Nevada State Bank is proud to join Nevada Business Magazine in celebrating the accomplishments of the 2020 Family Owned Business award finalists. Although each family business is unique, successful companies share qualities like perseverance, ingenuity, teamwork and community service – qualities exemplified by the businesses featured this year.
This year will long be remembered as a pivotal time in history. It will be remembered somberly but also with a bittersweet appreciation of how communities came together; how businesses helped each other; how families stood together. This is a difficult year and it is our hope, our prayer, that the family businesses we are recognizing for their past accomplishments will persevere. Small businesses are the backbone of our local economies, acting as hubs for social connectivity and providing vitally needed jobs.
Nevada State Bank salutes all of you who work so hard through the prosperous times, and the difficult times. Our business bankers have been fully engaged, working side-by-side with our clients, now more than ever. We see firsthand your contributions to our state’s economy and your herculean efforts to save your livelihood and your employees’ paychecks. What we see is inspirational and gives deeper meaning and purpose to the work we do with our clients.
At Nevada State Bank, we believe it matters who you bank with, and we have been serving Nevada businesses for more than 60 years. We’re familiar with the challenges and rewards of owning a family business. From providing capital to start up a business, helping with day-to-day cash flow needs, or funding an expansion, we’ve been there to provide the financial support needed to help a company grow. When the time comes to hand the firm over to the next generation, our business specialists have the experience and the financial tools to assist with succession planning and provide retirement options.
Congratulations to all the 2020 Family Owned Business finalists. We hope to see you all in person, at your businesses, and in our community, showing the world how Nevada does business. We wish you good health, continued success and a bright future, both for your businesses and your families.
Judges
- Connie Brennan, Nevada Business Magazine
- Dave Archer, Nevada Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology (NCET)
- Mike Bindrup, University of Nevada, Las Vegas
- Lisa Chao, Henderson Chamber of Commerce
- Megan Comfort, Nevada State Bank
- Jeff Leake, SCORE Las Vegas Chapter
- Sam Males, University of Nevada, Reno
- Nancy McCormick, Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada (EDAWN)
- Taylor Russo, Reno-Sparks Chamber of Commerce
- Rick Thomas, Nevada State Bank
Whippersnapper
A business, less than 10 years old, in the first generation of succession with expectations for future generations to run the company.
North
The Lucky Star At The Vassar House
EST: 2017
In the heart of Midtown lies an antique shop which was founded, and is owned and operated by, mother and daughter team, Harriette and Missy Allison. The retail shop, located in an historic building, offers an eclectic array of vintage goods and home décor hand selected by the Allisons.
Protect Your Tail
EST: 2018
Founded by Tracy Olsen, Protect Your Tail is a fashion brand that makes quality clothing designed with an ultraviolet protection factor to prevent sun damage. The company is expanding into California, Arizona, Texas and Florida and plans to be the number one choice for Sun-Smart style in the nation by 2025.
Total Home Experience
EST: 2018
This concierge service, providing a wide variety of home service needs, is designed to free up valuable time for its customers. Owner Katie Coombs is joined in the venture by her husband Chris, son Drew and daughter Kenzie. Services includes such tasks as yard work, maintenance, repairs and home staging.
South
Hummus Bowls & Wraps
EST: 2017
Brothers Najib and Rany Saab founded Hummus Bowls & Wraps almost three years ago. Serving bowls, wraps and fresh squeezed juices, the restaurant employs 10 full time and 20 part time team members. The brothers are working on a franchise model to take the restaurant to the next level.
OneFortyThree
EST: 2013
Husband and wife team, Logan and Roxanna Hendrickson, have a passion for creating unique lighting and furniture. The company, which originally sold products through Etsy, last year launched All for Country, a home and lifestyle store located in Downtown Las Vegas.
The Juice Standard
EST: 2013
With four locations throughout the valley, The Juice Standard was founded by Marcella Williams and Jamie Goguen, who continue to own and operate the business. In addition to providing fresh healthy juices, they contribute to the local economy by providing jobs to almost 50 people.
Don’t Forget to Share
A business that has made significant contributions to the community and prides itself on giving back.
