation called Nevada’s sales tax structure narrow, outdated and complicated. That description may be the makings for a mantra among pro tax reform lawmakers in the upcoming session.

The sales tax system is rooted in

1956, said Joseph Henchman, Tax Foundation vice president for legal and state projects. It’s based on a system that taxes consumers on the goods they buy but not the services they use.

But today, the state’s service industry comprises more than 80 percent of consumer expenditures in the state.

The current system, according to the report, is taxing a smaller number of things and forcing the state’s rate to be higher on those items. The Tax Foundation recommends applying the sales tax to a range of services as well as consumer goods, although it doesn’t offer specifics on which new items to tax. Henchman said more details would be included in the final report.

“Rates can only be increased so much,” the report said. “At some

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT TAX One of the foundation’s recommendations: Get rid of this tax and apply sales tax at shows on the Strip and elsewhere in the state. The tax was the product of a special session in 2003 and imposes a fee on live entertainment at venues with 200 or more seats. At these events, the tax is imposed on food, beverages and merchandise, but the tax is dependent on a number of factors, including the size of venues, their locations and whether there’s gaming.

There are a number of exemptions to the tax, which have been approved in what has been described as a haphazard manner by lawmakers. Venues such as minor league baseball parks and the Las Vegas Motor Speedway have obtained exemptions, as have outdoor venues. So events like Burning Man aren’t subject to the tax.

The tax generated nearly $140 million this year, but the foundation says compliance is complex. It doesn’t apply to all businesses and encourages performers to avoid venues where they’re subject to the tax.

MODIFIED BUSINESS TAX Businesses that have a payroll of more than $85,000 per month are subject to the tax, which brought in more than $350 million in 2013. The foundation said it “has room for potential” and several opportunities for reform.

Banks pay a 2 percent rate while other businesses pay 1.17 percent. Branch banks pay nothing.

When the bank tax rates were set in 2003, lawmakers said larger institutions deserved to pay more than small branch banks.

The foundation suggested repealing the $85,000 threshold.

Study: Casinos contributed $53 billion to state economy in 2013

BY J.D. MORRIS STAFF WRITER

Nevada casinos contributed $53 billion to the state economy in 2013, according to the gaming industry’s Washington, D.C.-based trade association.

The American Gaming Association recently announced the results of an Oxford Economics study that measured the economic impact of Nevada’s gaming industry. In addi-

50-51_VI_IBLV_20141221.indd 50

tion to the general contribution to the economy, the study found that Nevada casinos supported about 425,000 jobs and generated $7.9 billion in tax revenues to local, state and federal governments.

“The research reveals a vast industry that boosts local communities across Nevada by supporting jobs and generating customers for businesses,” Oxford Economics director Adam Sack said in a news release.

“The industry also supports a wide range of government services.”

The $53 billion economic impact figure includes direct impact such as casino revenue, indirect impact such as the effect on third-party services, and induced impacts from casino employees spending their wages.

Nevada casinos’ direct economic output was about $30.6 billion in 2013, according to the study.

The results follow a broader study

the association released during the industry’s Global Gaming Expo on Sept. 30. That study found that the overall U.S. gaming industry contributed $240 billion to the economy, supported 1.7 million jobs and generated $38 billion in tax revenues.

The results are part of the association’s “Get to Know Gaming” campaign, which seeks to promote the industry’s positive impacts to Americans.

12/18/14 12:30 PM

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51

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THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

For renters, pricey resort-like options increasing

BY ELI SEGALL STAFF WRITER

The Domain apartment complex has quartz countertops, a digital fireplace in the lobby, free yoga classes and massages, and 50-inch flat-screen TVs in each unit.

The Somerset Hills complex will have a sand volleyball court and dog park. A poolside cabana — dubbed the Cave — will have flat-screen TVs and Xbox gaming systems.

Elysian at the District will have an outdoor movie theater, a pet spa, billiards and arcade room, tanning salon, massage and facial room and, in the units, stainless steel appliances and built-in speakers.

These rental properties, designed to feel like boutique resorts, aren’t cheap A pool is under construction at Elysian at the District at Green Valley Ranch, an to live in, and they aren’t in flashy Mi- apartment complex at 2151 Village Walk Drive, Henderson. (MIKAYLA WHITMORE/STAFF) ami, Los Angeles or San Francisco: After opening just 367 units last single-family homes.

They’re in the Las Vegas suburbs. year, investors have completed 1,700 “I think there are significant risks Despite the still-sluggish economy, units this year. They are projected to that there are more projects than investors are building higher-end open roughly 5,750 in 2015 and almost there are renters,” said Daniel Grimm, rental complexes with larger units, 2,000 in 2016, according to CBRE. Dedeveloper of Somerset Hills. lots of amenities and much higher velopment is almost entirely concenAt the very least, investors are bringprices. trated in the south valley, especially ing a dash of style to a market packed They include the Lennox, whose near the 215 Beltway in southwest Las with no-frills rental properties. Over units range from about 850 to 1,800 Vegas and the Beltway-U.S. 95 interthe years, suburban developers have square feet and cost $1,300 to $2,800 change in Henderson, CBRE found. provided such perks as fitness centers per month. The Gramercy, formerly Land prices and construction costs and small movie theaters, but they’re called ManhattanWest, is scheduled are rising, so making a profit on a in new territory with the abundance to open Jan. 15 and has apartments development requires higher rents, and quality of amenities, not to menranging from 530 to almost 2,100 and the only way to persuade tenants tion the prices. square feet. Rents will be from $950 to pay that much is to throw in more “This is a whole other animal,” said to $3,500 per month. amenities, said Grimm, the Somerset broker Garry Cuff, a vice president Domain’s monthly rents are bedeveloper. with Colliers. tween $895 and $1,445. Elysian, openMoreover, rental rates plunged durThe apartment business is gaining ing in mid-January, will likely charge ing the recession, said Domain develspeed nationally and, though far from up to $2,500 per month — “hopefully oper Martin Egbert, who hopes more roaring, is arguably the best-performhigher,” developer Eric Cohen said amenities will push prices back up. ing aspect of Las Vegas’ commercial this summer. Vantage, in Henderson, Egbert’s group, Nevada West Partreal estate market. Investors have is charging more than $4,000 a month ners, perhaps the biggest high-end been snapping up local properties the for its largest units. developer today, has built a few dozen past few years — often at heavily reBy comparison, the average asking rental properties in the valley since duced prices from the boom years — rent for a Southern Nevada apartment the late 1980s, though never with the and building new ones. is $866 a month, according to Colliers level of amenities as now.

They’re lured in no small part by International.

The group bought land cheap durthe recession’s after-effects. Many High-end rental projects would ing the recession, picking up 15 deresidents, stung by bankruptcies, almost certainly fill up in wealthier, velopment sites in recent years, and foreclosures and short sales, can’t get more established cities. Southern Newants more. mortgages and have to rent. vada’s properties seem off to a good Still, if developers can’t find enough Investors acquired roughly 11,700 start, but it’s unclear how many peorenters, they likely won’t blight neighunits, at an average price of $65,000 ple want — and can afford — to live in borhoods with ghost-town properties. each, this year through the third them, and whether too many developThey can slash rents to lure tenants quarter, compared with 3,000 units ers are chasing a small number of cusfrom cheaper buildings who would at $42,500 each in 2010, according to tomers. jump at the chance for affordable, luxColliers. Vacancy rates have dropped “No one knows,” said broker Patrick ury-style living. from a peak of 11 percent in 2009 to Sauter, managing partner of NAI VeThat would empty out the lower-end 5.5 percent today, Colliers says. gas. complexes, though. This chain effect Developers have opened about The economy is slowly improving, happened during the recession, when 3,500 units a year since 1999, accordbut wages have dropped hard since landlords cut prices to keep building to CBRE Group. Construction the recession and many people ings filled, said Bob Weidauer, CEO dried up during the recession but is likely can’t afford the properties. of WestCorp Management Group, a picking up again.

Also, most residents seem to prefer

50-51_VI_IBLV_20141221.indd 51

property management firm.

Developers such as Egbert are not targeting the masses. They want people with high-paying jobs who could buy a house but choose not to, people who want to live in a fun atmosphere and don’t want to mow the lawn or wait around for the repair guy.

Many such renters are likely young and single or newly married, perhaps wary of the financial havoc that homeownership caused in recent years. But they might also include retirees or empty-nest baby boomers who don’t want to deal with a house anymore.

“I don’t think that population is (big), but I do believe it exists,” said Cuff, of Colliers.

Initial results are promising.

Domain, at Eastern Avenue and Coronado Center Drive in Henderson, opened in January. Just one of its 308 units is vacant.

Dwell, also by Egbert’s group, is on Silverado Ranch Boulevard near Bermuda Road and has 376 units.

It opened in April and is 90 percent leased, according to management.

Prices are $50 a month less than Domain’s.

Elysian at Southern Highlands opened a year ago with 255 twostory townhouses with garages and is 96 percent occupied, according to developer Cohen, co-founder of the Calida Group.

Calida has new projects at the District at Green Valley Ranch and at Downtown Summerlin. As Cohen sees it, he can charge higher rents by building near retail centers, restaurants and freeway on-ramps, and by offering a lot of on-site amenities.

“We felt like people would pay a premium for that,” Cohen said.

Still, people can only pay so much.

The 110-unit Vantage, a stylish, formerly busted condo project, is apparently charging more than anyone.

Amenities include concierge services, spa, pet park and poolside cabanas, as well as gourmet kitchens and floorto-ceiling window walls. Available units range from about 1,900 to 3,100 square feet.

It’s unclear how many renters have signed on — efforts to get comment from the landlord, Texas-based Pinnacle, were unsuccessful — but with prices now between $2,645 and $4,395 a month, most people in the valley can probably only dream of affording to live there.

