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15 40 UNDER 40 ON THE COVER
Young professionals who innovate, inspire and impact their community.
COVER ART Photo by Wade Vandervort
12 WEEKLY Q&A
John Arakaki hopes you’ll make his gastropub St. Felix completely your own.
54 NEWS
UNLV faculty and the Filmmaker Vision Lab prepare students for cinematic success.
58 NIGHTLIFE
Hip-hop finds a new home on the Strip at Hakkasan Nightclub.
60 ART
Rhythm and Resilience sparks conversation about Vegas’ Black past and present.
Travis Turner, Vice President of Guest Experience & Owner Services at Cirrus Aviation Services, and CEO at Luxe Lifestyle Managers (Photo by Christopher DeVargas)
SUPERGUIDE
THURSDAY APRIL 30
FRIDAY MAY 1
PHISH Thru 5/2, 8 p.m., Sphere, ticketmaster.com.
DIIV With Draag, 9 p.m., Swan Dive, etix.com.
JERRY’S MIDDLE FINGER
11 p.m., Brooklyn Bowl, ticketmaster.com.
ARCHITECTS
7 p.m., House of Blues, ticketmaster.com.
BETTER THAN EZRA
5 p.m., Swim & Social at Strat, thestrat.com.
THE TAMING OF THE SHREW Thru 5/2, 7:30 p.m., Cornerstone Park, nevadashakespeare. com.
AMERICAN RODEO WEST REGIONALS Thru 5/2, times vary, South Point Arena, ticketmaster.com.
BANANA BALL Thru 5/2, 7 p.m., Las Vegas Ballpark, bananaball.com.
DISNEY ON ICE Thru 5/3, times vary, Thomas & Mack Center, unlvtickets.com.
38 SPECIAL 7 p.m., Westgate International Theater, ticketmaster.com.
FILOSOPHY
7:30 p.m., Water Street Plaza Amphitheater, cityofhenderson. com.
DIPLO PRESENTS THOMAS WESLEY With Dustin Lynch, 10:30 p.m., XS Nightclub, wynnsocial.com.
DUKE DUMONT 10:30 p.m., Zouk Nightclub, zoukgrouplv.com.
NATALIE LAROSE
9 p.m., Ghostbar, palms.com.
PATRICK TOPPING 10 p.m., Substance, eventim.us.
MARY J. BLIGE
8 p.m., & 5/2, 5/6, Dolby Live, ticketmaster. com. DO IT ALL
MAY THE SCIENCE BE WITH YOU
“Do. Or do not. There is no try,” says Jedi Master Yoda. Fitting advice, it is, for anyone contemplating a trip to Desert Research Institute’s Star Wars-themed celebration of science and pop culture, May the Science Be With You. The research nonprofit has partnered with the National Atomic Testing Museum to offer interactive demonstrations, hands-on activities, lab tours with DRI scientists and live music from local instrumental band Peaceful Retreat. The idea is to get young Padawans interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) and spark their curiosity in those types of careers. Encouraged, costumes are. 4 p.m., free, Desert Research Institute, dri.edu. –Shannon Miller
Courtesy
MUSIC PARTY SPORTS FOOD COMEDY MISC ARTS
SATURDAY MAY 2
VEGAS CITY OPERA: MUSIC OF THE NIGHT
7 p.m., Goodman Plaza, vegascityopera.org.
LEE’S BEER & TEQUILA EXPERIENCE
4 p.m., Lee’s Family Forum, axs.com.
LAS VEGAS LIGHTS VS. LEXINGTON SC
7:30 p.m., Cashman Field, lasvegaslightsfc.com.
DURAN DURAN 8 p.m., & 5/6, BleauLive Theater, ticketmaster.com.
THE GROWLERS
7 p.m., A-Lot at Area15, area15.com.
HELLOWEEN 6:30 p.m., House of Blues, ticketmaster.com.
50 CENT 10:30 p.m., LIV Nightclub, livnightclub.com. Courtesy
SUPERGUIDE
SUNDAY MAY 3 MONDAY MAY 4
VEGAS KNIGHT HAWKS VS. ARIZONA RATTLERS
4 p.m., Lee’s Family Forum, axs.com.
UNLV SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: THE RING CYCLE
3 p.m., Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall, unlv.edu.
NEVADA HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL THEATER AWARDS
3 p.m., Reynolds Hall, thesmithcenter.com.
MASOOD BOOMGARD
7 p.m., Wiseguys, wiseguyscomedy. com.
KUNGS
11 a.m., Palm Tree Beach Club, taogroup.com.
DILLON FRANCIS
Noon, Encore Beach Club, wynnsocial.com.
MUSTARD
11 a.m., Tao Beach Dayclub, taogroup.com.
REGGAETON LANDIA
With 3BallMTY, 11:30 a.m., LIV Beach, livnightclub.com.
LOUD LUXURY
10:30 p.m., XS Nightclub, wynnsocial.com.
PALOMA
MAMI
10:30 p.m., Omnia Nightclub, taogroup.com.
LAS
VEGAS DREAMBIRDS
For the 20 performers of the Las Vegas DreamBirds, dance is a lifelong pursuit. The group of former showgirls, ballroom competitors and dedicated dancers is made up of women 40 years and older, and they’re looking to support the next generation of artists through a fundraiser. Hosted by singer and local sweetheart Kelly Clinton Holmes—and with a special performance by All Shook Up’s Travis Allen—the DreamBirds’ first fundraiser is sure to bring glamorous costumes and signature choreography to the stage. All proceeds from ticket sales will go to Positively Arts, a nonprofit dedicated to educating youth through performing arts. 6:30 p.m., $20, Hard Rock Live, positivelyarts.org. –Shannon Miller
MONDAYS DARK
8 p.m., the Space, mondaysdark.com
MAY THE FOURTH 4 p.m., Asylum at Area15, area15.com.
EXHIBIT: KRE8TIZM Thru 5/28, daily, times vary, Park West Gallery, parkwestvegas. com.
DJ DYNAMIQ 10:30 p.m., Marquee Nightclub, taogroup.com.
TUESDAY MAY 5 WEDNESDAY MAY 6
DAVID SEDARIS
7:30 p.m., Reynolds Hall, thesmithcenter. com.
RIVERDANCE
8 p.m., Lee’s Family Forum, axs.com.
LAS VEGAS AVIATORS VS. ST. PAUL SAINTS
Thru 5/9, 7:05 p.m., Las Vegas Ballpark, ticketmaster.com.
YO YOLIE
10:30 p.m., Omnia Nightclub, taogroup.com.
PIANO PARTY
With Keith Thompson & Tony Arias, 6 p.m., Composers Room, thecomposersroom. com.
NO DOUBT
8:30 p.m., & 5/8-5/9, Sphere, ticketmaster.com.
BLAKE SHELTON
8 p.m., & 5/8-5/9, the Colosseum, ticketmaster.com.
GILBY CLARKE 7 p.m., Backstage Bar & Billiards, dice.fm.
BUNT
10:30 p.m., Encore Beach Club, wynnsocial.com.
DJ FRANZEN 10:30 p.m., Hakkasan Nightclub, taogroup.com.
S U P E R G
UNCONDITIONALLY LOVED MOTHER’S DAY TEA
Celebrate Mother’s Day weekend with an elegant tea service hosted by Urth Caffé in the Quad at UnCommons on Saturday, May 9, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Guests will enjoy their choice of premium tea paired with a selection of delicious brunch fare in a relaxed, openair setting. To make the day even more special, each guest will receive a complimentary mini bouquet from the Bloom Bar—perfect for honoring the mothers and mother figures in your life. uncommons.com
John Arakaki hopes you’ll make St. Felix completely your own
BY GEOFF CARTER
Almost forgot to interview John Arakaki. Talk to him and you’ll understand why.
The owner of rock-and-roll gastropub St. Felix Sin City—a southwest Valley sister establishment to St. Felix Hollywood, which he still operates—is such a great hang that we drift off topic early and often. We talk about the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame; the erstwhile Clevelander attended the 2022 induction ceremony, taking selfies with Lionel Richie and The Edge. He’s on the board of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, and he shares photos of Def Leppard and Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige receiving their sidewalk stars. We riff on roller skating, Italian disco, the 1979 cult classic The Warriors . He gets legit excited about a lot of fun stuff, so you get excited talking about it, and the next thing you know you’re like, “Dammit, should press record, shouldn’t I.”
So, this conversation is just a taste, like the ones we sampled from St. Felix’s menu while we talked. (I’m partial to the risotto balls, Thai deviled eggs and the LA-style churro waffle. But it’s all great.) It scarcely covers his time in LA nightlife, his stints touring with bands, his abiding love of film, or even his nickname, “Johnny 99.” (It’s from a Springsteen song one of his punk bands used to cover.) I’d suggest going to St. Felix to strike up your own conversation with him, while relishing the feel of a place that reminds me of the 1990s-era Hard Rock Hotel in the best way.
What brought you from Cleveland to LA?