North
CEI Alarm
EST: 1991
Owned by Dave and Mikey Sinclair, CEI Alarm has a mission of giving back to the community it serves. Aside from being involved in numerous non-profit organizations, the company’s Batteries for Life program assists elderly or those needing help in changing smoke alarm batteries.
Homegate Realty
EST:2000
Homegate Realty owner, Tina SpencerMulhren, working with her daughters, Jennifer Smith and Katrina Belk has created a culture of helping the community. To celebrate 20 years in business, this year Tina’s team will be donating 20 percent of their commission to a charity of their client’s choice.
Pinocchio’s Bar And Grill
EST: 1997
JP and Barbara Pinocchio have created a legacy in northern Nevada. In addition to locations in Sparks and Reno, the company also provides catering for many of the area’s largest events. Their Mom’s on the Run, a popular Mother’s day event, has raised over $5 million to support local cancer patients.
South
Acoustic Design Systems
EST: 2003
Christopher Sterle, along with his 45 full time employees, takes pride in giving back to the community. The organization supports a number of local organizations. Each year, the Acoustic Design team donates 100 fully stocked backpacks for back to school, along with their client Toll Brothers, to benefit CASA Foundation of Las Vegas.
BEC Environmental
EST: 2002
Mother and daughter team, Elizabeth Nelson and Eileen Christensen, works with their staff to support a variety of organizations within the community. The environmental services company provides technical assistance to a variety of projects and encourages their team to get involved in worthwhile initiatives.
Las Vegas Pharmacy
EST: 2006
This full-service retail pharmacy is owned by Gay, Darlene and Douglas Copsey along with Lori Ortale and Miriam Gonzalez. Dedicated to helping the community, the company is involved in numerous local non-profit organizations. Benefactors include Safe Nest, Boys and Girls Club, Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth and Adam’s Place.
When the Going Gets Tough
A business that has faced adversity and made changes to adapt to difficult times.
North
DigiPrint Corporation
EST: 1991
David Spillers, owner of DigiPrint Corporation, has grit. After owning a printing franchise for several years, he opened DigiPrint, just two weeks before the September 11th tragedy. The company recovered and flourished, until the Great Recession, when his revenues were cut in half. With his history in business, David is confident of the company’s ability to survive the latest crisis of COVID-19.
Farr Ranch
EST: 1975
Brothers Michael, Lyle and Allen Farr, along with their wives, own and operate Farr Ranch, which produces alfalfa in Antelope Valley, just south of Battle Mountain. Founded by their father, Clyde, who passed away in 2009, the ranch has survived fires, droughts, insect plaques and economic crashes, but continues to thrive.
Frey Ranch Estate Distillery
EST: 2006
Colby Frey is a fifth generation farmer who works a 1,500 acre ranch in Nevada’s Lake Tahoe Watershed. Growing crops like alfalfa, wheat and barley, the farm recently launched Frey Ranch Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Among the many challenges faced by the distillery is that whiskey must age for five years, which makes meeting current demand difficult. During the COVID-19 crisis, the distillery has switched gears and begun donating Frey Ranchmade hand sanitizer as well.
South
Best In The West Safety
EST: 1995
Diane Hale, owner of the environmental and safety services and training company, has had her share of challenges. Aside from surviving two recessions, automobile accidents left Diane dealing with severe back pain and traumatic brain injury while running the business. Today, she and her husband Glenn, with backgrounds in engineering and environmental, make a strong team and continue to grow the company.
Fencing Specialist, Inc.
EST: 1983
Owned by Parker and Tania Hurless, Fencing Specialists, Inc. has been around for over 35 years and seen multiple recessions. The company has overcome it all and was recently designated a Certified Fence Contractor by the American Fence Association serving the commercial, industrial and residential market in southern Nevada.
Las Vegas Cleaning Pros
EST: 2005
Established 15 years ago, Las Vegas Cleaning Pros has seen major challenges over the years. Owner William Castaneda says the biggest challenge was definitely during the Great Recession when the company was down to one faithful client. However, through perseverance, staying true to his core values and treating each client like his top client, today William continues to grow. He hopes to eventually pass the company on to one of his four daughters.
Swimming Upstream
A business that is minorityor woman-owned.
