2023-09-21-Las-Vegas-Weekly

PUBLISHER MARK DE POOTER [email protected]

EDITORIAL

Senior Editor GEOFF CARTER (geo [email protected])

Editor at Large BROCK RADKE ([email protected])

Deputy Editor SHANNON MILLER ([email protected])

Sta Writer GABRIELA RODRIGUEZ ([email protected])

Sta Writer AMBER SAMPSON ([email protected])

Contributing Writers GRACE DA ROCHA,HILLARY DAVIS, MIKE GRIMALA, CASEY HARRISON, KATIE ANN MCCARVER, TERESA MOSS, RHIANNON SAEGERT, DANNY WEBSTER

Contributing Editors RAY BREWER, JUSTIN HAGER, CASE KEEFER, DAVE MONDT O ce Coordinator NADINE GUY

CREATIVE

Art Director CORLENE BYRD ([email protected])

Senior Designer IAN RACOMA

Photo Coordinator BRIAN RAMOS

Photographers CHRISTOPHER DEVARGAS, STEVE MARCUS, WADE VANDERVORT

DIGITAL

Publisher of Digital Media KATIE HORTON

Web Content Specialist CLAYT KEEFER

ADVERTISING & MARKETING

Publisher of Branded Content & Special Publications EMMA WOLFF

Special Publications Editor SIERRA SMART

Senior Advertising Managers MIKE MALL, ADAIR NOWACKI, SUE SRAN

Account Executives MARY CHARISSE DIMAIN, LAUREN JOHNSON, ANNA ZYMANEK

Sales Executive Assistants APRIL MARTINEZ, NANCY RAMOS

Events Director SAMANTHA PETSCH

Events Manager HANNAH ANTER

Events Coordinator ALEXANDRA SUNGA

PRODUCTION & CIRCULATION

Vice President of Manufacturing MARIA BLONDEAUX

Production Director PAUL HUNTSBERRY

Production Manager BLUE UYEDA

Associate Marketing Art Director BROOKE EVERSON

Marketing Graphic Designer CARYL LOU PAAYAS

Production Artist MARISSA MAHERAS

Senior Tra c Coordinator DENISE ARANCIBIA

Tra c Coordinator ALEX HAASE

Distribution Relations Liaison JIDAN SHADOWEN

Fulfillment Operations Coordinator CASANDRA PIERCE

Route Administrator KATHY STRELAU

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IN THIS ISSUE

SUPERGUIDE

Your daily events planner, starring Barry Manilow, the iHeartRadio Music Festival, San Gennaro Feast, MSSV & more.

NOISE

Constant musical evolution is the goal for local rock outfit Pudgel.

COVER STORY

It couldn’t possibly feel like it, but Life Is Beautiful has been turning Downtown into a vibrant musical party for 10 years now. Are you ready?

NIGHTS

One of our favorite Strip casino cocktail bars has transformed into something new, and it’s still worth a sip.

NEWS

Revisiting Mount Charleston after devastating damage from Tropical Storm Hilary.

SPORTS

FOOD & DRINK Football season is the right time to check out the updated cuisine at Flanker Kitchen.

The Vegas Golden Knights are ready to report to training camp and begin a new journey to defend the Stanley Cup. The Weekly checks in at City National Arena to capture the team’s mood as it prepares for the first preseason game on September 24.

SUPERGUIDE

BARRY MANILOW RECORD-BREAKING WEEKEND

The legendary headliners who’ve made their mark in this iconic theater—Elvis and Liberace—are and will be forever tied to Las Vegas. It’s time for Barry Manilow to be added to that group of all-time Vegas greats. The 80-year-old singer and songwriter supreme will break The King’s record for number of shows at the International Theater at Westgate during his latest weekend romp, and he’ll do it in style; proceeds from each ticket sold during these three residency concerts will benefit charities such as Three Square, Victoria’s Voice, the Manilow Music Project and the Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center. And lucky fans will get bonus swag like a special commemorative coin and a VIP pass to the Saturday afternoon screening of the film Copacabana Thru 9/23, 7 p.m., $54-$330, Westgate International Theater, ticketmaster.com. –Brock Radke

MSSV

SAN GENNARO FEAST

Thru 7/24, times vary, M Resort, sangennarofeast. com

LOUIS THE CHILD

With Elderbrook, 10 p.m., Zouk Nightclub, zoukgrouplv.com

LAS VEGAS AVIATORS VS. RENO ACES

Thru 9/23, 7 p.m. (& 9/24, noon), Las Vegas Ballpark, ticket master.com

DANNA PAOLA

7 p.m., House of Blues, concerts. livenation.com

MOMS UNHINGED 7 p.m., the Space, thespacelv.com

ARNEL PINEDA & LANI MISALUCHA

8 p.m., Azilo Ultra Pool, eventbrite.com

MICHAEL GRIMM 7 p.m., Myron’s, thesmithcenter. com

IAM TONGI

7 p.m., Event Lawn at Virgin, etix.com

UNLV WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL VS. SAN JOSE STATE

6:30 p.m., Cox Pavilion, unlvtickets.com

CAIRO KNIFE FIGHT

With The Freeks, 7:30 p.m., SoulBelly BBQ, eventbrite.com

STETSON HEAT SEEKER

With The Riflemen, Nova Babies, 9 p.m., Red Dwarf, reddwarflv.com

INTERPLANETARY CRIMINAL

With Skye, 530, DJ Shaun, 10 p.m., We All Scream, seetickets.us

For a relatively infrequent Las Vegas performer, onetime Minutemen bassist Mike Watt sure has played some memorable sets here over the past two decades: opening for the Red Hot Chili Peppers with his Secondmen (and Flea guesting on trumpet) at Mandalay Bay Events Center in 2003; delivering a scorching set of Stooges covers with Hellride at the Double Down in 2006; holding down the low end for Iggy & The Stooges themselves as they tore through Fun House at Vegoose 2007; and leading his Missingmen through a twisty “45-minute song with 30 parts,” Hyphenated-man, at Vinyl in 2012. On September 21, the 65-year-old punk legend returns with yet another group, MSSV (Main Steam Stop Valve), a trio fronted by dynamic guitarist/ vocalist Mike Baggetta and rounded out by drummer Stephen Hodges, who played on such Tom Waits albums as Swordfishtrombones and Rain Dogs(!). MSSV’s latest LP, Human Reaction, dropped on September 1, and its eight songs take a playful yet powerful trip through punky jazz, jazzy punk and even electronic-soaked poetry, so it’s almost anyone’s guess what this gig might sound like—and that’s just the way Watt seems to like it. 8 p.m., $15, the Griffin, eventbrite.com. –Spencer Patterson

22 SEP.

IHEARTRADIO MUSIC FESTIVAL

Along with Life Is Beautiful, the mammoth Las Vegas music weekend also features the 13th annual iHeartRadio fest. Bringing a star-studded lineup of celebrated performers across genres and generations, the festival will offer two unparalleled nights of Top 40 music, featuring headlining spots from legendary R&B group TLC, Foo Fighters, Public Enemy, Fall Out Boy, Travis Scott, Lil Wayne, Kelly Clarkson, Lil Durk, Lenny Kravitz and many others. Also debuting this year is iHeart’s House of Music, an immersive fan experience that will celebrate various artists through different themed installations. Notable tributes include a room dedicated to Public Enemy and 50 years of hiphop, in which fans can create graffiti art, check out Flava Flav’s wild timepieces, and walk into a closet featuring some of TLC’s most iconic outfits. This will also be the first year Hulu livestreams the festival on its app, so if you can’t make the full weekend, you can at least avoid the FOMO. 7:30 p.m., & 9/23, $60+, T-Mobile Arena, axs.com.

LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL FESTIVAL

Thru 9/24, 3:30 p.m., Downtown Las Vegas, lifeisbeautiful. com

DANZIG

With Behemoth, Twin Temple, Midnight, 6:30 p.m., Theater at Virgin, axs.com

STEVE MARTIN & MARTIN SHORT 8 p.m., & 9/23, Encore Theater, ticketmaster. com

LORD OF THE FLIES 7 p.m., & 9/23 (& 9/23-9/24, 2 p.m.), Charleston Heights Arts Center, lasvegas nevada.gov

RUCKUS

Noon, Encore Beach Club, wynnsocial.com

TYLER HUBBARD 8 p.m., Sandbar at Red Rock Resort, ticket master.com

ADELE 8 p.m., & 9/23, the Colosseum, ticketmaster. com

RÜFÜS DU SOL With Enamour, 10:30 p.m., XS Nightclub, wynnsocial.com

CARRIE UNDERWOOD 8 p.m., & 9/23, 9/27, Resorts World Theatre, axs.com

MARC MARON 7 & 9:30 p.m., & 9/23, Wiseguys Arts District, wiseguys comedy.com

WIZ KHALIFA 10:30 p.m., Drai’s Nightclub, draisgroup.com

PAULINA RUBIO

8:30 p.m., Venetian Theatre, ticket master.com

ERIKA JAYNE 7:30 p.m., & 9/23, House of Blues, concerts. livenation.com

GORDO 11 a.m., Tao Beach Dayclub, events.taogroup. com

EVELYN’S CASKET

With Von Boldt, Dr. Phobic & The Phobic-Tones, DJ Atomic, 9 p.m., Double Down Saloon, doubledownsaloon.com

STEVE AOKI 10:30 p.m., Hakkasan Nightclub, events. taogroup.com

KURT TRAVIS

With Amarionette and more, 8 p.m., Sand Dollar Downtown, thesand dollarlv.com

MARTIN GARRIX

With Justin Mylo, 10:30 p.m., Omnia Nightclub, events. taogroup.com

BRANDEE YOUNGER 7:30 p.m., Water Street Plaza Amphitheater, cityofhenderson. com

SUPERGUIDE

FOR MORE UPCOMING EVENTS, VISIT LASVEGASWEEKLY.COM.

FOR MORE UPCOMING EVENTS, VISIT LASVEGASWEEKLY.COM.

SUPERGUIDE

SATURDAY

SEP.

