ED Publications has revealed the six nominees for the 2026 ED Honors “Outstanding Employee of the Year” Award
Established in 2025, the ED “Honors” Awards will once again acknowledge specific individuals who have made a significant contribution to the industry at large. The nominees for these awards will be announced via our websites and social media channels, and the winners will be chosen by our “ED Honors Board,” a collection of well-established industry professionals from across the country who represent several areas of club operation, from clubs both big and small (see the list of Honors Board members below).
The nominees for the ED Honors Awards were chosen in large part via feedback received during the ED Awards’ pre-nomination voting process (held from mid-May to mid-June 2026). Voters were asked to not only nominate individuals for the Honors Awards, but also explain in detail “why” they deserve the recognition.
These “Honors” Awards will be presented in 2026:
Industry Innovator of the Year
Progressive Leader (GM/Regional) of the Year
Outstanding Employee of the Year
In 2025, the ED Honors Board consisted of these voting members; each has been invited to return as an Honors Board voter in 2026: David “Slim” Baucom, owner, MAL Entertainment; Joey Bien, owner, The Treasure Clubs, Shon Bolden, owner, Devil’s Point and The Lucky Devil; Joe Carouba, owner, BSC Management; Jeb Jarrell, PANDA President and DJ; Larry Kaplan, ED legal correspondent; John Kirkendoll, owner, Penthouse Clubs/Kirkendoll Management; Don Kleinhans, owner, 2001 Odyssey; Danny Meyers, veteran DJ/MC; Thom Naylor, GM, Archibalds, DC; Dave Peacock, GM, Platinum 84; Dawn Rizos, owner, The Lodge; Jenn Shamy, owner, Delilah’s; Jim St. John, Spearmint Rhino; Jeremy Sweigert, DJ, Michael’s Men’s Club; Kathy Vercher, President & CEO, Spearmint Rhino; Jerry Westlund, owner, The Pony Clubs; Curtis Wise, owner, Bucks clubs.
The following constitute the six ED Honors Nominees for the “Outstanding Employee of the Year” Award (presented in alphabetical order)
Jeb Jarrell, Head DJ with the Pony Clubs in Huntsville, AL
Molina Kuykendall, Bartender at Cheyenne’s in Roland, OK
Michael Mark, Manager at Scores in West Palm Beach, FL
Chris “DJ Butters” Scarsi, DJ at Diamond Cabaret in Denver, CO
Hayley-Marie Smith, bartender at Peppermint Hippo, Fort Wayne, IN (now with Las Toxicas in Las Vegas)
Paolo Stoltz, VIP Manager at The Men’s Club in Dallas, TX
Criteria for the Outstanding Employee of the Year Award – While general managers are often the engines that make the club move, the employees themselves are the ever-important cogs in that engine. This award seeks to honor an employee who has gone above and beyond the limitations of their title. As the nominees in this category will prove, anyone can make a difference in a club’s success, no matter what duties they perform. Be it a VIP Host, bartender, security staff or DJ, the Outstanding Employee of the Year just might be your club’s MVP.
Jeb Jarrell, head DJ with the Pony Clubs in Huntsville, AL
A well-known personality with decades of adult nightclub experience, Jeb exemplifies the professionalism, consistency, and enthusiasm that define an outstanding employee. More than simply playing music, Jeb creates an atmosphere that keeps guests engaged, entertainers energized and the entire venue running smoothly.
His ability to connect with guests through skilled crowd engagement, quick wit and an authentic personality sets him apart. Jeb approaches every shift with professionalism, taking pride in his work while ensuring the experience remains fun and memorable for everyone in the club. His energy, reliability, and attention to detail elevate the overall guest experience and contribute directly to The Pony Bama’s success. He has also helped to develop new technology for club DJs that utilizes the latest in artificial intelligence, a product that may soon be released to the marketplace.
For his dedication, professionalism, innovation, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Jeb Jarrell is a highly deserving nominee for ED’s “Outstanding Employee of the Year” Honors Award.
Molina Kuykendall, Bartender at Cheyenne’s in Roland, OK 
Molina Kuykendall, bartender at Cheyenne’s in Roland, Oklahoma, has earned a reputation as one of the club’s most valued employees through her unwavering professionalism, exceptional customer service and consistently welcoming demeanor. A favorite among both regular patrons and first-time guests, Molina has a natural ability to make everyone who approaches her bar feel appreciated and at home.
