Nevada Business Magazine, along with corporate sponsor Nevada State Bank, is honored to recognize and support family owned businesses across Nevada for their hard work. The Family Owned Business Awards began in 2010 as a way to recognize these families and the companies they’ve created. Nevada Business Magazine and Nevada State Bank share a commitment to promoting organizations such as these. The event pays tribute to hard working Nevadans that are providing jobs and helping the economy of the Silver State. Congratulations to all of this year’s finalists.
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.
Tray Abney, Reno-Sparks Chamber of Commerce
Joseph Amato, Small Business Administration
Dave Archer, Nevada Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology
Jana Benton, Nevada State Bank
Mike Bindrup, UNLV Nevada Small Business Development Center
Connie Brennan, Nevada Business Magazine
Megan Comfort, Nevada State Bank
Ken Evans, Urban Chamber of Commerce
Rob Hooper, Northern Nevada Development Authority
Sam Males, UNR Small Business Development Center
Nancy McCormick, Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada
Scott Muelrath, Henderson Chamber of Commerce
Cody Walker, City of Henderson
Whippersnapper
A business, less than 10 years old, in the first generation of succession with expectations for future generations to run the company.
North
Tessa Dee Miller
The Nest
Est: 2009
Right out of school and encouraged by her father, Tessa Dee Miller bought her first used furniture store when she was only 22. “There I made every mistake in business that you can make and learned more in that first year … than I could’ve learned in decades in college,” said Tessa. Just four short years later, Tessa opened The Nest, which sells everything from furniture to accessories with a vintage flair.
Gary & June Inouye
MidTown Printing
Est: 2015
Founded by Gary Inouye and his mother, June, MidTown Printing is named after the midtown district in Reno. Finding himself facing curveballs such as divorce and unemployment, Gary took his experience in printing and graphic design and used it to secure funding for a business in an up-and-coming area of Reno. Two years later, the company is going strong, focusing on customer service. Gary is working on growing intelligently and hopes to see business continue to boom.
Annabelle & Ross Miller
Performance Electric Company
Est: 2010
A third generation electrical contractor, Ross Miller founded Performance Electric Company to serve the Reno/Sparks area. He works with this father, Frank, his mother Connie and his wife, Annabelle. The company began out of a garage with 10 customers and has since grown into a new facility with a couple hundred clients. Ross is focused on providing quality estimates and has a history of reliable and professional service.
South
Olivier Brouillet
Baguette Cafe
Est: 2009
Owned by Olivier Brouillet and his parents Claudie and Lucien, Baguette Cafe was founded at the height of the recession. Even so, the office park cafe, made Yelp’s list of the “Top 100 Hottest Places to Eat in the United States” three years in a row, topping 21st on the list in 2016. The restaurant prides itself on providing a casual venue that prepares delicious, socially conscious food.
Yasaman Jozdani
C’est La Vie Media
Est: 2014
Founded by Yasaman Jozdani, C’est La Vie Media was established as an innovative marketing company whose goal is to stay ahead of the latest trends in culture. Yasaman works alongside her sister, Leilah, mother Marlene and father Mehrdad. The Jozdani’s have helped Las Vegas be at the forefront of the emerging augmented reality technology and expect to continue to be pioneers in technology.
MaiLee (6 years), Shawn & Mimi Wachter
Kangamoo Indoor Playground
Est: 2016
As parents of their own intrepid six year old, Mimi and Shawn Wachter know the challenges of finding a fun place that appeals to both parents and their kids. To help bridge that gap, the husband and wife founded Kangamoo Indoor Playground. The innovative space served 45,000 children in its first year and includes supervised play areas for kids alongside relaxing spaces for their parents. The Wachter’s founded the business for their daughter, MaiLee, whose creative pronunciation inspired the name Kangamoo.
Don’t Forget to Share
A business that has made significant contributions to the community and prides itself on giving back.
North
Julie & Brant Skanson, Terry & David Vasenden
Sierra Family Pharmacies
Est: 1998
Owned by the Skanson’s and the Vasenden’s, Sierra Family Pharmacies was born when the two families realized they could grow and serve Northern Nevada better together. Keeping service as a core value has led Sierra Family Pharmacies, and the families behind the organization, to give back to in many ways. The owners have set personal goals to donate 100 hours annually and strive to exceed that goal. In addition, they support several non-profits in the area.