LIFE IS SH*T FESTIVAL

The punk-spirited, DIY fest Life Is Sh*t returns to Dive Bar for its 11th annual takeover. Traditionally, the event incorporates local art in various forms—music, poetry, prose and a fan-driven zine are included. But the real kicker is the varied lineup Bad Moon Booking pulls o each year.

Underground raptress Vicious Vampira, alt-rockers

Elevated Undergrounds, fuzzy noise outfit Headwinds and homegrown crustsludge Swamp Brain are just a few of the acts featured on this year’s bill. Although the overarching theme is always to stick it to the man and nod to the sh*tty parts of life, it’s not all doom and gloom. The fest dualistically serves as a fundraiser for the local music charity Girls Rock Vegas. Donated funds help support the all-girl summer camp and afterschool program aimed at creating a positive self-image for girls through music. Flush whatever might be ailing you with cheap booze and fast tunes while supporting a good cause. 4:20 p.m.-2 a.m., Dive Bar, badmoon booking.live. –Gabriela Rodriguez

STRIKE FORCE

THREE

With Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, 8 p.m., Dolby Live, ticketmaster.com

DASHBOARD CONFESSIONAL

8 p.m., Fremont Street Experience, vegas experience.com

THE PIANO GUYS

2 & 7:30 p.m., Reynolds Hall, thesmithcenter. com

LACHANZE

6 & 8:30 p.m., Myron’s, thesmithcenter.com

AN EVENING WITH THE PHANTOM

7 p.m., Centennial Hills Amphitheater, lasvegasnevada. gov

METAL CHURCH

With The Bites, Sex to Love, 7 p.m., Count’s Vamp’d, eventbrite.com

LION FIGHT 75 MUAY THAI

7 p.m., Theater at Virgin, axs.com

D.L. HUGHLEY

10 p.m., Mirage Theatre, ticket master.com

PETE DAVIDSON

7 p.m., the Chelsea, ticketmaster.com.

LAS VEGAS RAIDERS VS. PITTSBURGH STEELERS 5:20 p.m., Allegiant Stadium, ticket master.com

DIPLO 10:30 p.m., XS Nightclub, wynnsocial.com

KASKADE Noon, Ayu Dayclub, zoukgrouplv.com

ILLENIUM 11 a.m., Tao Beach Dayclub, events.taogroup. com

BACK ALLEY RUMBLE CAR SHOW 3 p.m., Pawn Plaza, pawnplaza.com

MARSHMELLO 11 a.m., Encore Beach Club, wynnsocial.com

ZEDD 10 p.m., Zouk Nightclub, zoukgrouplv.com

BLANCO BROWN 10 a.m., Soak Pool, palms.com

JUMAANE SMITH 7:30 p.m., Water Street Plaza Amphitheater, cityofhenderson. com

RICK ROSS 10:30 p.m., Drai’s Nightclub, draisgroup.com

THE CHAINSMOKERS 10:30 p.m., XS Nightclub, wynnsocial.com

SOFI TUKKER 10:30 p.m., Marquee Nightclub, events.taogroup. com

NITTI 11 p.m., Discopussy, tixr.com

KILFEATHER With Lord Velvet, Vakara, 8 p.m., the Gri n, eventbrite.com

CAM’RON 10:30 p.m., Drai’s Nightclub, draisgroup.com

SPECTRUM & RADIANCE 6 p.m., Myron’s, thesmithcenter. com

BONE THUGS-N-HARMONY

DOM DOLLA Noon, Encore Beach Club, wynnsocial.com

BLAKE LEWIS 6 p.m., Easy’s Cocktail Lounge, easysvegas.com

DEORRO 11 a.m., Wet Republic, events. taogroup.com

KING JAMES BROWN 7 p.m., Taverna Costera, taverna costera.com

FAT JOE 11 a.m., Tao Beach Dayclub, events.taogroup. com.

SHIP WREK 11 p.m., Discopussy, tixr.com

LAO TIZER BAND 7:30 p.m., Water Street Plaza Amphitheater, cityofhenderson. com.

There’s no celebrating five decades of hip-hop without mentioning one of the greatest gangsta rap groups around. Bone Thugs-N-Harmony—comprising Layzie Bone, Krayzie Bone, Flesh-n-Bone, Wish Bone and the recently retired Bizzy Bone—dominated the ’90s with their tongue-twisting flows and heavy-hearted lyrics that spoke to a generation grown accustomed to leading a hard life and losing the ones that mattered most. The group’s Grammy-award winning song “Tha Crossroads” stands out in many listeners’ minds, as does the impulse to light up and reminisce with old homies from the block. No words were left unsaid with these profound rappers, but don’t be surprised if they leave you speechless. 3 p.m., $30, Daylight Beach Club, daylightvegas.com. –Amber Sampson

MONDAYS DARK 8 p.m., the Space, mondaysdark. com

BRANDT TOBLER Thru 9/30, 8 p.m., LA Comedy Club, bestvegascomedy. com

NOYBEL GORGOY 7 p.m., Maxan Jazz, maxanjazz. com

DJ E-ROCK 10:30 p.m., Jewel Nightclub, events. taogroup.com

MATT MAESON With Steinza, 7:30 p.m., Brooklyn Bowl, ticket master.com

ELEVATED UNDERGROUNDS 9 p.m., Sand Dollar Downtown, thesanddollarlv. com

JULIO DIAZ Thru 9/28, 8 p.m., Westgate Comedy Cabaret, ticketmaster.com

WELCOME TO THE CURLVIBE 8 p.m., the Space, thespacelv.com

HARRIET JAXXON With Reid Speed, 10 p.m., Discopussy, disco pussydtlv.com

THE PHARCYDE With Tha Alkaholiks, Douglas Gibbs, 7:30 p.m., Brooklyn Bowl, ticketmaster.com

PRESEASON: VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS VS. LA KINGS 7 p.m., T-Mobile Arena, axs.com

MY BROTHER ELVIS 5 p.m., Westgate International Theater, ticketmaster.com

SURF MESA 10 p.m., EBC at Night, wynnsocial.com.

TRISH TOLEDO 10 p.m., the Usual Place, eventbrite.com.

BLANCO BROWN

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 23

DEREK HOUGH

SYMPHONY OF DANCE

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 28

PAT BENATAR & NEIL GIRALDO

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 29

THE CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS OF CANNABIS

While cannabis has been used for thousands of years, scientists are still identifying many of the chemical components of the plant. According to a 2021 study published in Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, there are more than 550 chemical compounds in cannabis and more than 100 cannabinoids, including THC and CBD. There are also more than 100 aromatic terpenes and other plant constituents. All of these components work in synergy to create the e ects and experience of cannabis as we know it. Here’s a look at some of the key contributors and how they work.

Cannabinoids are the most active ingredients in cannabis and are often what people know by name. When consuming cannabis, cannabinoids are absorbed in the bloodstream, processed in the endocannabinoid system, and then expressed in the central nervous system, creating the feel-good e ects that cannabis is known for. Some of the most recognized cannabinoids include:

THC

For many, tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the crown jewel of cannabinoids. It is responsible for the major psychoactive e ects of cannabis.

THCV

Tetrahydrocannabivarin is very closely related to THC but known for having significant di erences. Most often found in sativa strains, THCV may create an energized, alert feeling and act as an appetite suppressant for some.

CBD

In the hierarchy of cannabinoids, cannabidiol, or CBD, sits right below THC for its potency and popularity. It is a non-psychoactive compound that is linked to pain and anxiety management, sleep improvement, anti-inflammatory e ects and more.

CBG

Cannabigerol is becoming increasingly well known because of some of its potential benefits. Like CBD, CBG does not produce psychoactive e ects but may have antibacterial properties and be an e ective sleep aid.

CBN

Cannabinol is often found in older cannabis and created during the degradation of THC. CBN in mildly psychoactive with sedative properties

Found in all plants, including cannabis, terpenes are responsible for aroma and flavor and are the primary constituents of most essential oils. The terpenes found in cannabis are thought to contribute to the “entourage e ect,” which references the theory that cannabinoids and terpenes work together to enhance the e ects of marijuana. These are some of the mostly commonly found terpenes in cannabis:

Myrcene

Found in hops, lemongrass and herbs, myrcene has an earthy, grounded flavor. It’s thought to have sedative e ects, while relieving pain and insomnia. It also may increase the e ects of THC and CBD.

Limonene

Also found in citrus rinds, limonene is the terpene that gives some strains a citrusy taste and smell. It also may settle the stomach, have antioxidant properties and contribute to stress relief.

Pinene

Just as the name implies, pinene smells like pine and is found in coniferous trees, such as pine, fir and spruce trees. Pinene is associated with mental clarity and an uplifted mood.

Trichomes are the tiny crystals found on cannabis leaves and buds. They tend to be sticky and shiny—some are orange and stalky—and they make cannabis look like it’s been sprinkled with sugar. Though seemingly small, trichomes produce resin that contains the cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids that make cannabis what it is.

Like terpenes, flavonoids contribute to cannabis’ taste and smell. They may have neuroprotective and antioxidant properties and can provide di erent pigmentation to the plant. They are also believed to contribute to the “entourage e ect” in concert with cannabinoids and terpenes.

NY STYLE DINER

“I am dreaming of my food from Black & Blue Diner!!!! It was the diner of my dreams” - Shan on 7/1/23

IT’S MANHATTAN SEASON!

THE PERFECT

MANHATTAN

1 ½ oz Woodford Reserve Bourbon

¾ oz Sweet Vermouth

2 dashes Angostura® Bitters

50/50

1 oz Woodford Reserve Rye Whiskey

1 oz Sweet Vermouth

2 dashes Bitters

ESPRESSO

1 oz Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon

¾ oz Coffee Liqueur

½ oz Sweet Vermouth

LIFE GOES

GOES ON

Music and arts festival Life

Is Beautiful celebrates with its 10th Downtown installment

Las Vegas had never seen the like before. Crews took over nearly 20 blocks of Downtown Las Vegas, constructing two giant and two smaller stages on empty lots. Artists from around the world painted multistory murals on previously unadorned city walls. Food trucks and merch stands took over parking spots; sun-bleached concrete slab foundations were covered in fresh sod; an old, disused motel was converted to an art space.