Delusions of rock and roll grandeur. I was passionate about music. I wanted to be in bands. LA was home to so many of the bands I was influenced by from watching too much MTV. I heard stories about Taime Downe and Riki Rachtman at (1980s rock club) the Cathouse, watched too many LA Guns videos, saw the emergence of Guns N’ Roses and Ratt. … It was the largest big city that you could afford. A lot of people from New York, where a lot of my film and music influences came from, were moving to LA, and I got to meet a lot of great artists and good friends.
One of my best friends is Pauley Perette, who became a famous actress on NCIS. But when I met her, she was in a punk glam band, Lo-Ball. We used to go to Club Makeup and Club Cherry, where it was like this neo-glam movement where the cool street rockers would hang out with all the hot model girls and actresses, and the LGBTQIA community was there … I never wanted to go to sleep because I felt like I was missing something. It was a special time of positive energy.
How did you jump from playing in bands to running bars and restaurants?
I got recruited by this new energy drink called Monster, which at the time was like the 18th most popular energy drink in the city. … I’m like, I’ll be at this company for six months. Five years later, I’d helped to build the brand. Vegas was my market, as well as Los Angeles. And once I realized there was a ceiling to where I could go, I wanted to do my own thing and become an entrepreneur.
I never understood why you had to have a restaurant with just okay drinks, or a great bar with just okay food. Let’s have it all. That’s my musician experience talking, because I’m always just like, let’s fix it. Do it again. Make it great. … I try to do that when we create our food and drinks. They’re crafty, with great ingredients and great technique, but still accessible. I work with people to make it the best quality we can. There’s an authenticity in that process. I think that’s why we’re still around, surviving the pandemic, surviving the LA fires, coming to Vegas.
Why Vegas for a second St. Felix?
Its civic mindedness is inspiring ... When my band played here, we’d be at the Double Down Saloon at one in the morning. When I came to work out here with Monster, I was already in with the locals. I have friends who have lived here for a long time, so when I went out, I’d go to where the locals go. But I will say the Strip has great things. The dayclub scene is amazing. You get a Steve Aoki, or one of these great DJs, and it’s like an arena rock concert during the day.
Where’s St. Felix’s spot in that Vegas nightlife mix?
We’re not truly defined. I like the customer to define it. I want to create a vibe. Is it your date night vibe? Is it your music release party, your corporate party, holiday party? Is it friends just drinking, a couple meeting for the first time? We do film releases, wrap parties, launch parties. We’re doing podcasts here [in Vegas]. We do a little bit of everything.
What do you hope St. Felix could be?
One of my friends here in Vegas is an influencer. He gave me a huge compliment: “This could be the Herbs & Rye of this area, where you can have a quality meal, a quality cocktail, late-night in a fun, hip environment.” I would like to do that. I want to be that space where we bring a lot of cool, unique people together, and you never know what you’re gonna get.
EAMON SPRINGALL Founder & President Class of 2007
SAM GLASER
Operating Partner & COO Class of 2018
JASON “JROC” CRAIG Partner Class of 2017
A Hand-STITCHED congratulations to this year’s 40 under 40 honorees. Keep spearheading growth and innovation in your respective industries. The Las Vegas community is honored to have business leaders, entrepreneurs and philanthropists like each of you.
Tivoli Village is honored to congratulate Micaela Wargo, Marketing Director, on her esteemed designation as a 40 Under 40 honoree. Her exceptional leadership, creativity, and strategic vision have been instrumental in elevating Las Vegas’ most unique mixed-use lifestyle destination.
A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Selecting Vegas Inc’s 40 Under 40 honorees is never easy. Each year, we review a deep and competitive pool of young professionals who are shaping Southern Nevada in meaningful ways. From expanding the reach of nonprofit organizations to launching businesses from the ground up, their work reflects a shared commitment to progress and community impact. Our region is stronger because of them, and I wish we could recognize them all.
This year’s honorees stand out not only for their accomplishments, but for how they contribute to our community. They are thoughtful leaders, creative problem-solvers and ambitious professionals who bring energy and intention to their work, finding ways to create impact within their organizations and beyond.
Throughout March, I had the privilege of meeting our honorees during their photoshoots. Many of them, in that vulnerable moment in front of the camera, said the process felt foreign because they are more behind the scenes. That, I realized, is part of what makes 40 Under 40 so important. Some honorees are highly visible, entrepreneurial and recognizable across the region. Others are quietly building teams, refining systems and creating opportunities that allow others to succeed. There is no single definition of success, but 40 Under 40 helps reveal its many forms.
I would like to thank this year’s sponsors, STITCHED, Lee Business School Executive MBA program at UNLV, Hello Soju and Palm Mortuaries and Cemeteries as well as Sahara Las Vegas for hosting this year’s celebration. We appreciate your support of this program.
Congratulations to this year’s 40 Under 40 honorees. Thank you for the leadership you bring to our community.
Alex Haase Associate Publisher and Special Publications Editor
On behalf of myself and our entire STITCHED family, we extend our earnest congratulations to each of you for being recognized among this year’s 40 Under 40. This distinction reflects not only your professional accomplishments, but also your leadership, vision and commitment to making a meaningful impact in your respective industry and the Las Vegas community. STITCHED has had the honor to employ a few of the past 40 Under 40 alumni, including myself, from the 2007 class. As business leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators and philanthropists, you represent this remarkable generation shaping the future with bold ideas and purposeful action. Achieving this level of success before the age of 40 is no small feat—it speaks to your dedication, resilience and ability to lead with both ambition and integrity. This is only the beginning for what is to come and the glass ceilings each of you will break.
Never be afraid to challenge the status quo and take risks that others aren’t willing to take. Having a lifelong career in the insurance industry, when the opportunity arose to embark on my very first men’s retail hurdle, the task seemed daunting and overwhelming. However, creating a haberdashery that feels like it was plucked straight from Saville Row to juxtapose with the bright and glimmery Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas hotel was one of my most passionate endeavors. Being the president and shareholder for USI Insurance of Nevada, STITCHED and many other silent partner investments, and balancing the different companies has allowed me to utilize both my business/operations mind and my uniquely creative side, letting me be fulfilled in all aspects of my career.
I'm anxiously awaiting to see what all 40 of you continue to do to better the community we all love and leave it better than you found it. You earned it. Let’s all win together!
Eamon Springall Founder & President, STITCHED
On behalf of the Lee Business School Executive MBA Program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, congratulations to the 2026 Vegas Inc 40 Under 40 honorees. You represent the best of Southern Nevada—innovators, leaders, entrepreneurs, and philanthropists shaping the future of Las Vegas.
The UNLV Executive MBA was built for professionals exactly like you. In just 18 months, you will sharpen your strategic thinking, expand your leadership toolkit, and build a network of peers who match your drive and ambition.
What makes this program unique is the cohort model—you complete the program alongside a select group of Southern Nevada's top professionals. Together, you will challenge each other's thinking, build lasting connections, and develop new ways to lead your organizations and your community.
Our next cohort begins June 26, 2026, and you will complete your degree by December 2027. We are currently accepting applications from qualified candidates.
If you are ready to change the way you see the world—and the way the world sees you—I would love to connect.
NADINE BENTIS, ED.D. Director, UNLV Lee Office of Executive Education nadine.bentis@unlv.edu 702-895-4646
Travis Turner 39
Vice President of Guest Experience & Owner Services Cirrus Aviation Services
CEO, Luxe Lifestyle Managers
Making complex, high-end experiences feel effortless is what Travis Turner does best. He works behind the scenes to align moving parts so each detail lands exactly as intended for the client.
An early role at Las Vegas Motor Speedway introduced Turner to fastpaced operations, followed by leadership across hospitality, events and concierge services. At Cirrus Aviation Services, he oversees guest experience and owner services, shaping everything from aircraft presentation to customized in-flight offerings for an elite clientele. He also founded Luxe Lifestyle Managers in 2021, growing it into a trusted concierge partner for major NFL events, including the Draft, Pro Bowl and Super Bowl, while supporting Cirrus’ expansion into new markets.
Board and committee involvement includes Noah’s Animal House, The Mark E. Curry Family Foundation and the Vegas Chamber leadership community, where Turner supports fundraising, mentorship and civic engagement.
Alexis Meruelo 32
Chief Vision and Purpose Officer Meruelo Group
As chief vision and purpose officer of the Meruelo Group, Alexis Meruelo is shaping how one of Nevada’s largest private companies defines corporate responsibility.
Working across more than 25 companies in 10 industries, including Sahara Las Vegas and Grand Sierra Resort, Meruelo built a unified corporate social responsibility framework and helped establish Sahara as a model for inclusive hiring, workforce development and supplier diversity. Over the past decade, Meruelo Group companies have contributed more than $25 million to community initiatives.
In 2025, Meruelo launched Business of Her at Sahara, drawing more than 300 women for workshops and mentorship. The program included grants for local women entrepreneurs, investing in Nevada’s next generation of women-owned businesses.
Meruelo serves as an honorary board member of the Hospitality Charitable Foundation and supports partnerships creating pathways for Latino professionals and minority-owned businesses statewide.
Juan Medrano 34
Principal/Co-founder
HL Workroom
Good design starts with how a space needs to live and work, not just how it looks. That principle has guided Juan Medrano’s career in interior design.