“At some number, it doesn’t make sense,” Grimm said.

12/18/14 12:30 PM

52 THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

YOUR BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS NEWS Send your business-related information to news@vegasinc.com

Delayed 1,700-acre real estate project Skye Canyon to get first homes

BY ELI SEGALL STAFF WRITER

Developers of a sprawling, once-foreclosed community have lined up the first builders to put up homes there.

The Olympia Companies has sold 80 acres at Skye Canyon — a fraction of the 1,700-acre project site — to Pulte Homes and Woodside Homes, executives said.

The sales price was not disclosed, nor did officials say how many houses Pulte and Woodside would build.

But the deal would bring the first homes to the long-delayed project, planned for 9,000 homes in the northwest corner of the Las Vegas Valley.

The community, between Grand Teton Drive and U.S. 95, is slated to have hiking and biking trails, as well as gambling and other commercial properties.

More homebuilders are expected to be announced soon, and the first model homes are slated to open next fall.

Skye Canyon is one of several formerly stalled master-planned communities coming back to life in Southern Nevada. During the recession, these minicities went bankrupt, were seized through foreclosure or were left on the drawing board.

They include 2,200-acre Cadence, in Henderson; 2,700-acre Park Highlands, in North Las Vegas; and 1,900-acre Inspirada, in Henderson.

Industry observers don’t expect a glut of new subdivisions anytime soon, as the projects will be built in phases and aren’t scheduled to be finished for at least a decade.

These days, developers usually build homes only after people agree to buy them, as opposed to the boom years when frequently construction started without buyers lined up.

Nevertheless, the investors are gearing up as the valley’s homebuilding market, after recovering from the depths of the recession, slows considerably this year.

Southern Nevada builders sold about 4,850 new homes this year through October, down 22 percent from the same period last year, according to Las Vegas-based Home Builders Research. The median price of October’s closings was $287,588, up about 1 percent year-over-year.

A consortium of developers bought the Skye Canyon site for $510 million in 2005 at a federal auction.

But before anything was built, the former Wachovia Bank foreclosed on the property in fall 2008, less than two weeks after Lehman Brothers Holdings went bankrupt and helped set off the national financial crisis.

Skye Canyon is now owned by Olympia, which developed the high-end Southern Highlands community, and New York investment firms Stonehill Capital Management and Spectrum Group Management.

They bought the site at a steep discount.

52_VI_IBLV_20141221.indd 52

An artist’s rendering depicts a proposed stadium in downtown Las Vegas. (CORDISH COS.)

City Council approves funding for Las Vegas soccer stadium

BY CONOR SHINE STAFF WRITER

A split Las Vegas City Council approved public funding for a $200 million downtown soccer stadium, marking a major turning point in the yearlong debate.

The council voted 4-3 to approve financing terms that call for the city to contribute $56.5 million toward the stadium’s construction costs. Not included are the value of the cityowned land at Symphony Park the stadium will be built on and a parking garage it will build.

Mayor Carolyn Goodman led a group of supporters for the project that included Councilmen Steve Ross, Ricki Barlow and Bob Coffin.

Goodman said the stadium would create jobs and economic development that would benefit the “greater good.”

“We’re forward thinking and none of us likes the status quo,” said Goodman, the most vocal advocate for the stadium on the council. “You can’t go backwards.”

Bob Beers, Stavros Anthony and Lois Tarkanian voted against the funding, pointing to the use of public funds in the stadium’s financing as their major reason for opposing.

Beers suggested putting the decision to a vote in the June 2015 election, with Anthony saying such a vote would see overwhelming public opposition to the proposal.

The council’s approval puts Las Vegas on its way to getting a soccer stadium and its first major professional sports team, as long as the developers can persuade Major League Soccer to award them an expansion franchise.

The city has been negotiating the stadium deal since May with the development partnership of Baltimore-based Cordish Cos. and local group Findlay Sports and Entertainment. City leaders have dreamed of a downtown stadium

or arena for more than a decade, but no project has advanced this far.

The approved deal calls for the city to issue $50 million in bonds, with half going to pay for stadium construction and half going to park projects. The bonds plus interest will be paid back with $3 million per year of room tax revenue for the next 30 years.

The city also will pay $31.5 million for infrastructure improvements to the 13-acre Symphony Park site.

The city plans to build a $20 million parking garage to support Symphony Park that the stadium would be able to use for 90 events a year.

Finally, city-owned land valued at $38 million to $48 million would be contributed at no cost to the developer.

The developers would contribute $133.5 million toward the stadium construction costs and cover the costs of acquiring a team — expected to top $100 million.

The stadium will be privately owned and operated by the developer, although the city will have some access to host community events.

Cordish also committed to invest $250 million in additional retail, office and residential development around the stadium site.

The council is scheduled to vote on a final, more detailed agreement Feb. 18.

No stadium will be built unless Las Vegas is awarded an MLS expansion franchise. The MLS board of governors is expected to choose among Las Vegas, Minneapolis and Sacramento within six months.

Justin Findlay, managing partner of Findlay Sports and Entertainment, said a stadium would take 18 to 24 months to build if Las Vegas were to receive a team.

“Now we have a stadium. That’s a big deal for Major League Soccer,” he said.

12/19/14 3:12 PM

53

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THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

FIX OR FIRE, FROM PAGE 43

Many companies tolerate bad employees conclude that, as employees go, the woman was broken and could not be fixed.

“She was thrilled to get her severance package,” said Hartleb, a 30-year veteran in the field that used to be called personnel. “And, despite having to pay her more than we wanted to, the company benefited from her departure because soon after she left, office morale greatly improved, as did worker productivity.”

Perhaps most shocking about that story is that the secretary in question had lasted 10 years in that job.

She survived a fistful of frustrated supervisors before anyone did anything to stem the toxicity she was spreading through her department.

“Unfortunately, many employers do not document each incident (of poor employee productivity or misconduct), as was the case here,” said Hartleb, owner of Prism Global Management Group LLC of Henderson, which runs human resources operations for about 30 companies that collectively employ more than 5,000 people.

“If a fired employee appeals, the first thing (the arbitrator) wants to look at is the employee’s file for documented evidence of long-term problems. Companies that don’t document incidents have a lot tougher time Mary Beth Hartleb owns Prism Global Management Group, which runs human resources operations for defending themselves” against wrongful termination about 30 companies. (CHRISTOPHER DEVARGAS/STAFF) lawsuits.

Knowing this, Hartleb said, many companies decide type of work that is being offered should be identitheir jobs is to implement a “performance improveit’s easier to shrug and tolerate underproductive emfied before an employee is hired,” Hartleb said. “The ment plan,” or, in HR jargon, a PIP. ployees. employer has to determine if the applicant has a good The PIP involves the supervisor, troubled employee But as experienced as Hartleb is at letting underprowork ethic. Things like potential laziness and a bad and human resources director all contributing toward ductive employees go, she is more passionate about attitude should be vetted in the interview to avoid a the resetting of seemingly attainable goals that the turning them around, identifying their previously untoxic workplace.” employee must meet in a timely manner or be fired, tapped skills and making them productive and integral Still, Hartleb said an underproductive worker can Dobek said. cogs in the sometimes complicated machinery that is become a superstar in the workplace: “Sometimes it is “Within 30 days, the employee is expected to perthe workplace. as simple as trying that person in another role where form the very basic fundamental job duties as they Indeed, bosses in Las Vegas and throughout the they may wind up excelling.” relate to his original job description,” said Dobek, United States struggle every day with the question: But author Shaer says employers should ask themthe human resources director for more than 300 “Should we fix ’em or fire ’em?” selves: “Is it worth putting in the time and effort to employees of the Sun City Summerlin Community nnn turn an underproductive worker into just an adequate Association. employee or cut losses, fire that substandard worker If the employee survives that first round, he goes to Steven J. Shaer of Miami has spent much of his work and go out and find a superstar to take his place?” a 60-day evaluation where he is expected to meet more life as a management trainer for law firms and other Dobek, Hartleb and Shaer agree, however, that specific criteria, Dobek said. professional offices, often giving advice as to when managers with quick triggers are not necessarily servThe final phase of the PIP, should the improving underproductive employees should be given a second ing their companies’ best interests. worker make it that far, is a 90-day stretch that “sets chance and when they should be told to hit the bricks.

“It takes a new worker months of training to get added goals that will lead the employee on a road map “It is amazing how many people are terrible at their up to the level of performance the company expects to success,” Dobek said. “The whole purpose of the PIP jobs yet are absolutely shocked when they get fired,” of him,” Shaer said. “If you are constantly firing and is to make the employee come to the realization that he said Shaer, who wrote the 2013 book, “Fix Them or hiring people, you are constantly starting the process must become more engaged in his job.”

Fire Them: Managing, Evaluating and Terminating over and over at step one and not moving the company Once an employee has successfully negotiated the Underperforming Employees.” forward.”

30-, 60- and 90-day PIP hurdles, his work is scrutiShaer, who once fired a receptionist primarily beBut such employer short-sightedness by no means nized in his annual review, thus a worker who truly cause she refused to memorize and recite a simple onegives bad workers license to constantly screw up, goof wants to keep his job has to constantly improve his sentence company telephone greeting, said problems off or otherwise slow down production. skills and not slip back into old, bad habits. often begin with managers who, at the time of hiring, “Some employers fire too much, others not at all,” “do not establish clear measurements of performance nnn Shaer said. “Sometimes, employers have to bite the criteria” by which the worker will be judged. bullet and set an example (by firing inadequate workHartleb, who provides HR services for Three nnn ers).

