Monday, May 19, 2014

Check Out Our New Blog!

Greetings, Nevada enthusiast! It looks like you have come across Nevada Magazine's old blog. Feel free to look around, then click here to head over to our new blog on our website at nevadamagazine.com.

http://nevadamagazine.com/home/category/blogs/

Tuesday, April 8, 2014

Nevada 150 Announces Nevada Day Parade Details

The Nevada 150 Sesquicentennial Commission has announced that Las Vegas will join the Nevada Day celebration with a Nevada 150 commemorative parade. The October 2014 festivities include four Nevada Day parades to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Nevada’s statehood, including the first Las Vegas Nevada Day Parade planned as the largest Nevada Day celebration in Southern Nevada.

“Nevada Day is one of those unique celebrations that truly captures the heritage of our state's sense of community and spirit,” says Lieutenant Governor and Nevada 150 chairman Brian Krolicki. “While we thoroughly enjoy our parades and long-beard contests, it is a celebration of who we are. Being Nevada's 150th birthday only makes the day more meaningful.”

Las Vegas Nevada Day Parade

On Nevada Day, Friday, Oct. 31, 2014 at 10 a.m., the Las Vegas Nevada Day Parade will be held downtown along 4th Street. The parade is scheduled to last approximately two hours and will feature 150 entries and six categories: float, equestrian, marching band, motorized vehicle, walking group, and other. Cash prizes will be awarded for the following categories: Overall Best Of, Best Historical Significance, Best Float, Best Equestrian, Best Marching Band, and Best Vehicle. The parade will be produced by the City of Las Vegas and is made possible through a $100,000 grant from the City of Las Vegas Centennial Commission through its Las Vegas Centennial History Grant Program.

“Las Vegas is the entertainment capital of the world and we are excited to be hosting a fabulous     sesquicentennial parade to celebrate Nevada Day,” Mayor Carolyn G. Goodman says. “I want to     thank the Centennial Commission for contributing funding for this event to celebrate this major     milestone for our state.”

For additional information about the Las Vegas Nevada Day Parade please call 702-229-6672 or e-mail ecarter@LasVegasNevada.gov. To submit a parade application please visit lasvegasnevada.gov.  

Elko Nevada Day Parade
Also to be held on Nevada Day, Friday, Oct. 31, 2014, at 11 a.m. Elko hosts its 27th annual Nevada Day Parade. Chairmen Jim and Rose Conner, will start taking entries on October 1 until the day of the parade, and line-up will be handled by long-time committee members consisting of family and friends. The parade will run its usual route from the Crystal Theater to the Elko County Fairgrounds.  This parade is sponsored by the Elko Knights of Columbus Council #2511.

“Elko is truly proud of its Nevada heritage and we are Battle Born and Nevada Proud,” says Don Newman, executive director of the Elko Convention & Visitors Authority and Nevada 150 commissioner. “We look forward to celebrating Nevada’s 150th birthday in style at our annual Nevada Day Parade through downtown Elko”.

For additional information about the Elko Nevada Day Parade please call Rose Conner at 775-738-7991.

Virginia City Nevada Day Parade
To be held at 5 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 31, 2014, the Virginia City parade route travels down historic C Street starting at the Fourth Ward School. This year’s parade combines the annual Halloween entries along with those that celebrate the 150th anniversary of Nevada statehood. The parade, organized by the Virginia City Tourism Commission, takes place just before the Nevada 150 Masquerade Ball, a Nevada 150 signature event, held at Piper’s Opera House. The 19th century mining bonanza known as the Comstock Lode turned Virginia City into one of the most important industrial cities between Denver and San Francisco. The riches from Virginia City led to the early development of Western Nevada and the Silver State’s entry into the union on October 31, 1864. 

“The gold and silver from Virginia City played a huge role in Nevada becoming the 36th state,” says Deny Dotson, director of the Virginia City Tourism Commission. “We are excited to host the Nevada Day Parade in conjunction with our Nevada 150 Masquerade Ball, right here where it all began in Virginia City.”