Outstanding employees elevate the entire atmosphere of a venue, and Molina does exactly that. Her positive attitude, reliability and dedication to both her coworkers and customers make her an invaluable member of the Cheyenne’s team. For her professionalism, consistency, and lasting impact on the guest experience, Molina Kuykendall is a highly deserving nominee for ED’s “Outstanding Employee of the Year” Honors Award.
Michael Mark, Manager at Scores in West Palm Beach, FL
Michael Mark, day manager at Scores West Palm Beach, brings decades of entertainment experience, industry knowledge and infectious enthusiasm to every shift. A former professional radio personality known as “Madman Mike,” as well as adult industry talent and cameraman, and proudly the world’s biggest Rush fan, Michael has built a career around connecting with people and creating memorable experiences.
Today, he channels that passion into exceptional leadership. Michael is known for his unwavering positivity, tireless work ethic and genuine commitment to both staff and guests. He leads with encouragement, integrity and respect, fostering a workplace where entertainers and employees feel supported and valued. His approachable personality and ability to inspire those around him have earned the admiration of everyone on the team.
Michael doesn’t just manage a club, he helps build a culture in a demanding market. His professionalism, experience, and dedication make him an outstanding choice for ED’s “Outstanding Employee of the Year” Honors Award.
Chris “DJ Butters” Scarsi, DJ at Diamond Cabaret in Denver, CO
With unmatched professionalism, creativity and attention to detail, Chris “DJ Butters” Scarsi of the Diamond Cabaret in Denver approaches every shift as an opportunity to elevate the guest experience, support entertainers and strengthen the business. More than a DJ, Chris is the heartbeat of the room at Diamond Cabaret, reading the crowd with precision, keeping energy high and creating an atmosphere that drives customer engagement and revenue.
A respected leader in the club, Chris leads by example through reliability, innovation and an unwavering commitment to his team. Whether implementing new promotions, embracing emerging technology, or mentoring coworkers, he consistently raises the standard for excellence. His passion for the industry is evident in everything he does, inspiring those around him to perform at their best. Chris “DJ Butters” Scarsi is an outstanding ambassador for his club and a highly deserving candidate for ED’s “Outstanding Employee of the Year” Honors Award.
Hayley-Marie Smith, bartender at Peppermint Hippo, Fort Wayne, IN
(Please note: Hayley was recently promoted and is now working for Las Toxicas in Las Vegas)
Hayley-Marie Smith, bartender with Peppermint Hippo (now with Las Toxicas in Las Vegas), has dedicated six years to the industry, building a reputation as one of the venue’s most dependable and versatile professionals. Having previously worked as an entertainer, DJ, and cook, she brings a unique, well-rounded understanding of nightclub operations that allows her to excel in every shift.
Behind the bar, Hayley consistently delivers exceptional customer service while thriving in a fast-paced, high-volume environment. She multitasks effortlessly, keeps guests engaged and creates a welcoming atmosphere that encourages repeat business and strengthens customer loyalty. Her professionalism, positive attitude and strong work ethic make her a trusted teammate who is always willing to step up wherever she’s needed.
Her dedication to the industry and consistent performance make her a highly deserving nominee for ED’s “Outstanding Employee of the Year” Honors Award.
Paolo Stoltz, VIP Manager at The Men’s Club in Dallas, TX
For over 30 years, Paolo Stoltz, VIP manager at The Men’s Club of Dallas, turns hospitality into a disciplined art. Once described as the ‘architect of the club’s VIP experience,’ Stoltz manages the famous venue from a guest’s first contact to departure with precision, discretion and composure.
Each day, Stoltz arrives early, maps reservations in advance, coordinates staff across departments and adjusts the pace in real time so the guest never sees the work, only the result. That combination of instinct, control and service sets a standard few can match. Stoltz does not merely sell VIP; he builds a seamless, high-end experience that strengthens revenue, supports the team and keeps guests returning. For professionalism, leadership and consistent execution, Paolo Stoltz is a standout nominee for ED’s “Outstanding Employee of the Year” Honors Award.