And then, on October 26, 2013, those 20 blocks became one of the most unique festival spaces ever. Stadium-sized headliners like The Killers, Kings of Leon and Beck performed on the big stages, and ascending talents such as Haim, Cults and Janelle Monáe played the smaller stages. Craft stands, interactive art installations and even Cirque du Soleil performers waited around every corner. On that October weekend, Life Is Beautiful became part of the Vegas experience.

Over the years, the festival has made adjustments to keep up with changing tastes, most notably amping up its EDM offerings. It endured the 2020 COVID shutdown and the loss of its original benefactor, Zappos CEO Tony Hsieh.

Fittingly, the fest’s 10th anniversary feels like a celebration of a long journey, with a lineup that includes returning favorites such as Kendrick Lamar and The Killers. The festival grounds, now covered in 10 years’ worth of world-class mural art and as warmly familiar as an old friend, are waiting. Get ready for three Beautiful days.

LISTEN, HEAR!

Pure Sport

PURE SPORT (Friday, 4:40 p.m., Rolling Stone Stage) This suit-wearing trio has been putting in overtime on the Las Vegas music scene, building o the energy of its already sizable following to deliver a dose of theatrical punk. Pure Sport earned its spot on the LIB bill after competing against 16 local rising acts—a solid promotion, and these guys are ready to work. –AS

Try to catch these 10 acts at Life Is Beautiful 2023

Yeah Yeah Yeahs

bangers. Even if you don’t bump him on a daily, you’ll surely sing the hook on his “Work (Remix).” –GR

indie pop band essential to a festival like Life Is Beautiful. Leader Sloan Struble has what it takes to create the ultimate main character experience with his upbeat and synth-forward tracks. –GR

GOTH BABE (Friday, 8: 55 p.m., Rolling Stone Stage) Deriving his name from the Las Vegas-bred band Surf Curse, Goth Babe is the plain sailing e ort of Gri Washburn. In the last eight years he has probably soundtracked your summer, releasing synthy, sun-bathing singles like “Encinitas” and “Casita.” Debut Lola is set for fall, so ngers crossed we hear a sneak peek. –

CIGARETTES AFTER SEX (Saturday, 8:45 p.m., JBL Stage) Unfurling a haunting mixture of dream pop, sadcore and shoegaze goodness, Cigarettes After Sex is the ultimate mood setter, if you know what we mean. This is pop in melancholy, and few do it better than frontman Greg Gonzalez with his androgynous, featherlike falsetto. –AS

album Lola AS

OMAR APOLLO (Saturday, 9:50 p.m., Downtown Stage) In addition to avoiding a sophomore slump with 2022’s Ivory, Apollo has blossomed into one of the most interesting artists of his generation. Heart-stirring tracks like “Evergreen” a rm it, and there’s no doubt you’ll feel it when he takes the stage. –AS

danceable tracks from ’90s and 2000s

RINA SAWAYAMA (Sunday, 7:20 p.m., JBL Stage) If Sawayama’s performance in Chapter 4 didn’t convince you that she’s one to watch, her boundary-pushing pop could do the trick. Across three strong albums, the singer has positioned herself as a different kind of pop star, forging highly danceable tracks from ’90s and 2000s ranging from nu-metal (“STFU!”) to glittering EDM (“Lucid”). –

DAYGLOW (Friday, 8 p.m., Downtown Stage) Dayglow is the sort of uber-danceable

(Friday, 9:40 p.m., for Yeahs

YEAH YEAH YEAHS Friday, 9:40 p.m., Downtown Stage) Over 20 years ago, this New York City-born band dominated the early 2000s indie craze and its impact continues to grow. Famous for an intimate yet electrifying stage presence, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs are a powerhouse trio still making heads

roll. –GR

BABY TATE (Sunday, 10:35 p.m., Rolling Stone Stage) If TikTok is good at one thing, it’s putting the world onto sounds that could have passed us by. Baby Tate’s mesmerizing tracks “Hey, Mickey!” and “Sl*t Him Out” have become inescapable pleasures this year, thanks to the app. –GR

FERG (Saturday, 8:15 p.m.,

Saturday, 8:15 p.m., Downtown Stage) Considered to be ahead of his time, trap rapper Ferg is distinct in his bravado and has made some undeniable

KIM PETRAS (Sunday, 8:35 p.m., JBL Stage) Even before her recent Sam Smith collab on the banger “Unholy,” Petras has been relevant within and beyond the LGBTQ+ community. The raunchy and bouncy tunes on her 2022 album Sl*t Pop will have you singing along after a couple of spins. –GR

CANNONS

Sunday, 6:30 p.m., Downtown Stage.

ON FIRE

The cinematic world of LA indie-pop trio Cannons isn’t lost on listeners. Every guitar lick, every mesmeric bassline sets the scene, bringing sensuality and desire to the forefront. On 2019’s “Fire for You,” the trio struck sonic gold, producing a track so fluid and dance-ready, Netflix’s Never Have I Ever couldn’t resist airing it. It quickly became Billboard’s No.1 song on the alternative airplay charts, and with that, the world finally caught on to one of the most underrated bands of the past decade.

Fever Dream, Cannons’ third album, recaptures that buzz, and its follow-up is set for this fall. Ahead of the trio’s return to Life Is Beautiful, we caught up with vocalist Michelle Joy, who spoke about the novelty of meeting her bandmates Ryan Clapham (guitar) and Paul Davis (bass/keys) through Craigslist and more.

I love the origin story of how Paul and Ryan met you on Craigslist. Is it surreal to think about that first meeting now that you’ve been a band for 10 years? Yeah, it’s crazy. Usually people are looking for used couches on Craigslist (laughs). I wanted to start a band, and I wanted to grow with the people that I was working with. At the time, it seemed like the

only place that you could find other artists, and I had no intention of making a living out of it. All of this beautiful experience that has unfolded … I didn’t even think about it. I just wanted to make music.

Who are you personally excited to catch at LIB this year? I would love to see The Killers again, because we just saw them at a festival we played in Minnesota a month or two ago. They put on such a phenomenal performance. I have never seen the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and I’ve been dying to see them for forever now. Those would be two tops for me.

There’s always a mood to your music, and Fever Dream is another example of that. Are there any specific albums or artists that inspired that sound? We’re always looking for new music to listen to or older music to revisit and give a deeper listen to. The last single we released, “Desire,” I know Paul was listening to a lot of Psychedelic Furs. I was listening to a lot of ’80s Madonna. We’re all huge fans of Depeche Mode, Fleetwood Mac, ’60s, ’70s and ’80s music, and trying to bring back that nostalgic feel, but also with fresh, glossy production.

“Fire for You” is up over 150 million streams on Spotify. Did you know you had a hit when you were working on it in the studio? Not at all (laughs). The way we work on music is, the guys are always sending demos, right when we get home. We’ll work on whatever just feels like it wants to be born and made. With “Fire for You,” at first we didn’t really know what to do with it for a little bit. I forget how much time it took when we decided to revisit it, but it sparked some more ideas production-wise and then hook-wise for the guys a couple months later. It just started to flow. We’ll wait for the moment where it feels like this is meant to be made right now.

I’ve heard people refer to your music as the soundtrack to some of their hottest and heaviest date moments. How do you feel about that? It was not intentional; it just happened (laughs). But yeah, a lot of people tell us what kind of playlists we’re on for them and their partners (laughs). We hear a lot of stories at the meet and greets, how people listen to us and how it’s brought them together with their partners or rekindled relationships. It feels good to know we can be a part of everyone’s lives in very important moments for them.

Sensual indie-pop trio Cannons channels the art of seduction

Miya Folick

FOUND GOLD

“We actually just crossed over the border,” says emerging singer-songwriter Miya Folick. It’s the day after the opening show for her sophomore album Roach and she’s headed from Vancouver to Seattle. While on the road, Folick took some time to chat with the Weekly about her upcoming stop at the Life Is Beautiful festival and whose sets she hopes to check out if she has the time.

You’ve played a few shows here before. Got any crazy Vegas stories? We were just in Vegas this past month, and I don’t think any of us left the casino we played in because it was just so hot. But before that, we played another festival and got upgraded to an insane suite, which was unexpected. I’ve never seen a room like that in my life; it had like seven beds and five bathrooms and everything was gold-plated. But yeah, I don’t really have any wild Vegas stories. I even visited for a bachelorette party and that was tame by Vegas standards.

How do you feel about playing festivals, compared to headlining your own shows? They definitely have their differences, and there’s something about playing in a venue that I really love. But people are there [at festivals] to have fun, and maybe there isn’t that intimacy of headlining a show but I still love it. My fans are pretty, pretty eclectic—for the most part they’re very sweet and they’re there to have a fun emotional time. It’s a very communal feeling.

Which of your songs do you recommend people check out before your set? I’d say to check out “Bad Thing” and “Get Out of My House.”

Who are you most looking forward to seeing at LIB? When playing a festival, you never know if you’re going to have time to go out and see other artists, but let me take a look at the lineup the day I’m playing. It would be awesome to see Nelly and Khalid ... and oh my God, Kim Petras. I really hope I can see that!

LIB has a real treasure in singer-songwriter

THE MOST DELICIOUS DECADE

LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL 2023

Way back in the spring of 2013, a local chef friend invited me for lunch at a favorite Downtown spot, explaining that we’d be meeting up with a few others to kick around some ideas. The others turned out to be celebrity chefs Bruce Bromberg, Scott Conant and Jet Tila, and the group brunched with chef Natalie Young at Eat and kicked around some ideas before doing the same with chef Sheridan Su at his Fat Choy diner at Eureka Casino.

I had accidentally crashed a planning meeting for the culinary programming for the very first Life Is Beautiful festival, and it was delicious. Jolene Mannina was there, too, the founder of Secretburger and Vegas Test Kitchen, because she was hired to curate the food layout that first year.