Initially an architecture student at UNLV, Medrano shifted into interior design and later worked across hospitality and luxury residential projects before co-founding HL Workroom in 2023. In less than two years, the firm has expanded across commercial and residential projects in Southern Nevada. Its portfolio already includes Morris Injury Law, Citrus Grill, Lagree Lab and General Admission, along with ongoing work for developer clients across residential communities.
Medrano uses his skills to support local organizations and public spaces alike. He has contributed design work to Opportunity Village, where he helped redecorate the space ahead of the holidays, and, as a student, he helped create the solar house at Springs Preserve.
Alexis Meruelo and Juan Medrano by Wade Vandervort; Travis Turner by Christopher DeVargas
CONGRATULATIONS
Anamarie Ellis
Vice President of Operations
ON BEING NAMED
ONE OF VEGAS INC’S
40 UNDER 40
Village Pub
Michael Aquino 37
CEO Acesso Biologics
Michael Aquino was working in hospitality when he identified an opportunity in health care. Using the customer service principles he learned from the hospitality industry, Aquino set out to improve patient care. He recognized that the gap between innovative medical products and patient access often came down to service and logistics, and he founded Acesso Biologics to address this discrepancy.
Acesso Biologics was founded in 2022 with a two-person team and grew into a company serving patients in 48 states. The company connects hundreds of partners and families with therapies such as amniotic membrane products and sports medicine allografts. He has deployed millions in capital, driven significant transaction volume, and built a business that competes with larger, well-capitalized firms.
Aquino believes community involvement is essential and is actively involved with Goodie Two Shoes, the UNLV Foundation and the Tyler Robinson Foundation.
Derek Scharadin 38
Senior Vice President LEV Food Group
The energy, pace and community that restaurants create drew Derek Scharadin into the business. Starting at 14, he worked in nearly every role before moving into executive leadership.
As senior vice president of LEV Food Group, Scharadin oversees operations, financial strategy and concept development across the company’s portfolio. Recent work includes the opening of Taco Escobar, the relaunch of Ada’s Wine Bar and the continued evolution of The Golden Tiki. For the second straight year, the company’s pizza concept, Double Zero Pie & Pub, made the 50 Top Pizza USA list. Across his career, Scharadin has helped open more than 10 restaurants and guided two turnaround efforts, all of which are still operating today.
Under his leadership, LEV Food Group contributed nearly $50,000 in 2025 to Southern Nevada nonprofits supporting education, arts, health services and disability programs.
Alexander Cuevas 33
President
Injured Police Officers Fund
Alexander Cuevas built his career on service, first in uniform and now in nonprofit leadership. He currently serves as president of the Injured Police Officers Fund, guiding strategy and financial stewardship for the organization that supports Nevada officers injured or killed in the line of duty.
Cuevas joined the North Las Vegas Police Department in 2016 and advanced through assignments as a patrol officer, public information officer, field training officer and detective before earning promotion to sergeant in 2025. He previously served as IPOF secretary and was elected president in January 2025.
Under his leadership, IPOF expanded partnerships, increased donations and raised more than $120,000 for the family of a fallen officer. Cuevas also organizes community toy drives and supports Special Olympics Nevada and the Fraternal Order of Police, reinforcing his commitment to Southern Nevada beyond the badge.
Michael Aquino, courtesy; Derek Scharadin and Alexander Cuevas by Wade Vandervort
BY KWAME ONWUAC HI
CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR 40 UNDER 40 ACHIEVEMENT!
We are proud to celebrate our very own Alexis Meruelo and Miguel Loya for their extraordinary leadership and dedication to the Las Vegas community and unwavering commitment to excellence at SAHARA Las Vegas.
Brittani
Gray 38
Vice President of Resident Services
Nevada HAND
Brittani Gray builds programs that connect people to the resources they need, with an emphasis on making services accessible, consistent and practical for families and seniors.
Gray entered social services committed to improving outcomes for individuals and families facing systemic barriers. After four years as assistant director of resident services at Nevada HAND, she was promoted to vice president in 2024 and now oversees the organization’s nationally certified Resident Services program serving residents in senior and family housing communities. Her work connects thousands of residents to education, health and economic support services while strengthening partnerships that address challenges faced in low-income communities.
Through Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. and Jack and Jill of America’s Las Vegas chapter, Gray supports youth development initiatives and helps organize educational and cultural programs reaching more than 8,300 low-income families and seniors.
Lindsay Jacobs 39
Vice President Commercial Roofers, Inc.
Lindsay Jacobs comes from a family of roofers. Her great grandparents started roofing, insulation and home building in Nevada in the 1950s, and Jacobs grew up at the Commercial Roofers, Inc. office. Summers often meant filing, answering phones, running plans and learning the trade. She later worked across billing, payroll, service, production and project management.
Now vice president of the company, Jacobs has contributed to major Southern Nevada projects including CityCenter, Fontainebleau, the Sphere and Harry Reid International Airport’s Terminal 3. Under her leadership, Commercial Roofers Inc. was named Engineering News-Record ’s Southwest’s Specialty Contractor of the Year in 2023 and ranked No. 5 among Nevada specialty contractors in 2024 and 2025. She is also one of few women in Nevada to hold a Nevada roofing contractor’s license.
Through the Nevada Contractors Association, Jacobs helped organize a $300,000 remodel of the CARE Complex, coordinating donated labor and materials from contractors across the valley.
Thomas Siu 29
Assistant Director of Experiential Marketing
Wynn Las Vegas
Music is an escape for Thomas Siu and it ultimately led to a passion for entertainment. He now builds events that draw new audiences into the Las Vegas experience.
At Resorts World Las Vegas, Siu helped launch two nightclubs and three food and beverage concepts before rising into nightlife marketing leadership. He played a key role in shaping the property’s nightlife presence, including building a partnership with the National Rugby League that brought a multi-day fan experience and nightclub events that drew thousands. He also helped elevate Zouk Group by bringing the Zamna festival platform to the Strip for the first time. Siu now works in experiential marketing at Wynn Nightlife.
Beyond events, Siu has focused on opening doors for others, guiding interns into full-time roles and connecting local creatives and small businesses to opportunities tied to major productions.
Lindsay Jacobs and Brittani Gray by Christopher DeVargas; Thomas Siu by Wade Vandervort
Ready to join the next generation of business, community, and healthcare leaders? As the only top-tier research university in Southern Nevada, UNLV offers you more than 175 graduate degree and certificate programs. We’re meeting the demands of today’s working professionals with nationally ranked in-person and online graduate programs. Find the program that’s right for you.
Kristina Villardi 36
President Junior League of Las Vegas
Kristina Villardi brings structure and follow-through to volunteer-driven work, turning ideas into organized action with measurable results.
Villardi began her career at Caesars Entertainment, where she rose to director of attraction sales before moving into operations and philanthropy. As president of the Junior League of Las Vegas, an 80-year-old organization, she leads fundraising, governance and volunteer efforts for the 600-plus member nonprofit. Her work has helped generate more than $1.5 million, including growing the Paint the Town Red Gala from about $70,000 to more than $400,000. She also serves as director of philanthropy at Goodwill of Southern Nevada.
Board service with Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Las Vegas and hands-on volunteer work with mobile food pantries, youth lifeskills classes and homelessness support reflect her direct involvement with families across Southern Nevada.
Miguel Loya
37
Executive Chef Sahara Las Vegas
After growing up in the restaurant business, Miguel Loya is used to working across every part of the kitchen, stepping in where needed to keep service on track and teams connected.
Starting as a dishwasher, Loya worked through every level of service and eventually moved into casino kitchens across Las Vegas. That experience helped him develop a broad understanding of high-volume operations. At Sahara Las Vegas, he became executive chef at 35, overseeing multiple venues, staffing and daily operations across a large Strip property. He has improved food quality, strengthened kitchen systems, and helped raise team morale, while contributing to the opening of Maroon by Chef Kwame Onwuachi, a new steakhouse concept.
Loya volunteers with Three Square alongside his team and supports local students through school partnerships, including hosting events and providing meals for teachers and elementary programs.
Shadow Montalto 34
Cemetery Manager
Palm Mortuaries & Cemeteries
Having always been drawn to service-oriented work and supporting people through meaningful moments in their lives, Shadow Montalto found his calling in endof-life services.
Montalto joined Palm Mortuaries and Cemeteries at 18 years old and moved through roles in funeral operations, sales, training and cemetery services. Time spent in Taiwan and later as a VIP concierge on the Las Vegas Strip strengthened his ability to connect with people from different backgrounds before he returned to Palm. As cemetery manager, Montalto oversees operations, team performance and property care while guiding families through difficult decisions. He also helped rebuild morale and restore trust among ground teams following the COVID-19 pandemic.
As co-chair of the Nathan Adelson Hospice Foundation’s Multicultural Committee, Montalto helps promote more culturally informed end-of-life care. His work with Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation has strengthened support for families facing childhood cancer and loss.
Kristina Villardi by Wade Vandervort; Miguel Loya and Shadow Montalto by Christopher DeVargas
Framework through teamwork
Light & Wonder is proud to celebrate Lailani Albano on her well-deserved recognition in Vegas Inc.’s 40 Under 40.
From empowering her team to shaping the vision that drives our brand forward, Lailani leads with purpose every day.