Jennifer, Mason (6 years), Jay & Thomas (7 months) Kenny
DoughBoys Donuts
Est: 2009
Serving up more than donuts, Doughboys Donuts has a strong commitment to their Northern Nevada community. Founded by Bob Kenny and owned today by his son, Jay, the two work with several family members including Jay’s wife Jennifer, along with his brother, sister, mother and grandmother. The Doughboy family supports many local charities, giving of both time and money. “In a small community like Reno, it’s important to give back to those who support you,” explains Jay.
Curtis & Laura Worrall
Whispering Vine Wine Co.
Est: 1998
Celebrating 20 years this coming October, the owners at Whispering Vine Wine Co. know that their community and their team is what has kept them successful. The company has grown exponentially in recent years and shares that growth, having donated over $56,000 in product alone last year. The company was founded by Curtis and Laura Worrall and they work with their daughter Katie.
South
Jeff Manning
ABG Builders
Est: 2007
Founded by Jeff Manning, ABG Builders has seen good times and bad. Regardless of the ups and downs, the Mannings believe in giving back to their community and have made that attitude a mantra at ABG. Donating his time as an auctioneer, Jeff and his team recently helped raise over $10,000 to help the fallen first responders from the 1October shooting. In addition, in 2017, the company donated over $50,000 in services and time to several Southern Nevada non-profits.
Bill Houghton
Horizon Print Solutions
Est: 1992
Owned by Bill and Jeni Houghton, Horizon Print Solutions was founded on the tenants of good corporate culture, team spirit and customer service. Volunteerism is an important part of Bill’s life and he donates extensively of his own time while incentivizing his employees to volunteer as well. In addtion to contributing 10 percent of Horizon’s profits, the company also provides several thousands worth of in-kind support and several hundred hours worth of time from both the Houghton’s and their staff.
Becki, Charlie & Austin Spencer
Studio 21 Tattoo Gallery
Est: 2003
Austin Spencer and his parents, Charlie and Becki, knew that there was an opportunity to provide a service to their community while breaking the stereotype of many tattoo shops. Together they formed Studio 21 and have seen phenomenal growth. The Spencers love their community and have incorporated fundraising into their business in many ways. Most recently, Studio 21 donated 100 percent of the proceeds on $50 pre-designed tattoos to the 1October victims fund the week following the tragedy.
When the Going Gets Tough…
A business that has faced adversity and made changes to adapt to difficult times.
North
Perry & Starr Nixdorf
Paradise & Spear Me
Est: 1976
A salon and piercing studio, Paradise & Spear Me has seen a lot of changes throughout the years. From big leaps of faith in location moves to a changing beauty industry, husband and wife owners, Perry and Starr Nixdorf have weathered many storms, continually adjusting their business as necessary. Perry originally purchased the business from his mother in 1983 and has evolved the business from the original hair salon to now having a salon, retail store and aquatic center, among other offerings.
Suzy Kahl
KAHL Commercial Interiors
Est: 2001
Kahl Commercial Interiors was founded by husband and wife, Dan and Suzy Kahl. They saw an opportunity in their field in Reno and took a leap in 2001, moving their entire family to the region from the Bay Area. Hit hard by the downturn, Dan and Suzy repositioned their business to help clients reduce costs while operating more efficiently. That forward thinking put Kahl Commerical Interiors in a prime position to grow as the recession ended.
Rhonda Hodges
Western Nevada Title Company
Est: 1983
Founded by Murray Taylor and Rhonda Hodges, Western Nevada Title is owned today by Rhonda who works alongside several of her family members. In an industry completely dependent upon the buying, selling and refinancing of real estate, Western Nevada Title has made its fair share of adjustments over the years. When hard times hit, the organization, which consists of 10 employees, banded together to get through the tough times. Today, Western Nevada Title continues to adapt to serve the community.
South
Sidney Johnson, Kim Washington & Walt Turner
Access Realty
Est: 2000
A real estate agent in Pahrump since 1979, Kim Washington found herself in need of a new job. That led her to found Access Realty. After seven years of building the company, Kim experienced simultaneous hardships, the economy crashed and she was the victim of theft. That’s when Kim got really tough, rebuilding from the bottom up. Today, she works alongside her son, Walt Turner and daughter, Sidney Johnson. As she teaches them the ropes of her industry, they’re helping lead the company into the next generation.