“I think I was the second person hired,” she says. “I’d never done a large-scale event before, but I had a good knowledge of chefs and what they needed.

“But when I first got hired, it was only supposed to be a few blocks Downtown, not 15. It kept evolving through the year, which was scary. We were learning a lot.”

Food has always played a major role at the festival, and 2013’s inaugural edition featured around 50 chefs spread throughout a culinary village, some serving their food, some doing cooking demonstrations. The celebrity chef element was very prominent, too, with national stars like

“If you look at the timeline of Coachella and all these other festivals, we were the first to have nationally known chefs, to bring in these amazing chefs at a music festival,” Mannina says. “Then it kicked off [as a trend].”

LIB’s music and art have evolved through the years, and you can say the same about the food. That first year might have been the biggest in terms of star power and the volume of offerings, but every festival has had its own memorable culinary events and flavors. Mannina isn’t in charge anymore, but her Omakase Cantina experience returns to the fest this year, a 20-seat, VIP dining experience (sped up to 45 minutes, so guests can get back to the party) featuring all-star local chefs Mike Rubenstein of Vetri Cucina, Oscar Amador of Anima by Edo and Josh Smith of Delilah.

Of course, the most visible grub at LIB will be the 50-plus vendors in the general festival area, and local favorites new and established have always been featured in this playful portfolio. Metro Pizza, Sparrow + Wolf, La Strega, Harlo, Main St. Provisions, Casa Playa, Tacotarian, Esther’s Kitchen, Cousins Maine Lobster and Oming’s Kitchen are a few of the Vegas restaurants and food trucks dishing it up this time.

“Not only has Life Is Beautiful shifted from big-name celebrities to our own real artisans and local talent, but

that’s the trend on the Strip as well,” says Vincent Rotolo, owner of the Arts District’s Good Pie and curator, once again, of the LIB Pizzeria. “A lot of the Strip’s big names have been coming off the Strip, like Todd English and Wolfgang Puck.”

In a way, he says, the evolution of the festival mirrors dining in Las Vegas, as local chefs grab the spotlight and develop more and more standout neighborhood restaurants. Rotolo has long been a Downtown guy and a festival attendee before participating; he joined Justin Kingsley Hall’s live fire cookout in 2018, working with a woodfired oven built into a ’57 Chevy truck.

“I get excited about it every year, and now, doing the Pizzeria is the ultimate honor,

because I have the opportunity to invite who I think are the best pizzerias in Las Vegas, to hand-pick the pizzerias I’m a fan of,” he says. “And before becoming a pizza maker, I’ve been a consumer and fan my whole life. So I get to be a fan of what I do and my peers who I respect so much.”

It seems everyone is a fan at Life Is Beautiful, whether you’re in the pit at the main stage, performing on the stage itself, slinging drinks from behind the bar or working in a makeshift kitchen.

“I think it just brings something really special to the city,” Mannina says. “People don’t even look at the lineup anymore to buy a ticket, they look at the festival as a whole and everything going on up and down our city’s streets. It’s just a good time.”

LIB’s standout cuisine continues to evolve

FRESH VIEWS

With a complement of local artists, several distinguished visiting artists and a sprawling multimedia installation from OmegaMart creators Meow Wolf, the visual arts program of Life Is Beautiful 2023 continues and builds upon a festival tradition that has literally transformed the face of Downtown Las Vegas.

When crowds descend on the Fremont East corridor this weekend they’ll encounter a living museum of great street art from festivals past— and some fun new surprises, which the Weekly hasn’t seen yet. You’ll discover these pieces at the same time we do.

Downtown’s street art gallery gains a new piece from Seattle-based multimedia artist Neon Saltwater, who transformed the former gas station building at the corner of Fremont and 8th streets into “Mystery Cruise,” a piece that looks like dream-pop sounds, for LIB 2022. This year, once again under the guidance of longtime LIB art partner Justkids, Neon Saltwater is transforming another former gas station, this one next door to Gather House at Fremont and 10th, into “Cherry Lake,” another pastel 1980s dream.

Other featured works will include street signs

of positive affirmations by Scott Froschauer; “Notes to Strangers” by Andy Leek; and prominent works from two locals: a reimagining of the giant, iconic Life Is Beautiful letters by Eric Vozzola, and a few pieces from neon impressionist Jerry Misko randomly placed throughout the festival grounds.

Mila May is creating limited-edition Big Dog’s Brewing Company beer cans for the festival; Color Punch Creative is providing kaleidoscopic designs that will be integrated into the festival fabric; and Pretty Done’s cheery art will line festival walkways, as it currently lines many of Downtown’s streets and alleys.

“It’s a really strong year for locals,” says Jess Demlow, who is curating—with husband Elliott—a collection of local art for LIB this year. The Demlows’ curation group Paints With Care is partnering with LIB and Meow Wolf to bring nearly 30 local artists to the festival, mixing well-known entities with hot up-and-comers. The local lineup includes Carbon Forge Design, Conner Graves, Gem Jaxx, Loisse Ledres, Miguel Hernandez, Pink House Creation, Marshall Scheuttle, Madeline Scribbles, Valentin Yordanov and Casey Weldon, whose works will appear on movable A-frames.

The 2023 visual arts program builds on a key LIB tradition

Paints With Care is also partnering with Families for Effective Autism Treatment (F.E.A.T.) to showcase works by young artists on the autism spectrum. “They’re collaborating with an artist who’s helping with the overall concept and design, and having the children add their [artworks] to the installation,” Demlow says. “It’s a really special moment, as you can imagine, for all 15 children as well as their families. This is something that we’re very passionate about.”

Finally, there are two art oases waiting to be explored: an LIB version of Downtown’s enduring and popular Market in the Alley, and “Party in the SubOrbs,” a Meow Wolf installation that takes over the Western Hotel space and, like everything the Santa Fe-based art collective does, is shrouded in mystery. Is it art? Is it performance? Is it interactive? Is it an actual neighborhood, and if so, is it in this dimension? We can’t wait to find out.

OUTKAST (2014)

At a second edition topped by huge headliners (Foo Fighters and Kanye West were the others), André and Big Boi stood tallest, partying their way through a 24-song reminder of their hip-hop heroics back in the day.

HAIM (2013)

Haim played one of the smaller stages, and its debut album was barely a month old, but, the sisters’ first Life Is Beautiful appearance revealed them as the superstars they’d soon become, with tight, nervy versions of “Forever,” “Don’t Save Me” and Fleetwood Mac’s “Oh Well.”

Beach House

HALSEY (2015)

Halsey’s admirable air of cool prevailed at this set, even as one woman tossed her bra onstage. This was the singer at the height of her hedonistic Badlands era, and she didn’t miss a moment to revel in it.

STEVIE WONDER (2015)

His LIB set was loose and jammy and featured the expected hits (save for one deep-ish cut, 1973’s “He’s Misstra Know-It-All”), But when “Superstition,” “I Wish” and “Higher Ground” emerged from the mix, it was impossible not to react with passion, delight and—well, wonder.

GC

LORDE (2017)

New Zealand’s pop prodigy served up some serious melodrama at the Downtown stage, disarming critics with blockbuster vocals, charismatic crowd quips and big headliner energy. –AS

FLORENCE AND THE MACHINE (2018)

It was a real bang-forthe-buck set, including such hits as “Dog Days are Over,” “Ship to Wreck” and “Shake It Out.” But even if you’d watched Florence and the Machine with your fingers in your ears, seeing Florence Welch sprint, twirl and jackknife about the LIB stage, garbed in flowing dress, was music to the eyes. –GC

MEGAN THEE STALLION (2021)

I’ve seen moshpits, but is there such a thing as a twerk pit? Megan gladly opened one up during this rambunctious performance, when a real hot girl house party ensued. –AS

ST. VINCENT (2021)

Annie Clark’s second LIB appearance (following her fest debut in 2018) felt truly performative, its sights, sounds and song selection worthy of (please, someone, make it happen) a Las Vegas residency. –SP

BEACH HOUSE (2022)

Victoria Legrand and Alex Scally brought cuts from latest LP Once Twice Melody, along with catalog classics, to life as last year’s festival wound down, culminating with a life-affirming, light show-aided version of “Over and Over.”

SP

Our favorite Life Is Beautiful sets— ever!

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NEWS IN THE

SHOCK ROCKER PLEADS NO CONTEST TO SIMPLE ASSAULT

Marilyn Manson was sentenced to 20 hours of community service and a fine on September 18 after pleading no contest to blowing his nose on a videographer at a 2019 concert in New Hampshire.

FONTAINEBLEAU IN FINAL STAGES OF PREPARATION FOR DEBUT

Fontainebleau Las Vegas has begun accepting room reservations ahead of its planned December 13 debut.

The resort, after several years of off-and-on construction on the Strip, has more than 3,600 rooms and suites, a 96,500-square foot retail district, a six-acre pool district and more.

“This building represents a remarkable new chapter in our storied legacy and will be a beacon for those seeking to indulge in the unforgettable,” said Jeffrey Soffer, Fontainebleau development chairman and CEO.

The Fontainebleau plans to offer a range of amenities, including an ornate casino floor and expansive indoor and outdoor meeting space for tourists.

The property will also boast three dozen new restaurant concepts, with a slew of award-winning chefs and uniquely designed food and beverage spaces.

“For almost 70 years, the Fontainebleau brand has challenged boundaries and expectations,” Soffer said in a statement. “With Fontainebleau Las Vegas, we have transcended aspiration and set the stage for a new era of luxury hospitality defined by innovation, sophistication, and opulence, with an inextricable link to our roots at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach.”

The resort recently initiated a massive hiring push to fill thousands of positions in the hotel and casino, and on September 13 announced a five-day

hiring event at the end of this month to staff its food, beverage and nightlife venues.

“We’re kind of entering into that final stage, less from a development perspective and more from an operational perspective,” Mark Tricano, president of the Fontainebleau, said.

The Fontainebleau has positioned itself for “modern luxury,” Tricano said. The resort’s design, from its textured mosaic walls to its sleek color scheme of blues, grays and golds, lends itself to a luxurious environment.