North
Best Hardwood Flooring And Tile
EST: 2004
Latino brothers Miguel and Cesar Estrada attribute their success to strong perseverance in overcoming challenges related to being at the helm of a minority-owned business. They have formed strong partnerships with vendors, contractors and customers and continue to work hard to grow their business.
BLV Productions
EST: 2010
Founded by Britney Irwin, BLV Productions is an entertainment firm that works to combine old Hollywood glamour with today’s trends. Britney has over 12 years in the entertainment industry and attributes her success to hard work, dedication and support from her team and clients.
Western Environmental Testing Laboratory (WETLAB)
EST: 2002
Michelle Sheven, owner of WETLAB, has grown her company to almost 50 team members, and has provided operational and compliance support to over 600 companies. With satellite offices in Elko and Las Vegas, WETLAB is headquartered in Sparks. Michelle attributes the company’s success to her team members.
South
Longevity Sports
EST: 2011
Owned by the Song family, Longevity Sports maintains a full and part time staff of around 50. Adi and Emily Song, with South Korean and Greek roots, continue to grow the company despite racial and gender discrimination from time to time. They embrace family, a commitment to excellence and are tenacious in taking their business the next level.
NLV Tequila Bottling
EST: 2010
Owned by Francisco Flores, NLV Tequila Bottling moved to southern Nevada to take advantage of the area’s tax climate and business friendly nature. Over the past three years the company has been able to grow more than 50 percent and has expanded operations, including offering labelling and bottle purchase.
Slater’s 50/50
EST: 2018
Born in Germany and raised in Singapore, Cindy Sun bought the franchise for Slater’s 50/50 with the mission of serving the best burgers, bacon and beer in the Valley. Despite a number of challenges, the restaurant has already won a number of awards and recognition for excellence.
It’s Good to be on Top
A business that is at the top of its game, doing better than ever.
North
Dutch Brothers Coffee
EST: 1992
Andy Head began working for Dutch Brothers in 2015 and immediately knew he wanted it to be his career path. Shortly after graduating high school the following year, he signed a franchise agreement. Currently working on their third location, Andy and his wife, Jill, are passionate about the business. They look forward to their ultimate goal of four to six locations in northern Nevada.
Apex Grading And Paving
EST: 2004
Owned by Robert Ayers and Jacob and Shirley Scheeler, Apex is a leader in the northern Nevada paving industry. The owners and team members embrace the company’s motto of creating, “A Higher Standard Company”. With over 67 combined years of experience among the company’s principals, the company continues to grow and set new records each year.
Royal Carpet One Floor & Home
EST: 2004
Troy Pefley learned the flooring business from his grandparents, who were his “helpers” in the early years of the business. His grandfather, at 80, continues to be a fixture in the store. In the last five years the company, located in Fernley, has doubled its sales and almost tripled the size of the facility and staff.
South
NDL Group
EST: 2003
A Las Vegas general contracting firm, NDL is owned and operated by Nathan and Wendi Schweigart. Over the past five years the company has grown by 250 percent with plans to branch out into other markets. Guiding principles of the company are maintaining its family owned culture and giving back to the community.
Technology West Group
EST: 2007
Born in Australia, owner Braddon Cornish moved to Las Vegas to work on a large mall project. Upon completion of the project, and unable to find a job, Braddon started Technology West. The company continues on an upward path with a 100 percent increase in the past five years.
Unforgettable Coatings
EST: 2007
Owner Cory Summerhays lists his wife Jessica’s title as CEO – Chief Everything Officer. Together they manage 114 employees in the Nevada branch, as well as locations in Utah, Arizona and Idaho. The Nevada facility, in the last five years has increased its revenue by almost 150 percent, while more than doubling its staff.
The More the Merrier
A business that has 50 employees or more.
North
NNE Construction
EST: 1988
Established by R. Jeff Williams, who taught his son’s Rich and Marc the business from an early age, NNE Construction is a household name in Elko. The company provides utility, drilling and telecommunications services. With 70 full time employees, the company prides itself in treating its team members as part of the family.