Grant & Larry Turner
The Dillinger
Est: 2011
A restaurant and bar located in the heart of Boulder City, The Dillinger had a rocky start. The restaurant was founded by Grant Turner who was joined by his father, Larry Turner, to help build the business. Shortly before opening, Grant’s cash partner was suddenly unable to continue funding the business. Choosing between trying to sell an unfinished restaurant and pressing onward, Grant opened the business on a shoestring budget. With the help of family and friends, Grant pressed onward and The Dillinger continues to grow today.
Michael, Peter & PJ Becker
PJ Becker & Sons Construction
Est: 2008
When the recession cost him his job at a general contractor, Michael Becker knew he need a solution. He partnered with his dad, Peter J. Becker and his brother Peter, Jr. or “PJ” and the three formed PJ Becker & Sons Construction. Starting out of a garage, the construction company has since expanded and continues to grow and bid jobs. Today, the family is proud of their company’s roots which has added to the organization’s experience and flexibility.
Shape Up
A business that has made significant efforts to promote healthy lifestyles for employees and the community.
North
Dee Dee Desiderio-Schula
Sports West Athletic Club
Est: 1987
Founded over 30 years ago, Sports West is an athletic club owned by Reno local Dee Dee Desiderio-Schula. The gym is open around the clock and strives to be a one-stop-shop for those looking to improve their health. The facility features everything from a full aquatics program, racquetball and weight and cardio-training studios as well as a range of personal training and nutrition experts.
Carrie Cameron & Marshall Hopper
Sports & Performance Physical Therapy
Est: 2016
Husband and wife team Carrie Cameron and Marshall Hopper founded Sports & Performance Physical Therapy after returning to Reno to be near family and raise their son. Carrie, who has a doctorate of physical therapy and is a certified athletic trainer, has a passion for helping people return to optimal health and hopes to educate the Reno community on the benefits of physical therapy and how it can improve quality of life.
Hannah, Mike & Madilen McIntosh
Vital Signs
Est: 2000
One of the largest sign and graphics companies in Northern Nevada, Vital Signs was founded in 2000 and is owned today by husband and wife Hannah and Mike McIntosh. The McIntosh’s know that healthy employees are happier and more productive and strive to create an environment were people are cared for holistically. The company offers paid gym memberships, ergonomic desks and chairs and healthy food options and vitamins among other health benefits.
South
Christina & Stella (2 years) Martin
Diced Kitchen
Est: 2016
Founded less than two years ago by fitness professional, Christina Martin, Diced Kitchen was born to help others with nutritious meal planning. What began with just Christina and a few clients has grown to now include a team of 11 employees, including a chef, Christina’s husband Justin, her step-father Kenneth Allen and her official taste-tester, two year old daughter Stella. Christina just moved into a brick and mortar store and hopes to continue growing and eventually offer healthy “grab and go” meals throughout the Valley.
Dan “Stan”, Thomas, Terry & Michael Stansbury
Nzymes.com, a Division of Biopet, Inc.
Est: 1999
Moving to Nevada in 2004 to take advantage of the friendly business climate, Nzymes.com was founded by husband and wife, Thomas and Alexandria Stansbury and their brother Dan “Stan” Stansbury. Today several family members work for the company which offers dietary supplements for pets and their humans to improve health through proper diet. The family has received remarkable results through their supplements and have been excited to share their progress with customers.
Stacey Dougan
Simply Pure
Est: 2013
Founded by Chef Stacey Dougan, Simply Pure is a restaurant serving 100 percent, plant-based food and located in the Container Park in downtown Las Vegas. Chef Dougan has specialized in vegan cuisine for 17 years, founded another restaurant in Atlanta and trained vegan chefs in Ghana. She hopes to use her experience to offer Las Vegans healthy food that doesn’t compromise on taste. Chef Dougan plans to continue growing her business while raising her three-year-old son, Zion, with a plant-based diet.
Swimming Upstream
A business that is minority- or woman-owned.
North
Melissa Marsh
HRinDemand
Est: 2011
Recognizing a way she could help small businesses navigate the land mines of human resources, Melissa Marsh founded HRinDemand seven years ago. Adapting to the needs of her clients, Melissa has a passion for small business and hopes to help them succeed. She has been bolstered by the support of the Reno business community and is excited to continue developing her business while streamlining processes for her clients.
