Brian "Paco" Alvarez moved downtown six years ago at the behest of then Las Vegas Mayor Oscar B. Goodman. "Oscar just happened to walk into the Contemporary Arts Center gallery during a First Friday in late 2004," said Alvarez, who, by day, is curator of the 4-million photos library for the Las Vegas News Bureau, and by night and weekends is a prolific blogger, writer, historian, artist, and self-made downtown expert.     

"We struck up a conversation and I told him how excited I was about what was happening in the area," Alvarez continued. "He then asked me point-blank if I lived downtown. I embarrassingly said no. He tapped me on the shoulder and said, 'You need to move downtown.' I agreed, and nine months later, I moved into the L'Octaine where I continue to reside."

Alvarez, who is a native Las Vegan, has witnessed first-hand the evolution of downtown and has become one of the area's biggest cheerleaders and supporters. He is frequently tapped to lead downtown tours for media groups from around the globe, given his vast knowledge of the area.

"From the growing arts district, to the redevelopment of lower Fremont into a hipster haven, and the reclamation of the historic railroad yards, this exciting change stands as a testament to those who believe in the area and its amazing potential," said Alvarez. "With youthful, dynamic and creative individuals moving into the area, dozens of new and innovative businesses popping up, including the highly successful online retailer, Zappos, not to mention what is being planned for the near future, downtown is destined for greatness."

Alvarez, who refuses to disclose his favorite downtown spots because he loves them all, says his decision to move downtown was one of the most important in his life - both personally and professionally. "I have met amazing people, my neighbors are actually my friends and the sense of pride for the neighborhood is second to none. The heartbeat of Las Vegas is its core and its core is undoubtedly downtown."

Photo: Jennifer Maupin Photography