Square Food Bank, Neon Museum, Sunrise Children’s “If you do not get rid of those who other workers Foundation, Habitat for Humanity and others, said Cynthia M. Dobek, president of the Southern Neknow are not pulling their weight, you set a bad exthe need to give employees a second chance would not vada Human Resources Association, the Las Vegas ample that reflects poorly on you as a manager. And be as necessary if employers practiced good managechapter of the national professional group Society of that only encourages other employees not to perform ment procedures, starting with recruiting.

Human Resource Management, said a way for compato their potential.”

“Qualities like certain skills or a passion for the nies to give problem employees one last chance to save

43,53_VICover_20141221.indd 53

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55

YOUR BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS NEWS

THE SUNDAY

Send your business-related information to news@vegasinc.com

DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

Calendar of events MONDAY, DECEMBER 22

FRIDAY, JANUARY 9

Bureau of Land Management’s Resource Management Plan for Southern Nevada District town hall meeting Time: 4-6 p.m. Cost: Free Location: Clark County Government Building,

Southern Nevada forum Time: 8-11 a.m. Cost: Free Location: Las Vegas City Hall, 495 S. Main St., Las

500 S. Grand Central Parkway, Las Vegas Information: Call 702-455-5534 Clark County Commissioner Tom Collins will host a town hall meeting to solicit input on the Bureau of Land Management’s Resource Management Plan for the Southern Nevada District. The plan identifies land uses for areas in Clark and Nye counties that are under BLM jurisdiction.

Join Southern Nevada legislators, local government officials and business leaders to discuss ideas and policy issues. A light continental breakfast will be served.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 6 Large Vision Business Network Mixer Kick-Off Expo for 2015 Time: 6-9 p.m. Cost: Free with ticket Location: Suncoast ballroom, 9090 Alta Drive, Las Vegas

Information: Call 702-639-6964 or visit pjproductionlive.com/LVBNM.html Fifty exhibits will highlight local baby boomer business owners and services. The event will feature a chefs’ corner with food samples, and live entertainment.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 8 Henderson Chamber of Commerce Roadmap to Success: “How to Fail at Franchising” Time: 7:30-9:30 a.m. Cost: Free for chamber members; $25 for nonmembers; additional $10 for walk-ins; RSVP by Jan. 6 Location: HBRC Seminar Room in Wells Fargo Building, 112 S. Water St., Henderson Information: Call 702-565-8951 Sarah Brown of FranNet is the featured speaker at this workshop for those who work with small businesses and want to better understand the franchise business model.

National Association of Women Business Owners:Coffee & Conversation Professional Development Series: Embrace 2015 Time: 8:30-9:30 a.m. Cost: Free for members; $10 for nonmembers Location: Nevada Micro Enterprise, 550 E. Charleston Blvd., Suite E, Las Vegas Information: Visit nawbosnv.org Life coach Cindy Clemens will discuss ways to learn from the past year.

smuelrath@hendersonchamber.com The Henderson Chamber of Commerce invites board members and tiered sponsors to attend a top-down look at the economy from international, national and local points of view.

Vegas

Information: Call 702-641-5822

TUESDAY, JANUARY 13 Henderson Chamber of Commerce Networking Breakfast: “Strategic Planning for Your Business – Why You Need to Do It” Time: 7-9 a.m. Cost: $25 for members; $45 for nonmembers; additional $10 for walk-ins; RSVP by Jan. 9 Location: Wildhorse Golf Club, 2100 W. Warm Springs Road, Henderson Information: Call 702-565-8951 Bruce Ford, an executive at City National Bank, is the featured speaker.

Society for Marketing Professional Services luncheon: Economic Outlook 2015 Time: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Cost: $35 for members; $50 for nonmembers (includes lunch) Location: Maggiano’s Restaurant, 3200 Las Vegas RALSTON Blvd. South, Las Vegas Information: Visit smpslasvegas.com Journalist Jon Ralston will moderate a discussion about experts’ economic outlook for the coming year.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14 Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce policy committee meeting: Health Care Time: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Cost: Free; RSVP requested Location: Roseman University College of Medicine, 10530 Discovery Drive, Las Vegas Information: Call 702-641-5822 The event gives members the opportunity to learn about key topics in the changing health care landscape.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20 Henderson Chamber of Commerce new member briefing Time: 8-9 a.m. Cost: Free Location: HBRC Seminar Room in Wells Fargo Building, 112 S. Water St., Henderson Information: Call 702-565-8951 Designed for new members looking to increase their organizations’ visibility through member benefits.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 22 Henderson Chamber of Commerce Roadmap to Success: “The Amazing Secrets to Networking in the Chamber” Time: 7:30-9:30 a.m. Cost: Free for Henderson Chamber of Commerce members; $25 for nonmembers; additional $10 for walk-ins; RSVP by Jan. 20 Location: HBRC Seminar Room in Wells Fargo Building, 112 S. Water St., Henderson Information: Call 702-565-8951 David Dassow, director of the Las Vegas Marketing Association, will be the featured speaker.

Asian Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon Time: 7:30-9 p.m. Cost: $35 for members; $45 for nonmembers Location: Gold Coast, 4000 W. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas Information: Visit lvacc.org Rossi Ralenkotter, president of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, will be the guest speaker.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 27 Network After Work Time: 6-9 p.m. Cost: $12; $15 at door with RSVP; $20 at door without RSVP

Location: Blue Martini, 6593 Las Vegas Blvd.

South, Las Vegas Information: Visit networkafterwork.com For people interested in exchanging business insight and expertise with other professionals.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 15 QuickBooks Introductory Class Time: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Cost: $299 Location: 10777 W. Twain Ave., Suite 225, Las

InSight 2015: A Private Briefing for Henderson Business Leaders Time: 6-8 p.m. Cost: For tiered sponsors of the

Vegas

Henderson Chamber of Commerce only Location: Lux at M Resort, 12300 Las Vegas Blvd.

South, Henderson Information: RSVP to Donna Israelson at disraelson@hendersonchamber.com; direct tiered sponsor questions to Scott Muelrath at

Information: Call 702-457-9800 or visit davehallsba.com The class will help QuickBooks users gain a better understanding of the program. An advanced class will be offered Jan. 22.

55_VI_calendar1221.indd 55

THURSDAY, JANUARY 29 Henderson Chamber of Commerce: State of the City 2015 Time: Noon-1:30 p.m. Cost: $45 Location: Green Valley Ranch, Grand Events Center, 2300 Paseo Verde Parkway, Henderson

Information: Call 702-565-8951 Henderson Mayor Andy Hafen and Chamber of Commerce Chairman D.J. Allen will speak.

12/19/14 10:54 AM

56

THE DATA

THE SUNDAY

Send your business-related information to news@vegasinc.com

DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

Records and Transactions BANKRUPTCIES CHAPTER 7 I-15 and Cactus LLC 11557 White Cliffs Drive Las Vegas, NV 89138 Attorney: Marjorie A. Guymon at bankruptcy@goldguylaw.com

CHAPTER 11 Goosecreek LLC 6345 S. Jones Blvd., Suite 100 Las Vegas, NV 89118 Attorney: Robert E. Schumacher at rschumacher@gordonrees.com Flamingo Business Centre LLC 3065 S. Jones Blvd., Suite 201 Las Vegas, NV 89146 Attorney: Bart K. Larsen at blarsen@klnevada.com

BID OPPORTUNITIES MONDAY, DECEMBER 22 2:15 p.m.

F4 Patrick Lateral, F4 Channel to 400’ west Clark County, 603520 Tom Boldt at tboldt@clarkcounty NV.gov 3 p.m.

Annual requirements contract for wet-hose delivery of B5 biodiesel fuel Clark County, 603532 Sandra Mendoza at sda@clarkcountynv.gov

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23 2 p.m.

Turn-key, energy-dispersive X-Ray fluorescence spectrometer system State of Nevada, 8294 Teri Becker at tbecker@admin. nv.gov 2:15 p.m.

Building demolition at 4495 Polaris Ave. Clark County, 603500 Tom Boldt at tboldt@clarkcounty NV.gov

BROKERED TRANSACTIONS SALES $2,500,000 for 57,000 square feet, retail 2555 E. Tropicana Ave. Las Vegas 89121 Seller: 2555 Tropicana Avenue LLC Seller agent: Frank Marretti of Colliers International Buyer: GWP Development LLC Buyer agent: Did not disclose $1,525,000 for 32,711 square feet, flex Tropicana Arville Center, 4970

56-58_VIData_20141221.indd 56

Arville St. Las Vegas 89118 Seller: Michael Forche Seller agent: Charles Moore, Marlene Fujita Winkel and Ashley Kolaczynski of CBRE Las Vegas Buyer: Did not disclose Buyer agent: Did not disclose $1,500,000 for 8,426 square feet, medical office 9120 W. Russell Road Las Vegas 89148 Seller: CML-NV Cauldron LLC Seller agent: Bridget Richards of Colliers International Buyer: ELSSS LLC Buyer agent: Jason Lesley of Colliers International

LEASES $26,320,080 for UNLV parking structure for 20 years 4700 S. Maryland Parkway Las Vegas 89119 Landlord: New Town MD LLC Landlord agent: Frank Marretti of Colliers International Tenant: The Board of Regents of the Nevada System of Higher Education Tenant agent: Did not disclose $681,360 for 21,224 square feet, industrial for 49 months 6800 Paradise Road Las Vegas 89119 Landlord: Harsch Investment Properties Landlord agent: Did not disclose Tenant: Gill’s Printing Tenant agent: Lauren Tabeek of Voit Real Estate Services $204,120 for 13,500 square feet, industrial for 37 months 4436 Lawrence St. North Las Vegas 89081 Landlord: MCA Lawrence LLC Landlord agent: Amy Ogden and Danielle Steffen of Cushman and Wakefield Commerce Tenant: Source 4 Industries Tenant agent: Did not disclose $133,776 for 1,200 square feet, retail for 63 months 330 N. Sandhill Blvd.

