Nevada State Bank
Nevada State Bank is proud to be the presenting sponsor of the 2023 Nevada Business Awards, joining with business leaders across the state to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of outstanding local companies.
Each business being honored today is unique, with its own history, its own set of challenges to be overcome and its own list of victories over those challenges. However, successful companies all share certain qualities that have enabled them to weather turbulent economic times – qualities like resilience, creativity and perseverance. They pay attention to customer service, value teamwork and support the community where their employees live and work.
These attributes have enabled Nevada businesses to succeed despite the many obstacles they’ve faced over the past few years. When we asked business leaders for their insights and outlook in our tenth annual Nevada State Bank 2023 Small Business Survey, we discovered that they’re making plans for a brighter future. More than half of respondents believe Nevada’s economy is headed in the right direction, and nearly 55 percent expect their revenues to increase in 2023.
At NSB, we believe this optimism is right on target. Nevada business leaders have found innovative ways to address new problems and they’ve persevered through whatever comes their way. This is just one of the reasons we’re happy to sponsor the Nevada Business Awards, honoring the achievements of these great companies and celebrating their success.
We are proud to have been serving the financial needs of Nevada businesses for more than 60 years. Whether it’s helping with day-to-day cash flow needs, funding new equipment, or providing capital to expand, we help provide the financial support needed to keep a business operating smoothly.
Congratulations to all the 2023 Nevada Business Award finalists, and especially to the winners announced today by Nevada Business Magazine. We appreciate the chance to be a part of celebrating your accomplishments and we wish you continued success.
Please reach out if there is an opportunity to show you why it matters who you bank with.
Best Regards,
Terry Shirey, President and CEO
Rick Thomas, EVP/Northern Nevada Executive
Welcome
Welcome to the third annual Nevada Business Awards! Thank you for being a part of this very special issue. There is a reason Nevada is known as the Battle Born state. Apart from the way Nevada became a state, the title resonates with Nevadans because of the resilience and perseverance it implies.
Battle Born is particularly applicable to Nevada businesses and entrepreneurs who have seen a roller coaster of economic ups and downs over the past decade. Those that are still standing work leaner, better and are more adaptable to change.
The Nevada Business Awards exist to recognize hardworking businesses for their excellence and to applaud their hard work. The awards consist of eight categories from a micro-enterprise category to Business of the Year. Each category has three finalists in northern Nevada and three from southern Nevada. Finalists were chosen by two groups of judges representing each end of the state.
The team at Nevada Business Magazine extends a heartfelt “Thank You” to our diligent judges (page 22) for taking on the challenge of choosing this year’s honorees.
We’d also like to thank the event’s corporate sponsor, Nevada State Bank, who has partnered with the magazine for several years and without whom we would not be able to honor these businesses.
Finally, we thank our readers and honorees, who are the business owners and executives that make up Nevada’s diverse professional landscape. It’s an honor to tell their story.
Southwest Medical
In 1972, Dr. Anthony Marlon opened a small Las Vegas cardiology practice that would ultimately grow to become Southwest Medical, Nevada’s largest multi-specialty medical group, with more than 450 providers throughout the region.
Southwest Medical was built on the promise of protecting the health and well-being of our community, through pioneering lifesaving medical advances, working diligently to ensure the needs of our ever-growing population are met and working hand-in-hand with community partners to build a stronger, healthier southern Nevada.
The ever-evolving company pioneered telemedicine in the state in 2014, allowing Nevadans to meet with their practitioners virtually for the first time – a practice that’s become indispensable over the years. The company recognized the challenge that rural and other underserved populations could face in accessing quality healthcare, and met that challenge head-on with the introduction of Medicine on the Move in 2016, a state-of-the-art, mobile medical center that visits community centers, schools, shelters and other places it’s needed most. And in 2018, Southwest Medical became one of the first providers in the state to offer continuous glucose monitoring to patients.
Southwest Medical was also the first healthcare company to introduce curb side testing stations at the onset of the COVID pandemic. As vaccines were developed, they quickly modified those stations to serve as vaccination sites, while working with community partners to help them set up their own testing and vaccination centers.
