John Ascuaga, a recognized leader in Nevada's gaming industry for his dedication to excellence in all operational phases of his Nugget Casino Resort for his innovations in marketing and promotions, is also noted for his never-stand-still business philosophy.
As sole owner-operator of the massive hotel-casino-restaurant-entertainment-convention complex, he has provided the inspired guidance in the continuing development of the Nugget - from a 65 seat coffee shop (in 1955) with a "handful of slot machines" to the current status as one of the most enviable operations in the state.
Proof of Ascuaga's ambitious planning is much in evidence today at the Nugget - with expansion of the Nugget. The expansion increased the Nugget's convention facilities to more than 80,000 square feet (all centered on the second floor) and included a 32X72 foot swimming pool, health spa, and a barber shop and beauty salon.
Ascuaga's dedication to success was apparent in his formative years. He was born in Caldwell, Idaho, but attended elementary and high school in Notus, a small nearby town.
He earned his first college degree (a bachelor of science in accounting) in 3½ years at the University of Idaho at Moscow. Following his graduation from Idaho in 195 he entered Washington State University at Pullman and obtained a bachelor of arts degree in hotel and restaurant management in 1952.
Soon after graduation he associated with Dick Graves as food manager for Graves' operation in Idaho. In 1954 he was named food director for Graves' restaurants in Nevada.
He had been in Northern Nevada only for a year when the Nugget was opened in 1955, and he was assigned general manager. When Dick Graves retired in 1960, he sold his interests to Ascuaga, who has been the sole owner and operator since that time.