“The property itself does a very good job integrating all of those elements into one footprint,” he said. “And I think that’s what customers, locals (and) members will find different and unique about Fontainebleau.”

He’s excited to share with the world what the Fontainebleau has in store, Tricano said.

“We’ve remained relatively quiet with regards to our plans,” he said. “And I think there’ll be more to share, obviously, in the coming weeks and months, and really showcasing to the world what the team here has built and what we plan to do in the coming years.”

Guests can also take advantage of a 14,000-square-foot fitness center and a 55,000-square-foot spa, complete with a purifying salt cave, multiple saunas, a rare co-ed sensory room and more.

LORENZI PARK RECOGNIZED

The United States Tennis Association honored Las Vegas’ Lorenzi Park in its Outstanding Facility Awards program at the U.S. Open. Lorenzi is home base for the Inspiring Children Foundation, which helps develop life skills through tennis to aid in character development, discipline and work ethic.

THE NATIONAL DEBT HAS TOPPED $33 TRILLION FOR THE FIRST TIME.

ABORTION RIGHTS PETITION

Advocacy groups seeking to strengthen abortion protections in the state have filed for a petition initiative to codify access to the procedure in the Nevada Constitution, with the goal of presenting a ballot question before voters for the 2024 general election.

ENTERTAINMENT

U2 DEBUTS NEW SONG WITH VIDEO SHOOT DOWNTOWN

A video for U2’s new single, Atomic City, was shot from a makeshift stage in the bed of a flatbed truck in front of the Plaza in Downtown Las Vegas, just after midnight on September 17.

An anthemic post-punk stomp with a crunchy riff from the Edge and an “I’m freeeee” singalong hook that strongly recalls Blondie’s Call Me, Atomic City is a worthy addition to any playlist of songs about Las Vegas. Bono described the song as “a Saturday night/ Sunday morning kinda thing … It’s a confession about not going to confession.”

ACES’ WILSON DOMINANT IN FIRST ROUND OF PLAYOFFS

It’s becoming the norm for A’ja Wilson to dominate.

She drives to the basket with her left hand. No one can stop her. She rolls without the ball for an easy layup. The defense can’t recover. She pulls up for a 15-foot jumper. It’s nearly automatic.

steals. She surpassed coach Becky Hammon’s playoff record of 35 points set in September 2008. Jackie Young had 15 points, and Alysha Clark had 14 points off the bench.

Atomic City is packed tight with Vegas iconography. It has the expected nods to lights, gambling and atomic bomb tests, but it also tips a hat to Strip headliners of old (“Sinatra swings, a choir sings”), to our out-of-town neighbors overhead (“All UFOs come on your way home”), and even a cheeky wink at U2’s own Vegas residency, which begins at Sphere on September 29 (“I’m front row in Las Vegas/and there’s a big one on tonight).” -Geoff

Each time Wilson sets a new Aces record or continues climbing the all-time leaderboard, it’s second nature. The challenge from the defense doesn’t exist.

Wilson proved that again September 17, setting a franchise playoff record with 38 points and 16 rebounds to push the Aces to the WNBA semifinals with a 92-70 win against the Chicago Sky in Game 2 of their first-round series at Michelob Ultra Arena.

“Every single day, I’m grateful to be able to come to work and play with some elite, professional women,” Wilson said.

It was fitting that the reigning Defensive Player of the Year anchored a defensive performance to push the Aces to the next round.

This is the fifth consecutive year, in six seasons since the Aces relocated from San Antonio to Las Vegas, that the Aces are in the league semis.

Wilson shot 15 of 23 from the floor and chipped in with four blocks and three

The Sky shot 38% and turned the ball over 15 times. While the Aces didn’t shoot it well (41.6%), they had 15 points off those turnovers and 16 fast-break points. Wilson and center Kiah Stokes combined for 26 of the Aces’ 46 rebounds—15 of them on the offensive glass.

“On nights that our guards struggle from the floor, we have a pretty good option inside,” Hammon said. “She was spectacular tonight, A’ja was, on both ends of the floor.”

Now that ‘historic’ fl ooding has passed, what’s next for recreation at Mount Charleston?

A community of about 150 residents was devastated after Tropical Storm Hilary brought eight inches of rainfall to Mt. Charleston, leading to a “historic” ood in the early morning of August 21. According to the U.S. Forest Service, many areas received the equivalent of their annual rainfall in 48 hours of the storm. The oodwaters caused damage to homes in the Echo, Old Town and Rainbow subdivisions, and buildings including a Mt. Charleston Fire Protection District building and Earl B. Lundy Elementary School. In the immediate aftermath, Mt. Charleston Fire Protection District evacuated about 51 people from the mountain while others stayed in their

homes, according to the Las Vegas Sun. No injuries were reported.

“I couldn’t describe it. I’ve never seen it like that,” Mt. Charleston Fire Protection District Chief Jorge Gonzalez said at a press conference held on the day of the ood. Gonzalez has been re chief in Mt. Charleston since 2008, he said.

After some infrastructure assessments were done, residents were asked to voluntarily evacuate. More than three weeks later, a “boil water” order remains in e ect for some residents, and drinking water is being delivered to the mountain, according to the Las Vegas Valley Water District.

The Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) is working around the clock to restore miles of damage on State Route 156 (Lee Canyon Road) and SR-157 (Kyle Canyon Road), with the “ambitious” goal of finishing by early October.

“We are racing the onset of winter weather, which would hamper our paving efforts. We are also working as quickly as possible to restore roadway service to residents and those making repairs to the communities,” NDOT spokesman Justin Hopkins tells the Weekly, adding that SR-158 (Deer Creek Road) will be addressed in a separate contract at a later date.

As those immediate needs are addressed, the entire Las Vegas community is reeling from the temporary loss of recreational opportunities on the mountain. Although dispersed areas in the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, where Mt. Charleston is located, reopened September 1, the more popular developed canyons remain closed until further notice.

“We would typically have our National Public Lands Day big volunteer event at the end of this month. That’s not happening,” says Leonie Mowat, director of operations and communications for the Southern Nevada Conservancy.

Through the branch Go Mt. Charleston, the Southern Nevada Conservancy operates under an agreement with the U.S. Forest Service to provide interpretive, educational and volunteer programs in several areas in Southern Nevada including the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area. With the nationwide volunteer effort National Public Lands Day happening on September 23, Mowat says it’s disappointing they won’t be able to have volunteers at the mountain.

But it’s “exciting” to see the community’s enthusiasm to help. On August 26, Go Mt. Charleston posted a link for interested volunteers to sign up to help in the area once it reopens. Within two weeks, they got more than 400 sign-ups, Mowat says.

“I have been in this role for 10 years now. I grew up in Las Vegas. I got married at Cathedral Rock. I know, personally, that people consider Mt.

Charleston [as] our place,” she says. “The Spring Mountains are for the locals. It is a place for refuge. It’s this alpine oasis that I think so many people, even if they’re relatively new residents of Las Vegas, when they see it, they want to take care of it.”

One of the volunteer projects that is expected to open this fall and winter is invasive species removal. “Once the minimal safety limitations get lifted, we do foresee, in the short term, getting some of those invasives removed before the winter season,” Mowat explains.

“One of the big problems that happens when you have a big disturbance in soil—invasive species of plants tend to love that. … It really is a lot more important than people realize, because they crowd out the natives as they try to grow back; and they also become easy fuel for fires.”

Seed gathering and trail maintenance volunteer opportunities could be forthcoming, pending the lifting of visitation restrictions.

“I want people’s enthusiasm to stay. The flood damage doesn’t go away in six months. It doesn’t go away with the news cycle. It does take years to repair these sorts of things,” Mowat says.

The U.S. Forest Service did not

return the Weekly’s request for comment on which areas of the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area still need to be assessed, or whether volunteer opportunities would be viable for fall or winter.

LEE CANYON RENOVATION

It was “tough” when Lee Canyon announced the end of summer operations, says director of marketing and sales Jim Seely. “With all the other agencies involved—NDOT, U.S. Forest Service mainly—[saying], ‘Hey, this area is closed,’ then that kind of makes the decision for us.”

Lee Canyon’s photos of the flood damage showed the base area of a chairlift piled high with rocks and debris, making it impossible to conduct scenic chair rides that the park typically does in the summer. Furthermore, mountain biking trails “at the widest, 60 inches” were damaged by erosion. Thanks to runoff diversion designs, the Hillside Lodge came out “untouched,” Seely says.

So far, Lee Canyon has been able to clear out the base areas of chairlifts. “It took around 240 hauls with those heavy machinery dump trucks to get all the debris out. All that debris was moved from there and used to backfill all the erosion that took place on the bunny

hill and the upper slopes,” he adds.

“It’s unfortunate, in one aspect. But then, in another aspect, let’s focus on getting things up to speed for winter season. That’s kind of where our mind shifted.”

Prior to the flood, Lee Canyon announced a $7 million renovation project adding a new chairlift called Ponderosa, a “moving carpet” conveyor for kids and 450-stall parking lot. The improvements originally were scheduled to come online in time for the 2023-24 winter season. Seely says that timeline remains in place.

“[That] has not been set back. For the Ponderosa chairlift … it wasn’t in the middle of installation where the exposed chair towers were up,” Seely says. “So, we’re confident we’ll have that chairlift ready to go for opening day, tentatively slated for the winter season.”

Between then and now, specialists will be in the area testing Lee Canyon’s infrastructure, including power and water systems and facilities, to make sure they’re safe to reopen to the public.

“Hopefully very soon, we’ll have chairlift inspectors looking not just at where the rocks were, but inspecting every chair tower, making sure the foundation below every chair tower is stable, and that water didn’t erode away any of the foundation of the chair towers,” Seely says.

For now, the U.S. Forest Service reminds the public that Mt. Charleston’s developed canyons remain closed to the public. Violation of the closure could result in a fine up to $2,500. Updates about area closures and reopenings are available on the U.S. Forest Service-Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Facebook page (facebook.com/HumboldtToiyabeNF).

Mowat says the priority is to keep people safe as initial repairs are made.