For additional information about the Virginia City Nevada Day Parade or Nevada 150 Masquerade Ball please visit visitvirginiacitynv.com or call 775-847-7500.

Carson City Nevada Day Parade
The 2014 Carson City Nevada Day Parade takes place on Saturday, Nov. 1 in our state’s capital; this year's parade theme is “Happy 150th Birthday Nevada.” The day kicks off at 8 a.m. with a hot air balloon launch near the Carson Mall on Carson Street (weather permitting). At 10 a.m., a military flyover signals the start of the parade.

This annual tradition features over 200 entries, including local law enforcement, public officials, floats, marching bands, a variety of entertainment, and even the occasional surprise celebrity appearance. The parade begins at the intersection of William and Carson Streets, and concludes approximately at the intersection of Stewart and Carson Streets.

“For more than 75 years, the Nevada Day Parade has been an institution and a source of pride for Nevadans,” says Ken Hamilton, president of Nevada Day Inc., a not-for-profit 501c3 organization. “With this year being the 150th anniversary of Nevada's statehood, it's a wonderful opportunity for Nevadans and visitors to come be a part of our state's history.” 

More than just a parade, the Nevada Day celebration continues all weekend long, with dozens of special events taking place all around Northern Nevada. To learn more about Nevada's longest running celebration of statehood, visit nevadaday.com.

For more information on the above scheduled parades or to view all other upcoming events for the Nevada 150 celebration, please visit nevada150.org. Additional communities wishing to host a parade or other events may submit an event application by visiting the above website.

Monday, April 7, 2014

A Senior Citizen's Guide to Elko


BY JIM BECKER

When senior citizens discover Elko, population 34,000, you quickly see why this truly is the “Great American West.” Elko, located in northeastern Nevada, was crowned the title “The Best Small Town in America” in an issue of Time Magazine.

Elko had its birth in 1868 during the building of the transcontinental railroad. Legend has it that a rail superintendent fond of animals added an “o” to Elk to give the town its name. The city of Elko sits at an elevation of 5,060 feet.

This high desert community on Interstate 80 experiences four mild annual seasons. Fall is spectacular, heralding in warm days and cool evenings. Winter months bring average high temperatures between 37-43 degrees with lows averaging between 25-31 degrees.

Spring months bring warmer temperatures accompanied by cool nights. During the warm summer months the average high falls between 80-90 degrees. After this past winter season, senior citizens will enjoy Elko.

SENIORS ENJOY UNSPOILED WEST

The city was founded as a stop on the transcontinental railroad. In 1869, it became the seat of the newly created Elko County and soon became an important center of commerce for surrounding mines and ranches. Elko is probably best known as the headquarters for the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering.

Elko County abounds in beauty. The raw majesty of Elko County’s Ruby Mountains and the rugged canyon streams will let you discover the unspoiled drama of the West.

Elko’s scenic landscape and recreational opportunities are matched by its excellent quality of life. Health care services are the best in the region, education is highly prized, and job growth is consistently positive.

The diverse economy includes gold mining and cattle ranching, and the newer thriving tourism and service industries. The arts and culture scene also finds plenty of supporters in Elko. The Cowboy Poetry Gathering draws the finest examples of the art from throughout the West and as far away as Ireland and Australia.

THE RUBIES: THE CROWN JEWEL

The highlight of visiting Elko comes with the opportunity to explore some of the wildest and most beautiful country in the entire state.

The crown jewel of Nevada is the Ruby Mountains. The Rubies bear over 40 year-round streams and host more than a dozen mountain tarns in a mountain range that has been nicknamed “The Nevada Alps” and “The Sierra Nevada of the Great Basin.”

For horse lovers, The J.M. Capriola Saddle Company is based in downtown Elko, and is one of the oldest saddle-making companies in America. You will find many fun things to see and do in and around Elko.

Today, Elko is living on gold, supported by the massive Getchell Mine, the largest gold producing operation in the United States. Set your sights on Elko the on your next trip to Nevada.

Monday, March 31, 2014

Reno Aces to Kick Off 2014 Season

Photo: Matthew B. Brown
The Reno Aces begin the 2014 campaign Thursday, April 3 as they host the El Paso Chihuahuas at 6:35 p.m. at Aces Ballpark in Reno.