Teresa Ruiz De Sidle
All Eagle
Est: 2014
Owned by Teresa Ruiz De Sidle, All Eagle is both woman- and minority-owned. Teresa founded the company, which focuses on asbestos abatement, mold remediation and general demolition, after a company owner suggested she get several certifications before he would give her work. After getting the certifications, she went back to the owner who told her he’d call her when he had something. Not one to sit around waiting for a phone call, Teresa took matters into her own hands and All Eagle was born.
Bryan & Fran Pritchard, Vivian Rumker
Killer Salsa
Est: 1993
Just over twenty-five years ago, Fran Pritchard was working in a cafeteria in California making fresh salsa, which her customers referred to as “killer salsa”. One year later, after moving to Minden, she decided to see if she could turn her Killer Salsa into a business. Today, Fran’s salsa is in several hundred grocery stores. Supported by her son, Bryan and manager Vivian Rumker, Fran looks forward to seeing her salsa business continue to expand.
South
Brooke & Matthew Borg, Heidi Burch
Borg Law Group
Est: 2010
A practicing attorney with a four-year old daughter at home and another on the way, Brooke Borg saw that having a healthy work-life balance was becoming a huge issue. So, she decided to do something about it. Eight years ago she founded Borg Law Group so she could have the best of both worlds. Today her husband Matthew serves as her office manager and her sister Heidi Burch serves as a legal assistant.
Khalil, Philippe & Patrick Ziade
Growth Holdings
Est: 2008
Growth Holdings is a global holding entity that owns and operates real estate properties. The company was founded by Philippe Ziade, a Lebanese-born immigrant who came to Las Vegas to pursue a dual degree in civil and mechanical engineering at UNLV. Today, he is joined in the business by his brothers Patrick and Khalil. He explained that their, “Lebanese background gave us a hunger for success.” Since its inception the business has grown to have offices around the world.
Elizabeth Trosper
Trosper Communications
Est: 2010
Elizabeth Trosper founded Trosper Communications to empower others while providing quality marketing solutions. “I came to a point in my life where I wanted to practice my craft and provide leadership to others in an environment of my own creation,” she explained. She does so with a boutique firm of nine employees who are dedicated to being good community stewards and providing extraordinary client service.
It’s Good to be on Top
A business that is at the top of its game, doing better than ever.
North
Tom & Bonda Young
Great Basin Brewing Company
Est: 1993
Nevada’s largest and most award-winning brewery, Great Basin Brewing Company was founded by husband and wife, Tom and Bonda Young. As a former geologist traveling the world, Tom developed a taste for flavorful beer he couldn’t find at a good cost stateside. Together, the Young’s began brewing their own beer, eventually overcoming legislative hurdles to create a local brewery. Today the company has two locations in Northern Nevada and looks to continue to brew great beer.
Cindy, Nicolas & Tiffany Novich
Full Tilt Logistics
Est: 2014
Beginning with just three employees four years ago, Full Tilt has grown to 26 employees, a satellite office, affiliated trucking company and fleet headquartered out of Reno. The logistics company was founded by Tiffany Novich who works alongside her husband, Nicolas, his mother Cindy, as well as several other family members that have all helped build the business. The certified women-owned company’s 2017 sales approached $8 million and Tiffany hopes to continue that growth and provide solid employment for Reno workers.
Jerry Deines, Bill Miles & Cary Richardson
Miles Construction
Est: 1986
Founded by Bill Miles, Miles Construction is run today by Bill, Jerry Deines and Cary Richardson. The company was founded to fill a void in construction by focusing on design-build projects. Surviving severe downturns, Miles Construction has nevertheless seen 130 percent growth over the past five years. Focusing on the principle of simplicity, Bill, Jerry and Cary credit the organization’s success to strong client relationships and always acting in the best interest of their projects.
South
Evelyn Carlos & Ron Cabildo
Definitive Talents
Est: 2005
Ron Cabildo came to Las Vegas with a dream of performing. He made that dream a reality, eventually founding Definitive Talents to help other achieve the same. The company has shown consistent growth throughout and Ron credits his success to several core values including family orientation, promise of excellence and embracing change. Ron works alongside his daughters, Mica and Mikayla, his ex-wife Karin and is supported by his mother, Evelyn Carlos.