“There’s a reason why the closed areas are still closed. It doesn’t behoove any of the agencies to keep them closed longer than they need to be. They just want to keep them closed for as long as it takes to make sure they’re safe for the public to reenter.”

NOISE

MANIC ATTENTION

Vegas band Pudgel aspires to transform live performance—and rock ’n’ roll itself

Fencing swords, an air mattress, grandma-length skirts and hooded cloaks were just a few of the props and costumes local band Pudgel utilized during a recent set at Cheba Hut. A frenzy of kids smushed themselves into the restaurant’s outdoor “stage” space to get a look and listen.

Pudgel’s antics have a gimmicky nature, but it’s not meant to detract from the music; it’s meant to amplify the experience. “Sometimes just having music on a stage isn’t really enough for me to be entertained,” frontman Roman Berry says.

It’s difficult to believe that Pudgel couldn’t grab people’s attention with its music alone. The group’s live sound merges progressive rock and experimental soundscapes, but in its fluidity, it transcends genre.

“Every song on this record is a different genre, in a way,” drummer Gavin Skougard says about a yet-unreleased debut album. “Like, the first song is a noise rock song, the second song is just an actual rock song and the third song … we don’t even know what it is; it’s just cool.”

Pudgel was a project born in secret. Berry, Skougard and bassist Alec Brines formed their band while actively playing with another local musician, Peachole. Their earlier singles are mellow and

reflect little of their musical capabilities. Take, for instance, their recorded track “Gummies.” It’s starkly opposite to what they played at the Cheba Hut gig—a toned-down folk tune that seems to have been written by completely different people.

In a way, it was. Berry and Skougard left for New York City for a few months in 2022, and during that time they grew and fused a unit. The two shared a twin-sized mattress shoved inside a tiny closet belonging to Peachole, worked the same job at the Empire State Building and recorded music together.

When they returned to Vegas, their vision for Pudgel had transformed. The singles became cleaner and faster versions of themselves— so much so that the band’s bassist had to relearn tempos his bandmates had adjusted.

“I’d say my struggle was trying to get down some of the bass lines Roman wanted to hear,” Brines says.

Berry explains that his standards for sound quality and overall musicianship heightened. That led to longer jam sessions and a goal of constant musical evolution. As Skougard sees it, musicianship and relationships have similar qualities: You work at it, compromise, communicate and come to understandings.

All members have had an interest in playing mu-

sic from a young age. Skougard’s parents enrolled him in drumming lessons at 5 years old. Brines went from playing percussion in middle school to venturing into string instruments. Berry began learning guitar at age 12. That mix of classically trained and self-taught musicians is compelling.

Right now, Pudgel’s members are interested in furthering the medium of rock music, which should be apparent in their upcoming album. “I would say it sounds manic at times and also fearful, which are the two things I want to convey,” Berry says.

But what’s especially important to the frontman is world-building. Being the explorative and visionary person of the project, Berry inundates himself with endless ideas. The band tapped local filmmaker Jovanny Haro to help flesh out its dreamscape music videos. The visuals, storytelling and sound invite listeners into the vivid world of Pudgel.

“I’m not trying to give anyone anything … it’s pretty self indulgent,” Berry concedes. “I just want to keep doing things out of my comfort zone and fail faster, so I can learn and grow.”

NIGHTS A ROSE BY ANY OTHER NAME

Juliet Cocktail Room succeeds the Dorsey with show-stopping flair

If the cocktail culture in Las Vegas is strong, believe us when we say that the competition, like many of the drinks, is even stiffer. It takes a lot to stand out in this town. But for seven years, the Dorsey at Venetian did so beautifully. Now as the newly remodeled Juliet Cocktail Room transitions into the space, local hospitality veteran Ryan Labbe has every intention of raising the bar even higher.

Juliet marks the first of several new concepts by Labbe’s 81/82 Group at the Venetian, with the resort’s Rosina and Electra to be completely re-envisioned in the coming months.

“We would love for everybody to go through all of the spaces. Originally, when we got these spaces, the cocktail menus were very similar,” Labbe says. “Rosina, quite honestly, didn’t have a cocktail menu, it just had a list of traditional cocktails, which you would just call out by name. We redid all the menus and the offerings, so they’re all unique.” A casino cocktail crawl should begin (and may very well end) at Juliet, named after one of the most expensive roses in the world, taking about a decade to grow.

library. The brass birdcage at the entrance remains, but even that’s been revitalized with dueling pianists and sultry singers doing lounge covers of the Fugees and Blackstreet.

“We’re still working on the exact programming and what bands are in there, but we want a show,” Labbe says, adding that DJs still hop behind decks on Thursdays. “I think it brings another level of entertainment to the Venetian side of things.”

Daily, 3 p.m.-2 a.m.

Juliet’s cocktails go hand-in-hand with that level of showmanship. The attention to detail, even down to the glassware and garnishes, is awe-inspiring. For example, the Fields of Norway, an acidic and potent mixture of Dansk Mjod Viking Blod mead, Norwegian aquavit and green chartreuse, comes served in a Nordic viking horn. Meanwhile, the Green With Envy is a fairytale in a floral, handcrafted tea cup, with the rum and matcha creating a cloudy emerald hue that’s both creamy and vibrant in flavor.

“We built a very Victorian-style space, and we wanted a beautiful name to accompany it,” Labbe says. “When people think about Juliet, they think about Romeo and Juliet. The fact that it’s not that and there’s a different story behind it, I think makes it a little more interesting.”

Labbe’s aptitude for creating spaces that feel both lived-in and welcoming is a hard-earned skill, sharpened by years of conceptualizing great restaurants and bars like Más Por Favor, La Neta and the Cosmopolitan’s Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails. At Juliet, everything has been redone, Labbe says, from the furniture to the floors to the

“The basics are still there, but at the same time, you have to get a little innovative without being too crazy,” Labbe says. “I see everybody lighting steaks on fire at restaurants, when does it stop? It’s about toeing that fine line of something that’s interesting to somebody, still has that quality there, but at the same time isn’t overwhelming for the staff to execute.”

With Juliet staying open until 2 a.m. and light bites being brought in daily from neighboring restaurant Chica, you could essentially park it here for the whole night. Bring a date, bring the girls, bring the co-workers.

“At the end of the day, everybody wants to feel cool,” Labbe says. “We wanted to create a place where everybody can feel cool, no matter who you are.”

ALL IS FAIREY

The creator of one of Life is Beautiful’s enduring murals continues to speak truth to power

Street artist Shepard Fairey adapted “Corporate Welfare,” originally a printed work, as a mural for Life is Beautiful 2016. Perhaps best known as the creator of the Barack Obama “Hope” campaign poster and as the guy who first acknowledged that “Andre the Giant has a posse,” Fairey has been creating punky agitprop since 1989.

“Welfare” is intended as “a comment on corporate subsidy,” writes Fairey on his website (obeygiant.com). “While average Americans struggle to make ends meet, many profitable industries and corporations receive tax breaks ... due to the dangerously disproportionate influence corporations have on politics and policy.”

Conversely, Fairey’s influence on Downtown Las Vegas continues to be overwhelmingly positive. Recently, he performed a DJ set in celebration of late Clash frontman Joe Strummer’s birthday at the Punk Rock Museum. May he keep fighting the law and winning.

GAME TIME

Flanker is in play for football season

Flanker Kitchen & Sports Bar is the last thing most fans see before leaving Mandalay Bay and walking across the Hacienda overpass to Allegiant Stadium. That makes it a prime party spot before and after any Raiders home game—and a hot destination to catch the action on at least 50 televisions and a 30-foot video wall.

Flanker is a stylish space with a cocktail lounge, takeaway window and secret karaoke room, yet this new-era sports bar isn’t relying on atmosphere and location alone. The food is an elevated take on tailgate fare for a landscape-shifting football season that culminates with Super Bowl 58 in Las Vegas.

“Looking at a sports bar menu, what can I do to keep the culinary side interesting and fun, while changing things up?” asks Daniel Ontiveros, corporate executive chef with Carver Road Hospitality, the company behind Flanker, which opened inside the Shoppes at Mandalay Place in June.

The original plan focused on burgers, but that shifted to meet demand for the same dishes you’d find in a higher-end restaurant. So the menu

evolved. You can still order nachos and soft pretzels but also shrimp cocktail ($22) and lobster rolls topped with caviar ($32).

The entrees wouldn’t look out of place in a fine-dining environment. The kitchen team breaks down a two-pound branzino ($38) in house, pan-searing filets for a crispy skin that matches well with the bright taste of a roasted tomato vinaigrette, shaved fennel and arugula. Whole organic chickens are brined in honey, salt, bay leaf, peppercorn, garlic, lemon and thyme for eight hours and roasted to bring out a crunchy golden exterior. The chicken wings ($24) enjoy the same brining process, adding a gourmet touch to a familiar game-day staple.

Just like Carversteak (another Strip restaurant under the Carver Road um-

Mandalay Bay, 702-632-8888, flankerlv.com.

Sunday, 9 a.m.-midnight;

Monday-Thursday, 4 p.m.-midnight;

Friday, 4 p.m.-2 a.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-2 a.m.

brella), Flanker sources prime steaks from Chicago’s Allen Brothers. The New York strip ($45) is served with potato dippers, which are like a cross between a potato skin and fry. The let ($59) comes with a u y French-style potato puree, made with ample butter and inspired by Ontiveros’ days working for Joël Robuchon.

“It’s one of those things you don’t see much at a sports bar,” the chef adds. “A lot of people say, ‘Oh, you have mashed potatoes.’ I’m like, ‘No, we have potato puree.’ There’s a di erence.”