Noble Studios
EST: 2003
Husband and wife team, Jarrod and Season Lopiccolo, have created one of the fastest growing companies in America. With over 60 employees and a client roster of global brands, the creative, digital performance marketing agency stays on the cutting edge of technology. Plans include continued expansion by creating meaningful connections.
Paterson Pacific Parchment
EST: 1987
Formed in 1921 in California, Tom Buckley was among a group of investors to purchase the company in 1987. A few years later, he moved the facility to Reno and hired his son, Joe, who is now the CEO and president. With 250 employees, the company is a major contributor to the northern Nevada community. The company just completed its biggest year in sales.
South
Alarmco
EST: 1950
Founded by Lew Whitney, Alarmco is a leading security company in southern Nevada. Originally named Merchant Patrol and Alarm, the firm was renamed to Alarmco in 1964. With almost 100 full time employees, the company is owned by Thomas Wilson. In addition to security systems, Alarmco provides guard and locksmith services as well as fire alarm and video surveillance systems.
Echo & Rig
EST: 2012
Chef Sam Marvin is owner of Echo & Rig, a local community restaurant and steakhouse and butcher shop. With 100 full time employees, the company has grown by 30 percent and has opened an additional location in another community. Sam’s growth plans include creating another concept and location in the southern Nevada area.
Tradewinds Construction
EST: 1988
What started as way to support owner Jeffrey Vilkin’s ski habit in Telluride, Colorado has evolved into one of southern Nevada’s most successful construction companies. Tradewinds Construction maintains a team of approximately 125 and is committed to making each of them feel like part of the family.
Outside the Box
A business that offers a product or service that is unique to Nevada.
North
Buttsup Duck Design
EST:2008
Kelly Campbell turned a hobby into a thriving business of imprinting and designing baby onesies. The company prides itself on providing individual service whether at its new manufacturing and showroom facility, or on the phone with their long-distance customers. She is joined in the business by her husband, John and daughters, Hunter Greeley and Cassidy Campbell.
Junkee Clothing Exchange
EST: 2008
Junkee Clothing Exchange owner Jessica Schneider, formerly an interior designer, has created an icon in Midtown Reno. In addition to a steady stream of customers, the world-famous shop is visited by thousands of Burning Man attendees annually in search of unique costumes. In September of last year, Jessica opened a second shop in the French Quarter of New Orleans, LA.
Tanglewood Productions
EST: 1985
Tanglewood Productions provides production in northern Nevada and the surrounding region for everyone from musicians and voice over artists to advertisers, web designers, videographers and photographers. The company was founded 35 years ago and is owned by Michael and Catherine Eardley.
South
Firetrucks Unlimited
EST: 2007
Beginning his career as a firefighter in the 70s, Stuart Reyburn saw a way to help emergency departments with limited budgets. He founded Firetrucks Unlimited and built a team that includes former fire chief, Jack McComb and Stuart’s wife Cindy and their two sons, Brian and David. That team has now grown to over 60 employees who work to refurbish fire trucks and ambulances.
Lip Smacking Foodie Tours
EST: 2015
The first culinary walking tour company in Las Vegas, Lip Smacking Foodie Tour has been a resounding success. Owner Donald Contursi provides visitors with a unique experience by allowing them to enjoy the best dishes in one seamless outing, complete with VIP services. The company has expanded to offer similar tours in several cities outside Nevada.
PediPed
EST: 2005
Founded 15 years ago by Angela and Brian Edgeworth, PediPed footwear provides shoe options for infants and toddlers. After her first child was born, Angela discovered that quality shoe options for her daughter were limited and so the Edgeworths decided to create the perfect shoe. Today, PediPed has over 120 designs, operates a 35,000 square-foot facility in Henderson and ships all over the world.
Change is Good
A business intended for a second generation, or further. The company has successfully utilized a younger generation’s ideas.
North
Carson Masonry & Steel
EST: 1961
Purchased by Bjarne Pederson in 1972, Carson Masonry & Steel is owned today by Bjarne’s grandson, Chris Wendell. The company has a long history in the area and provides stone and masonry needs to area contractors and homeowners. When he purchased the business in 1990, Chris made changes to keep pace with the community’s needs.