Mesquite 89027 Landlord: Las Virgenes LLC Landlord agent: Dan Hubbard of Cushman and Wakefield Commerce Tenant: Great Clips Tenant agent: Did not disclose $104,978 for 1,113 square feet, retail for 60 months Regal Plaza, 8846 S. Eastern Ave., Suite 2 Las Vegas 89123 Landlord: Regal I LLC Landlord agent: Devon Sansone of Sansone Companies

Tenant: Quickee Burger (QBLV1 LLC) Tenant agent: Jakke Farley of Virtus Commercial $69,239.80 for 2,660 square feet, industrial for 38 months 746 Pilot Road, Suite D Las Vegas 89119 Landlord: Signature Leasing Group LLC Landlord agent: Leo Biedermann of Cushman and Wakefield Commerce Tenant: Clear Solutions Group Tenant agent: Keller Williams - Mark Gore $46,262 for 906 square feet, retail for 37 months Bianca Plaza, 2955 Industrial Road Las Vegas 89109 Landlord: Leonardi Properties Inc. Landlord agent: Lauren Tabeek of Voit Real Estate Services Tenant: Lael M. Perkins and Christina K. Pacheco-Perkins Tenant agent: Did not disclose $45,550 for 1,000 square feet, retail for 63 months Pecos Russell Plaza, 3380 E. Russell Road, Suite 104 Las Vegas 89120 Landlord: 3380 Partners Landlord agent: Matt Feustel and Preston Abell of Virtus Commercial Tenant: James and Mary Labella (JM Enterprises) Tenant agent: James and Mary Labella (JM Enterprises) $22,680 for 1,008 square feet, retail for 18 months Tenaya Village, 7240 W. Azure Drive, Suite 160 Las Vegas 89130 Landlord: Tenaya Village LLC Landlord agent: Robert S. Hatrak II of Virtus Commercial Tenant: Math Corner Tenant agent: Math Corner

BUSINESS LICENSES Accion Nevada Business type: Community Services Address: 1951 Stella Lake St., Suite 26, Las Vegas Owner: Accion New Mexico Inc. Adam C. Robertson Insurance Agency Business type: Insurance agency Address: 2192 N. Rainbow Blvd., Suite 103, Las Vegas Owner: Adam C. Robertson Insurance Agency Inc. Affairs To Remember Catering Business type: Alcohol beverage caterer Address: 525 Park Paseo, Las Vegas Owner: Michael G. Whitesides

Re Agua Water Systems LLC Business type: Sales and service Address: 2343 W. Gowan Road, North Las Vegas Owner: Agua Water Systems LLC Ahern Rentals Inc. Business type: Rental and leasing Address: 270 S. Martin L. King Blvd., Las Vegas Owner: Don F. Ahern Aigilas LLC Business type: Consultant Address: 3929 Jamison Park Lane, North Las Vegas Owner: Aigilas LLC Alan Manfredi LLC Business type: Rental property Address: 2258 Bassler St., North Las Vegas Owner: Alan Manfredi LLC Aleman House Cleaning Business type: Janitorial Address: 4211 Chicory Circle, North Las Vegas Owner: Aleman Services LLC Alfa & Omega Consulting & Advisors LLC Business type: International market research Address: 2171 Shubert Ave., Henderson Owner: Alfa & Omega Consulting & Advisors LLC

Address: 1634 James St., Las Vegas Owner: Agueda Sandoval Ann Tillman Business type: Real estate Address: 6955 N. Durango Drive, Suite 1002, Las Vegas Owner: Ann Tillman Ask Auto Repair Business type: Auto garage Address: 2075 Palm St., Las Vegas Owner: Ask Auto Repair LLC Auto Body Specialists Business type: Auto work Address: 980 Empire Mesa Way, Henderson Owner: Auto Body Specialists LLC AWG Charter Services Business type: Motor transportation service Address: 4676 Wynn Road, Las Vegas Owner: AWG Ambassador LLC Baga Vape Co. Business type: Retail Address: 1300 W. Sunset Road, kiosk, Henderson Owner: The Package Group LLC Bella Grande Entrances LLC Business type: Building, plant nursery and hardware supplies Address: 3222 W. Desert Inn Road, Las Vegas Owner: Charles M. Varney

All About Yoga Business type: Yoga Address: 601 Whitney Ranch Drive, Suite C16, Henderson Owner: Professional Counseling Inc.

Bidknight Inc. Business type: E-commerce retail Address: 9550 S. Eastern Ave., Suite 253, Henderson Owner: Bidknight Inc.

All Solutions LLC Business type: Repair and maintenance Address: 1469 Grub Stake Circle, Las Vegas Owner: Adam Webb

Big Dad Tees Business type: Mail order/Internet sales Address: 3420 Steppe St., North Las Vegas Owner: Joey Titus

Alpha Surveillance Systems Business type: Contractor Address: 900 W. Warm Springs Road, Suite 101, Henderson Owner: Lord Management Group Inc.

Blanca Idalia Rivera Business type: Real estate Address: 7035 W. Ann Road, Suite 120, Las Vegas Owner: Blanca Idalia Rivera

Amber Asadurian Business type: Real estate Address: 8290 W. Sahara Ave., Suite 100, Las Vegas Owner: Amber Asadurian Angel’s Hope Home Health Business type: Residential home care Address: 3160 S. Valley View Blvd., Suite 101, Las Vegas Owner: Angel’s Hope Home Health Inc. Angel’s Palm Tree Services Business type: Residential property maintenance

Botanica Y Boutique Business type: Retail Address: 4117 W. Sahara Ave., Las Vegas Owner: Mary Martin Jimenez Bowling Outfitters Business type: Retail Address: 1604 W. Warm Springs Road, Henderson Owner: David L. Bolles C&C Cleaners Business type: Office services Address: 1750 N. Buffalo Drive, Suite 112, Las Vegas Owner: Royal Cleaners Inc. Canon Law Services

12/19/14 3:09 PM

Business Address Suite 30 Owner: S

Cash 4 G Business Address Las Vega Owner: N

Central C Business Address Parkway Owner: C

Ciarra W Business Address Suite 120 Owner: C

Classic A Business Address Suite 190 Owner: J

Contrera Business nance Address Vegas Owner: J

Corner B Business Address Henders Owner: C

CPR Ten Business Address Owner: C Inc.

Creative Business Address Road, La Owner: C LLC

Cricket W Business Address North La Owner: W

D’Cano B Business Address 130, Las Owner: S

Darling Business Address North La Owner: D

Dennis R Business Address Suite 103 Owner: D

57

THE DATA

THE SUNDAY

Send your business-related information to news@vegasinc.com

DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

Records and Transactions Business type: Professional services Address: 7251 W. Lake Mead Blvd., Suite 300, Las Vegas Owner: Sarah Flummerfelt Cash 4 Gold LLC Business type: Second-hand dealer Address: 5247 W. Charleston Blvd., Las Vegas Owner: Noune Sekoian Central Communications Business type: 24-hour call center Address: 2420 W. Horizon Ridge Parkway, Suite 100, Henderson Owner: Centralcomm LLC Ciarra Wesley Business type: Real estate Address: 777 N. Rainbow Blvd., Suite 120, Las Vegas Owner: Ciarra Wesley Classic Automotive LLC Business type: Auto garage Address: 4930 W. Cheyenne Ave., Suite 190, Las Vegas Owner: Jason Cowie Contreras Cleaning Service Business type: Repair and maintenance Address: 1892 Palma Vista Ave., Las Vegas Owner: Jose L. Contreras Cortez Corner Bead Concepts Inc. Business type: Contractor Address: 1168 Wigwam Parkway, Henderson Owner: Corner Bead Concepts Inc. CPR Tent & Event Business type: Trucking Address: 5165 Schrills St., Las Vegas Owner: Cooling & Power Rentals Inc. Creative Interior Solutions LLC Business type: Contractor Address: 6960 W. Warm Springs Road, Las Vegas Owner: Creative Interior Solutions LLC Cricket Wireless Business type: Sales and service Address: 2815 W. Lake Mead Blvd., North Las Vegas Owner: Wireless & Beyond NV

Fontana Painting LLC Business type: Nonfarm product vendor Address: 302 S. Rampart Blvd., Las Vegas Owner: Nicole Fontana

Device Pitstop Business type: Retail Address: 1351 W. Sunset Road, Suite 110, Henderson Owner: Foofytech LLC

Freedom Bail Bonds Inc. Business type: Bail-bond broker Address: 321 S. Casino Center Blvd., Suite 110, Las Vegas Owner: Freedom Bail Bonds Inc.

Dignity Counseling Center LLC Business type: Professional services Address: 7271 W. Charleston Blvd., Suite 180, Las Vegas Owner: Yolanda Correa

Fresh & Clear Pool Service Inc. Business type: Pool contractor Address: 956 Wigwam Parkway, Suite 100, Henderson Owner: Fresh & Clear Pool Service Inc.

$168,721, residential-new 12253 Catanzaro Ave., Las Vegas Ryland Homes

Dougie J’s Café Business type: Restaurant Address: 603 Las Vegas Blvd.

South, Las Vegas Owner: Dougie J’s Café LLC

BUILDING PERMITS

$164,999, commercial-remodel 2490 Paseo Verde Parkway, Suite 100, Henderson Brandise Construction Co. Inc./Flex 2 Buildings 3 4 LLC

Down Dog Diagnostics LLC Business type: Instruction services Address: 2400 N. Tenaya Way, Las Vegas Owner: Alicia Cuglietta

$580,000, commercial-offices 10010 W. Sahara Ave., Las Vegas Level CM $532,000, wall fence-block and/ or retaining 297 Fox Hill Drive, Las Vegas Desert Plastering LLC

Ecko Unltd.