A new weekend brunch launched in time for the NFL season with a similar sense of culinary ambition. Dishes range from a salmon and cream cheese atbread (a play on a classic lox and bagel) to a decadent crème brulée French toast made with custard-soaked

Japanese milk bread, vanilla pastry cream, torched bananas and walnuts. A traditional eggs Benedict uses a thin French-style ham instead of Canadian bacon, while a Mexican version loads house-smoked pork and green chilies on sopes. Wash it all down with a bottomless mimosa package, a hearty bloody mary (with choices of garnish presented tableside) or another thoughtful cocktail by talented mixologist Francesco Lafranconi, a longtime Vegas favorite who now shares his talents across all Carver Road concepts. Flanker continues to mix things up with Taco Tuesday platters, late-night pizza parties in the lounge and themed specials during entertainment events at the stadium. This sports bar is worth your attention, even without a big game to draw you in.

 Shanghai Plaza quickly became known as a destination spot for some of the best Asian food the city has to o er, and one of its newest eateries is no stranger to locals.

China Mama, one of the city’s most treasured restaurants, su ered extensive damage from a kitchen fire in March. Loyal diners were more than disappointed without their favorite authentic dishes like pan-fried pork buns, succulent crispy duck, spicy mapo tofu and fresh Szechuan wontons. Although the original location on Jones at Spring Mountain was closed for repair and renovation, owner Ivy Ma stepped up to quickly open a second location in Shanghai Plaza, simply named China Mama 2, and business there has been thriving since opening in June.

We couldn’t help but notice the absence of the one dish that put China Mama on every local foodie’s radar, the beloved xiao long bao. According to Ma, the absence of the savory soup dumplings is due to a Shanghai Plaza policy that halts neighboring restaurants within the shopping center from o ering duplicate dishes. Not to worry—Ma reassures the soup dumplings will return when work is finished at the original restaurant, currently aiming for a reopening next summer.

Given the nonstop tra c, China Mama 2 meets all the hype of its predecessor and is worth checking out. With great food comes long wait times, so to lighten demand, there’s a third kitchen in Ma’s culinary portfolio, China Mama Express, a convenient takeout option on Rainbow just south of Flamingo. Both shops are leaving diners satisfied and eager to return for more.

Daily, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. & 4:30-10 p.m.

BACK TO WORK

The Golden Knights’ title defense begins as Vegas reports for training camp

It seems like just yesterday that the Vegas Golden Knights were spraying each other with alcoholic beverages to celebrate the season of a lifetime.

Few have seen the Golden Knights’ locker room at T-Mobile Arena since it was covered entirely in plastic June 13— the night they won the Stanley Cup in Game 5 over the Florida Panthers. It has presumably been cleaned since then, but maybe not if it were up to the players.

Teams want to remember that championship feeling forever. The Golden Knights’ climb to the Cup last season will go down as a milestone moment for Las Vegas, if not one of the most dominant postseason runs in NHL history.

But the time for partying and remembrance is over. The Golden Knights are back and getting ready for next season, with the o cial training camp report date set for September 21.

“Everyone’s in good spirits, a good mood,” defenseman Ben Hutton said. “We just want to come in, do what we did last year, and repeat.”

It’s been a wild three months for the whole organization. Think of the timeline: The Golden Knights won the Cup, enjoyed the championship parade and went through the NHL Draft and free agency in the span of about three weeks. Then they got some time to rest, and everyone got to spend their customary day with the Cup.

Vegas will be trying to break out of celebratory mode during training camp, but there will be unavoidable, constant reminders of what they team achieved last year. Two championship murals are plastered near the entrance of City National Arena, the Golden Knights’ headquarters in Summerlin.

There’s a picture of William Karlsson and Adin Hill hoisting the Cup, and one of Conn Smythe Trophy winner Jonathan

Marchessault holding his hardware.

On the second oor above the stairs are shrines of Mark Stone, Alex Pietrangelo and Jack Eichel each holding the Cup high, with the Strip serving as the background.

“You’re coming o that high of winning,” forward Keegan Kolesar said. “But with that high of winning, you carry it in the summer, saying, ‘I want to do it again so badly.’ Build the foundation of what you need and get ready for next year.”

Dynasties aren’t made by one title. Now that the rst Cup has been scratched o the list, the Golden Knights want to elevate to a pinnacle franchise.

Their perennial success since joining the league— ve playo appearances, four trips to the Western Conference Final and two Stanley Cup Final appearances in six seasons—shows they are well on their way. And Vegas will have the majority of last year’s group back to make it happen after re-signing two of their most notable free agents.

The Golden Knights agreed to terms with forward Ivan Barbashev on a veyear, $25 million deal, then brought back Hill—after a memorable Cup run in the crease—on a two-year, $9.8 million contract.

There will be one massive void in the locker room, however. Forward Reilly Smith, the second player to lift the Stanley Cup after the captain Stone, was traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins over the summer. Moving on from Smith and his $5 million cap hit allowed the Golden Knights to keep Barbashev.

“Usually if you win a Stanley Cup, you’re going to lose a few players,” Hill said. “It sucks we lost Reilly, but we only lost one [player]. It’s good we have our core back and most of our guys back. We just need to keep it rolling.”

One way to keep that momentum going

GOLDEN KNIGHTS PRESEASON SCHEDULE

September 24 at San Jose Sharks, 5 p.m.

September 25 at Colorado Avalanche, 6 p.m.

September 27 vs. Los Angeles Kings, 7 p.m.

September 29 vs. Arizona Coyotes, 7 p.m.

October 3 vs. San Jose Sharks, 7 p.m.

October 5 vs. Colorado Avalanche, 7 p.m.

October 7 at Los Angeles Kings, 1 p.m.

All home games at T-Mobile Arena. Tickets $37-$120 at axs.com.

is through goaltending. The Golden Knights are betting on Hill to prove that his 11-4 run in the playo s was no uke. He posted a .932 save percentage and allowed just 2.17 goals in his 16 postseason appearances.

But Hill’s health will be a question mark. He made a career-high 25 starts last regular season before missing the nal month and a half with a lower-body injury.

His partner in net, Logan Thompson, is now fully healthy coming o a lower-body injury that kept him out of the second half of last season and the entire playo run.

The Golden Knights found success defensively no matter who was behind them, thanks to the coaching style of Bruce Cassidy. He’ll have a new sta , with assistants Joel Ward—from the Henderson Silver Knights—and former Montreal Canadiens coach Dominique Ducharme. Longtime Vegas assistant Ryan Craig is now head coach of the Silver Knights.

But any chance of a repeat to become the third team since 2000 to go back-toback starts with the three stars on the upstairs mural. The 31-year-old Stone is still a huge di erence-maker when healthy, and he’s coming o a 24-point (11 goals, 13 assists) playo performance that included a hat trick in the Cup-clinching victory.

Eichel took his place among the best players in the world with a team-best 26 points (six goals, 20 assists) in the playo s. And at 26 years old, it’s a reasonable expectation that his best days are still ahead of him.

The 33-year-old Pietrangelo remains one of the best overall defensemen in the world, reliable in the defensive zone while remaining a threat o ensively. He’s coming o a 54-point season that tied his career high.

MARK STONE

RAIDERS

The Golden Knights are also as deep as any team in recent memory. They roll four forward lines and three defense pairings that are e ective no matter who’s on the ice.

Cassidy started a “back-to-back” chant at the parade as he closed his speech. There hasn’t been an argument yet to say they can’t do it.

“I’m excited to get things going,” Hill said. “Our expectations are high. We’re looking to keep the ball rolling. We’re excited to get that rst game.”

■ Last Week: Bills 38, Raiders 10

The Raiders su ered the most lopsided loss among Sunday’s slate of Week 2 NFL games, and second-biggest blowout of the season overall. The Bills used the Raiders to illustrate why they should still be considered a Super Bowl contender despite starting the season 0-1. The home team, after being stopped on its first drive, scored on five of six possessions in the middle of the game. Las Vegas’ o ense scored on five plays after receiving the opening kicko , with Davante Adams catching a touchdown pass from Jimmy Garoppolo to go up 7-0. But everything turned when Garoppolo threw his first of two interceptions on the Raiders’ next drive, and Bills quarterback Josh Allen started the rout soon thereafter.

■ This Week: Steelers (0-1 at press time) at Raiders (1-1)

When: 5:20 p.m., Sunday, September. 24

Where: Allegiant Stadium

TV: KSNV Channel 3

Radio: 920 AM, KOMP 92.3

Betting line: Steelers -1.5, over/under 44

■ Matchup: A fairer fight appears to be ahead for the Raiders in their home opener. Pittsburgh has a few superstars on defense including edge rusher T.J. Watt and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, but its o ense is a work in progress under second-year quarterback Kenny Pickett. These two teams faced each other relatively recently, late last season on Christmas Eve in a game that would change the course of the Raiders’ franchise. In the Pittsburgh snow, the Steelers came back to knock o the Raiders 13-10 and all but eliminate the visitors from playo contention. Coach Josh McDaniels made the decision to bench long-time starting quarterback Derek Carr two days later, creating the void that the team used to sign Garoppolo this o season.

■ Raider to Watch: Wide receiver Tre Tucker Jakobi Meyers led the Raiders in receiving in Week 1 but was ruled out for Week 2 after su ering a concussion at the end of the game. Adams led the Raiders in receiving in Week 2 but had to be evaluated for a concussion after taking a hit similar to the illegal one Meyers endured a week before. They’ll likely both be cleared in time to play for the Steelers, but if not, the speedy rookie out of the University of Cincinnati may have to play a bigger role. Fans will want to see more of Tucker either way after the third-round pick recorded the Raiders’ longest play from scrimmage against the Bills, a 34-yard jet sweep as part of the opening touchdown drive. -Case Keefer

Halloween is just around the corner, and if you’re anything like us, you’re probably starting costume preparations early. For a truly memorable DIY option, hit your local thrift store to seek out a ordable, eco-friendly ensembles destined to win the costume contest. Here are ideas for a one-of-a-kind spooky- t.

One of the best aspects of thrifting is you never know what you might find. Walk through the door and find the perfect pink Barbie vest right away, or spend the entire day hunting. Keep an open mind and a flexible plan when shopping— sometimes you’ll need to get creative to make a costume work.

Don’t procrastinate

We recommend starting your costume hunt in September or early October to ensure enough time to fi nd the right pieces and avoid picked over stores.

Didn’t get to it early?