The opening day festivities feature guest appearances by Claire Champlin of “The Amazing Race,” Benjamin Wade of “Survivor,” Reno Mayor Bob Cashell, and Sparks Mayor Geno Martini. Prior to the national anthem, all four men will deliver ceremonial first pitches.

The national anthem will be performed by the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of Choral Director Jennifer Tibben.

Pre-game attractions include a hot-air balloon in front of the rotunda entrance courtesy of The Great Reno Balloon Race. Joining the hot-air balloon are several classic cars provided by Hot August Nights. Also, Harrah’s show girls will accompany the Aces starting lineup as they’re introduced before the national anthem. The show girls will be available for photos near the Aces Team Shop during the game.

Photo: Matthew B. Brown
Opening Day promotions include the magnet schedule giveaway to the first 9,000 fans. Like every other Thursday at Aces Ballpark in 2014, it’s Thirsty Thursday presented by ESPN Radio 94.5 and the Reno News and Review. As a new promotion in 2014, adults can run the bases after each Thursday game.

“We are so proud to open the sixth season of Aces Baseball here in Northern Nevada, and want to make sure our fans know how important they are to our team. The events planned and guests joining us, coupled with the tradition that is opening day, will make for a tremendous evening,” says Eric Edelstein, Aces executive vice president/chief operating officer.

Part of the opening day celebration is the bold weather guarantee recently issued by Manager Phil Nevin. If the temperature at first pitch is not 60 degrees or above, Nevin will buy each fan in attendance a ticket to a future Aces game.

Discounted full and partial season tickets are on sale now. For more information and to purchase an Aces ticket plan, call 775-334-4700. For up-to-date news and notes throughout the off season, visit renoaces.com, follow the club on Twitter or like the team on Facebook.—Reno Aces

Friday, February 7, 2014

Sales for Second Nevada Sesquicentennial Medallions Begin Soon



Wells Fargo Announced as Commemorative Medallion Sponsor

Orders for the second of four commemorative medallions marking Nevada’s 150th birthday begin Monday, February 10 through the Nevada Legislative Gift Shop (LGS). Wells Fargo has been announced as the official sponsor of the commemorative medallions.

“I am thrilled to welcome Wells Fargo as the newest sponsor of our celebration; Nevada and Wells Fargo have an incredible and unique shared history,” says Lt. Governor and Nevada 150 Commission Chairman Brian Krolicki. “The design of the second medallion, depicting a miner, truly captures the history and impact mining has had on or state.”

Each one-ounce collector’s medallion is made from pure Nevada silver from the Coeur Mine in Rochester on the historic Coin Press No. 1 at the Nevada State Museum. Depicting a Nevada miner on the front side and the Nevada Sesquicentennial logo on the back side, the silver medallion is available to the public at $100.50 each. The copper medallions have the same design as the silver medallions and are available for purchase at $15 each.

Beginning February 10, orders for the sesquicentennial medallions can be made through the Legislative Gift Shop website or in person at the LGS, located at 401 South Carson Street in Carson City.

Sales of the commemorative medallions help fund the Nevada 150 events and year-long celebration. Throughout the year, four different medallions will be released at different dates for purchase.

For more information about Nevada 150, visit nevada150.org.

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Two New Nevada Hotels Announce Opening Dates

Opening in May 2014, the Whitney Peak Hotel, Reno’s only non-gaming and non-smoking hotel, is targeted to active-lifestyle guests who want to take advantage of the area’s local culture, geography, and natural resources. The hotel is only 30 minutes from the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains, providing guests easy access to a wide range of outdoor activities.

Upon completion (rendering at left), Whitney Peak will also feature Cargo, a live concert venue featuring indie rock, pop, and alternative artists; BaseCamp, a 7,000-square-foot indoor boulder park featuring the world’s tallest exterior climbing wall; and a restaurant serving fresh, locally inspired cuisine, craft beers, local wines, and unique cocktails.