And as proud as they are of their past accomplishments, the people that make up Southwest Medical are even more focused on the future. They work with medical schools throughout the community to help train the next generation of practitioners that will keep us all safe, and they’ve expanded teaching and mentorship partnerships with Touro University and UNLV School of Medicine, along with the Valley Health System family medicine residency program, which has grown to become southern Nevada’s largest medicine residency program.
Southwest Medical has been serving southern Nevada for the past 50 years. With a history of innovation, a dedication to providing the best medical care to those who need it most and a commitment to working with those who share the same vision, it’s only the beginning.
Pint Sized Powerhouse
Companies That Employ Nine or Less
North
Frame Architecture, Est. 2002
Jeff Frame, a licensed architect, practiced his craft for a decade prior to opening Frame Architecture as a sole practitioner. He has grown his team to include eight full time professionals and continues to expand his portfolio.
This year, the firm will break ground on a new office building that will allow further growth and opportunities. Jeff is proud of his “small but mighty” team, as each member feels a strong sense of ownership in each project they produce.
Pineapple Pedicabs, Est. 2019
Jaime Chapman stays busy introducing people to her adopted home, Reno. With five pedicabs, she educates her clients on the fun events happening around town as well as art, culture and the history of the city. She plans to open a storefront in Downtown or MidTown Reno and keep expanding in the city and surrounding areas.
As a green business, the company recycles equipment, uses rechargeable batteries and is always considering ways to be more environmentally friendly.
Sierra Miles Group, Est. 2015
With six full time employees, Sierra Miles Group specializes in providing trusted technology advisory and management services to a variety of businesses in different industries.
Founded by Brandon App and Tim Miles, the company is committed to providing highly personalized services, proactive IT management and engaging ethical business practices. Being a micro-enterprise provides agility and adaptability in an ever-changing market.
South
Heritage Mortuary, Est. 2012
Heritage Mortuary’s leader, Larnique Mickens, has a plan to expand the company. Her goals include becoming the exclusive funeral home for veterans by next year, adding a second location by 2025.
Through this growth, she hopes to carry on the legacy of providing quality and affordable funeral services for families in southern Nevada. Heritage has received a number of awards and recognition for outstanding service, authenticity and compassion.
Nevada School for Professional Studies, Est. 2014
Maria Elena Novello, founder and owner of Nevada School of Professional Studies (NSPS) also serves as the post-secondary school’s top administrator. The faith-based private school provides vocational training and equips students with the skills needed for the workforce.
Maria and her small team share a commitment to helping participants thrive with flexible training schedules and remote virtual, teacher led training.
Orbis Solutions, Est. 2010
Orbis Solutions provides its clients with IT and cybersecurity services. Founded by Sean Connery, the company retains eight full-time and one part time employee.
Each team member came to the company with IT skills, and became cyber-heroes through their work as they protect clients ranging in size from small businesses to hotels. The small size of Orbis allows it to maintain great communications with its employees and clients.
All in the Family
Companies That Are Family Owned and Ran
North
Health Benefits Associates, Inc., Est. 1998
With the help of his two sons, founder Kevin Sampson has established Health Benefits Associates as one of the leading health insurance brokerage firms in northern Nevada.
Currently under the leadership of his son, Alex Sampson, the company has grown from one to five offices since 2019. Kevin continues to be involved by mentoring new and existing employees, all of whom are treated like members of the family.
Sierra Meat and Seafood, Est. 1934 (1986 in Nevada)
Sierra Meat and Seafood has been in the family for generations and has served northern Nevada since 1986.
Durham Meat Company, the parent of Sierra Meat and Seafood, started in 1890 in San Francisco and was purchased in 1934 by Armando Flocchini Sr. Four generations of the Flocchini family are still involved in the company – one second-generation, five third generation and four fourth generation family members.
Tahoe Supply Company, Est. 1980
Founded by Dominic Spallone Jr., Tahoe Supply Company is currently operated by Dominic’s son and daughter-in-law, Nick and Kelly Spallone, who took over ownership in 2006.
The company provides cleaning supplies and equipment as well as service and support to its customers. Distribution centers owned by the company are located in Carson City, Las Vegas and Austin, Texas, with satellite offices in Lake Tahoe and Reno/Sparks.
South
Abuela’s Tacos, Est. 2011
Leslie Valdes fulfilled a life-time dream by opening Abuela’s Tacos, which she named in honor of her grandmother. As a single mother of two, she opened the restaurant during the Great Recession.