Business type: Retail Address: 805 S. Grand Central Parkway, Suite 1981, Las Vegas Owner: Suchman LLC

$440,041, commercial-remodel 2360 Corporate Circle, Suite 125, Henderson The Korte Co./Corporate Center V LLC

El Dorado Banquet Hall Business type: Alcohol beverage caterer Address: 4440 E. Washington Ave., Suite 105, Las Vegas Owner: El Dorado Enterprises Inc.

$428,911, commercial-addition 3901 Donna St., North Las Vegas Clearwater Paper/D&R Jackson Enterprises Inc.

Estrella Ice Cream No. 1 Business type: Ice cream truck Address: 2850 E. Charleston Blvd.

Owner: Diego R. Castro Executive Coach and Carriage Business type: Motor transportation service Address: 3950 W. Tompkins Ave., Las Vegas Owner: Bentley Transportation Services LLC

D’Cano Beauty Salon Business type: Retail Address: 625 N. Lamb Blvd., Suite 130, Las Vegas Owner: Susana Saunders

Executive Las Vegas Business type: Motor transportation service Address: 3950 W. Tompkins Ave., Las Vegas Owner: Jacob Transportation Services LLC

Darling Ingredients Inc. Business type: Junk yard Address: 4730 Vandenberg Drive, North Las Vegas Owner: Darling Ingredients Inc.

Exotic Wear Business type: Retail Address: 1903 E. Charleston Blvd., Las Vegas Owner: Blanca Osegueda

Dennis R. Schulte Business type: Real estate Address: 5440 W. Sahara Ave., Suite 103, Las Vegas Owner: Dennis R. Schulte

First Look Thermography Business type: Clinic Address: 7548 W. Sahara Ave., Suite 101, Las Vegas Owner: Charlezetta Roberson

56-58_VIData_20141221.indd 57

$176,331, residential-new 164 Dunblane St., Henderson DR Horton Inc.

Desert Hills AV Business type: Audio-video equipment Address: 1587 Villa Rica Drive, Henderson Owner: Steven E. Brown MD PC

$389,000, tenant improvementoffices 400 S. Rampart Blvd., Suite 180, Las Vegas Christopher Homes Renovations $349,971, commercial-remodel 9935 S. Eastern Ave., Henderson Nevada State Bank

$175,400, residential-new 4357 Duck Harbor Ave., Lot 50, North Las Vegas KB Home Nevada Inc. $168,721, residential-new 12238 Catanzaro Ave., Las Vegas Ryland Homes

$168,500, tenant improvementoffices 4800 E. Charleston Blvd., Las Vegas RJ Loerwald Construction Co.

derson DR Horton Inc. $138,626, residential-new 9216 Long Grove Ave., Las Vegas Desert Wind Homes $134,744, residential-new 1662 Blue Cliffs Ave., Henderson DR Horton Inc. $134,744, residential-new 759 N. Arroyo Grande Blvd., Henderson DR Horton Inc. $134,732, residential-new 6317 Pageant St., Lot 15, North Las Vegas Ryland Homes $134,732, residential-new 6313 Pageant St., Lot 16, North Las Vegas Ryland Homes

$162,302, residential-new 3202 Porto Vittoria Ave., Henderson Toll Henderson LLC

$133,000, tenant improvementoffices 5300 W. Sahara Ave., Suite 203, Las Vegas Komax Development Inc.

$162,191, residential-new 872 Via del Cerchi, Henderson Greystone Nevada LLC

$132,996, residential-new 10742 Fenway Park Ave., Las Vegas Ryland Homes

$156,702, residential-new 2368 Boretto St., Henderson KB Home Nevada Inc.

$132,996, residential-new 6989 Comiskey Park St., Las Vegas Ryland Homes

$154,151, residential-new 168 Dunblane St., Henderson DR Horton Inc.

$132,996, residential-new 6993 Comiskey Park St., Las Vegas Ryland Homes

$150,973, fire protection 5402 E. El Campo Grande Ave., North Las Vegas Northern Beltway Industrial Center LLC

$125,317, residential-new 1070 Bobby Basin Ave., Henderson DR Horton Inc.

$146,944, residential-new 12222 Argent Bay Ave., Las Vegas KB Home Nevada Inc.

$125,317, residential-new 1058 Bobby Basin Ave., Henderson DR Horton Inc.

$145,834, residential-new 1658 Blue Cliffs Ave., Henderson DR Horton Inc.

$120,000, tenant improvementmedical offices 7785 N. Durango Drive, Suite 140, Las Vegas Jerry Ramsey Construction Inc.

$200,000, disaster 8913 Rocky Shore Drive, Las Vegas CSI Contractors

$145,834, residential-new 771 N. Arroyo Grande Blvd., Henderson DR Horton Inc.

$119,218, residential-new 767 N. Arroyo Grande Blvd., Henderson DR Horton Inc.

$195,000, tenant improvementstore 850 S. Rancho Drive, Las Vegas CNC Construction Inc.

$145,648, residential-new 4105 Klondike River Place, Lot 195, North Las Vegas Beazer Homes Holdings Corp.

$119,218, residential-new 755 N. Arroyo Grande Blvd., Henderson DR Horton Inc.

$193,263, tenant improvementoffices 1160 N. Town Center Drive, Suite 170, Las Vegas Nevada General Construction

$143,061, residential-new 172 Dunblane St., Henderson DR Horton Inc.

$115,726, residential-new 3912 Total Eclipse St., Las Vegas Ryland Homes

$142,396, residential-new 723 Nerka Drive, Henderson KB Home Nevada Inc.

$115,000, residential-addition 2700 Colanthe Ave., Las Vegas Robert M. and Mary M. Apple

$140,289, residential-new 775 N. Arroyo Grande Blvd., Hen-

$113,865, residential-new 10804 Leatherstocking Ave., Las

$203,200, tenant improvementstore 5250 W. Charleston Blvd., Las Vegas Elder Jones Inc.

$180,648, electrical-services of 600 volts or less 651 McKnight St., Las Vegas George Gekakis Inc.

12/19/14 3:11 PM

58

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DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

Records and Transactions Vegas Ryland Homes $112,841, residential-new 1115 Bobby Basin Ave., Henderson DR Horton Inc. $112,036, commercial-alteration 2225 Civic Center Drive, North Las Vegas Charger Construction LLC/NLV Partners LLC $112,009, residential-new 1074 Bobby Basin Ave., Henderson DR Horton Inc. $112,009, residential-new 1066 Bobby Basin Ave., Henderson DR Horton Inc. $111,565, residential-new 1820 Ward Drive, Henderson Habitat for Humanity Las Vegas $110,339, residential-new 10758 Cather Ave., Las Vegas Ryland Homes $110,000, pool and/or spa 1940 Mills Circle, Las Vegas Steve Breck $108,128, residential-new 763 N. Arroyo Grande Blvd., Henderson DR Horton Inc. $107,296, residential-new 1112 Bobby Basin Ave., Henderson DR Horton Inc.

$101,865, residential-new 3928 Deluge Drive, Las Vegas Ryland Homes $101,751, residential-new 1116 Bobby Basin Ave., Henderson DR Horton Inc. $101,751, residential-new 1113 Bobby Basin Ave., Henderson DR Horton Inc. $101,702, wall fence-block 9925 W. Deer Springs Way, Las Vegas Frehner Masonry Inc. $100,000, commercial-utility structure 7850 Bradley Road, Las Vegas Richardson Construction Inc. $100,000, commercial-hardscapes 10010 W. Sahara Ave., Las Vegas Level CM $99,435, residential-new 3920 Deluge Drive, Las Vegas Ryland Homes $97,246, residential-custom 9336 Pearlblossom Sky Ave., Las Vegas Greystone Nevada LLC $96,483, residential-new 1062 Bobby Basin Ave., Henderson DR Horton Inc. $96,206, residential-new 1114 Bobby Basin Ave., Henderson DR Horton Inc.

1812 Ward Drive, Henderson Habitat for Humanity Las Vegas $73,859, residential-new 1829 Merze Ave., Henderson Habitat for Humanity Las Vegas $73,859, residential-new 1813 Merze Ave., Henderson Habitat for Humanity Las Vegas $73,859, residential-new 1821 Merze Ave., Henderson Habitat for Humanity Las Vegas $73,859, residential-new 1828 Ward Drive, Henderson Habitat for Humanity Las Vegas $70,000, tenant improvementbanquet hall 855 S. Grand Central Parkway, Suite 1530, Las Vegas Martin-Harris Construction $68,964, tenant improvementrestaurant 7591 N. Cimarron Road, Suite 110, Las Vegas NDL Group Inc. $68,000, tenant improvementstore 4457 W. Charleston Blvd., Las Vegas A Duran Construction Co. $66,893, pool and/or spa 3023 Tanagrine Drive, North Las Vegas Robillard residence

$106,108, residential-new 4356 Duck Harbor Ave., Lot 32, North Las Vegas KB Home Nevada Inc.

$96,206, residential-new 1117 Bobby Basin Ave., Henderson DR Horton Inc.

$60,000, tenant improvementoffices 290 Evante St., Las Vegas Toll South LV LLC

$106,108, residential-new 4356 Duck Harbor Ave., Lot 30, North Las Vegas KB Home Nevada Inc.

$94,801, residential-new 7325 Chesapeake Cove St., Las Vegas Greystone Nevada LLC

$53,648, commercial-alteration 3909 W. Washburn Road, North Las Vegas AT&T antennas/Vinco Inc.