Fortunately, thrift stores are a treasure trove for last-minute ideas. Dive in with an open mind and be willing to shift ideas based on what you find.

Don’t be afraid to sew, alter or dye

Part of what makes DIY costumes so fun is the willingness to create. Use the clothes you find thrifting as a guide, but remember that anything can be altered. Cut the sleeves, belt the waist, dye it a di erent color entirely—whatever it is, it can likely be altered to suit your needs, so keep an eye out for garments that just need a little tweaking.

Shop around

Check out a few di erent thrift stores to see what you can find. You can also shop some thrift stores online. Check out ShopGoodwill. com if you’re looking for something specific. You can search by keyword, price, location and more.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Frankenstein: Older suit you can tatter, face paint, a spooky wig Bride of Frankenstein: Long white dress, black lace accessories, costume jewelry, a wig or hair coloring

Tips: The details are what makes these costumes, so don’t worry too much about the perfect outfit, it is what you make it.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Plastic flashy bling, gold-rimmed sunglasses, a black tee that will fit your pup.

Tips: Any dog costume is cute regardless of what you’re able to find in-store, so search for close-enough options and get ready to snap adorable pictures.

ADVERTORIAL PRESENTED BY GOODWILL OF SOUTHERN NEVADA

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Barbie: Pink Western wear, bandana, white cowboy hat.

Ken: Black jeans and collared shirt with fringe, bandana, white cowboy hat

Tips: Look for basic clothing that fits the bill and embellish later. Craft stores will have fringe, glittery decals and more to make the costumes recognizable.

Thrifting your costume opens the door to a variety of options, inexpensive price, and it’s an opportunity to give back to the community while diverting waste from landfills. Goodwill is a nonprofit organization that uses the revenue from in-store and online shopping to fund free career services to those in need.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Mixed pattern clothing, tops with lace collars, rain boots, an apron

Tips: Make a simple gnome hat out of felt, and it will bring the entire outfit together.

Donate!

Don’t forget to donate your costumes when you’re done to give them a second life!

Look for donated costumes

Often, you can find pre-worn costumes at a fraction of the price as in store. Even if you’re DIYing, check what’s in the costume pack for harder-to-find accessories like wigs or emblems.

Rhonda Chapman has been a Las Vegas bartender for more than three decades, so making and mixing unique new drinks is practically second nature. But it wasn’t until she brewed up a specialty margarita for her husband that she discovered her signature cocktail—the RhondaRita.

Before long, she was making the bespoke drink not only for her husband, who has since passed away, but for her regular customers at work. Now, more than a decade later, the cocktail has taken off and recently became available to purchase in cans at all area 7-Eleven stores.

Vegas Inc sat down with Chapman to learn more about the RhondaRita, how it got started and where it’s going.

What’s it been like to watch the RhondaRita grow into a retail product?

I knew I was in good hands with this from the beginning. But it’s something new to me and I had to learn from experience. I knew I had the drink. I knew I had the name. But, moving forward, I just didn’t know where else to go with this until I learned down the road. But yes, I’m very, very happy and proud to say

today—I know I’m in the 7-Elevens. I got to know the gentlemen that are [executives] of 7-Elevens, that I’ve waited on many times, and was approached one day … and they asked me, “We would love to have your drink in our stores.” That kind of blew me away. … Anything that’s in a store, I guess I didn’t realize how tough it is to do. And all the events I’ve done and all the people that I’ve met have really loved my drink.

What feedback do you hear from consumers?

Well, I’ve been going through a few little events these last couple of weeks, and I’ve gotten a lot of great feedback—very crispy [and] fresh. You can take it anywhere because it’s in a can. I mean, if you want to go on a picnic, you want to go on a boat, you want to go to a concert, you want to go to the Super Bowl—it’s just handy. Get it cold in the can and you’re ready to go.

And the can itself is eye-catching. It’s beautiful. And, hopefully, down the road I can make a couple of different flavors, but this is the original that we’re taking off with. And so far, I’ve been hearing really, really good things about it.

How do you hope to see the RhondaRita continue to grow?

Right now, I know it’s the beginning … but I would like to make a couple

more flavors. There’s one that’s called a spicy RhondaRita. And I get asked a lot for that type of drink. And I’ve already got it down. I’ve already made it, I already know what I want to do. The next one: I would like to do a strawberry RhondaRita. Those are the two in my head that I can think about. And if I can get those out, that would be great. And then moving forward, I just want to get it out. I want everybody to enjoy it. I want the experience. … It’s been a long time in the making.

How do you think your late husband would react, seeing how much of a hit the drink you made for him has become?

I know I would see a smile from ear to ear. And he’d probably joke and say, “Well, you know, I’m the one that named it.” … My mother even tells me, she goes, “What’s in it for me? I named you Rhonda.”

As someone who has lived in Las Vegas almost your whole life, what do you think makes the city a good place to launch a product like the RhondaRita?

When I moved here, and I’m a big sports fan, I never would have dreamed that we ever would have a football team here … I never would have dreamed that because we’ve got sportsbooks. But now being here and seeing everything that has grown—

hockey, football—I mean, it doesn’t stop. Because we’re 24 hours in the business, you can drink all night, gamble all night.

My drink is a staple now because ... you cannot get it in a casino. I have to make it for you. And now you can get it in a 7-Eleven.

And hopefully down the road, we can get it out in more places. That was my beginning start. There’s so many drinks you can get. But you’re not going to be able to get the RhondaRita if you went into the Bellagio. You can get a margarita, but you’re not going to get mine.

Finally, what’s it been like to see your own product available on shelves?

When I first found out that it was going in the store, the very first time I went into the 7-Eleven right around the corner, I had to see it for myself. I just couldn’t have imagined it.

I walked in, and I didn’t see it. I’m looking, I’m looking. I’m looking in the beer cooler. I’m looking, and suddenly, it popped right in front of my eyes. It was right in front of me. I mean, my eyes started dripping. I just couldn’t believe it was my drink in the store. You don’t know it till you feel that moment. … And the lady looked at me, she goes, “What?” [and] I go, “That’s my drink.” … The way they displayed it, it was beautiful. It was like, “Wow.” And it was breathtaking.

With her creation now being sold in 7-Eleven stores, local bartender sets sights on creative expansion of brand

Q+A: RHONDA CHAPMAN

When I first found out that it was going in the store, the very first time I went into the 7-Eleven right around the corner, I had to see it for myself. I just couldn’t have imagined it.”

VEGAS INC NOTES

Airgas, a local gas, welding and safety distributor, was one of four branches among more than 900 to be selected for the National Branch of the Year award from its company, Air Liquide

The Las Vegas Raiders announced two appointments and two promotions to its executive leadership team. They are: Kristen Banks, senior vice president, marketing; Heather DeSanto, senior vice president of human resources; Mike Newquist, senior vice president, chief operating officer; and Piper Overstreet-White, senior vice president of government and community relations. Banks served as vice president, digital products at the Ultimate Fighting Championship and was manager, consumer brand marketing at Universal Orlando Resort. DeSanto has more than 25 years of experience in human resources and was senior vice president of HR for the Venetian. Newquist served

as president, touring shows division at Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, and was senior vice president, event development at the Ultimate Fighting Championship Overstreet-White will continue to lead the club’s legislative efforts at the local, state, and federal levels while advancing initiatives that engage stakeholders around the Raiders’ strategic business priorities.

The Nevada Mining Association announced the recipients of its 2023 Mine Operator Safety Awards, given to the top mines in designated categories based on their annual safety performance. This year, 33 operators received an award. In addition to the awards, the association also recognized 47 individuals for their commitment to workplace safety through its Individual Safety Awards.

The Debra March Center of Excellence, an advanced manufacturing

MGM Resorts Satellite, LLC seeks a Director Software Engineering IAM in Las Vegas, NV to lead strategy and software architecture around the global IAM & Discovery Services environment. Telework Permitted.

To apply E-Mail resume to resume@ mgmresorts.com and reference job title.

training center, opened in Henderson. The College of Southern Nevada will operate the facility to develop, train and graduate skilled workers. The center has been sustainably designed to earn two Green Globes certifications through the utilization of an energy-efficient system, water-efficient fixtures and landscaping, desert landscaping, and sustainable building materials and construction practices.

Jackson McAlindon has joined American Nevada Company as director of construction. He has worked in project management, cost management, preconstruction/design and development estimating and quality assurance/quality control for Fortune 500 clients such as Lend Lease, AECOM, Jacobs and EMCOR Group, as well as Engineering News Record (ENR) top-rated construction companies such as Bechtel, Yates, Mortenson, Tutor Perini and Balfour Beatty.

JOB LISTING

Sr. Software Engineer for gaming and technology services company. Position duties are object-oriented modeling, design and development of real time embedded software for casino gaming products using C# & C++ including performing requirements analysis; formulating detailed functional and product specifications; creating and administering SQL server and SQL scripting; performing requirements functional decomposition, unit & integration testing; and providing technical documentation and system implementation support. Position requires a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field and 2 years’ experience in the job duties as stated or alternatively a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field and 2 years’ experience as a Software Engineer using C#, SQL database design, and scripting for web application development. The position is with IGT headquartered in Las Vegas, NV but allows the individual to live anywhere in the U.S. and work from a home office.

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JOB HOUR PER DAY : 5 HOURS

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INTERESTED CANDIDATE SHOULD CONTACT

THIS EMAIL ADDRESS DIRECTLY [email protected]

VISIT US AT LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL

SEPTEMBER 22 - 24

Chef Kris Yenbamroong takes recipes from the ‘old country’ and gives them a dizzying modern spin. Whether it’s the crispy rice salad or outside-the-box fried chicken sandwich, some of the dishes are traditional, some are evolutions, some are not even Thai at all, but presented together it’s Night + Market.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4TH | 11AM

Bellagio Las Vegas

3600 S Las Vegas Blvd. | $100

FOOD THROUGH THE AGES : TASTING LAS VEGAS’ FOOD HISTORY

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 5TH | 6PM

Main Street Provisions

1214 S Main St, Las Vegas | $175

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