Over the past dozen years, three generations of her family have worked in the business. Abuela’s Tacos is a vendor at Allegiant Stadium, provides catering and has received significant recognition for the restaurant’s quality food and great service.
De Castroverde Law Group, Est. 2005
Attorney brothers, Alex and Orlando De Castroverde, sons of Cuban immigrant and lawyer, Waldo De Castroverde, grew up helping their father in his practice. Waldo was one of the first Nevada attorneys to open a law office that focused on representing the Hispanic community.
The brothers continue their father’s legacy by serving both English and Spanish speaking clients. Their firm has grown to over 20 attorneys and more than 100 employees.
Marker Trax, Est. 2018
A serial entrepreneur, Marker Trax founder and CEO Gary Ellis, is a native Las Vegan and grew up in the hospitality industry. His first job was a dishwasher at his family’s restaurant, The Village Pub.
Through Marker Trax, Gary developed a gaming system wherein customers could be approved for credit, or markers as they are known in gaming, in minutes. Previously this was a cumbersome process that sometimes took hours. Gary’s daughter, Anamarie serves as marketing executive with the company.
The Overcomer
Minority or Woman-owned Businesses
North
I.T.S. The Blind Spot, Est. 2020
Formerly In The Studio, LLC, owner Tina Laramie rebranded the company to I.T.S. Blind Spot when she purchased it last year. The company provides design service and specializes in window treatments and color consultations for residential and business clients.
She has ambitious expansion plans to grow her company in the male dominated construction industry and will open a second location in Tampa, Florida next year.
Jimmy Beans Wool, Est. 2002 (2004 in Nevada)
What started as a hobby two decades ago, has developed into a successful business employing almost 60 people. Laura Zander, a silicon-valley software developer, discovered knitting after the dotcom bust in the early 2000s.
She opened a small shop offering yarn and coffee in Truckee, California. Over the years, Jimmy Beans Wool has acquired additional companies and has a warehouse in South Reno. Laura and her family love Reno and give back to the community.
Monrreal Law, Est. 2017
With a passion for social justice, Karen Monrreal started her practice as a young Latino woman determined to advocate for her clients and promote diversity within the legal profession.
The firm has grown to ten employees and Karen has significant plans for growth. It’s her intention to expand participation in pro bono work, and offer legal and educational workshops. Her dream is to help create a more just and equitable society.
South
Allegiant Electric, Est. 2015
Andrea Vigil founded Allegiant Electric after losing her job when the solar company she worked for closed. She obtained an electrical license and filled a void when, as a result of net metering changes, thousands of Nevadans were left without a company to service their existing solar systems.
After working out of her home for six months and gaining two employees, Andrea and Allegiant Electric moved into an office building, which they have already outgrown.
Executive Option, Est. 2015
Executive Option began as a one-man operation ran by veteran Mike Del Prado, who is also Hispanic. Today, the full-scale business consulting firm specializes in enterprise systems and change management and employs over 30 professionals.
In addition, the company has strategic partners spanning North America, Latin America, Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle East. With an office in Henderson, the company has ambitious expansion plans.
WOW WOW Hawaiian Lemonade, Est. 2012
Originally formed in Hawaii, Terrica and Daryle Jamssens brought Wow Wow Hawaiian Lemonade to Nevada just last year. The couple already employ 12 people.
The restaurant offers gourmet lemonade, tropical drinks, superfood smoothies, healthy bites and a variety of other food and drinks. They are known for their famous Mason Jar Lemonades, made from fresh pressed lemons.
The Newbie
Companies That Have Been in Business for Less Than Ten Years
North
Reno Fine Arts Collective, Est. 2021
Artists Kevin O’Keefe and Briana Dolan, newcomers to Reno, launched Reno Fine Arts Collective as an online and counter gallery early in 2021 to represent and celebrate local artists.
The father-daughter team, who opened their first physical gallery in downtown Reno in July of the same year, strive to present Reno Tahoe as a nationally recognized center for arts and culture. The gallery featured well over 400 pieces of local art in its first five months of operation.