$105,904, residential-new 10812 Leatherstocking Ave., Las Vegas Ryland Homes

$93,654, residential-custom 9325 Pearlblossom Sky Ave., Las Vegas Greystone Nevada LLC

$53,000, pool and/or spa 799 Porto Mio Way, Las Vegas Duke Sheldon

$105,904, residential-new 6740 Valcour St., Las Vegas Ryland Homes $102,527, residential-new 2324 Rivoli St., Henderson KB Home Nevada Inc. $102,527, residential-new 3174 Biccari Ave., Henderson KB Home Nevada Inc. $102,527, residential-new 2328 Rivoli St., Henderson KB Home Nevada Inc. $102,355, residential-new 4109 Klondike River Place, Lot 196, North Las Vegas Beazer Homes Holdings Corp.

$93,654, residential-custom 9332 Pearlblossom Sky Ave., Las Vegas Greystone Nevada LLC $90,000, disaster 8044 Kokoma Drive, Las Vegas GraEagle Construction & Development $86,848, residential-custom 9329 Pearlblossom Sky Ave., Las Vegas Greystone Nevada LLC $83,291, residential-custom 9333 Pearlblossom Sky Ave., Las Vegas Greystone Nevada LLC $73,859, residential-new

56-58_VIData_20141221.indd 58

$50,400, commercial-remodel 2530 St. Rose Parkway, Suite 100, Henderson The Juice Standard/Henderson 1 LLC $50,000, solar 5155 Chapel View Court, North Las Vegas US Renewable Energy Development $49,930, pool and/or spa 6309 Peggotty Ave., Las Vegas Premier Pools Inc. $47,196, perimeter retaining wall 1385 E. Cactus Ave., Henderson Ethos/Three Architecture $45,945, solar 3905 El Portal Ave., Las Vegas

Summerlin Energy Las Vegas LLC $44,006, commercial-remodel 1381 W. Sunset Road, Suite 110, Henderson Western Trades Construction Inc./ Remington Commercial I LLV $43,196, residential-addition 2920 Carmelo Drive, Henderson Filios Construction Inc./Palivos Family Trust $40,800, solar 4734 Rockpine Drive, North Las Vegas Robco Electric Inc.

$32,467, commercial-carport 3140 E. Bonanza Road, Las Vegas Baja Construction Co. Inc. $30,804, solar 3909 Canary Cedar St., North Las Vegas SolarCity Corp. $30,750, solar 10729 Alton Downs Drive, Las Vegas Summerlin Energy Las Vegas LLC $30,034, solar 6449 W. Brooks Ave., Las Vegas SolarCity Corp.

$40,000, pool and/or spa 6503 Lokai Ave., Las Vegas Tyson W. Young

$30,000, residential-remodel 1604 Silver Oaks St., Las Vegas Haner Construction

$38,440, solar 2121 S. Cimarron Road, Las Vegas Summerlin Energy Las Vegas LLC

$30,000, wall fence-block 11729 Far Hills Ave., Las Vegas JC Masonry LLC

$36,965, solar 4203 Amberdale Ave., North Las Vegas SolarCity Corp. $36,195, solar 5809 Christine Falls Ave., Las Vegas SolarCity Corp. $36,000, solar 5125 Red Glory Drive, Las Vegas Robco Electric Inc. $36,000, solar 7917 Canyons Park Ave., Las Vegas Robco Electric Inc. $35,004, tenant improvementoffices 40 E. Horizon Ridge Parkway, Suite 101, Henderson Elegant Homes LLC/40 Horizon Ridge LLC $35,000, electrical-conduits 2560 Highland Drive, Las Vegas Towers Unlimited Inc. $35,000, tenant improvementnightclub or restaurant 6820 W. Sahara Ave., Suite 7, Las Vegas Spike Construction Inc. $34,000, disaster 710 Lacy Lane, Las Vegas PJ Becker & Sons Construction $33,884, solar 1424 Canyon Ledge Court, Las Vegas SolarCity Corp. $33,386, solar 6809 Adobe Court, Las Vegas Jersey Electric $32,550, solar 3942 Kristina Lynn Ave., North Las Vegas Go Solar

CONVENTIONS International CES 2015 Location: Sands Expo & Convention Center, Las Vegas Convention Center Dates: Jan. 6-9 Expected attendance: 160,000 Association of Fundraising Distributors & Suppliers Annual Convention & Trade Show 2015 Location: Paris Las Vegas Dates: Jan. 11-16 Expected attendance: 700 Manheim Sales Meeting 2015 Location: Red Rock Resort Dates: Jan. 12-16 Expected attendance: 700 Promotional Products Association International Expo 2015 Location: Mandalay Bay Dates: Jan. 13-15 Expected attendance: 18,500 International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association Wide World of Sales Meeting Location: Paris Las Vegas Dates: Jan. 13-17 Expected attendance: 500 Sports Licensing & Tailgate Show 2015 Location: Las Vegas Convention Center Dates: Jan. 14-16 Expected attendance: 4,000 Army Navy Military Expo 2015 Location: Rio Dates: Jan. 18-20 Expected attendance: 3,000 To receive a complete copy of Data Plus every week in Excel, please go to www.vegasinc.com/subscribe

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60

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Send your business-related information to news@vegasinc.com

DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

The List

CATEGORY: BANKS (RANKED BY DEPOSITS INSIDE OF MARKET AS OF JUNE 30) Company

1

Inside of market deposits

Inside of market offices

Outside of market offices

Outside of market deposits

Top executive

Wells Fargo Bank 3800 Howard Hughes Parkway, Second floor Las Vegas, NV 89109 702-791-6370 • WellsFargo.com

$12.13 billion

80

$1.02 trillion

6,230

Kirk Clausen, regional president

2

Bank of America 300 S. Fourth St. Las Vegas, NV 89101 702-654-7900 • BankofAmerica.com

$10.05 billion

51

$1.04 trillion

5,043

George Smith, Nevada president

3

Citibank 3900 Paradise Road, Suite 127 Las Vegas, NV 89109 800-627-3999 • Citibank.com

$4.2 billion

16

$461.44 billion

942

Jeff Dunmire, area director

4

Bank of Nevada 2700 W. Sahara Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89102 702-248-4200 • BankofNevada.com

$2.85 billion

11

$5.64 billion

28

Bruce Hendricks, CEO

5

U.S. Bank 2300 W. Sahara Ave., First floor Las Vegas, NV 89102 702-251-1600 • USBank.com

$2.67 billion

72

$260.99 billion

3,166

Did not disclose

6

Nevada State Bank 750 E. Warm Springs Road, Suite 400 Las Vegas, NV 89119 702-855-4612 • NSBank.com

$2.47 billion

31

$1.22 billion

19

Dallas Haun, president, CEO

7

JPMorgan Chase Bank 9911 W. Charleston Blvd., Suite 1 Las Vegas, NV 89117 702-938-0050 • Chase.com

$2.29 billion

49

$1.03 trillion

5,630

Kami Ladouceur, branch manager

8

Beal Bank Nevada 1970 Village Center Circle, Suite 1 Las Vegas, NV 89134 702-598-3500 • BealBankNevada.com

$2.16 billion

1

$623 million

22

Kathy Yodice, branch manager

9

USAA Savings Bank 3773 Howard Hughes Parkway Las Vegas, NV 89109 702-862-8891 • USAA.com

$694.1 million

1

$0

0

David Fersdahl, president

Toyota Financial Savings Bank 2485 Village View Drive, Suite 200 Henderson, NV 89704 702-477-2170 • ToyotaFinancialDealerBanking.com

$676 million

1

$0

0

Raymond Specht, vice chairman

City National Bank 10801 W. Charleston Blvd.

Las Vegas, NV 89135 702-952-5901 • CNB.com

$391.79 million

5

$26.48 billion

72

John Wilcox, Nevada regional executive

12

Meadows Bank 8912 Spanish Ridge Ave., Suite 100 Las Vegas, NV 89148 702-471-2265 • MeadowsBank.com

$337.73 million

2

$59.32 million

2

Arvind Menon, CEO

13

Mutual of Omaha Bank 950 S. Rampart Blvd.

Las Vegas, NV 89145 702-880-3700 • MutualOfOmahaBank.com

$278.18 million

4

$5.22 billion

39

Kathy Phillips, Nevada president

14

Bank of the West 9021 W. Sahara Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89117 702-304-1050 • BankoftheWest.com

$240.17 million

5

$48.61 billion

588

Pat Moore, area manager

15

Plaza Bank 8275 W. Flamingo Road Las Vegas, NV 89147 702-853-4700 • PlazaBank.net

$222.46 million

1

$230.09 million 1

10 11

Gene Galloway, CEO

Source: FDIC Deposit Market Share Report as of June 30 and VEGAS INC research. It is not the intent of this list to endorse the participants or to imply that the listing of a company indicates its quality. Although every attempt is made to ensure the accuracy and thoroughness of VEGAS INC lists, omissions sometimes occur. Please send corrections or additions on company letterhead to Tristan Aird, researcher, VEGAS INC, 2360 Corporate Circle, Third Floor, Henderson, NV 89074.