Ryan Bowen, Nadia Rayas, Lawrence Ocon & Annette Hardy
La Paloma Funeral Services
Est: 2006
Focusing on helping families during their most trying times, Ryan Bowen and Chris Blackburn, founded La Paloma Funeral Services as a locally-based, family-owned funeral home. Today, the two work with several talented team members, all with the same goal of doing things differently for families in need of funeral services. Their non-traditional ideas, including online arrangements, simple prices and transparency in marketing and pricing have led to 20 percent growth each year.
Jennifer, McKenzie (9 months) & Ted Wiens, III
Ted Wiens Tire & Auto
Est: 1948
With a rich history in Southern Nevada, Ted Wiens Tire & Auto is a locally owned and operated auto service center. The company was founded by Ted Wiens, Sr. and is run today by Ted Wiens, Jr. (his son), Ted Wiens, III (his grandson) and his wife, Jennifer. With 170 full-time employees, the company has shown steady growth in recent years and the Wiens hope to pass their business along to a fourth generation.
The More the Merrier
A business that has 50 employees or more.
North
LP Insurance Services
Est: 2010
Proving that business ties and family ties go hand-in-hand, LP Insruance was founded by Nick Rossi, Joe Wyatt, John DeRicco, Mike Talbott, Rich Bullard, Lloyd Barnes and Joe Kulikowski to provide quality insurance services to Nevadans. Today, family runs strong in the company. LP now has 20 shareholding owners, five of whom have family members in the organization. In addition, 37 of the company’s employees are related to one of their coworkers.
Jim Annis
The Applied Companies
Est: 2002
A staffing organization, the Applied Companies was founded by Jim Annis and Randy Venturacci. The company has 35 employees on staff but works with thousands of contracted worksite employees through a program known as employee leasing as a professional employer organization (PEO). In the business of employing people, the Applied Companies knows that intelligent growth is essential to success.
Cami, Bobby, Jennifer & Kelley Hodges
Nevada Automotive Test Center
Est: 1957
An independent automotive testing center, Nevada Automotive Test Center (NATC) was founded by Henry Hodges, Sr. and Martha Hodges. Today, the company is owned by their son Henry Hodges and his wife Mary, who work alongside their children, Jennifer, Bobby, Cami and Kelley. NATC employs 114 full-time people and has a legacy of innovation and advanced engineering to improve ride quality, mobility, survivability and vehicle performance.
South
Christina & Anamarie Ellis
Ellis Island Casino, Hotel & Brewery and the Village Pubs
Est: 1968
Ellis Island Casino began as the Village Pub by Frank Ellis, Jr. Frank’s son, Gary, changed the name to Ellis Island in 1985 when he bought the business from his father. He then expanded to add a casino, a brewery in 1998 and 12 Village Pub properties throughout the Valley. Today, Gary works with his three daughters, Christina, Anamarie and Michaela, along with several other family members and 550 full- and part-time employees.
Ken, Sadie & Duncan Goodrich
Goettl Air Conditioning
Est: 1939
Founded nearly 80 years ago in Arizona, Goettl Air Conditioning was acquired by third-generation Las Vegan, Ken Goodrich, in 2013. He has since grown the business, expanding into Las Vegas and Southern California and seeing 500 percent year-over-year growth since 2015. Today, Ken employs 108 full-time workers in Nevada. Ken’s son, Duncan, and dog, Sadie, have both become intrinsic to the company culture. Duncan is the child from Goettl’s billboards and ads and Sadie assists in human resources, helping to hire the best and brightest.
Chad & Christian Hirschi & Brett HalesChad Hirschi developed a love for masonry while working with his father. He started Hirschi Masonry with three core values: win work, achieve results and be fulfilled. Today Chad works alongside his son Christian and his brother-in-law Brett Hales. Hirschi Masonry provides full-time employment for over 450 people and Chad knows that family comes first. He said, “Family gives us purpose, family gives us protection and we strive to maintain an environment that allows those same values.”
Outside the Box
A business that offers a product or service that is unique to Nevada.