Schussboom Brewing Company, Est. 2021
Known for its award-winning craft beer, Schussboom Brewing Company was founded by Briana and Jason Wagner in the summer of 2021. With plans to open a second location in Reno, the company already has 16 full time and 25 part time employees.
The facility has a family-friendly space with a children’s area as well as a 21-plus only taproom and the only rooftop deck in south Reno. The Wagners are heavily involved in supporting the community.
Squish’s Pressure Washing, Est. 2021
Tanner Huckaby is a “man with a plan”. He started Squish’s Pressure Washing in 2021 at the age of 16. In addition to pressure washing, the company provides soft wash, window cleaning, heavy equipment washing, fleet washing and store front clean up services.
Tanner will graduate from Churchill County High School this month and already has the largest and most active pressure washing and window cleaning business in his hometown of Fallon.
South
Half Bird Chicken and Beer, Est. 2022
With the goal of providing delicious all natural and wellness-driven rotisserie chicken, Chef Brian Howard open Half Bird Chicken & Beer last year. His family friendly restaurant is already providing jobs to 25 full time and five part time team members.
Brian has set his sights on opening five to six more locations in the Las Vegas Valley, expanding in to the southwest United States and eventually offering franchising opportunities.
LIVV Homes, Est. 2020
Philippe Ziade founded LIVV Homes in 2020 with a mission to design and build sustainable, customizable and affordable luxury homes. The company, based in Las Vegas has offices in Germany and Lebanon and has already started the development of its second master planned community in the valley.
LIVV designs, builds and deploys an integrated home automation system that uses artificial intelligence (AI) and learning to record user preferences.
Revolution Engineering, Est. 2017
With 20 employees, Revolution Engineering was formed as a VA Certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned and Operated Small Business by Chris Lovett in 2017.
Chris has a passion for mentoring his team and helping them reach their full potential. Expansion plans for Chris and the company include growing the Revolution office in New Orleans and adding offices in Missouri, California, Colorado and Oregon.
Battle Born
Companies That Have Been in Business for 25 Years or More
North
A-1 Radiator, Est. 1981
Ken Zeal, founder of A-1 Radiator, is still active in the company on a daily basis. Services provided by the business include radiator, heating, cooling service, sales and repair work.
The company, with 50 team members has locations in Elko and Salt Lake City and provides sales and service to the mining industry throughout the western United States. Ken attributes the longevity of the company to honesty, integrity and exceptional service.
McDonald Carano, Est. 1949
With a history as storied as Nevada itself, McDonald Carano is one of the state’s largest and most successful law firms. Employing almost 150 people, the firm is currently managed by attorney George Ogilvie, III.
The statewide firm provides comprehensive legal services with more than 60 attorneys and government affairs professionals serving local and regional, as well as national and international clients with interests across Nevada.
United Engine and Machine, Est. 1922
United Engine and Machine is an aftermarket manufacturer of automotive pistons that has been in business for over a century. Now in its fourth generation of family ownership, Scott Sulprizio currently runs the company, with the help of his son Chris.
Scott’s grandfather started the company in 1922 and eventually passed it on to his three children. Over the years, the company has grown to provide 280 full time and over 100 part time jobs.
South
Old Republic Title Company, Est. 1907 (1970 in Nevada)
Old Republic Title has roots that extend over a century and beyond state lines. Originally formed in Minnesota, the company was acquired by Old Republic International Corporation and later became Old Republic National Title Insurance Company.
State Manager, Shosana Carro is at the helm of the business and oversees its 40 employees who provide title services to the real estate industry.
Simpson Coulter | STUDIO, Est. 1967
Simpson Coulter | STUDIO is a planning, architecture and interior design firm that had been in business for 56 years. Currently managed by Wade Simpson, Sean Coulter and Joy Rineer, the award-winning firm is focused on creating beautiful, impactful, quality buildings that enhance the community.
Simpson Coulter’s projects span educational, healthcare, workplace and public facilities for clients throughout the western region of the United States.
Southwest Medical, Est. 1972
The state’s largest multi-specialty medical group, Southwest Medical, began when Dr. Anthony Marlon opened his cardiology practice in southern Nevada over 50 years ago.
With a flourishing practice, Anthony launched Health Plan of Nevada to form the state’s first health maintenance organization (HMO) in 1984. Focused on innovation, and the delivery of quality and convenient care, Southwest Medical has become a household name in the valley.