60-61_VI_List_20141221.indd 60

12/19/14 3:04 PM

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61

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The List 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

CATEGORY: NONPROFIT FOUNDATIONS (RANKED BY ASSETS AT END OF MOST RECENTLY COMPLETED TAX PERIOD)

Name

Assets

Income

Tax period ending

Engelstad Family Foundation 851 S. Rampart Blvd., Suite 150, Las Vegas, NV 89145

$777,599,772

Did not disclose

December 2013

Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Foundation 3355 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas, NV 89109

$358,301,708

$346,971,861

December 2012

UNLV Foundation P.O. Box 451006, Las Vegas, NV 89154

$248,314,219

$181,914,404

June 2013

Cyrus Tang Foundation 8960 Spanish Ridge Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89148

$229,395,891

$31,899,824

December 2012

Alexander Dawson Foundation 4045 Spencer St., Suite 312, Las Vegas, NV 89119

$223,776,352

$40,448,679

June 2013

Donald W. Reynolds Foundation 1701 Village Center Circle, Las Vegas, NV 89134

$175,552,668

$449,240,755

December 2013

Andre Agassi Foundation for Education 3883 Howard Hughes Parkway, Eighth floor, Las Vegas, NV 89169

$129,896,113

$32,742,335

December 2012

Troesh Family Foundation 1370 Jet Stream Drive, Suite 140, Henderson, NV 89052

$72,240,304

$49,416,561

December 2013

Nevada Cancer Institute Foundation 10530 Discovery Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89135

$57,379,967

$18,299,084

December 2012

Opportunity Village Foundation 6050 S. Buffalo Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89113

$55,994,220

$52,286,257

June 2013

Thomas Spiegel Family Foundation 9101 Alta Drive, Suite 107, Las Vegas, NV 89145

$54,181,269

$2,649,488

December 2012

Nevada Community Foundation 1635 Village Center Circle, Suite 160, Las Vegas, NV 89134

$31,058,112

$12,704,204

June 2013

Another Joy Foundation 2629 E. Craig Road, Suite F, Las Vegas, NV 89030

$28,276,240

$43,603,427

December 2012

The Animal Foundation 655 N. Mojave Road, Las Vegas, NV 89101

$26,764,618

$10,093,460

December 2013

Galil Foundation 3540 W. Sahara Ave., Suite 700, Las Vegas, NV 89102

$22,743,610

$784,988

December 2013

Brenden Mann Foundation 4321 W. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89103

$19,901,968

$8,086,045

December 2012

St. Rose Dominican Health Foundation 102 E. Lake Mead Parkway, Henderson, NV 89015

$17,786,799

$13,267,931

June 2013

Nathan Adelson Hospice Foundation 4141 Swenson St., Las Vegas, NV 89119

$16,403,283

$4,836,372

December 2013

Richard Tam Foundation 8535 Edna Ave., Suite 120, Las Vegas, NV 89117

$15,635,207

$10,454,451

June 2014

Liberace Foundation for the Performing and Creative Arts 1775 E. Tropicana Ave., Suite 30, Las Vegas, NV 89119

$14,818,576

$323,953

August 2012

The Public Education Foundation 4350 S. Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas, NV 89102

$14,656,852

$11,010,175

September 2013

Dunn Family Foundation 3 Vintage Canyon St., Las Vegas, NV 89141

$13,497,389

$4,144,811

December 2013

Gilcrease Orchard Foundation P.O. Box 35317, Las Vegas, NV 89133

$11,267,387

$5,286,800

December 2013

Chung Ying Tang Foundation 8960 Spanish Ridge Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89148

$10,986,352

$2,285,660

December 2012

Las Vegas Boys and Girls Club Foundation 2850 Lindell Road, Las Vegas, NV 89126

$10,432,816

$604,893

December 2012

Eleanor Kagi Foundation 2964 Via Della Amore, Henderson, NV 89052

$10,365,260

$3,221,541

December 2012

Source: Internal Revenue Service and VEGAS INC research. It is not the intent of this list to endorse the participants or to imply that the listing of a company indicates its quality. Although every attempt is made to ensure the accuracy and thoroughness of VEGAS INC lists, omissions sometimes occur. Please send corrections or additions on company letterhead to Tristan Aird, researcher, VEGAS INC, 2360 Corporate Circle, Third Floor, Henderson, NV 89074.

60-61_VI_List_20141221.indd 61

12/19/14 3:04 PM

Cox Business would like to wish you and your business health, happiness and prosperity during this holiday season and throughout the New Year.

Happy Holidays,

Derrick R. Hill Vice President, Cox Business and Hospitality Network Las Vegas

Untitled-7.indd 1

12/17/14 10:34 AM

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Wine, well or domestic beer

Buy one appetizer and get the second FREE

*Expires 12/31/14. Please present coupon at time of order. No cash value. Management reserves all rights.

May not be combined with any other offer. See bar host for details. VALID AT 215 & SUNSET ONLY. Settle to 1400.

*Expires 12/31/14. Please present coupon at time of order. No cash value. Maximum value of $9.99 on free appetizer.

Management reserves all rights. See bar host for details. Settle to 1402. VALID AT 215 & SUNSET ONLY

9050 W. POST LAS VEGAS, NV 89148

9050 W. POST LAS VEGAS, NV 89148

(702) 798-7678 www.pteglv.com

(702) 798-7678 www.pteglv.com

FREE Drink at PT’S Pub Tropicana & Fort Apache

FREE Appetizer at PT’S Pub Tropicana & Fort Apache

Wine, well or domestic beer

Buy one appetizer and get the second FREE

*Expires 12/31/14. Management reserves all rights. May not be combined with any other offer. See bar host for details.

Settle to 1400. VALID AT 9435 W. TROPICANA ONLY.

*Expires 12/31/14. Please present coupon at time of order. No cash value. Maximum value of $9.99 on free appetizer.

Management reserves all rights. See bar host for details. Settle to 1402. VALID AT 9435 W. TROPICANA ONLY.

9435 W. TROPICANA LAS VEGAS, NV 89147

9435 W. TROPICANA LAS VEGAS, NV 89147

(702) 871-6682 www.pteglv.com

(702) 871-6682 www.pteglv.com

One Free Order of Fried Pickles

Buy 1 Get 1 FREE Buffet

with purchase of regular priced entrée.

at S7 Buffet

*Dine in only. Must present coupon to redeem offer. Not valid with any other offer. Excludes holidays and special events.

Management reserves all rights. Not including tax or gratuity. One voucher per guest per visit.

Must be at least 21 with valid photo ID and A-Play Card. Membership into the A-Play Club is free. Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Complimentary buffet value up to $12.99, additional fees apply on specialty, brunch and holiday buffets. Tax and Gratuity not included.

Dine in only. No cash value. Management reserves all rights. Expires 1/3/15. Settle to: 535

3850 LAS VEGAS BLVD. SO., LAS VEGAS, NV 89109

4100 PARADISE ROAD, LAS VEGAS, NV 89169

(702) 597-7991 www.dickslastresort.com

(702) 733-7000 www.SilverSevensCasino.com

063-065_tsd_122114.indd 63

12/19/14 9:56 AM

FREE Bloody Mary or Mimosa

FREE Drink On Us at House of Blues Crossroads Bar

and $5 OFF adult ticket to Gospel Brunch at House of Blues.

Buy one drink and get the second FREE.

*Subject to availability. Must present coupon when booking Gospel Brunch ticket; to get a drink ticket for free Bloody Mary or Mimosa.

Limit one coupon per customer. Not valid with any other offers. Offer is non-transferable and has no cash value.

Not valid on holidays. Management reserves all rights. Expires 12/31/14.

*Good for one domestic beer, well drink or house wine, valid at the bar only. Must present this coupon when ordering drink.

Limit one coupon per customer. Not valid with any other offers. Offifer is non-transferable and has no cash value. Must be 21+ with valid ID. Management reserves all rights. Expires 12/31/14.

HOUSE OF BLUES INSIDE MANDALAY BAY RESORT 3950 LAS VEGAS BLVD. S, LAS VEGAS, NV 89119

HOUSE OF BLUES INSIDE MANDALAY BAY RESORT 3950 LAS VEGAS BLVD. S, LAS VEGAS, NV 89119

(702) 632-7600 www.houseofblues.com/lasvegas

(702) 632-7600 www.houseofblues.com/lasvegas

Get 10% OFF Any Purchase Over $30

Buy one regularly priced beverage and get the second one half off

Bring this coupon and get 10% off your purchase of $30 or more in the HOB Company Store

*Must be 21 or over and present valid NV ID. Limit one per person. Management reserves all rights.

Expires. 12/31/14.

*Offer not valid on sundry items, CD’s, Santana Musical Instruments or Artwork. May not be used in conjunction with any other offers. Expires 12/31/14.

HOUSE OF BLUES INSIDE MANDALAY BAY RESORT 3950 LAS VEGAS BLVD. S. LAS VEGAS, NV 89119

2312 E. CRAIG RD., LAS VEGAS, NV 89030

(702) 632-7600 www.houseofblues.com/lasvegas

(702) 399-1599 www.mulliganslv.com

GRAND OPENING!

Buy one regularly priced beverage and get the second one half off *Must be 21 or over and present valid NV ID. Limit one per person. Management reserves all rights.

Expires. 12/31/14.

063-065_tsd_122114.indd 64

Buy one regularly priced beverage and get the second one half off *Must be 21 or over and present valid NV ID. Limit one per person. Management reserves all rights.

Expires. 12/31/14.

955 GRIER DRIVE, LAS VEGAS, NV 89119 SOUTH OF SUNSET AT PARADISE & GRIER

9821 S. EASTERN, LAS VEGAS, NV 89123 IN THE TARGET SHOPPING CENTER NEXT TO DISCOUNT TIRE

(702) 462-2431 www.paradisepublv.com

(702) 431-5484 www.dochollidayslv.com

12/19/14 9:58 AM

$

1 OFF

$5 FREE Slot Play for New Members

725 S RACETRACK RD. HENDERSON, NV 89015 (702) 566-5555 www.clubfortunecasino.com

Must become a Player Rewards Card member to redeem.

Existing Player Rewards Card Members do not qualify.

Cannot be used in conjunction with any other free slot play offer.

Management reserves all rights. Limit of one (1) New Member free slot play offer per person and Player Rewards card.

Group #5241. Valid 12/21/14–12/27/14.