North
Mimi & Debi Canfield
Larkellen
Est: 2014
Mother and daughter team, Debi and Mimi Canfield, founded Larkellen, a local boutique, in 2014. Naming the business after the street Debi grew up on, where her parents still live today, Larkellen is centered on family and community. The duo stock locally crafted goods, showing their love for Northern Nevada and proudly telling the stories of each item. Debi and Mimi work alongside their family, Debi husband Larry, Mimi’s partner, Scott O’Brien and their nearly six year-old son, Dane.
Steve & Cherie Humphreys
Answerwest, Inc.
Est: 1988
While working for a larger telecom company, Cherie Humphreys used an answering service to keep in touch with her rural Nevada customers. Seeing flaws in the system, she knew she could do better. After lots of research, Answerwest was born, providing around the clock phone coverage for businesses. The company has maintained continuous service since 1988 and utilizes the latest technology and unique software to be the voice of various Nevada organizations. Today, Cherie works alongside her son, Steve.
Dave Asher & Beth Williams
Buy Nevada First
Est: 2010
Dave Asher and his wife, Beth Williams, want to see Nevada businesses succeed. To that end, Dave started Buy Nevada First eight years ago, which he runs today with Beth. In the business of promoting local business, Buy Nevada First began as an online directory and phone app to list and brand local businesses. This led to campaigns to support local business and, eventually, the Buy Nevada First gift shop in the Reno Town Mall. The gift shop recently expanded into a new and larger space to feature more Nevada-based businesses.
South
Jeannette & Ron Lutz
The Butcher Block
Est: 2006
After many years of working as head butcher at Treasure Island, Ron Lutz wanted to share his expertise with the residents of Las Vegas Valley. In 2006, Ron and his wife Jeannette began The Butcher Block to achieve that dream. With three locations throughout the Valley, The Butcher Block is a throwback to another day and age. The company cuts all their meats in-house, making their own sausage and creating custom orders to fit any customer’s needs.
Monica Pappas & Becky Riersgard
Fingerprinting Express
Est: 2003
Founded by Becky Riersgard, Fingerprinting Express is one of the first privatized fingerprinting businesses in Nevada. Previously relying solely on overworked police stations, Becky saw a need for efficient fingerprinting and set about to cut down on the time it took to have civilian fingerprints. Today, Becky is joined by her daughter Monica Pappas and son-in-law Dave. Monica took over the reins as CEO and president, growing the company across the state.
Mike Schoenbaechler, Patty Peters, Kj Howe & Chad Evans
Grape Expectations
Est: 2005
A wine-making school in Henderson, Grape Expectations has overcome several hurdles to become a reality. Those hurdles didn’t deter husband and wife founders, Charlie and Patty Peters, who knew a winemaking school would be a perfect business model for Las Vegas. They were eventually joined by long-time friend Mike Schoenbaechler. Today, in addition to the school, Grape Expectations has added Vegas Valley Winery, the first bonded winery within Clark County.
Change is Good
A business intended for a second generation, or further. The company has successfully utilized a younger
generation’s ideas.
North
Craig Witt
Full Circle Soils & Compost
Est: 1997
Craig and Caren Witt founded Full Circle Soils & Compost over 20 years ago to provide growers in Nevada with high-quality compost, soil blends and mulches. A unique business, Craig has a lifetime of history in creating nutrient-rich soils for plants to thrive. Today, the Witt’s have been joined by their son Cody who has begun the process of taking over the business operations from his dad.
John Arthur, Jr., Kristin Diane & John Arthur Lee
Fasani Painting
Est: 1912
With a 106 year legacy, Fasani Painting has survived the tough times and enjoyed the good times. Founded by Arthur Fasani after immigrating from Switzerland, the paint contracting company is in the same location in which it started. Fasani has passed from Arthur to his son, Claude, to Claude’s nephew, and Arthur’s grandson, John Arthur Lee who runs the company today with his wife Kristin and son John Arthur Lee, Jr.
Ally, Kenneth, Liam (1 year), Robert & Danielle Quirk
Lincoln Heating & Air
Est: 1993
Founded by Robert and Danielle Quirk, Lincoln Heating and Air is a testament to a family that works hard to achieve success. Today, the husband and wife are joined by their son Kenneth and daughters Kayla and Leah. Kenneth, who serves as general manager, has begun taking over responsibilities for Robert and Danielle, working to modernize the business while enhancing employee training and morale.