Others First
Companies That Have Contributed Significantly to the Community
North
Home Instead, Est. 1995 (2005 in Nevada)
Allan Ward owns and operates Home Instead with offices in Reno and Carson City. The company provides non-medical, in-home care for seniors and their families. They offer companionship, personal care, hospice support and help those suffering with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Among other organizations, the philanthropic company supports the Be a Santa to a Senior program, which provides Christmas gifts to over eight hundred seniors throughout northern Nevada.
Panattoni Development Company, Est. 1986 (1995 in Nevada)
Panattoni is a commercial and industrial development company that continues to support the community. The company is led by Doug Roberts, who is also one of the founding members of Keaton Raphael Memorial, now known as the Northern Nevada Children’s Cancer Foundation (NNCCF).
The cancer foundation is just one of the many organizations supported by Panattoni, who has contributed over $100,000 to the community in the last year.
Waste Management of Northern Nevada, Est. 1968 (1998 in Nevada)
Waste Management of Northern Nevada champions the community to recycle through their initiative, Reno Recycles. The residential waste pick-up and recycling company gives back to the community through a number of community organization partnerships, sponsorships and donations.
They have donated more than $325,000 in the last 12 months through direct and in-kind giving. The organization is deeply engrained in the community it serves.
South
FEA Consulting Engineers, Est. 1990
Formed by Rob Finnegan and Boyd Erickson, FEA Consulting Engineers provides mechanical, electrical, plumbing, low voltage, audio/visual and lighting engineering services. The firm built its solid reputation through its work with megaresorts.
The team at FEA donates much of their time and resources to a variety of organizations throughout southern Nevada and created their own nonprofit, FEA Race team. The nonprofit focuses on fitness and lifestyle outside the office.
Link Technologies, Est. 2000
Debbie Banko, founder of Link Technologies, is firmly committed to sharing her knowledge and resources with the community she calls home. The company sponsors and supports a variety of charitable organizations.
In addition, Debbie founded CyberSmartNV, a nonprofit dedicated to the education of cyber professionals and the public at large. Along with the company’s leader, Link employees volunteer their time and talent to administrate and advocate for the organization.
The PENTA Building Group, Est. 2000
The PENTA Building Group is a privately held commercial general contractor operating in Nevada, California and Arizona. Philanthropy and giving back are the lifeblood of PENTA and its charitable arm, PENTA CARES.
The mission of the contractor’s nonprofit is to increase the impact PENTA’s employees, family, and friends have in the communities in which they live and work. In addition to capital donations, PENTA empowers and supports its hundreds of employees and encourages them to lend a hand in the community.
Hearts Wide Open
Nonprofit Organizations
North
Eddy House, Est. 2011
Lynette Eddy founded Eddy House while completing her masters in social work at the University of Nevada, Reno. The organization fills the gap in services for young adults aged 18 to 24.
Eddy House’s mission is to assist homeless and at-risk youth develop the life and job skills necessary for sustainable independence. The organization helps meet its client’s basic needs such as food and shelter while helping them with goals so they can become self-sufficient.
Girls on the Run Sierras, Est. 1996 (2007 in Nevada)
Girls on the Run Sierras inspires girls to be joyful, healthy and confident while using an experience-based curriculum that creatively integrates running. They offer two 10-week programs and host a week-long summer camp.
Founded by Molly Barker, the organization offers scholarships and has never turned a girl away for the inability to pay. Since the start of the nonprofit, over 5,700 girls have been served and the organization continues to grow.
The Solace Tree, Est. 2003
Emilio Parga, founder and executive director of The Solace Tree, believes all children, adolescent and family members should have the freedom to express their feelings associated with loss in a safe environment.
The nonprofit provides free, bimonthly grief support groups to anyone who has experienced a death in their life. The grass roots organization has supported almost 9,000 children, over 4,000 teens and nearly 6,000 northern Nevada adults since its inception.
South
Bridge Counseling, Est. 1971
With over 80 employees, Bridge Counseling is the oldest nonprofit counseling center in southern Nevada. The organization provides group, family and individual counseling services.
