And the Winner is...

Congratulations to this year's "Cisko Sound Scholarship" recipient... Eugene Melmani!

Cisko Sound Scholarship

Few things bring me as much joy as honoring my longtime Vegas audio engineer and friend Craig Palcisko with this scholarship each year. It's hard to believe this scholarship is already in its third year!

Established through the Public Education Foundation, this $1,000/year scholarship (renewable for 4 years) is for a college-bound senior currently majoring in theater tech or sound tech at Las Vegas Academy of the Arts where I serve on the Advisory Board.

"Thank you endlessly, Mr. Civillico, for choosing to sponsor me and my education!?It?truly means the world to me. College, unfortunately, is not something that is financially easy to cover, especially in such a niche program such as my own. I want nothing more than to work in sound, and Columbia College Chicago’s Acoustics program is the perfect fit for me. Being able to study what I am most passionate about, while also being in the heart of a city so dedicated to keeping the arts alive and appreciated… It's a dream come true. This award will truly help me so much in my career in sound and I am immensely grateful. Thank you."

~ Eugene Melmani

View Past Recipients

The Origin of the?Scholarship

I announced the Cisko Sound Scholarship?during my?final show of?my decade-long Vegas?residency with Caesars Entertainment. I’m so happy I was able to give?Craig a?proper tribute in front?of family, friends, performers, colleagues, media and supporters… many of whom knew and loved Craig just as much as I did ???

The Craigerator

Craig was my rock on the Technical Production side for many years. We did a few thousand shows together at the "Imperial Quad LINQ Palace" haha... and a few hundred more at corporate events all over the country.?

I think often of Craig’s spirit, humor, and humble nature.?He impacted so many people! We love you, Craig…

In my next newsletter... "Laughter Without Borders!" 5 cities in Thailand in 5 days... I'm excited to share my latest project with you! More soon!

Thanks all :)?

~ Jeff Civillico