Congratulations to a true game changer. We’re lucky to have you leading the way!
by
Photo
Lauder Corea
2026 VEGAS INC 40 UNDER 40 HONOREE
From delivering a historic Formula® 1 race on the Las Vegas Strip to advancing the sport’s global growth, Emily’s vision continues to elevate both Formula 1 and Las Vegas on the global stage.
Ebere Arum 35
Senior Director of Community Relations Las Vegas Raiders
Ebere Arum focuses on turning the reach of professional sports into meaningful local impact. Her work centers on building partnerships that connect teams, nonprofits and public agencies to community needs.
Arum’s career spans more than a decade across higher education and the NFL. At University of California, Berkeley, she developed academic enrichment programs for first-generation college students before landing an internship at NFL Films, where she supported Super Bowl XLIX broadcasting and managed logistics for 348 live events. As senior director of community relations for the Las Vegas Raiders, she guides initiatives in youth development, health and wellness, and military and veteran support reaching thousands of residents.
Through Nevada HAND’s Block Party Committee, Arum supports fundraising for affordable housing communities. She was also honored by the Public Education Foundation’s Black Girl Magic Juneteenth Jubilee Luncheon for contributions to educational advancement.
Art Zargaryan 39
CEO Pegasus Development
Art Zargaryan’s career began with a love of design and training in architecture. That foundation eventually led him to project management, where creativity and execution merged.
In 2017, he founded Pegasus Development, which has grown into a national project management firm overseeing more than 7 million square feet of development valued at more than $6 billion. As CEO, he leads hospitality, entertainment and mixed-use developments in Las Vegas and across the country. His portfolio includes Omega Mart, Universal Horror Unleashed and the planned relocation and expansion of the Neon Museum. Pegasus Development also opened a second office in Sacramento to support large-scale mixed-use projects.
Beyond his business, Zargaryan serves on the boards of the Mayor’s Fund for Las Vegas LIFE, Make-A-Wish Nevada and Communities In Schools of Nevada.
Photos by Wade Vandervort
LEADING WITH HOSPITALITY BY
JUAN MEDRANO
As principal of HL Workroom, Juan is known for his leadership and hands-on approach. He leads with a hospitality-driven mindset, ensuring each client’s experience is as thoughtful and elevated as the environments he helps envision. His commitment to his clients and his community is unparalleled. WE CONGRATULATE THIS GREAT ACHIEVEMENT.
Heath Pomerantz 38
CEO WOW Carwash
For Heath Pomerantz, car washing is a way of life. A second-generation car washer, he started early in his family’s business and learned about the industry including distribution, service and operations. These experiences and knowledge continue to guide his approach as a leader.
As CEO of WOW Carwash, he has helped expand the company to 19 locations, with more in development. In 2025, WOW washed a record 4.2 million cars, recorded its busiest single-day total of more than 20,000 washes across all locations, and grew its membership base to more than 92,000. He also led WOW’s acquisition of Blu Car Wash. Through WOW, he has supported St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital with more than $50,000 in donations and launched WOW’s Adopt A School Program, which delivered more than $3,500 in supplies to Charles A. Silvestri Junior High School.
Aymber Young 32
CEO Brandshine Holdings, LLC
Aymber Young is driven by the idea that strong connections build strong businesses. Through her work in social media consulting, she helps companies strengthen their presence on digital platforms and engage audiences.
Young’s career path began nearly a decade ago after moving into the digital media department at Ameren, an electric and natural gas company. After gaining experience across social media and strategy roles, her entrepreneurial drive led her to launch her own firm, Brandshine Holdings LLC, where she provides social media consulting.
Community building is central to Young’s work. She co-founded Boss Ladies of Las Vegas, a women entrepreneur network with more than 7,000 members that hosts networking events and creates spaces where founders can share resources and support. Young also organizes back-to-school drives and volunteers with programs serving seniors and families.
Connor Cain 37
Director of Government Relations HCA Healthcare
The medical care patients receive often comes down to policy decisions, and Connor Cain helps move those decisions toward better access and outcomes.
Cain started his career working on political campaigns before moving into lobbying and legal work in Nevada. He played a key role during the 2019 legislative session in securing increases in Medicaid reimbursement rates for Neonatal Intensive Care Unit services by 25% and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit services by 15%. This legislation was critical to ensure that Sunrise Children’s Hospital could continue to provide advanced NICU and PICU services. He joined HCA Healthcare in 2025 as director of government relations.
Cain has taught legislative policy as an adjunct professor at the UNLV Boyd School of Law, chaired the Nevada Youth Network board for six years, and serves on the Clark County School District’s School Community Partnership Action Council supporting student-focused initiatives.
Aymber Young by Wade Vandervort; Heath Pomerantz and Connor Cain by Christopher DeVargas
Kevin Kittisoros 30
Managing Partner
Pin Kaow Thai Restaurant and Blue Orchid Thai Kitchen
Pin Kaow Thai Restaurant is more than a restaurant to Kevin Kittisoros and his family—it’s a second home where culture, connection and consistency matter. When Kittisoros stepped into the family business, he knew he had to preserve that legacy while also finding his own voice within it. As a Thai American born and raised in Las Vegas, Kittisoros is proud to share his culture through food.
Kittisoros worked his way into ownership at Pin Kaow and now manages operations across both locations. As Pin Kaow marked 25 years in 2025, it continued to earn local recognition, including Thai Select Classic certification. That same year, he opened Blue Orchid Thai Kitchen, which he developed from design and menu direction to hiring and guest experience.
Through his local Thai temple, Kittisoros supports community gatherings, cultural events and charitable programs with food donations and financial contributions.
Anamarie Ellis
32 Vice President of Operations
Ellis
Island Casino & Hotel
Anamarie Ellis was raised inside Ellis Island Hotel & Casino, the off-Strip property her family has operated since 1968. At 14, Ellis began as a hostess at the Village Pub, later rotating through the hotel front desk, auditing, and dealing blackjack in the pit with her grandfather before joining the business full time after graduating from Chapman University.
As the current vice president of operations for Ellis Island, Ellis oversees both casino and hotel operations. She recently led the operations team through the $35 million expansion and modernization that expanded the gaming floor, added a rooftop bar and upgraded food and beverage spaces. The project marked one of the largest investments in the property’s history.
Ellis supports Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Southern Nevada’s annual Halloween Bash, which has raised more than $1.2 million, and serves as membership committee chair for Global Gaming Women.
Lailani Albano 36
Director of Marketing
Light & Wonder
Lailani Albano could have stayed in safe roles but instead, she pursued opportunities that pushed her into new arenas. She assumed tasks outside of her job scope and turned a temporary, entry-level graphic design role into a career in marketing leadership.
As director of marketing at Light & Wonder, Albano helps shape how new titles are introduced to players across global markets. She led the debut of the company’s Squid Game slot at the Global Gaming Expo, marking Netflix’s first gaming partnership, and later revamped the Huff N’ Puff slot franchise. She accomplished this by extending the franchise into digital and social channels, broadening its reach beyond the casino floor and into new player audiences across multiple platforms.
Albano also volunteers her time at the Animal Foundation, where she cares for animals awaiting adoption and uses her design skills to produce the organization’s monthly volunteer newsletter.
Anamarie Ellis by Christopher DeVargas; Kevin Kittisoros and Lailani Albano by Wade Vandervort
Under 40 Beyond All Expectations
Comprehensive Cancer Centers congratulates all of VEGAS INC’s 40 Under 40 honorees, including our own Dr. Janson Trieu, medical oncologist. Dr. Trieu, you’re not only dedicated to saving lives, you’re committed to the mentorship of our community’s future oncologists.
Thank you to all the honorees. Your excellence in your respective fields is building a stronger, more prosperous Southern Nevada for all of us.
United Way of Southern Nevada congratulates
KAREN ALONSO
Chief Advancement & Communications Officer 40 Under 40 Honoree
We are proud to celebrate Karen Alonso for this well-deserved recognition as a 40 Under 40 Honoree. This recognition reflects her innovative leadership, strategic fundraising expertise, and powerful storytelling, all grounded in an unwavering commitment to community.
Karen is a true trailblazer whose vision has expanded opportunities, strengthened partnerships, and helped countless Southern Nevadans access the support they need to thrive.
Congratulations, Karen, and thank you for the passion and purpose you bring to everything you do.
cccnevada.com |
Michael Casper
39
Vice President of Business Development AREA15
When Michael Casper stood backstage at the Bon Jovi concert that opened The O2 Arena in London, he watched the crowd go wild. He was only an intern at the time, but he knew then that he wanted to build entertainment experiences that brought people pure joy.
Early roles with AEG Europe and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino followed. He joined AREA15 in 2019, and as vice president of business development, he has helped grow the campus from a 200,000-squarefoot venue into a 40-acre destination that has welcomed more than 16 million visitors. His work includes development of Zone 2: The Terminals and partnerships such as the John Wick Experience, expanding the site’s mix of attractions, retail and entertainment.
A former college athlete, Casper coaches local youth soccer, focusing on teamwork and helping young players build confidence through competition.