Nu Yalk Pizza
EST: 1919
Introducing their original family pizza recipe to Staten Island, NY in 1919, the Crocitto family, helmed by Rick Crocitto, moved to Reno in 1978 establishing Nu Yalk Pizza in the area. The Crocittos continue to refine and improve upon their recipes to bring New York style pizza to the “Biggest Little City in the World”.
Zozo’s Italian Ristorante
EST: 2000
Husband and wife Judy and Sidney Ashton own Zozo’s Italian Ristorante. The restaurant was originally called Pane Vivo and owned by Jim and Judy Smith and was the Ashton’s favorite restaurant. When the Smiths were looking to retire, they thought of the Ashton Family. Recognizing the culinary talents of their younger son, Kevin, the Ashton’s took over Pane Vivo, renamed it Zozo’s Italian Ristorante and a legacy was born.
South
Levy Production Group
EST: 1987
This video production company was founded by brothers Mike and Barry Levy, who continue at the helm of the awarding winning firm. While neither have plans to retire in the immediate future, ten years ago they began grooming the next generation to move the company forward. Mike’s daughter, Jacquie is a Senior Producer/ Writer and their nephew is a production coordinator.
Lin-Air Installation
EST: 1970
Three generations are engaged at Lin-Air, a residential and commercial air conditioning and heating services company. Owners Edward and Terri Johnson turned management duties over to their four sons, Brent, Brad, Layne and Lance in 2000. Also working for the company are the couple’s two daughter-in-laws and six grandchildren.
Michelin Properties
EST: 1989
Company founders Pete and Karla Michelin formed the company, which owns taverns and gas stations throughout southern Nevada, as well as a real estate development company. Today, the firm is owned and operated by their three children, Taylor and Blake Lilley and Michael Michelin.
Wisdom of Age
A business that has been operating for over 25 years.
North
Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney
EST: 1955
Founded by long-time friends William (Bud) Bradley, Sr. and John Squire Drendel, Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney is a law firm committed to serving northern Nevada. Over the years, multiple family members have worked for the firm and it’s become a training ground for multiple generations. The firm prides itself on its consistent record of success and hopes to continue to grow into the future.
Cinderlite Trucking
EST 1987
Established in Carson City by Gary Lehman, the company’s ownership now includes Gary’s son, Greg and two daughters, Jennifer Glanzmann and Janice Buckley. Several family members are included in the almost 50 team members. The longevity of the company is attributed to strong leadership and loyal, hard-working employees.
Heuer Insurance Agency
EST 1929
Clarence Heuer opened his insurance and real estate firm the same year the Great Depression hit the nation. Almost a century later, the company is now in its fourth generation of ownership with Adam Heuer, who purchased the company from his father in 2016, at the helm. According to Adam, the company has been in business all these years due to their culture of taking care of their customers and team members.
South
Cragin & Pike Insurance
EST: 1909
Las Vegas was only four years old when Peter Buol opened Cragin & Pike Insurance to serve the needs of the then tiny community. Today, the firm is owned by Greg McKinley, Tom Burns (second generation) Scott Kerestesi (third generation), Todd Morse and Chris Campbell, all of whom are proud of the company’s legacy as the state’s oldest independently owned and operated insurance agency.
Freeman’s Carpet Service, Inc.
EST: 1960
Founded 60 years ago by Kenneth Freeman, Sr., Freeman’s Carpet Service installs carpet and resilient flooring at commercial locations throughout the Las Vegas Valley. The company is owned today by Kenneth’s son and grandson, Kenneth Freeman, Jr. and Bryan Kenneth Freeman. Bryan’s wife Jessica also works with them and they employ approximately 30 people.
Michaelson & Associates
EST: 1992
Originally formed by Paul Michaelson, this law firm specializes in guardianship, estate planning, business and elder law. Although the leadership of the firm has passed to his son, John, Paul continues to serve his clients by working alongside him. The long lifespan of the firm is attributed to a good work ethic, good customer service and maintaining a sense of humor
Congratulations Finalists!
This year’s honorees were chosen by a panel of judges who reviewed hundreds of nominations to narrow it down to the finalists represented in these pages. Winners will be announced online and in the June issue. Stay tuned!