Per Carton of Cigarettes — NO LIMIT — Las Vegas Smoke Shop 1225 N. MAIN STREET, LV, NV 89101 (702) 366-1101 Snow Mountain Smoke Shop 11525 NU-WAV KAIV BLVD, LV, NV 89124 (702) 645-2957 www.LVPaiuteSmokeShop.com

$10 Off Christmas Tree Removal and Clean Up (800) 468-5865 www.1800gotjunk.com

NO ADDITIONAL TAX ON THE PAIUTE RESERVATION

99¢ for a $.99 for Medium a Muffin Hot Chocolate

*(Plus appl. tax). Limit one coupon per customer per visit. Coupon and barcode must be presented at time of purchase. Shop must retain coupon. one coupon per customer perrefunds. visit. Coupon be presented at timeand NoLimit substitutions allowed.

No cash Void must if copied or transferred of purchase.

Shopormust retain by coupon.

No substitutions allowed.

No cashtax. where prohibited restricted law. Consumer must pay applicable refunds. if copied orwith transferred andcoupon, where prohibited restricted by law.

May notVoid be combined any other discount,orpromotion combo Consumer mustmeal. pay applicable tax. not Maybenotreproduced, be combinedcopied, with any other coupon, or value Coupon may purchased, discount, combo or value meal. may not be reproduced, traded or promotion sold. Internet distribution strictlyCoupon prohibited.

Cash redemption copied, purchased, Internet distribution strictly LLC. prohibited. Cash value: traded 1/20 ofor 1sold. cent. © 2014 DD IP Holder redemption value: 1/20 of 1 cent. © 2014 DD IP11/15/2014 Holder LLC. All rights reserved.

All rights reserved.

Expires: Expires: 1/10/2015

(14 oz)

Reg. $30. *Limit one per household. Includes on-site removal of tree, clean-up of pine needles, and drop off to designated recycling location. Service available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily during the Christmas Tree Recycling program season. Customers can call 1-800-468-5865 (1-800-GOT-JUNK) 24 hours a day to schedule a pick up, or book online at 1-800-GOT-JUNK

*Cannot be used to purchase Marlboro, Misty, KOOL or Pyramid.

NO LIMIT on any other brand of carton purchased. Must be 18 years of age or older. Cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. Limit one discount given per customer per day. Must present this coupon for redemption. Cannot be redeemed for cash.

No photocopies accepted.

COUPON EXPIRES 1/31/2015 COUPON CODE: TS SERVING LAS VEGAS SINCE 1978

Use PLU#2608 PLU#2601 ifif barcode barcode fails fails toto scan. scan.

Use

EAT IN, TAKE OUT, OR DELIVERY*

Buy any Large Pizza and get an appetizer of your choice Onion Rings, Fries, Mozzarella Sticks, Jalapeno Poppers, Cheese Fries or Fried Mushrooms**

Buy 1 Get 1 Free Draft Beer

*Must be at least 21 with valid photo ID. Cannot be combined with any other offer.

No cash value. Management reserves all rights.

Not valid on holidays or during special events. Expires 3/31/2015.

Open 10:30am–9:00pm *Within delivery zone only. **Limited 1 per order. All prices are without tax or delivery fee and are subject to change.

LOCATED CENTER STRIP AT THE LINQ UNDER THE WHEEL 6400 S EASTERN AVE, STE 24, LAS VEGAS, NV 89119

(702) 826-4220

(702) 862-BOWL www.BrooklynBowl.com

Player Special at Both Locations. Daily 8:00am - 2:30pm

Buy 1 Get 1 FREE

FREE Lunch with $20 Max Coin Play

Buy any small, medium or large sub & two drinks & receive the second sub of equal or lesser value free

*Must be a player to redeem. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Management reserves all rights. Limit of one (1) free offer per person. Expires 1/31/15.

*Redeemable at 2642 W. Horizon Ridge, Henderson, NV. Call 702-914-8288, order online, or on your mobile phone at www.portofsubsonline.com Coupon expires 1/31/15. Valid only at above location. Not valid with any other offer or coupon. Limit one coupon per customer per visit.

1350 E TROPICANA AVE LAS VEGAS NV 89119

4755 SPRING MOUNTAIN RD LAS VEGAS NV 89102

(702) 739-8676 (702) 876-4733 www.crownandanchorlv.com

063-065_tsd_122114.indd 65

2642 W. HORIZON RIDGE PKWY / EASTERN AVENUE HENDERSON, NV 89052

(702) 914-8288 www.portofsubsonline.com

12/19/14 10:00 AM

66

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

THE SUNDAY DEC. 21 - DEC. 27

Send your thoughts to news@thesunday.com

LIFE

L.A. TIMES CROSSWORD

“IT’S A START” BY MIKE PELUSO

 TOP DOWNLOADS OF THE WEEK (AS OF DEC. 18) ALBUMS ON ITUNES

12/21/14

XWORDEDITOR@AOL.COM

ACROSS 1 Anjou relative 5 Sleeveless garment 9 Chimú conquerors 14 Give credit for 19 Russian city near the Ukraine border 20 Will-wisp connector 21 Fed. security 22 Preferences 23 Black Sea region 25 Speech at a revival?

27 Variety of stars on a clear night?

29 Indulged 30 1969 Three Dog Night hit 31 Alley prowler 32 Protected whale 33 Scand. kingdom 34 Neaten again, as a mustache 37 Putting up 40 “Sorry to hear that” 44 Essen exclamation 45 Primary 47 Metz milk 48 Grand venue 50 Tag announcement 52 Transp. to the Hamptons 53 Like Vivaldi’s “Spring” 54 First name in spydom 55 “My treat” 56 Only matchmaker in town?

60 Angling tool 61 Ora pro __ 63 Gershwin’s “Rialto Ripples,” e.g.

64 Gobi abode 65 Missouri NFL team 67 “... some kind of __?”

69 Rum __ Tugger: “Cats” character 71 More, on a score 72 Prefix with decimal 73 Send with an email 75 Mosque leader 77 Hush-hush maritime org.

79 Bit of mischief 82 Word with bird or call 83 Approval from above?

87 Aleutian island 88 Financial pros 90 Jeanne d’Arc, e.g.: Abbr.

91 Buck ending 92 Like trees in the wind 94 Badminton item

66_Puzzles_20141221.indd 66

1

“The Pinkprint” Nicki Minaj, $14.99

2

“2014 Forest Hills Drive” J. Cole, $9.99

3

“Black Messiah” D’Angelo & The Vanguard, $9.99

4 5

“1989” Taylor Swift, $12.99

Trivia Crack Offers in-app purchases

“That’s Christmas To Me” Pentatonix, $7.99

Fun Run 2 Offers in-app purchases Candy Crush Soda Saga Offers in-app purchases Marvel Contest of Champions Offers in-app purchases Crossy Road Offers in-app purchases

©2014 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

38 Have in stock 39 Old game show prop that contestants didn’t want to hear 41 Extra clothes?

42 Fromm’s “The __ Loving” 43 Twosomes 46 “Use __ lose ...”

49 Freeloader 51 Isabella, por ejemplo 52 Pea, e.g.

53 Pitched properly 57 Indigenous 58 Melodious piece 59 Ostrich’s cousin 62 Similar items 66 Slangy veto 68 More than just this 70 Dugong relative 73 Gulf of Guinea capital 74 __ bar 76 Cuban patriot José 78 Javert’s rank: Abbr.

80 “You don’t have to tell me” 81 Behind bars 84 Business letter abbr.

85 More like a lemon DOWN 86 Like some golf penalties 1 Former Heathrow lander 2 About 89 Narrow victory 3 Ocho menos dos 93 B-flat equivalent 4 Din 95 Go from coach to 5 Message medium business, say 6 View from Catania 96 As one 7 Edit, in a way 97 Angels’ home 8 Intense fear 101 “What a long day!”

9 __-bitty 102 Glitzy winter event, with 10 Shreveport-to-Little “the” Rock dir.

104 Muddied 11 Vanity 106 Crew member 12 Reach 110 “The Winner Takes It All” 13 It may be saved singers 14 Grayish-pink color 111 It may be spun, in more 15 Teletype machine area ways than one 16 Barely managed, with “out” 112 Kept in the loop, briefly 17 Try out 113 Mil. rations 18 Bologna bone 24 Villainous “Austin Powers” 114 Ominous letters after “See me” alter ego 115 Secretary of Education 26 Wide-screen TV spot Duncan 28 Florida’s __ Island 116 Low-lying area 32 Saddle attachment 117 “My Way” lyricist 34 Synthetic silk 118 Spanish province or its 35 Budget prefix capital 36 Ambush during a “wrestling” match?

120 Nautical rope 96 97 98 99

FREE GAME APPS

Query indicating betrayal Mil. addresses Sturgeon delicacy Invite to one’s penthouse, say 100 Club for a short par-3, perhaps 103 Cunning 105 I problem?

107 Frau, across the Rhine: Abbr.

108 That, in Tampico 109 Eastern path 110 Bart Simpson catchphrase 114 St. Louis tourist?

119 Rap sheet listing?

121 Heathrow lander 122 Raise 123 No-brainer course 124 Milieu for Sharks and Penguins 125 Nevada city on I-80 126 Literature Nobelist Gide 127 Expensive 128 Barrie baddie 129 School official

KenKen® is a registered trademark of Nextoy, LLC. ©2014 KenKen Puzzle LLC. All rights reserved.

Dist. by Universal Uclick for UFS. www.kenken.com

without repeating.

Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 through 4 (easy) or 1 through 6 (challenging)

The numbers within the heavily outlined boxes, called cages, must combine using the given operation (in any order) to produce the

target numbers in the top-left corners.

Freebies: Fill in singlebox cages with the number in the top-left corner

For answers to this week’s puzzles, go to Page 41

12/19/14 10:03 AM

0000117231-01.indd 1

12/16/14 5:50 PM

LAST CHANCE DRAWING

December 26, 2014

0000112949-01.indd 1

12/16/14 9:54 AM