Kevin Murray 38 Manager of Housing & Justice Systems SilverSummit Healthplan
Kevin Murray works where health care, housing and justice systems overlap, helping connect services that too often operate in silos. His work focuses on making those systems function more like a network for people facing housing instability.
After starting in direct behavioral health services, including inpatient, outpatient and residential programs, Murray moved into community-based roles that shaped his systems-level approach. At SilverSummit Healthplan, he manages housing and justice initiatives that have directed more than $5.5 million to more than 26 partners and supported more than 8,000 Medicaid members statewide. His work has also helped deliver more than 13,000 shelter nights, 7,000 sober living nights, and expanded access to Nevada’s Housing Support and Services program.
Through outreach events, re-entry resource fairs and broader housing efforts, Murray helps connect individuals to care, shelter, housing resources and longer-term stability across Nevada.
Kathy Rudd 34 Director of Standards and Learning Communities In Schools of Nevada
Kathy Rudd creates systems that help educators respond to the academic and personal challenges students face, connecting schools with the resources children and families need to stay engaged and succeed.
After starting as a teacher in Clark County School District through Teach For America, Rudd moved into school leadership and nonprofit work. She co-founded and served as principal of Battle Born Academy, a K-8 charter school that served 330 students and families through project-based learning and restorative practices.
As director of standards and learning at Communities In Schools of Nevada, which supports nearly 100,000 students statewide, Rudd develops program standards, training systems and learning initiatives for school-based teams. Her work also supports students facing complex barriers including housing instability, food insecurity and mental health challenges. Rudd also coaches youth volleyball and has been involved in legislative advocacy for education.
Michael Casper by Wade Vandervort; Kevin Murray and Kathy Rudd by
Christopher DeVargas
Yolanda Mationg CHIEF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER
Congratulations Yolanda on being named a 40 Under 40 Honoree. Your leadership and dedication to the youth of Southern Nevada, inspire us every day. We are proud to celebrate your well-deserved recognition!
bgcsnv.org
BEAU MCDOUGALL
FIRE BATTALION CHIEF
VEGAS
INC’S
2026 40 UNDER 40 HONOREE
Congratulations Chief McDougall, you are a shining example to all of us. We admire your dedication to the health and wellness of our city.
Zach Jukel 36
Vice President of Marketing Carver Road Hospitality
Zach Jukel is drawn to the energy of shared experiences, where the goal is simple: create something people want to be part of and remember.
An early marketing internship with Sony Music, followed by handson work tied to live events, helped set the foundation for a career across nightlife, hospitality and large-scale events. At Carver Road Hospitality, Jukel oversees marketing strategy across a portfolio of more than 10 venues in multiple cities, helping concepts like Carversteak, Casa Playa and Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar earn top industry recognition. He has also led activations tied to major cultural events, from WrestleMania partnerships to branded pop-ups, while managing teams and campaigns across markets.
Jukel supports ProStart students and mentors emerging marketing professionals. He also launched a toy drive that provided gifts and essentials to more than 30,000 children.
Yolanda Mationg 39
Chief Development Officer Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada
As the first person in her family to graduate from high school and college, Yolanda Mationg learned the importance of education, perseverance and overcoming adversity. As chief development officer at Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada, seeing her own story reflected in the youth she serves motivates her every day.
Since assuming the role in 2024, Mationg has increased individual donors by 29% and reactivated donor revenue by 131%, while managing 66 grants and 88 partnerships across the organization’s 13 clubhouses in the Las Vegas Valley. She also moved the Sneaker Ball Gala to a BGCSN clubhouse, cutting costs and increasing revenue by $25,000 while giving donors direct exposure to programs serving approximately 6,000 club members.
Mationg remains highly involved in the community and volunteers with Shannon West Homeless Youth Center and the Epilepsy Foundation of Nevada.
Emi K. Sakevich 38
Executive Director
Firefighters of Southern Nevada Burn Foundation
Emi K. Sakevich gravitates to the kind of work that turns planning into action. With a background in event management, she brings structure, energy and a sharp sense of execution to community fundraising.
Since becoming executive director of the Firefighters of Southern Nevada Burn Foundation in 2025, Sakevich has quickly expanded its fundraising efforts. She established the foundation’s Rise Up Fun Run in 2025, a 5K for burn survivors that raised nearly $25,000 in its inaugural year. She also led the organization’s largest event, the Bachelor Auction, managing donations, ticket sales, VIP coordination and finances for a fundraiser that generated about $100,000, one of the foundation’s strongest results.
Blood Cancer United and Three Square also reflect her community involvement. She has supported blood cancer fundraising efforts and volunteered at local food distribution events, staying engaged with nonprofit work across Southern Nevada.
Zach Jukel and Yolanda Mationg by Wade Vandervort; Emi K. Sakevich by Christopher DeVargas
Katie Nystrom 39 Tour Manager Backstreet Boys
Katie Nystrom’s life revolves around live music. Growing up, she always found a way to get to concerts, including joining street teams and interning at venues. Once she learned she could study music business and build a career touring the world, she never looked back.
Tour management demands calm despite constant change and Nystrom has spent 14 years learning how to keep shows moving when plans go awry. As tour manager for the Backstreet Boys, she oversees operations for crews of more than 100 people, from travel and production schedules to backstage coordination across nearly every continent. Her work at the Sphere, supporting U2 and the Backstreet Boys, required tight coordination across technical teams in one of the world’s most advanced venues.
Nystrom also mentors women entering the music industry and helps crew members access mental health and substance abuse resources.
Beau McDougall 38
Fire Battalion Chief
Las Vegas Fire & Rescue
Executive Vice President of Private Capital
All Western Mortgage
Beau McDougall thrives in environments where decisions carry real consequences. Whether responding to emergencies or structuring complex financial deals, he focuses on accountability and helping people navigate critical decisions.
McDougall began his career in public service and has spent more than 17 years with Las Vegas Fire & Rescue, where he now serves as a battalion chief. Alongside the fire service, he works in real estate and finance as executive vice president of private capital at All Western Mortgage, where he helped launch the private capital division. He also serves as broker/owner of NextHome People First, a brokerage known for agent development and client service.
Community is another priority for McDougall. He has served six years on the UNLV Alumni Board, including four as the philanthropy committee cochair, and chairs the Professional Fire Fighters of Nevada Benevolent Board.
Katie Nystrom by Wade Vandervort; Beau McDougall by Christopher DeVargas
MacKenzie Seroka 34
Senior Communications Advisor 84 Communications
MacKenzie Seroka has always been quick to strike up a conversation, a trait that naturally led her into public relations.
When Seroka moved to Las Vegas, she worked across multiple agencies before shifting into health care communications at Cleveland Clinic Nevada. There, she managed campaigns that increased social media engagement and grew trade media coverage by 130% year over year. She also supported a statewide campaign announcing the first new Alzheimer’s drug in nearly 20 years, which drove the highest research enrollment across all clinic sites. Her work on the Power of Love gala helped expand the event’s reach and earned multiple PRSA Pinnacle Awards and a national Silver Anvil Award. She’s now the senior communications advisor for 84 Communications.
Active with The Just One Project, Seroka supports food distribution efforts and previously served as president of the Public Relations Society of America Las Vegas Valley chapter.
Micaela Wargo 36
Marketing Director Vestar
Micaela Wargo sees marketing as an opportunity to connect people with causes, and uses events, partnerships, and programming to make retail spaces feel more connected to the community.
Initially hired by Vestar to oversee marketing for Tivoli Village, Wargo quickly expanded her scope to include The District at Green Valley Ranch. She develops campaigns, events, and partnerships that activate both properties and strengthen tenant relationships. Her work includes holiday partnerships with Make-A-Wish Nevada and a toy drive across both properties, in partnership with Toys for Tots and UNLV Hockey, that collected 500 toys and additional cash donations in its inaugural year. She also oversees seasonal programming that drives engagement across both centers throughout the year.
Wargo stays involved with organizations including Three Square and the American Heart Association through meal service, donation drives and fundraising events.
Alan Walker
37 Director of Brand Marketing
Aria Resort & Casino and Vdara Hotel & Spa
While visiting Las Vegas nearly 15 years ago, Alan Walker stepped into a casino employment center on a whim and left with a front-desk job. Today, he serves as director of brand marketing for Aria Resort & Casino and Vdara Hotel & Spa.
Walker develops story-driven marketing that attracts travelers to Las Vegas while maintaining brand integrity. His career includes leadership roles across premier nightlife and hospitality brands, from Krave and Omnia Nightclub to Caesars Entertainment. In 2020, Jon Taffer tapped him to launch the Taffer’s Tavern franchise, where he also helped create Taffer’s Browned Butter Bourbon. He later led the West Coast expansion of Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + Bar.
In the community, Walker cochaired the 2025 Leadership Las Vegas’ Gaming, Tourism and Entertainment session day and has supported Relay For Life and the Human Rights Campaign.
by Christopher DeVargas
Photos
Felicia Hersh 39
Director
of Guest Experience Bellagio and Park MGM
Felicia Hersh lives by what she calls the foundation of lasting loyalty: care for people, earn their trust and make meaningful connections. In hospitality, that foundation matters every single day.