Also, renowned nightlife and hospitality leader sbe announced that the highly anticipated SLS Las Vegas hotel will open its doors on Labor Day weekend this year (rendering below). As the first property to open on the Las Vegas Strip in several years, SLS Las Vegas is bringing new life to the city.

SLS Las Vegas is the first Las Vegas hotel by sbe and will feature an imaginative mix of the most innovative nightlife, dining, and entertainment experiences under one roof. Notable brands opening at SLS Las Vegas include a reinvention of the popular L.A. nightspot, The Sayers Club, and dynamic restaurant concepts including The Bazaar by José Andrés, Katsuya, Cleo, 800 Degrees, Umami Burger and The Griddle Café, with more to be announced.


Friday, January 3, 2014

James Lee Reeves is Nevada Proud


You would be hard pressed to find anyone more passionate about Nevada than Virginia City musician James Lee Reeves. All you have to do is search his name on iTunes, and you'll discover his 2012 album, "I'll Take Nevada," which contains seven can't-get-'em-out-of-your-head country songs about the Silver State. You can also purchase his single, "Shiny Side Up (Dirty Down)," an anthem for Nevada's mass motorcycle culture that shows up in droves at such annual events as Reno's Street Vibrations.

Reeves is a Nevadan through and through. Before he settled into his handmade log home in the Virginia City Highlands, he made a name for himself 25 years ago on the Las Vegas Strip. "I lived in Mount Charleston for four years, and then I moved to Vegas because I worked there as an entertainer/comedian," says Reeves, who performed as Milo Tremley from 1988-94. Tremley's hilarious redneck ensemble would have made Larry the Cable Guy envious.

Luckily for Nevadans and Nevada lovers, Reeves continues to write Nevada songs. Before 2013 came to a close, he wrote "Battle Born, Nevada Proud," an homage to Nevada's sesquicentennial (150th anniversary) year of 2014. He also recorded "Nevada Magazine," which salutes the official state publication's nearly 80 years of service.

The third new song is a Nevada-ized version of Hank Snow's Classic "I've Been Everywhere," made famous of course by Johnny Cash. Reeves' version, based on a 2010 Editor's Note by Nevada Magazine's Matthew B. Brown, is titled, "We've Been Everywhere (in Nevada)."

You can hear all three new songs below.

"Battle Born, Nevada Proud" Or click here


"Nevada Magazine" Or click here


"We've Been Everywhere (in Nevada)" Or click here

Thursday, January 2, 2014

Nevada Magazine Continues Sesquicentennial Celebration

January 1936
Nevada Magazine’s January/February 2014 issue, featuring the Carson City Capitol building on the cover, is now available on newsstands throughout Nevada. This publication marks the 78th anniversary of Nevada Magazine, which debuted as Nevada Highways and Parks in January 1936. See all 78 years of cover images here.

Featured in the current edition are a statewide Nevada Day photo gallery, as well as Part III of author and historian Ron Soodalter's eight-part series on the history of the Silver State. Soodalter explains how bombastic journalists such as Mark Twain, the rise of the railroads, and the birth of Nevada’s university system all merged to make Nevada prosperous in its early years of statehood. The issue is also the third of eight Sesquicentennial Special Editions that Nevada Magazine will produce through November/December 2014.

January/February 2014
Photo: Matthew B. Brown
The magazine is encouraging Nevadans and Nevada lovers to share what they love about the Silver State. Send an e-mail to editor@nevadamagazine.com (preferred); write a letter to: Editor, 401 N. Carson St., Carson City, NV 89701; or call 775-687-0602; and tell us why the Silver State is special to you. Submissions — due by September 2, 2014 — will be for possible publication in a “150 Things We Love About Nevada” special November/December 2014 edition.

Also featured in the January/February 2014 issue is a cover story about the icons of Nevada, including the Capitol, bighorn sheep, Hoover Dam, the "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Nevada" sign, and more.

The Southern Nevada riverside town of Laughlin, the historic Techatticup Mine in Eldorado Canyon, a number of influential black leaders from Nevada’s past and present (to celebrate Black History Month), and the ghost town of Metropolis are also highlighted in the pages of the current issue.