South
Robert G. & Bob Massi
Massi & Massi Attorneys at Law
Est: 1980
A familiar face in Las Vegas, Bob Massi established his law firm in 1980. He eventually began to work with his brothers Albert and Jimmy, with their parents working in a differnt business out of the same building. Bob has carried that family tradition forward and today works with his son and fellow attorney, Robert. In addition, Bob’s other son, Dominic, an insurance broker, is in the same building with daughter Genna, a teacher’s aide, close by.
Ann Alenick
Pasta Shop Ristorante & Art Gallery
Est: 1989
Pasta Shop Ristorante & Art Gallery began as a vision for David and Ann Alenik, husband and wife and chef and artist, respectively, to merge their passions to create a unique dining experience. After David passed away, Ann and her children, Trenton, Bianca and Clayton continue his work. “It has been an honor to watch my children embody the lessons their father taught them and continue to uphold the standards of excellence that have been set,” Ann said.
Tiara Flynn & Carla Jenkins
Sumnu Marketing
Est: 2006
Newsome Marketing Enterprises, founded by Shaundell Newsome, was hit hard by the recession. Shaundell’s daughter, Tiara Flynn, who was serving as an airman in the U.S. Air Force at the time, saw a need in her father’s business and stepped up to fill that need. She helped rebrand the company to Sumnu Marketing and assumed the position of President and CEO. The business is owned today by Tiara along with her cousin Carla Jenkins.
Wisdom of Age
A business that has been operating for over 25 years.
North
Robert & Patti Ince
Robert Ince Jewelers
Est: 1972
Robert Ince Jewelers was established 46 years ago by Robert Ince who learned his craft from his father, a jeweler in Reno. Today, Robert and his wife, Patti, carry on the tradition of jewelry making, creating custom jewelry for their clients. The Ince’s plan to continue working until retirement whereupon they’re going to have a big “going out of business” sale. The husband and wife love their business and are committed to excellence for their customers.
Cari Norcutt
Berney Realty
Est: 1968
Founded by E.S. “Bud” Berney and his wife, Ruth, Berney Realty has been serving Fallon for 50 years. Bud’s son Mike took over the business in 1981 and, in 2008, was succeeded by Cari Norcutt, a sales agent for Mike who purchased the company. Mike continues to serve as a broker. Cari has a deep love for her community and is proud to be in the same location, and serve the same families, today.
Kay Bennett
Silver Springs Airport
Est: 1989
Nearly 30 years ago, Hale Bennett showed his wife, Kay, an abandoned World War II airstrip he had landed a B29 Superfortress on in 1945. They saw potential in the airstrip and, together, turned it into Silver Springs Airport, working with Lyon County to serve the entire region. Today, the airport is run by Kay and several of her family members. Since its founding, Silver Springs Airport has had over $6 million in airport capital improvements.
South
Chris Bless
Carl’s Air Conditioning & Sheet Metal
Est: 1964
Nearly 55 years ago, Carl and Elsie Butler moved to Boulder City from Wisconsin. The husband and wife saw a need for an air conditioning business and began their legacy, Carl’s Air Conditioning and Sheet Metal. Moving to Henderson in 1967, the company is owned today by Sheree & Ed Bless who work alongside their son, Chris. With 15 full-time employees, Chris hopes to carry on the company tradition of quality service, attention to detail and integrity.
Betsy & Jack Sanders
Sanders Family Winery
Est: 1988
With 30 years of experience in growing grapes and creating wine, Sanders Family Winery has a rich history in Pahrump. Originally starting Pahrump Family Winery, Jack Sanders founded what is known as the “first modern winery in Pahrump”. Today, Pahrump is known for its wineries which attract tourists to the area. Most recently, Sanders Family Winery opened a tuscan style winery and performing arts amphitheater to further encourage visitors to discover quality wines.
Neil & Devon Sansone
Sansone Companies
Est: 1978
A commercial real estate company offering management, leasing sales and development, Sansone Companies was founded by Roland Sansone 40 years ago. Today, Roland is joined by his three sons, Devon, Miles and Neil Sansone who are as passionate about the industry as their dad is. Sansone is responsible for a variety of projects throughout the Las Vegas Valley, including the iconic Boulevard Mall, which the company helped transform into a thriving mixed-use development.