As director of guest experience for Bellagio and Park MGM, Hersh leads strategy and operations aimed at improving service and satisfaction. During nearly four years in the role, both properties posted record gains in customer satisfaction and now lead their competitive market in major guest-focused metrics. She also expanded employee recognition programs, helped increase volunteerism and contributions to the MGM Resorts Foundation, and earned recognition as one of Hospitality Business Review’s Top 10 Directors of Guest Experience.
Beyond the Strip, Hersh facilitates grief support for children through Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation’s Angel Sibs program, serves as a Leadership Las Vegas facilitator and remains active on the UNLV Honors College Alumni Board.
Jessica Rosado 37
Television Host & Multimedia Producer
KTNV Channel 13
Powerful storytelling led Jessica Rosado into a career in media, shaped by her belief that it creates connection and shared understanding. Beginning as a performer and writer, she later expanded into hosting and production to give more space to community, culture and local voices.
On Morning Blend and across KTNV Channel 13’s platforms, Rosado works as a host and multimedia producer. She created Backstage in Vegas, a recurring series highlighting Southern Nevada’s theater community, and produces The Digital Coffee Date, a podcast featuring conversations with powerful women from around the world. She also contributed vocals to a charitable Christmas album benefiting Cure 4 The Kids.
Rosado regularly emcees events and supports organizations including Discovery Children’s Museum, Grant a Gift Autism Foundation, Dress for Success and Cure 4 The Kids, using her platform to turn visibility into support for local nonprofits.
Karen Alonso 39 Chief
Advancement & Communications Officer United Way of Southern Nevada
Karen Alonso is driven by a simple belief: if you have the ability, you have the responsibility. That sense of duty has guided her work helping nonprofits raise money, build partnerships and expand their reach.
Alonso began her career in marketing and spent 14 years at Catapult Fundraising, developing campaigns for organizations such as the U.S. Naval Academy. In 2023, she joined United Way of Southern Nevada as vice president of marketing. Under her leadership, the organization boasted more than $500,000 in new philanthropic support, a 12% increase in Tocqueville Society membership and digital growth that drove a 102% jump in email subscribers and a 121% rise in web traffic. Now chief advancement and communications officer, Alonso oversees fundraising, marketing and volunteer engagement.
Alonso also previously served as president of the Las Vegas chapters of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and the American Marketing Association.
by
Photos
Wade Vandervort
Kevin E. Murray, Manager Housing & Justice Systems
Janson Trieu 35 Medical Oncologist
Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada
Janson Trieu’s path to oncology was deeply personal. After losing a close friend to cancer at a young age, he decided to turn personal loss into a career focused on treatment, research and patient care.
At Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada, Trieu specializes in genitourinary and skin cancers and serves as principal investigator on the Merck KEYVIBE010 Phase 3 melanoma trial. He is also a sub-investigator on five active studies involving prostate, lung and hematologic cancers, helping bring national clinical trials to local patients and expand access to more personalized therapies close to home.
Trieu also presents cancer education at community events such as the Aging Wellness Expo and mentors early-career clinicians. At UNLV, he co-founded the Hematology and Oncology Interest Group, helping connect medical students and residents to research, mentorship and clinical opportunities in Southern Nevada.
Giovanni Trilleras 36
CEO Forensic Pathology Services
Giovanni Trilleras helps families and agencies navigate cases most people are unprepared to face, offering answers when death investigations stall or access is limited.
After helping a medical examiner’s office respond to a shortage of forensic pathologists, Trilleras saw how delays and incomplete findings left agencies and grieving families waiting longer for answers. He founded Forensic Pathology Services as a staffing company connecting government offices with forensic pathologists, then expanded it to help private families seek second opinions and independent autopsies during difficult or disputed cases. Today, the company serves 55 government offices and supports more than 180 contractors.
In the community, Trilleras offers free consulting to local entrepreneurs and small businesses. He also personally assists Spanish-speaking families, often taking calls himself to provide guidance in their own language during difficult moments.
Emily Prazer
38
President and CEO
Las Vegas Grand Prix, Inc.
Chief Commercial Officer Formula 1
Emily Prazer always knew she wanted to work in sports and built a career bringing events to life.
Prazer got her start in sports marketing with IMG before moving into sponsorship and partnership roles across international firms. She joined Formula 1 in 2017 and advanced to head of commercial development for race promotion. Now president and CEO of Las Vegas Grand Prix, Inc. and chief commercial officer for Formula 1, Prazer has helped deliver three editions of the Las Vegas Grand Prix and shape it into one of the most-watched events on the F1 calendar. She also played a key role in developing Grand Prix Plaza as a year-round attraction.
Through Las Vegas Grand Prix initiatives, Prazer supports youth and nonprofit partnerships, including karting camps with Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada and raceweek programming with the Girl Scouts of Southern Nevada.
Giovanni Trilleras and Janson Trieu by Christropher DeVargas; Emily Prazer courtesy Formula 1
Megan Weintraub 36
Chief Philanthropy Officer Jewish Nevada
With a passion for nonprofit fundraising and event planning, Megan Weintraub knew early on that she wanted to work as a Jewish communal professional.
Weintraub joined Jewish Nevada in 2017 and quickly advanced from young leadership development to director of annual giving before becoming its first chief philanthropy officer. Since 2018, she has helped increase fundraising by 150%. Jewish Nevada now allocates more than $1.5 million each year to organizations in Nevada, Israel and around the world. She also raised more than $1 million for an Israel emergency campaign and helped secure support for Jewish Nevada’s partnership with the Secure Community Network, which strengthens security for the statewide Jewish community and to help combat antisemitism.
Community involvement remains a constant focus for Weintraub, who dedicates more than 10 hours each week supporting different organizations and has long-standing participation in the 98.5 KLUC Toy Drive.
Melissa McCormick 32
CEO Nevada State High School
For Melissa McCormick, leadership starts with clear expectations and follow-through, creating an environment where staff understand their roles and stay committed.
While McCormick was an academic advisor for Division I student-athletes, she was introduced to higher education and the importance of helping students reach college. She brought that focus to Nevada State High School, joining in an operational leadership role and advancing as the organization grew, ultimately earning a unanimous appointment to CEO. Under her leadership, teacher turnover dropped from roughly 50% to less than 10%, and the school continues to earn five-star ratings and recognition among Nevada’s top-performing charter networks. She has also successfully guided the organization through curriculum alignment and systemwide planning and increasing regulatory demands.
McCormick works with students and families across Southern Nevada, many first-generation college-bound, helping them access pathways to college through the school’s model.
José Orozco 38 CEO
Orozco Siblings VP Broches for a Cause
José Orozco knows how much guidance matters when someone is trying to build a life in a new country. After immigrating from Mexico without money or any understanding of how the system worked, he built his career around helping others navigate that same path.
Orozco co-founded Orozco Siblings, a nonprofit that supports immigrant and underserved youth through mentorship, workshops, scholarships, college preparation and campus visits. He also launched Broches for a Cause, a jewelry brand that directs a portion of each sale to local nonprofits and has gained visibility through community leaders and public figures wearing its pieces.
Working with Catholic Charities and through his roles at UNLV as an adjunct instructor and Lee Business School cochair, Orozco also helps connect students to scholarships, career guidance, mentorship, academic support and stronger professional networks.
Melissa McCormick and José Orozco by Christopher DeVargas; Megan Weintraub by Wade Vandervort
IN THE NEWS
Nevada starting notification campaign, ballot tracking for voters
The Nevada Secretary of State’s Office is launching a text message campaign and a new ballot tracking website ahead of the primary election in June to help voters access information and update their registration.
The office unveiled myballot. nv.gov, where voters can sign up to track their mail ballots and receive updates via email, phone call or text message.
“At a time when voters can be overwhelmed with misleading and confusing messages about our elections, it’s crucial that state and local election officials provide accurate, nonpartisan and trusted information voters need to build confidence and participate,” Secretary of State
Cisco Aguilar said in a statement.
Voters will begin receiving text messages from 855-448-8323 in English and Spanish. The messages will include an image of the Nevada State seal, the office said.
Initial texts will focus on voter registration, with inactive Democratic and Republican voters receiving messages encouraging them to verify and—if necessary—update their address information before the election.
The office said the number will also be used for rapid response communications, including contacting voters who need to cure their ballot.
The state is providing ballot tracking through a service called Ballot Scout. Voters who previous-
ly signed up for tracking through the state’s BallotTrax service will receive a message alerting them to the change.
Voters can sign up for free at my ballot.nv.gov to receive updates via email, phone call or text message once enrolled. Tracking updates may include when a mail ballot has been sent, when it has been received by the county election office, when it has been accepted for counting and whether it has been flagged by the county election office and requires attention.
The office is also encouraging voters to look for the Official Election Mail seal on any mail they receive to verify it comes from a trusted source. –Grace Da Rocha
Public art program celebrates 20 years of beautifying utility boxes
Clark County on April 24 hosted a community celebration for the 20th anniversary of the ZAP! public art program, which has turned thousands of utility boxes into colorful canvases. Twelve local artists (including Joyce Guerrero, whose artwork is pictured at left) painted utility boxes around Sunset Park as neighbors enjoyed food trucks and local vendors. Red Rock Audubon Society provided interactive activities for kids. The program started in the Winchester neighborhood in 2005 and has since spread throughout the Valley. –Shannon Miller
MAGIC PRESERVED
Crystals illuminate as Lynette Chappell, the “evil queen” from the Siegfried & Roy show, flips a switch during a lighting ceremony for the restored 3,600-pound Siegfried & Roy statue at the Neon Museum on April 24. Looking on are Aaron Berger, CEO of the Neon Museum (center), and Adam Barthelmess, museum board chairman. The statue, located in front of the Mirage on the Strip for more than 30 years, was donated to the museum after Hard Rock International acquired the property.