Bridge’s team of professionals include marriage and family therapists, clinical professional counselors, social workers and substance abuse counselors. The organization works with individuals, families, courts and other community service programs.
Jobs for Nevada Graduates, Est. 1980 (2014 in Nevada)
Established by former Nevada Governor, Brian Sandoval, and ran today by Dr. Rene Cantu, Jobs for Nevada Graduates (J4NG) is a statewide nonprofit established to close the gap in Nevada’s graduation rates, low youth employment and low college entry rates.
The program has assisted over 18,000 historically underserved and vulnerable students in 53 high schools across the state. J4NG now has a graduation rate of nearly 96 percent, fifteen percentage points higher than the state’s average.
St. Jude’s Ranch for Children, Est. 1966
St. Jude’s Ranch for Children is a nonprofit that helps abused, neglected, homeless and exploited children and young people. The organization was founded by Father Jack Adam, an Episcopalian priest in 1966.
With the mission of transforming lives and breaking the cycle of abuse and neglect, St. Jude’s maintains a team of 78 that share that vision. The community of healing and hope provides, safety, stability and healing in a caring environment.
Spirit of Nevada
Business of the Year
North
Dickson Realty, Est. 1973
Dickson Realty, is a real estate firm affiliated with 338 REALTORS® and supporting almost 40 full time employees. The company was founded by Fianna Dickson in 1973. Her brother, Harvey Fennell and wife, Nancy became partners in 1987.
The entire team of Dickson is committed to serving the community and are involved in countless organizations designed to improve and support a better community.
Lumos & Associates, Est. 1978
With over 100 full time employees, Lumos & Associates was formed in 1978 when Paul Lumos hired his first associate. A year later, the company celebrated its anniversary with a picnic lunch, a tradition that continues today.
The engineering firm provides civil, structural, surveying and mapping, geotechnical and construction services. Led by CEO, Randall Long, the company embraces the importance of community and providing a work-life balance for its employees.
Savage and Son, Inc., Est. 1893
Established in 1893, Savage and Son, Inc. maintains Nevada Contractors License 10 and is the oldest contractor in Nevada. They specialize in plumbing, HVAC and piping for commercial and residential customers.
As native Nevadan’s, a member of the Savage family has been running the company since the firm was formed by Frank Charles Savage 130 years ago. It has continued to grow with the community and employs 114.
South
Boyd Gaming, Est. 1975
Founded by Sam and Bill Boyd nearly 50 years ago to develop the California Hotel and Casino in downtown Las Vegas, Boyd Gaming has since grown to encompass over 15,000 employees nationwide.
Today, Boyd is one of the largest casino operators in the United States and operates 29 casinos in 11 states. The company is committed to giving back to southern Nevada and donates over $1.5 million annually to local nonprofits.
Las Vegas Paving, Est. 1958
Robert Mendenhall started Las Vegas Paving Corp. in 1958 after working as a foreman and project superintendent for a local paving contractor. After branching out on his own Mendenhall became known as an innovator by developing a process that allows roadway materials to be reclaimed and recycled.
Recently Las Vegas Paving was responsible for the $38.3 million repair and repaving of Interstate 515 from I15 to Eastern Avenue in downtown Las Vegas.
SR Construction, Est. 1991
Scott and Alice Loughridge began SR Construction (SRC) in 1991 as a design/build contractor. Throughout the years, leadership at the company established an approach called the “SR Built Process” utilizing lean construction tenants.
The process consists of collaboration from stakeholders at all levels, from architects and engineers to end-users to reduce waste and create projects that are designed with users in mind.
The Judges
A special thank you to the distinguished panel of judges for their work in identifying this year’s finalists out of hundreds of nominees and for the unenviable task of choosing this year’s winners.
Statewide: Connie Brennan, Nevada Business Magazine
North: Jake Carrico, Nevada State Small Business Development Center ~ Sarah Johns, Nevada Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology ~ Nancy McCormick, Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada ~ Jeff Sutich, Northern Nevada Development Authority ~ Rick Thomas, Nevada State Bank
South: Lisa Chao, Henderson Chamber of Commerce ~ Megan Comfort, Nevada State Bank ~ Raja Mourey, Asian Chamber of Commerce, Dalisa Steward, Urban Chamber of Commerce ~ Lauren Stuart, Vegas Chamber
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