LIVE NATION PROMOTION OFFERING $30 TICKETS TO LAS VEGAS-AREA CONCERTS
As part of Live Nation Entertainment’s nationwide Summer of Live promotion—which offers discounted tickets to more than 4,000 concerts across the U.S. and Canada—the company is offering a limited supply of $30 tickets for a slate of upcoming concerts in Las Vegas venues. Las Vegas shows participating in the deal span more than a dozen venues—Guns N’ Roses at Allegiant Stadium, Madison Beer at Fontainebleau Las Vegas, Cyndi Lauper at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace, Jonas Brothers at Dolby Live at Park MGM, Empire of the Sun at PH Live at Planet Hollywood and Kali Uchis at T-Mobile Arena.
Additional Las Vegas venues include Brooklyn Bowl, the Chelsea at the Cosmopolitan, House of Blues, MGM Grand Garden Arena, Michelob Ultra Arena, the Palazzo Theatre and Pearl Concert Theater at Palms. Customers can take advantage of the promotion through May 5. All fees are included in the $30 price, with applicable taxes added at checkout. Participating shows and tickets are available at live nation.com/summeroflive. –Staff
(Photo by Steve Marcus)
This new special from The Jim Henson Company follows Ronald, a rule-following pig, and Roxy, a free-spirited hedgehog as they explore Sequoia National Park. At first glance, Ronald and Roxy couldn’t be more opposite, but the awe and wonder of the natural and cultural world shows them that they have more in common than anyone thought. Together they find themselves on a “Wowsabout” full of music, art and hysterical adventures. Learn more at vegaspbs.org/wowsabout
All-star film faculty and Filmmaker Vision Lab heighten UNLV’s profile and prepare students for cinematic success
BY AMBER SAMPSON
Adam Paul (left), assistant professor of film in screen acting at UNLV, and Lily Magdesyan, senior UNLV film student (Photo by Christopher DeVargas)
s of April 15, UNLV’s Department of Film is no more. The program has officially been renamed the School of Cinematic Arts, edging it one step closer to becoming a nationally ranked film school. That news might come as a surprise to anyone who hasn’t been following, but UNLV’s film program has never been stronger than it is right now. And it has the success stories to prove it.
At this year’s Academy Awards, two UNLV grads—Berenice Chávez and Tamiya Nadine—worked on films nominated for Best Documentary Feature and Best Live Action Short. Nadine served as assistant art director on The Singers, a musical comedy short that tied with Two People Exchanging Saliva for Best Live Action Short Film. Meanwhile, Chávez edited Best Documentary Feature nominee Come See Me in the Good Light, based on two queer poets navigating a cancer diagnosis and love.
That’s the model of success UNLV’s film program has been building toward.
“You go to USC, you go to UCLA, because you are the best of the best and want to be a filmmaker. You come here to learn how to be the best of the best,” says Adam Paul, assistant professor of film in screen acting.
Over the years, UNLV has assembled a faculty of film and TV experts with credits that any serious cinephile would recognize. Paul is an actor, director and writer best known for his roles on the award-winning CBS sitcom How I Met Your Mother and the Starz comedy Hollywood Residential . And his colleagues have just as much clout.
David Mackenzie, who directed the Oscar-nominated Hell or High Water, just joined the UNLV faculty this year and has a new film, Fuze, now in theaters.
And assistant professor Thomas Bjelic—a sound designer who worked on the Saw franchise and the award-winning sci-fi series Orphan Black—has taught at UNLV since 2021.
“You can see the latest hiring that they’ve been doing are people like me. David Mackenzie was just hired to teach directing. We have Andi Isaacs. We have Brock Norman Brock for screenwriting. It’s turning into a powerhouse film school,” Bjelic told the Weekly recently. “In the future, I fully anticipate seeing far more of our alumni [stepping on the stage].”
UNLV’s new Filmmaker Vision Lab is now turning that hope into something tangible. The incubator program launched last year as a way to “build bridges to the industry” and raise UNLV’s film program profile, Paul says. That latter goal may ultimately define the school’s future.
“What it really means, ultimately, is that the students who come here get a worldclass education, as they have been, and we’re able to just expand on that and build on it,” Paul says. “What that means for Las Vegas is it becomes a place for students to come from somewhere else.”
Over one intensive week, filmmaker fellows join the Vision Lab to collaborate with students on a proof-of-concept short. Paul coordinates the lab and has used his Hollywood connections to bring established directors like Rod Blackhurst (Night Swim, Amanda Knox, Dolly) in to produce projects like the tense, captive-centered thriller A Very Lovely Girl. Around 40 students worked on the short from pre-production through post, Paul says.
“We were building sets. We were shooting and then editing at the same time. It was a unique kind of experience, where you could watch the edit and go, you know what? We missed the shot. And Rod could come back in here, and we shot what he needed,” Paul says.
The incubator has also come full circle with multiple UNLV graduates returning as fellows. Andrea Walter led the second edition of the lab with her queer vampire short Daylight. And this year, a team of alumni—Ryan and Cody LeBoeuf and
Rachel Alterman—will enlist the help of students for their dark horror comedy, It Came from the Swamp
Since graduating, the filmmakers have taken very different paths in the industry. Alterman assisted producers on Blade Runner 2049 and now serves as a director of development for independent film and production company Alcon Entertainment. Meanwhile, the LeBoeufs edited and starred in the 2020 film Viena and the Fantomes, alongside Dakota Fanning, Jeremy Allen White and Zoë Kravitz.
UNLV’s film faculty has worked on longer, co-curricular projects with students before, like the Lois Weber Film Festival award winner Riot in Bloom. But Paul likens the lab experience to “a small pressure cooker,” with students collaborating closely with creative teams to execute the filmmakers’ vision on a tight timeline.
Lily Magdesyan, a senior at UNLV, says working in the lab not only prepared her for her first internship at Warner Bros., it affirmed her options in film were endless.
“Before the vision lab, I had just done acting in student films. So that was my first time being behind the camera,” she says. “For me, the biggest change was actually when we watched the screening of the short. Doing it was so fun, but watching it made me realize how different the work is, and how it pays off.”
But Magdesyan didn’t always picture herself in film. She says she originally wanted to be an art therapist, but after taking a theater class and encountering Vegas Theater Company artistic director Daz Weller, she made the switch to acting.
As she prepares to submit her directorial debut, Pierced, to UNLV’s annual Spring Flicks—and head to the Cannes Film Festival as one of several UNLV students awarded the opportunity—Magdesyan says she’s feeling optimistic and ready for whatever her film future holds.
“The opportunities that I’ve had at this school are seriously endless. It’s given me what I feel like is a solid foundation to start my career when I’m out of here. I’m really excited and terrified for my future, but in a good way,” she laughs.
Courtesy UNLV Filmmaker Vision Lab
ith new programming driven by the biggest names in R&B and hip-hop, Hakkasan Nightclub is bringing back the energy and atmosphere that made club culture so iconic in the first place.
In February, the nightclub hosted Cardi B’s official tour afterparty. And that set the tone for a fresh direction in nightlife, one that combines a love for hip-hop with an emphasis on culture-forward entertainment.
Among the highlights to come are performances by Tyga (May 2), BigXThaPlug (May 23) and Fabolous (June 13). In addition, R&Bae Wednesdays—anchored by resident DJ Franzen—has become a must-attend midweek event.
R&B and hip-hop laid the groundwork for today’s nightlife scene. From the pulse of the music to the style it defines, the genres have always been at the heart of club culture. The beats of hip-hop shape everything from fashion to dance, and its influence stretches far beyond music, shaping entertainment hubs and community spaces, too.
DJ Franzen, who has been a staple in the Vegas scene since moving here in 2001, has played a central role in reviving hip-hop on the Strip. Franzen held a residency at Drai’s for over a decade and has seen his share of entertainment cycles, but nothing quite hits home as these genres do.
For years, Drai’s Beachclub and Nightclub was the prime place to catch live hip-hop and R&B performanc es. Its closure in 2025 created a void. But Hakkasan is closing the gap.
Franzen’s current Wednesday nights at Hakkasan are dedicated to R&B, creating an atmosphere where people aren’t just standing around and collecting content for their socials, they’re actually connecting.
“My favorite thing [about R&Bae] is that people dance,” he shares. “You go to some clubs, and people just stare at the DJ booth. But here, you can tell it’s a different vibe. It brings me so much joy to see people singing these songs, especially the younger generation.”
The music spans decades, with classics from artists like Jodeci, Usher and Mariah Carey resonating with listeners, even those too young to have experienced the songs when they were first released.
“SunDrai’s is actually what brought hip-hop back to the Strip,” Franzen recalls. “I would open up for EDM DJs on Friday and Saturday nights, and that led to Drai’s becoming a full rotation of hip-hop.”
“It’s a great feeling seeing people enjoying these songs, even when they weren’t born when the music came out,” says Franzen. “It lets me know that the music is still alive, passing down through generations.”
Photos Courtesy of Tao Group Hospitality
Fabolous
RHYTHM AND RESILIENCE: BLACK
Thru August 20, Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-3 p.m., free. Civic Center Gallery, 525 S. Main St., lasvegasnevada.gov
Validated two-hour parking available at City Hall garage.
Rhythm and Resilience: Black Vegas highlights the legacy of Vegas’ African American community
BY SHANNON MILLER
History defines the past as much as it informs the present. To understand how Vegas’ African American community overcame racial segregation and rose as a symbol of resilience, we have to return to the railroad land auction that conceived Las Vegas.
According to historian Claytee White, Anglo developer and surveyor J.T. McWilliams had established a settlement west of the San Pedro, Los Angeles, and Salt Lake Railroad. After the railroad’s 1905 land auction, many residents left McWilliams’ Townsite to move east of the tracks to the new town of Las Vegas.
The community west of the tracks declined, White says. And in the 1920s, African Americans in Las Vegas faced increasing pressure to leave the Downtown area. City officials threatened to not renew business licenses unless Black-owned establishments relocated across the tracks into the old McWilliams’ Townsite. The result: Many
Black business owners and residents were relegated to the wrong side of the tracks.
This piece of history, not always taught in textbooks or schools, is just one of many in the exhibit Rhythm and Resilience: Black Vegas Presented by the City of Las Vegas, narrated by White and curated by the Nevada Museum of Art associate curator Carmen Beals, it takes viewers through the impacts of racial discrimination while celebrating the creativity, adaptability and achievements that helped define the city, as well as contemporary artists who continue Vegas’ Black and multicultural legacy.
“The focus will draw in not just the attention of people my age who are just interested in history and remember, but it will also draw in younger people who want to look back at history through a contemporary lens,” White says.
The exhibit tells the story of people who have thrived despite all odds—from the first known
African American settler to come to the Valley, to the surge of Black migrants to Las Vegas during World War II, to the blossoming of Jackson Avenue as a center for community, business and entertainment in the 1950s, to the integration of public accommodations in Las Vegas in 1960 and the push for equitable employment in casinos in the 1970s.
Several artists including Avis Charley, Chase McCurdy and Q’shaundra James interpret that history, making it part of an “intergenerational” conversation that resonates today, Beals says.
Artifacts like Joe Louis’ boxing gloves and items from the Moulin Rouge—the first integrated hotel-casino in Las Vegas and the country—are also on display. Videos with photos and White’s narration, and a re-creation of a beloved restaurant storefront provide immersive elements.
VEGAS
Photo by Steve Marcus
“Larry’s Music Bar” by Iyana Esters
Commissioned specifically for this exhibit, Iyana Esters’ textile masterpiece cuts a slice of what life might have looked like during the Westside’s golden age. It’s designed to pay tribute to Larry Wilburn, the original owner of Sight & Sound, where superstars like Muhammad Ali and Johnny Mathis would come to get their records when they were in town.
es, paper fans kept congregationists cool in crowded spaces that lacked air conditioning. These fans are displayed in the “Amen Corner” of the exhibit, which includes a church pew and highlights the long history of Black churches in Las Vegas, from the first, Zion Methodist, to the many that have since been established in the Westside.
This window-sized version of a poker chip from the Moulin Rouge displays a playful pattern. The use of just three colors is classy and understated, just like the history of the casino. Opened in 1955, the Moulin Rouge attracted Hollywood elite and international entertainers. It closed just six months after opening, and after a series of fires the building was demolished in 2009.
“Moulin Rouge Casino Chip” by Courtney Yards
Art photos by Shannon Miller
In Limbo
Burgers smashes its way to the front of the pack
BY GEOFF CARTER
Chef Stephen Lee loves a good burger. He reviews them on his TikTok, @inlimbo2023. “I’m always looking for that hidden gem burger,” he says. “Right now, most of the spots I’m hitting are gaming bars, because I always feel like one of these gaming bars has to have, like, a secret awesome burger, you know?”
What a coincidence. “Secret awesome burger” is the exact phrase I use to describe Lee’s In Limbo Burgers, a pop-up that operates out of the kitchen of Durango Social Club Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-2 p.m., and at Petite Boheme Mondays and Tuesdays from 6-11 p.m.
Its menu is simple: three burger varieties, three kinds of fries, three different hot dogs. (Durango’s menu adds three break-
Photos by Wade Vandervort
fast burritos.) And the reason for that is simple: In Limbo doesn’t need more than that. His burgers are perfection. When In Limbo materializes near you, run to that borrowed grill as fast as you can.
A veteran of Esther’s Kitchen and Vegas Test Kitchen, Lee serves his patties juicy and cooked to perfection, with just the right amount of smoky char. The bun, marvelously spongy and covered with sesame seeds that aren’t just there for texture, does an admirable job of supporting the works, which begin with American cheese and can include jalapeños and bacon onion jam (double patty $11, triple $14), house-made pickles with grilled onions (double $10, triple $13) or house-made chili, grilled
onions and pickles ($12, $15). Every bite is better than the previous as the flavors slowly reveal themselves, sometimes singularly, sometimes in concert. It’s like looking at a painting or listening to a symphony and picking out details. I don’t think I’m overselling it.
Lee
Pro tip: get the fries.
Ranging from $4 (plain) to $7 (chili cheese), the julienne-cut pommes are near-irresistible, with a bit of umami-like magic in them. At Boheme, I get them with the fittingly named chocolate and scotch frozen cocktail Le Big Mac, a combo that approximates the classic fries-and-shake pairing on a gourmet level. They bode well for the In Limbo Burrito at Durango ($10): pork belly, salsa verde, eggs, cheese, house-made hot sauce … and tater tots. Lee knows his way around a potato. He knows his way around all of it, really, better than most anyone else. Must be all that TikTok research.
Instagram.com/chefinlimbo
When Esther’s Kitchen owner James Trees and his managing partner Keith Bracewell opened contemporary French restaurant Bar Boheme in the Arts District last spring, its menu was straight a la carte. But a funny thing happened on the way to le tableau: People came to Bar Boheme expecting a fancy experience suited to special occasions.
BAR BOHEME 1401 S. Main St., 702-848-6823, barbohemelv.com Wednesday-Sunday, 5-10 p.m.
“I didn’t think our pricing was outrageous, but people would come in thinking this is going to be like a fancy, expensive dinner, when in actuality it really wasn’t,” says Sean O’Hara, executive chef. “But James was like, ‘If they want a fancy restaurant, we’ll give them a fancy restaurant.’” Boheme’s new prix fixe menu is still affordable at $80 per person, with a first, main and dessert course that draw liberally from what Boheme’s kitchen does best. The firsts include a chicken liver pâté with red onion gastrique, sweet onion relish and toasted rye crostini, and a tuna tartare with basil aioli and ratatouille. The mains include an eight-ounce Bavette steak with beef tallow frites, a sautéed ocean trout filet with asparagus, green garlic and trout roe, LaBelle Farms duck in an orange sauce with rhubarb and chicories, and more. And among the dessert options is a terrific Paris-Brest choux pastry with praline cream, caramel and toasted hazelnuts. Wine pairings are available beginning at $55.
If you love Bar Boheme’s bar menu, including its steak frites, seafood tower, soupe a l’oignon and service industry worker-favorite hamburger, rest assured they’re still on the menu and still reasonably priced. Really, the only way Bar Boheme has changed is for the better. –Geoff Carter
ChefStephen
LaBelle Farms duck (Photo by Steve Marcus)
JOB LISTING
Network Administrator
Monitor network traffic; Manage network security, Mail Resume to Job Site: Richtech Robotics Inc, 2975 Lincoln Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89115, No Calls.
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Data Analyst
Validate e-commerce data; manage database systems, Mail Resume to Job Site: A & G International Trade, Inc., 2050 Mountain City St, Henderson, NV 89052, No Calls.
JOB LISTING
Roseman University of Health Sciences seeks Anatomy Lab Director in Las Vegas, NV to supervise anatomy labs. M.S. in Anatomy or rltd & 5 yrs teaching human anat or rltd exp. Must also possess: Mnging anatomy lab. Working knwl of Learning MgmtSystems (LMS) such as Canvas, Blackboard, or Moodle, student-assisted learning platforms Vimedix, Virt dissection tools (e.g. Complete Anatomy, Sectra, Anatomage) & interactive content dev (using MS PowerPoint or H5P). Integrating emerging tech into existing med curric. Rel exp in human dissection & prosection prep. Wrkng knwl of human gross anat, incl histology, embryology & radiological anat. $100,000 - $110,000/yr To apply send resume to hroffice@roseman.edu & ref ad in cover.
A MOTHER’S DAY EVENT
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a cozy and delightfully pampering rooftop afternoon made for the incredible ladies in your life. Sip endless sparkling mimosas, enjoy live DJ music, and explore charming activations like dainty permanent jewelry and a mini bouquet station.
